INCENDIARISM IN SOUTHLAND.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 5800, 31 October 1879, Page 2

INCENDIARISM IN SOUTHLAND.

Invercargill, Thursday. The remanded Mataura arson case was heard in the police court this morning. Fourteen witnesses were examined, including some of the principal residents of the district. The moat important evidence was given by Constable Treitwell, who swore to footprints about the house, seen after the fire, being identical with boots worn by the prisoner Wheddon, who on being arrested by him and Detective Twohey, admitted having set fire to the buildin" for a monetary consideration at the request of Duncan Cameron. The latter, who was charged with being an accessory when arrested, also admitted his guilt, stating that he received his instructions from D. Mackay, the well-known contractor, who was also charged with being an accessory. At the first hearing of the case, Wheddon and Cameron pleaded guilty, and Mackay not guilty. It was shown to-day that Mackay purchased the building for £2O, removed it for something like £3O, and insured it for £175, but for only two months’ policy, taking effect from 4th September. The case was further adjourned for eight days, in order to allow a further investigation. Bail was applied for, but refused. James Weston was charged with setting fire to a stable at the Waimea Hotel, Lumaden. It appeared he was put into the stable when drunk, and set fire to some straw. The case was remanded.