WAIWERA

Otago Witness, Issue 2894, 25 August 1909, Page 39

WAIWERA

A'igust 23.-r-The weather at present ia rather boisterous — high winds and occasional sharp showers. So far the season has not been a rough one by any means. Farm Work. — It makes us a little impatient at this season to be delayed even for a day, as all are eager to get sowing done a<j early as possible. Like many other districts where suitable land can be got, tliere is a good deal of wheat in and being put in this year. It is early yet even to predict what the fall crops will be, although I hear of some already looking remarkably well. Grass for seed also promises well, and abundant yields are anticipated. Lambs. — I ses several lambs have made their appearance in places; indeed, I have a few in my own flock. I don't flatter myself, however, that this has been caused* by good or careful management, preferring rather to get them a little later for. our district. We sometimes hear of mistakes in the best-regulated families. Rates. — We have heard and read a good deal lately about the Clinton riding rates. It is pretty well known now that, notwithstanding a petition signed by all who are affected by the rise being presented to the County Council, objecting to the rise, we shall haTe it forced on us. So much for law, if law it be. Now, I think I can give Russia a start in showing how my rates have been raised this last two years. About two years ago my rates for the little property I hold in this riding was a few shillings over £6. After being revalued they were raised to about £11. Now I I am raised to over £15, and am prepared . to sell out for £2 per acre less than I would last year. Added to this, our mem- I ber made it very plain to us time after lime that it was in his power to still double our rates. Now, Sir. how would thai pass e\en in Russia? Such is our position today. Is it any wonder our young jnen are afraid to Jackie farming? Thp-se aie tho Mart of tilings that drive them fo seek, fresh fields. Would that I could be free to go also. This, too, in depiessed times, and when retrenchment is the rule. Such an unjust stJ'e of affairs cannot be too v idely knou n.