Starvation & Suicide.

Patea Mail, 17 July 1880, Page 3

Starvation & Suicide.

A man attempted to bleed himself to death in the public street, at Wellington, during Monday night. The Post reports that the man was standing on Larnbtonquay, and with an ordinary pen-knife ho inflicted three severe cuts on his left arm. Blood flowed profusely, and although gradually becoming exhausted, the man proceeded along the quay, turned into Fcatherstone-street, and wandered down several others. In this way he made a ci oumambulation, and while in a very enfeebled condition .his attention became attracted to the lighted-up windows of the police station. To this place he at once made his way, and asked Sergeant Bortinshawfor permission to wash himself. His request was gra ited, and it was then observed ..that the unfortunate man was covered with blood-stains. On being interrogated, he admitted that he had endeavoured to take his life by stabbing himself in the arm. The assistance of Dr. Harding .was immediately invoked, and the man’s wounds were duly dressed. The man’s name is Palmer, and he claims to have been connected with journalism both in'this colony and Victoria. He came to Wellington a few months ago from the

South, and at one time took up his abode at Orr’s City Buffet, and latterly at the Commercial Hofei. Although several persons have interested themselves in bis behalf, lie has been unable to obtain employment, and he appears to have fallen into a desponding state of mind owing to his impoverished circumstances. Palmer is about 40 years of age, and has a brother in Auckland. He was brought before the Resident Magistrate on a charge of attempted suicide, but as be appeared to be suffering from extreme weakness, he was remanded for seven days.