CORRESPONDENCE.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume III, Issue 324, 13 November 1875, Page 2

CORRESPONDENCE.

Otir columns are open for free discussion; but we do not hold ourselves responsiblefor the opinions of our Correspondents. :o: ■

TO THE EDITOR. Si S| —Surely we must be surrounded with a mischievous, ill-conditioned set of lubbers or larrikins when we find mishaps frequently occurring to our shipping and boating interests. Strong suspicious are generally entertained that these mishaps do not occur through accident, but by the prevalence bf wanton and wilful destruction, arising undoubtedly frt>m vindictiveness. Not long ago the Opotiki was discovered on fire lying at the pulilic wharf. Private boats and skiffs have recently been cut adrift (although causing no obstruction in the river) and found after a- deal of trouble, either a total wreck or irretrievably foundered. Oars, and other gear have frequently been missing. It is also gravely suspected that the punt used for the conveyance of metal for our roads also came to grief through the same disreputable manoeuvres. She (according to those engaged in her) was full of stone, securely moored in the stream, awaiting the return of- tide to take her to the place of discharge, when, she mysteriously found her way to the mouth of the river, filled by the roll of the surf, and sunkhowever, if this was mere accident (?) great credit is due to the contractor, his men, the cutter Clara and crew for their united and unwearied efforts in her successful recovery. Hoping that this will attract the attention of the police and harbor authorities so as to be on the alert to trace the depredators that they may be compelled to mend their ways by proper means, that is interviewing the Magistrate and laying down the metal pretty thick uhder strict surveillance. —I am, &c., A Sufferer. Gisborne) November 8, 1875.