The Manawatu Libel.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume I, Issue 250, 2 October 1884, Page 2

The Manawatu Libel.

Wanganui, October 2. In the Supreme Court yesterday, the libel case Russell v. McMinn and McKelvie, was concluded. The plaintiff is a J.P., and was editor of the Manawatu Times. Defendants are proprietor and editor respectively of the Manawatu Standard. The libel alleged was that plaintiff made indecent proposals to Louise Crawford, an actress, and also to a Native woman. Miss Crawford stated in evidence that plaintiff had attended supper with some actresses, and after that, when going home, they found her door locked, and he then made the proposals. Constable Gillespie gave evidence that he had made enquiries as to the rumors, but did not take any steps. Plaintiff hearing of the enquiries took steps to have him (Gillespie) shifted, and he was consequently transferred to Fielding. Mr. Izard, for plaintiff, called a number of witnesses, who spoke highly of plaintiff’s moral character. Mr. Russell himself gave an emphatic denial to the alleged assault on Louise Crawford, and also in regard to the Maori woman, who cannot be found. He explained the cause that led to his writing about the constable. The jury returned a verdict for plaintiff, damages £lO.