TOWN EDITION.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2180, 13 March 1880, Page 2

TOWN EDITION.

THE ASHBURTON LIBEL CASE. A case of libel brought by MrE. Gr. Crisp, solicitor against Mr Joseph Ivess, proprietor of the “ Ashburton Mail,” was heard at the Resident Magistrate’s Court, Ashburton, yesterday. MtG.D. Branson conducted the prosecution, and Mr Ivess defended his own case. The proceedings were taken in consequence of the publication of an article in the “Ashburton Mail,” accusing Mr Crisp, the boi’ough solicitor, of extorting money from defalting ratepayers by charging 6s for writing letters demanding payment of rates. The article containing the alleged libel was read in Court. Mr Zouch was examined and deposed that in his opinion the article in question would tend to damage Mr Crisp’s reputation as a professional man. Mr Ivess then called for the defence, Mr Houghton the editor of the “ Mail,” whoso evidence was to the effect that the article was fair comment, and gave the public information which they had a right to receive. One of the witnesses stated that the article complained of, would convey the impression that Ashburton possessed a “pettifogging little solicitor.” Miss C. Callaghan schoolmistress proved having received a letter from Mr Crisp demanding payment of rates, together with six shillings expenses, and stated that she wrote a letter complaining of the demand to the Borough Council. Mr Ivess submitted that there was no evidence of malice, but the Bench held that so far there was j)rima facie evidence of libel and as defendant intimated that he had five additional witnesses to call, the case was adjourned. This morning the proceedings were resumed. Mr Ivess announced that he had seven more witnesses to examine. The Resident Magistrate intimated that he would not allow any further evidence of a merely corroborative character, and that unless new evidence could be produced which would alter the aspect of the case he should rule that there was a prima, facie case for committal. It is expected that the case will not he concluded till late in the afternoon.