REPRIEVE OF THE FIJI MURDERER.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2394, 18 November 1880, Page 2

REPRIEVE OF THE FIJI MURDERER.

SECOND EDITION

The Auckland Herald” says that when the interpreter informed Joe, the Fijian murderer, of his reprieve, he simply nodded his head and manifested no signs to indicate that the intelligence was welcome to him or otherwise. The question was put to him several times whether he understood the purport of the communication. Joe each time nodded his head but made no manifestation. He was told that the sentence was commuted ; that although he was nut to be banged, lie would be kept in prison for the term of his natural life. Another nod, without accompanying word, was all the indication that could be obtained as to the effect of intelligence which would make most other men in such a situation give some visible sign of satisfaction or gratitude. Joe, after the announcement was made to him, was conducted to the gaol yard, where the heavy irons were struck off his legs. He showed himself well enough pleased with his release from these incumbrances. All through the man seemed to maintain his passive demeanour. We have heard that Joe has shown disappointment in one particular. Whether or not he bo greatly pleased at escaping the gallows, his sorrow was palpable enough when told that one of the creature comforts allowed to condemned criminals will be taken from him. He showed more concern at losing his tobacco than joy at his reprieve from death.