MISSING AUCKLAND BUILDER.

Shannon News, 9 June 1922, Page 2

MISSING AUCKLAND BUILDER.

WARRANT OUT FOR ARREST. About 18 months ago a new builder appeared on the Auckland market. I-le tendered for several jobs at moderate prices, and got a fair amount of work one way or another. Being a stranger he naturally had to produce a reference when he approached the firms who supply construction material, and he gave l the name of a well known bank. When merchants rang up to ask about the standing of the firm, the bank was most open; said he had so much to his credit and always met his obligations promptly. The most prudent merchant could do no more, and so the new firm got credit in the usual manner. One big milling firm received thousands ol pounds from him, and all the other merchants with whom he dealt always got their money promptly. It is said that the man was not a builder by trade, but he.had a tip-top foreman, and the individuals for whom the newcomer put up houses had no reason to complain of the quality of the work. Just before Easter, the new-comer—-who by that time was becoming quite an “old identity” with a reputation for good work and for being one of the best payers in the trade —had several houses under way. It is usual in the building business to make a draw from time to time as*, the work progresses. but he seemed to be quite easy in his mind over these contracts. “He was not in need of any money, and would let the credits run on.” It thus happened that a short while before Easter he was in the position of drawing several decent sums of money, and the sequel proves that he drew in respect of the three contracts simultaneously. At this time he was also in fairly heavy debit to several firms for building materials, the total amount being, it is said, about £SOOO. ft will be remembered that owing to the juxtaposition of St. George's Day, the banks and professional offices were closed for five days at Easter. The builder gave it out among his men that he was going to have an extra week as he wanted to go and visit his wife, who was sick in Christchurch. So that everything should go smoothly he left a week’s pay for the men, and said to his foreman: “If you want me particularly, telegraph to that address,” handing him an address at Christchurch. Nothing unforeseen did happen, the men were paid as usual, and as for the business firms there was nothing to excite their suspicions, about such a good client. . " At the end of the extra week which the builder expressed his intention of taking, the foreman began to get anxious and wired to the Christchurch address. The telegram came iWk, “Not known.” This of course gave rise to further inquiries, and a warrant has now been issued for the. builder, and anyone who can locate him is entitled to a reward of. £IOO. It is quite possible, of course, that when the missing builder finds that his presence in Auckland is earnestly desired, he will come forward with due explanation of his mysterious disappearance. If so, he will doubtless receive a cordial welcome from those who are ardently seeking his address, i—Auckland Star.