RIVERTON.

Southland Times, Issue 636, 25 February 1867, Page 2

RIVERTON.

(fbom ottsown cobbespokdeet.) An immense flock of mutton birds came up the river on Wednesday morning last, they came in such numbers as perfectly to exclude from view the opposite shore and darken the atmosphere, they were evidently following a shoal of small fish. Their appearance earned quite an Excitement in the place, and induced numbers of our gallant sportsmen to turn out with their fowling pieces and soon created great destruction among them, the birds being so numerous the worst shot could scarcely fail of hitting them. The bay soon swarmed with crafts of every description, from a cockle shell to a brig, their occupants not confining themselves to guns, succeeded in making great slaughter among their winged visitors by knocking them down with long sticks. The sport was kept up until nearly dark, when the birds made use of their wings and flew away, the sportsmen returning heavily laden with their spoil. The oldest inhabitants in the place cannot remember ever having seen such a large flock of these kind of birds come so far up the river. The weather of late has been unusually fine and very warm, and the crops in the neighborhood are looking remarkably well, and some of the farmers have already commenced harvesting. There is every probability of there being a goodly amount of grain stored this season. It is to be hoped the weather will prove favorable for farming operation to be carried on successfully. Our gallant volunteers have of lafce turned out in good numbers, and with their new uniforms make a very creditable appearance on the parade ground. They are evidently making a praiseworthy effort to perfect themselves in their drill, so as to be fully prepared to form an efficient guard of honor to His Excellency the Grovemor, on the occasion of his visit to this town. A movement is being made, and meetings have been held for the purposo of getting up Eaces to be run in Eiverton. Already a large sum of money has been promised, and there is every likelihood of its proving a success. It is to be hoped that the lovers of sport will come forward and contribute their .share. I hope shortly to be able to supply you with further information on the subject.