RIVERTON.

Southland Times, Issue 1726, 11 April 1873, Page 3

RIVERTON.

(FROM OUB OWN COBBESrONDENT ) I April 9th. On Thursday evening last, Serjeant M'Pherson was presented with a purse of sovereigns, collected amongst the Volunteers, and given to hira in recognition of his untiring energy, and as a mark of respect from the corps, who bold him in greatesteem, and who were exceedingly sorry to part with him. Color-Serjeant Robinson was also presented with £7, raised by subscription to defray his expenses in going to Nelson as an extra in the late prize firing. Lieutenant Cassels made both presentations, in the Oddfellows' Hall, on behalf of the corps, the Captain beiug detained from being present by other business engagements. Since the Serjeant arrived here, there has been a great deal more interest taken in the Volunteer movement than formerly, and it is to be hoped his departure will not decrease that interest. A Volunteer entertainment is advertised for Monday evening next, in aid of the Band Fund. On TFriday evening, the Key. C. S. Ross gave the first of a series of lectures to [ aid in liquidating the debt on the Presbyterian church buildings, tbe subject being " Gleams of Light inlthe Mediaeval Ages " The lecture was most interesting and instructive, and there was a very fair attendance, taking into consideration the boisterous weather on the evening in question. On the 11th inst. the Rev. A. H. Stobo will lecture on " Witchcraft." In my last communication, I .mentioned that Messrs Cassels and M'Donald had obtained the contract for supplying all the timber for our bridge, lt has since transpired that Messrs Coucher and Co. bave contracted to supply the piles. They intend to erect a turbine waterwheel in the Longwood to drive their saw-mill. They calculate on being able to work it up to 30 horse-power. If so, they will certainly be able to compete with the other mills about to be erected.; but even although all the mills now spoken of are erected, they will all doubtless find a ready market for their timber, Mr Geo. Printz, wno has been away some time in Sydney, has purchased a vessel there for whaling purposes, and is now fitting her out, being expected to arrive here about the end of this month, when he will ship a lot of the old hands who are anxiously awaiting his return. Great improvements are being carried on all around us just now. This, it is to be hoped, is the precursor of better times for Riverton.