TOPICS OF THE TIMES

Southland Times, Issue 18842, 7 June 1920, Page 4

TOPICS OF THE TIMES

The Crimes Act requires that a sentence of death shall not be earned out until the pleasure of the Governor-General with respect thereto is made known (says the Christchurch Press). The sentence must be executed within seven days of the receipt by the Sheriff of notice that the Governor-Gen-eral will not interfere with such sentence. It has long been the rule in England to allow a condemned man three weeks between the pronouncemnt of his sentence and his execution. In New Zealand no definite period is fixed, but in general, unless there is a delay in reviewing the case, three weeks is the ordinary period of life allowed to the criminal. As a matter of practice the depositions at the trial, with a report upon the whole case by the judge, are forwarded to the Executive Council, which considers them along with any further facts regarding the case that may come to light in the meantime. In the cave of Gunn, the Auckland murderer, it may be mentioned, counsel for the defence stated in his address to the jury that if the accused were found guilty there was no reason to suppose that the death penalty would not. be carried out. “A verdict of guilty means death,’' was hts summing up of the position. It is nine yeans linee a criminal has been executed in the Auckland prison. The condemned man was then a young Maori named Tahi Kaha, who paid the supreme penalty on June 21, 1911, /nr murdering an old man named John Freeman, at Fuhipuhi on April 5 of that year. I’ersons previously executed at Auckland lumbered eighteen. As is well known, executions must take place within the walls of a gaol or other enclosed place gazetted for .he purpose. Not more than ten adult male .pectators are allowed to he present in addition to the officials who are required by law o attend.

Hitherto the palm of longevity has been bold without dispute by the living bacteria .vhich have been collected in some of the tombs of ancient Egypt—microbes which have seen (if microbes do see) the laying of the foundations of the Pyramids (remarked the Christchurch Press recently). But, as :i recent writer points out, the microbe which lid his bit in the plagues of Mo.se.s or worked the yeast for Pharaoh’s baker, must he a baby of a few thousand years compared with the bacteria which a French scientist lately found in amber, and which, on the application of the proper methods to restore the apparently fossilised, became very much alive and kicking. Amber as every school child should know, is the fossilised resin of coniferous trees that grew some millions of years ago—so long ago that their gum was a fossil in the days when the cave-bear and the mammoth provided sport- for the men of the Stone Age. Dead bacteria have been found before this in fossils from the coal measures, but this is the first time when any organisms of such inconceivable antiquity have been resuscitated. Possibly kauri gum possesses a similar connexion with the past, imaginative people, remarks the writer we have quoted, “have sometimes sought to depict the ultimate doom of the human race, and the desolation of the world. The microbes, we may he sure, will be in at the death, and it will be a commentary on our history if some of them are the same creatures which were here at the start.”

Two Masterton bakers were fined £5 and costs recently for selling light-weight bread.

Two trees in the Khandallah Domain (Wellington) were struck by lightning a few nights ago (say* the Dominion). Both were • ;-und to be smouldering the next mom-

On August 1, 1914, there were 12,000 women employed on the English railways; on November 11, 1918, the number was 06,000; and at the end of January last there were 30,000.

The Pohangina Valley (says a Wanganui Herald) rejoices in a young lady 6ft .'bn and a lad of 6ft 7in, in their boots. Both are in their ’teens, and are healthy and handsome specimens of colonists.

‘'Do any of you understand what a totally incapacitated man is?” asked a speaker at a meeting of limbless soldiers in Wellington. ‘’Yes,” came the prompt response from another of those present. “He’s in Karori.” The speaker, continuing, defined a totally incapacitated man as one who "had lost all his limbs and was blind, deaf and dumb.”

The failure of a Chinese, Kwong Hay, to pass the education test imposed by the Customs authorities resulted in an appeal being made recently before Mr J. E. Wilson, S.ivl. The candidate failed to pass the lest set by the magistrate and will consequently be refused admittance to the dominion ami will be returned to his port of departure.

‘T notice,” said counsel to a witness in the Christchurcji Supreme Court on Friday, "that you always refer to a la-bor-atory and I to a lab-oratory. Who is right?” The witness replied that counsel was right. The barrister attempted to soften the blow by remarking that Webster was divided in opinion on the subject, but Webster was an American lexicographer. Mr Justice Herdman added that when he was at school he was taught to say la-bor-a.ory, but he may have been wrong.

Figures have been published showing what has been done in the work of swamp reclamation in the ■ North Island. On the Hauraki Plains 37,451 acres, valued at £22,800', were opened for .selection, and another 7000 acres will be available this year The sections range from 75 to 150 acres. Land in the set led portions: of these plains has changed hands at £IOO to £lls per acre. At present drainage operations are being carried out on 100,090 acres of land lying between Matata and Whakatane.

A cablegram to an Australian paper said that while the Prince was being received at Woodville a souvenir-hunter put a hand through a window' of the Royal car and secured a small vase containing toothpicks. The vase dropped on the platform and smashed. The crowd sorambied for the toothpicks. The Bulletin honours the incident. with a cartoon: “And what’s that, Aunt Ellie?” Aunt Eilie: “That is the Royal tooth-pick ,my dear. Your father fought for it at Woodville.”

Discussing the scope of technical schools and colleges on Friday, Mr C. H. Opie (chairman of the Board of Governors of the Christchurch Technical College), said: “I agree with those who hold that if the youth of to day is to become the efficient workman of the future, if he is to take his place in the industrial system as a man and as a skilled craftsman, he must comprehend his work not only from the standard of the Workshop, but in its relation to science, to art, and to society in general. Technical schools, if they are fulfilling their true function, exist to show him those relationships. Industrial training shall be primarily not for the sake of industries, but for the sake of citizenship. To this end it must be conducted on a purely educational basis and not on behalf of interested manufacturers. The young workman who undertakes his trade in its scientific relations, its historical, economic and social bearings, will take a higher view of his trade, of his powers and duties as , a citizen, and as a member of society.”

A writer in the Daily Mail of April 17 says:—“ The countryside is a scene of rare beauty just now. Grass and trees are a wonderful tender green, and the orchards are a miracle of blossom. The parks are a sheer joy, and all the private squares, with with which London is so thickly dotted, are revealing fresh beauties djjy by day under the hands of skilful gardeners—many of them women.”

A very large shipment of oranges arrived at Auckland from the Eastern Pacific Islands on Tuesday by the Talune, states the Auckland Herald. The consignment consisted of 20,000 cases, shipped at Rarotonga, Mangaia, and Raiatea. The oranges loaded at Rarotonga appeared to be in fair order, but the other lots were reported to be rather overripe. This shipment is the largest landed in Auckland since 1908, when 25,000 cases of oranges arrived from the islands.

At a meeting of the local executive of the N.Z.E.L on Saturday the question of interchanging teachers between New Zealand and the Homeland on the lines of the scheme in operation in Australia and Canada was considered. The feeling of the meeting was that it would be very difficult to get good representatives from Southland unless the Department was prepared to pay the greater part of the expense involved. A resolution on these lines was passed.

A few of the Bank of New- Zealand notes used by the Samoan Administration have lound their way into circulation in New Zealand. They are the ordinary £1 notes, with a printed inscription on the face indicating tnat they are• issued by the Government oi bamo.ii. They are not intended to circulate in this country, and the person who accepts one of them at its face value t lands lo make a loss of Is, the rate of exchange asked by the banks.

“The relation or sport to the making of a nation is never properly appreciated,” remarked Mr A. Murryatt, at a farewell to the Olympic representatives at Wellington on Wednesday. “The great war proved the vaiue oi sport to a certain extent. . . .

In this country we have the finest product of humanity, that is to be found anywhere in the world. We have the iinett country, and by the encouragement of the youth to engage in clean, healthy sport it would be doing a great deal to build a healthy nation.''

A runaway in Dee street caused some excitement on Saturday. A horse and cart were standing near the Club Hotel when the horse took fright and bolted across the street, a young man in the cart being unable to get hold of the reins. Traffic was fairly thick at the time and several vehicles uanowly escaped being hit. The runaway, m swerving into Don street smashed a verandah post and deposited a case of apples on the road. The ho.se was finally stopped by a man in Don street. A few minutes later all that was to be seen of the accident was three old identities discussing the composition of verandah posts—and people eating apples.

The establishment of a British coaling station for both naval and merchant ships on Fanning Island is forecasted by the Pacific Marine Review, of San Francisco. The journal states that as a result of Admiral Jellicoe’s visit to Fanning Island last year, the Admiralty despatched two engineers, Messrs A. L. Perfect and S. R. Little, to the island, and they passed through Honolulu on their way to Fanning Island at the beginning of this month. Should the report of the engineers bo favourable, it is expected that the long-discussed plan of establishing a base on the island, tej supply both coal and oil, will be carried out. If this is clone it is presumed that much of the shipping now resorting to Honolulu for supplies will be diverted to the Fanning Island station.

“I think,” said a visitor to New Zealand, in conversation with a reporter in the North island, “that railway travel in the dominion is the worst in the world, and probably the most dangerous to health. 1 refer not only to the general slate of uncleanliness, both in the carriages and the lavatories, but to the positive discomforts one is subjected to on the Main Trunk lines in winter if one cannot book, or cannot afford to pay for a sleeper. There are railways in South Africa that are palatial compared to those in New Zealand, and those in Australia are positively luxurious compared to what is offered in New Zealand. In most cold countries the carriages are treated to a pleasant—sometimes in America to an unpleasant degree of warmth —and sleep is made possible thereby, but on keen wintry nights on. the Main Trunk, people have to move about a bit to prevent themselves being frozen. Why people in this country' do not agitate for reform in your railways has mystified others as well as myself.”

A war story, hitherto hidden by the censorship, is now' told about Pilot Easton who took H.M.S. Renown into Port Phillip. Some days after war broke out a big German steamer from Hamburg, which had no wireless, was signalled off the Melbourne Heads, and Easton went out to her and brought her in. He said nothing to the German captain about the war. When the ship was inside, off Port.sea, and Easton could see a naval launch packed with bluejackets approaching, he said to (ho captain, “We’ll slow to halfspeed here.’’ The German, ■ who knew the port well, asked “Why, Pilot, why''” and he fixed an anxious eye on the launch. “Because Britain and Germany are at war,” said Easton. The German, furious with rage at thus being “trapped,” us he called it. was for turning round and running for the entrance. But Easton pointed out a fort to him, and assured him that the puns there were trained on the steamer. So the German succumbed, but his manner towards Easton was very threatening. Five minutes later the Australian bluejackets scrambled aboard. That steamer is now part of Australia’s mercantile marine.

The Post’s Auckland, correspondent telegraphs; “An amusing incident, illustrating the keenness permeating the land agency business, occurred in the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. It arose through a sale of property having been placed in the hands of more ihan one agent without priority, and commission was payable to the agent who concluded the deal. The first agent's witness stated that he wont to the owner’s residence to report the sale of his property, and was told that the man was at church. He therefore went to St. Benedict’s. Mr J. J. Sullivan: “Dili you find him there?”— “Yes,” replied witness. “What was he doing?” “On his knees praying.” “Did you start praying yourself? No; but you talked business right away, kneeling down beside him?” "1 told him 1 had sold his house for £875, and he replied that he hud a letter in his pocket stating that another firm had gold the house for £900." Mr Sullivan ; “So you abandoned religion in the church for business, and knelt down to do it ?” “No, I leaned and half-knelt over him to report the sale.” It was stated afterwards by counsel that commission had been paid in full to the other firm.

An adventurous voyage from England to Tonga in a 21-ton cutter was concluded on May 3, when the Ogre, with a party of four (including Mr Ralph Stock, the author.) on board, arrived in Nukualofa harbour, according to a special message to the Auckland Star. The Ogre left the Devonshire coast last July. The first port touched was Vigo, in Spain, and from there the route was to the Canary Islands, thence to Barbadoes, then on through the Caribbean Sea to Colon. Passing through the canal all the paraphernalia of dock science was utilised to shift the Ogre, and all the charge that could be levied was 25 dollars. From Panama to Galapagos Island was the next stage of the voyage, then to Marquesas, and on to the Paumotu Group, Tahiti, Palmerston Island, and Niue were next-called at, and the Ogre then went on to Nukualofa, thus completing a truly remarkable voyage. The Ogre was designed by the well-known Colin Archer. She was built nine years ago as a lifeboat for the Norwegian fishing fleet, is 47ft long, with a beam of loft, and is equipped with a 13-h.p. Kelvin engine. She is a staunch vessel, and quite capable of making the return trip to England. In the run through the Caribbean Sea the Ogre logged 1200 miles in seven days. The average sailing rate was about 130 miles a day.

English newspapers recently referred to what was described as one of the most tragic events in English court history. Ellen Aams, alias Annie Greenwood, whose 80th birthday was not far distant, was tried and sentenced on a charge of stealing two hats from a store, their total value being £3. After the prosecutor had described how she was caught shoplifting the magistrate asked; “Anything known about her past?” “Oh, yes,” the prosecutor replied. “She is almost 80 years of age. There are 22 convictions against her in her lifetime for larceny, and the records show that she has spent 51 years and five months in prison.” The Magistrate called it the saddest story he had ever heard, but said the law required that he give her six months, with such hard labour as she might be able to do.

Teapots! Cbinaware! The sturdy, clean finished, honest value goods of old England are now on sale at Hyndman’s, Dee street. Teapots from Lingard Webster*# Stoke-on-Trent potteries; cbinaware from Thos. Forester and Sons, of Longton. Infinitely better value than Japanese goods. See our values at once.

Study economy and live like lords—by buying your Groceries for prompt cash at BAXTER’S.—(Advt.)

A specially choice assortment of Mercerised Lisle and Silk Ankle Hose, suitable for evening wear, can be seen at THOMSON & BEATTIE’S. These goods are in execution of an order placed eighteen months ago, SO the prices are absolutely right. In a full range of colours at 5/11, 7/6, 9/11 to 14/9 per pair. For good hard wear Hose in all wool see the line in black and colours at 5/11 per pair.— (Advt.)

“Something worth talking about!” Th« marvellous way “NO RUBBING LAUNDRY HELP” enables the washing to be dona vithout any back-breaking rubbing. Avoid ‘Just-as-goods.” 1/- packet sufficient for 7or 8 washings.— (Advt.)

Get rid of that stubborn cold. Take “NAZOL," the penetrating, prompt and pure remedy. 1/G buys 60 doses. —(Advt.)

A bargain sale of Flannelettes. Just to advertise our stores we are offering these supreme values—lo,ooo yards striped Flannelette, 29 to 33 inches wide-, splendid quality and free from dressing, very suitable for shuts, pyjamas, underwear, etc., bargain prices 1/3, 1/6, 1/9, 1/11; 12,000 yards striped Flannelette in best makes procurable, including the famous makes of Horrocks’s and Hollin’s, all 36in wide. These Flannelettes are the ideal cloth for hard wear, special prices 2/3, 2/6, 2/9, 2/11. White Flannelette, soft and pure, 29in wide, over 5000 yards to clear at 1/11. White Flannelettes in best qualities for making up purposes in twills and plains, 33in to 3Gin wide, 2/3, 2/6, 2/9, 2/11. A splendid showing of Colonial and Doctor Flannel, ail on sale at our famous low prices. These are what we call our “live wires” for gaining new customers. Call and inspect at 11. & J. SMITH, Ltd., Progressive Stores, Invercargill, and Gore. 'Phones in all departments.— (Advt.)

“Chance will not do the work.” (Scottr. —No one can afford to take chances with Health. Yet how many during the Winter when coughs and colds are so dangerous, experiment with preparation after preparation. Take BAXTER'S Lung Preserver immediately and be sure. Mr Baxter did ail the experimenting 54 years ago and now you can promptly remedy cough, cold, sore throat, chest and bronchial troubles. This sterling specific is quick in its action, permanent in its relief. Get large 2/6 bottls iO-duy from chemist or store. — (Advt.)

Winter essentials for ladies and maids. PRICE & BULLEID, Ltd., have just opened a splendid assortment of warm Winter Cloves. Real Scotch Knit in grey and heather mixture; White Ringwood Gloves, all wool; Children’s White, Grey and Heather Wool Gloves in all sizes.— (Advt.)

MASTER*, LTD., were the originators ol me io per cent, discount to returned soldiers. Other storekeepers have copied us and we now go one belter. We now invite all discharged soldiers and those waiting discharge to have their military hats reDlocked, free of all cost, by the only hatter in Southland. We still give a 10 per cent, reduction to all returned soldiers.—* MASTERS, LTD., Dee street. — (Advt.)

Ready for instant use, “NAZOL” is aim protection against coughs and colds, oil doses 1/6. — (Advt.)

A Special Display of Exclusive Evening Frocks, Silk Dress Skirts and Blouses, now being made at THE “ECONOMIC," Ladies’ Outfitters. Prices exceedingly reasonable. (Advt.)

HATS for men, youths, and boys—a fine shewing o£ all the popular styles and value pnees. UNDRILL’S, opp. P.o. (Advt.)

PROPORTION OF WORKING DAYS.

At Glasgow recent!}' aa authority stated that the ratio of working days to days in commission for motor lorries was electric 06 per cent,, petrol 90 per cent., steam 85 per cent. You save money on maintenance alone bv using “ORWELL” Electric Lorry. THE NEW ZEALAND EXPRESS CO, Ltd,. Sole Agents.— (AdvLJ

Don’t wear out your fine Lingerie and Cotton things by rubbing in the weekly wash! Use “NO RUBBING LAUNDRY HELP,” it revolutionises the washing; abolishing rubbing! 1/- packets. All storekeepers.— (Advt.)

X friend for you! “NAZOL” instantly relieves coughs and colds. Get a NazoJ Inhaler. —(Advt.)