DISTRESSING SUICIDE.

Taihape Daily Times, 2 November 1917, Page 6

DISTRESSING SUICIDE.

CHRISTCHURCH, Oct 31. I Alfred James Lcnnon, 56 years of age, employed in the firm of Borthwick and Sons, meat exporters, was found dead in the office this morning, the result' of a revolver shot in the temple. i . THE INQUEST. At the inquest on Alfred RicSafd Lennon, found shot this morning, C. S. Harper, manager of Thomas Botrhwick and Sons, meat exporters, said Lennon was employed as accountant at the Waitara Freezing Works, He came to Christchurch three weeks ago for the purpose of having his books audited as was done every year. His health worried him, ana he took a despondent view of everything, but never mentioned suicide. During the last week he had been reprimaned regarding his work, but he seemed to get over it. Yesterday he was normal. "It might be inferred," said Mr Harper, "that being down on bis annual audit there was some irregularities in -his accounts. The only complaint was that his work was not done promptly. We never questioned his honesty and there is no reason to do so." Deceased was 60 years of age. His wife resides in New Plymouth. After reading letters left by Lennon, which are not in any way a confession, the Coroner returned a veTdict that Lennon shot, himself while temporarily of unsound mind.