THE CONDENNED MAN ELLIS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 7750, 28 February 1905, Page 3

THE CONDENNED MAN ELLIS.

» HIS BEARING IN HIS LAST DAYS. (Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, Feb. 27. Mr E. Arnold, J.l'., who is an official gaol visitor, has had several interviews with EJlis in his coll at j the- Terrace gaol. When Ellis was urged, after the decision of the Cab- ; inet that the death sentence should ! be carried out, to see a minister of . religion, the condemned man told Mr Arnold that he thought "Every man should pray for himself," and he did not need a spiritual adviser, and as to confession he added "I have nothing to confess." Mr Arnold saw Ellis again on Saturday last, and offered to write on his behalf to relatives or to getj him anything he needed. Ellis did not need any help, nor would he be the means of Wringing any relatives, if he had any, to ' the gaol. He was again spoken to regarding the question of religion, and again declined all offers of assistance. During the course of an interview, Ellis said to Mr Arnold : '% will rtaot make a confession." r The condemned mam was in bright spjrits on Saturday. The following letter has been received from Ellis by Mr Wilford : "I take the liberty of addressing a few words to you in order to express my gratitude to you for what you have done for me. You have done more for me than I expected of any man in this country, and words fail to convey my true sentiments. I wish they could. They would indeed be warm. You have defended in a case which has cost > - ou great thought, labour, and expense, and I have nothing by which I can recompense you for all your trouble on my behalf. lam finite satisfied that you have done all you coufd for me, for which I hopi' you will accept my sincere thanks. You have heard my plea in court, and if you think I am no't guilty you will remember the rest is silence.—.l. Ellis."