RAN FOR HIS LIFE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 275, 12 April 1913, Page 5

RAN FOR HIS LIFE.

HIS HOUSE FIRED. THE PUPOXGA MINE TROUBLE. By Telegraph—Press Association. Nelson, Thursday. The Evening Mail' correspondent today telegraphs that details of Tuesday's ontrage show that numbers of drunken men attacked the house of the mine deputy and violently assaulted the man. who hail practically to run for his life and take refuge in the surrounding bush. The dwelling was then fired and burned to the ground, together with its furniture and personal effects. The strikers as a body are much incensed at the outrage, and state that it was the work of irresponsible drunken men.

Much liquor is being taken to Ptiponga, and many men are under its in- { lluenee. Police reinforcements are arriv-

It is possible the affair may fizzle out without further serious disturbance.

A notice, under the hailti the directors, -ha* booi! posted on the ini.:« to the. effect that "the" mine Is closed ;.i----'lnfinitely. Officials at the pumps are keeping the mine clear of water.

Mr. Mcllridn. president of the Puponga Miners' Union, denies that the men acted on thciv own responsibility, and. .states that the union had telegraphed to tl*C Federation and was awaiting a reply. Mr. Meßride alleges that it is a case of lockout. The trouble started with the dismissal of a trucker named Low. As a result of patting a horse on to do the work, Low and another trucker named Day were asked by the manager to draw lots for dismissal. They refused, and Low was discharged. The union asked for reconsideration of the case, and alleged that the manager told them that if they did not agree with the action tney had better go home. The manager thereupon closed down the mine and posted a notice that wages were rcidv Mcßride anticipates that the trouble will not last long.

Evorytliin S is reported to be quiet today at Puponga, but additional police have been drafted there, and, i„ consequence of Tuesday's sensational episode will be retained for the present. It is reported that raanv of the strikers are leaving the district. The mine has been closed indefinitely. Xo arrests have been made in connection with the assault on Walker and the destruction cf his house. The strikers disclaim all connection with the outran which they declare was the work ° o f some irresponsible and drunken men