CORRESPONDENCE.

Temuka Leader, Volume I, Issue 86, 12 October 1878, Page 2

CORRESPONDENCE.

“PICKWICK” AND THE “ CIRCUS,’ (to the editor of the temuka leader.) : Sir,— -Will you be good enough to grant me space in your journal to reply io the letter appearing in your issue of the Bth instant, and signed by “ Pickwick. ” I simply desire to enlighten your correspondent and the public generally regarding the circumstances to which he alludes, for “Pickwick” seems to be in the dark respecting the matter. He says “I induced Mr Benhatnoto announce to the audience, that ifiy groom was wanted immediately.” I cat} scarcely see, sir, how that could be, when I never had the slightest knowledge of a communication with that individual. Need I f add that those who know me know also that I would never stoop to make use of such a mean artifice ; indeed, I do not require so to advertise myself. The fact is this, that the messenger (Mr Beattie, from the Waitohi Flat), who came f( r me to go last Monday evening to a patient residing in that part of the district, took upon himself to ask at headquarters for my groom. Mr Beattie did so unasked by me, and entirely on his own responsibility. He was merely informed at my house that I should require the lad to get the horse ready and drive me ; he was also told where he would be most likely to find him. What a pity it is that ‘Pickwick ’’did not prosecute his “enquiries,” a little further. He might then have gratified his curiosity by ascertaining exactly where I went on that particular occasion —what was the nature of the case —what time I arrived home, and whether or not I received my fee. Doubtless, all this would have interested him much. I wish “ Pickwick ” to know that there was more than ‘ ‘ supposition ” in the case, there was reality, and that the vehicle to which he alludes as giving “ countenance to the supposition,” was my own buggy. I think, sir, I have said enough to show that “ Pickwick’s ” letter can only be characterised as apiece of impertinence, and that he owes me an ample apology for his mis-statements. In conclusion, let me advise “Pickwick” to mind his own business, and above all things, to be more cautious in future, both as regards what he states, as well as what he insinuates. He has evidently got himself into the wrong box on this occasion, and I leave him to scramble out as best he can. I am, &c,, S.McD. Gumming.