THE TIMES AND ITS AMERICAN WITNESSES,

Temuka Leader, Issue 1868, 21 March 1889, Page 3

THE TIMES AND ITS AMERICAN WITNESSES,

The Freeman’s Journal, in an article on the Times and the Special Commission, says:— The object of the Times in drawing out evidence about the agitation in 1881-82 was merely a device to gain time in the hope of securing some testimony which would justify the opening speech of the AttorneyGeneral. Feeling the ground slipping from under their feet, the Times resolved on playing a desperate game to retrieve its fortunes at the reopening of the Commission.

The article goes on to describe how an agent of the Times, who gave his name as George, went in search of Mr P. J. Sheridan, and how he found him, and made overtures to give evidence on behalf of the Times, The article goes on— After a long time had been consumed in these preliminary skirmishings, matters came to close quarters, and in blunt reply to a pointed inquiry, the victim calmly said that if he .was wanted in London his fee would be £20,000, paid before sailing. Mr “ George ” expressed great surprise. The figure was too high. Only expenses should be expected until a witness placed himself under the protection of the British flag. “ Then what sum do you propose ? ” “ Well, 1 will take upon myself to offer £IO,OOO. It will be paid within an hour after your examination in London, if that examination proves satis* factory,” Very quietly Mr Sheridan asked Mr “ George ” “ did he suppose that if he were seen boarding a British steamer in New York he would ever reach the Strand in London? The least to be expected would be that some provision should be made in advance for the benefit of his wife and family.” Mr “ George ” replied that the Canadian ports were open, and a witness could sail from Quebec. “ But,” was the retort, “ do you think Canada a healthier climate for a suspected informer ? ” And Mr Sheridan pointedly observed upon the fate of the late James Carey, who was shot on shipboard at the Cape of Good . Hope. This was a staggerer, so Mr “ George” fell back on the suggestion that half the money should be lodged for the benefit of Mr Sheridan’s heirs with the British Consul at New York, or with some banking agent. But no; this could not he accepted.. A man could not be asked to risk his life in addition to losing all his farming stock, and imperil the safety of his very family, without something substantial in hand. “ This is a matter you must conclude right away,” said Mr Sheridan. “ I can’t have you hanging round here.” As the Times emissary was unable to conclude anything without reference to his principals, the interview abruptly ended. Mr “George” left Pueblo with the intimation that his employers would get a week—and a week only — to make up their minds, the ultimatum being to pay £SOOO down and £SOOO in London.