CHRISTCHURCH.

Thames Star, Volume VIII, Issue 2834, 15 March 1878, Page 2

CHRISTCHURCH.

Thursday. A meeting of the Christchurch Bar was held in the Supreme Court library,: 17 members (the total within three of the whole strength of the Bar) being present. Mr Barton made his statement and retired, leaving the meeting to consider their course. After little more than half-an-bour's discussion, the following resolution was carried.without a division : —" That this meeting, having ■ heard Mr Barton's statement, without expressing any opinion npon the circumstances leading to his recent imprisonment, considers that the fact of severe and degrading punishment having been inflicted upon a member of the bar for contempt of Court calls for inquiry." Before retiring from the meeting, Mr Barton requested that in any resolution which might be passed they should abstain from any expression of opinion on the merits of the case, which would be submitted in due course to the proper tribunal. Circulars have been issued by the railway authorities asking the employees willing to join the proposed fire brigade to send in their names. A large number have already complied. The New Guinea Expedition propose to start next week.

This day. A young girl about 19 years of age was found drowned in the Avon last evening. There was blood upon her pocket handkerchief, also on her bonnet. She has not been identified.

Sir George Grey is expected at six o'clock this evening. So far as known there wi! 11 be no public demonstration during his stay here.