TAPU.

Thames Star, Volume VIII, Issue 2951, 31 July 1878, Page 2

TAPU.

(fbom a cobbksfondbnt).

Hastings, July 30.

A public meeting, convened by Mr E. Wills, Treasurer Tapu Hall Committee, wes held in the Hall on Saturday last, 27th July, at 8 p.m., for the purpose ot receiving financialreportoflate Committee. At the appointed hour a goodly number of the residents mustered. The chair was taken by Mr Ha Trices, who read the notice convening the meeting., The Secretary then read a document given him by Mr McMahon, Treasurer of late Committee, which showed a credit balance to Hall Fund of 19s 7d.

Tbe debit Bide being composed principally of items of candles provided for the several entertainments, considerable discussion arose on the subject, and Mr Samuel Boden, jun., stated to the meeting that the balance sheet was incorrect, as ho had attended most of the dances, &c, and in every instance the lights were provided by the young men. The paper was (lien handed round for inspection* and for the foregoing reason; also having no signature attached. It was agreed on the voices that it be not accepted. Mr Murray stated that oa the committee of 1876 resigning, he handed to Mr Stevens a sum of 10s which did not appear; also item Is, paid for private use of the Hall at the entertainment called Lannigan's Ball. Mr Wills explained that Mr Stevens held the money to pay 6s fo? rates which would fall due, and Is 2d for candles.

The committee then informed the meeting that they had great difficulty in getting the statement into its present form, and feared that unless they had more power given them they would have to take it as it stood. Mr Collins asked the Chairman what steps ihe public should take to enforce Sayment of the monies on hand, who eclined to give an opinion. The consideration of the matter~Viis postponed to a future time, so as to attifcv the two committees to come to some Understanding. : Mr Wills announced that there would be an entertainment on Saturday evening next, to consist of locals, tongs, readings, &c., and Mr Newby promised to provide a magic lantern for the occasion. After the usual vote of thanks to the Chairman the meeting separated. Holt and party have taken up the Old Marquis of Hastings ground, and intend to reduce the mullock by puddling. They have erected a large puddling machine 18 feet in diameter, and have connected the ground with it by a tramway and shoot. They will start puddling on Monday next. I expect a good result from this speculation, as the tailings are worth 7ozs to the load, and the general stuff contains a good show loose gold.