BALCLUTHA.

Tuapeka Times, Volume III, Issue 111, 24 March 1870, Page 6

BALCLUTHA.

(From our own Correspondent-.)

On Monday, the 21st inst., the coroner for the district, Dr. J. G. Smith, held an inquest, in the Crown Hotel, for the purpose of investigating into the circumstances connected with the late disastrous fire at Rose Bank, Mr. John M'Neils. As yet, however, nothing has been discovered whereby the cause or origin of the fire can be asceitaiued, and the jury had to return an open verdict. It is painful to think that so dire a calamity should occur through, the willful act of any sane man ; yet the evidence clearly indicates such being the case in this instance. Mr. M'Neil's loss cannot be estimated at much less than a thousand pounds sterling ; but had the fire been five minutes: longer wnperceived, it is evident the horses, harness, and every article about the place would, have been destroyed. The crops in this district are well nigh all secured, and thrashing is generally engaged in. There are no less than five machines employed around us this season. The returns average better than many anticipated — the wheat and barley being particularly good. We are now almost in a network of flax machines, all of which are reported to be succeeding well.

Our Presbyterian congregation is now in thorough workiug order. Tli3 8.3 V. Mr. Arnot is again busily engaged in this place. Several dwelling houses are going up on Barr's extension. The Wesleyan church has beon commenced, and a Presbyterian manse will shortly be erected.