NOKOMAI.

Tuapeka Times, Volume III, Issue 200, 30 November 1871, Page 5

NOKOMAI.

(From our Own CoiTespondcnt. ) November 14.

The want of water for the sluicing claims is already severely felt ; and on Mr. Warden Wood's next visit, intended to be held on the 23rd, most of them will have to apply tor protection.

Very little gold has lately been offered for- sale, the storekeepers refusing to give mofe than £3 12s 6d, in consequence of a letter received from a bank agent stating this to be the price. Quite a furor was excited, and loud the denunciations against the supposed bank coalition. At any rate, should the report prove true, but little gold will be sold by the Nokomai miners, who will take it; to Melbourne or Dunddin before submitting to such an imposition. For my own part, I am convinced it is an error, and without foundation, or the press of the colony could not "have been Kilent on such a deliberate swindle. Our long expected ' entertainment '^aine off- with great success last,week of perfect satisfaction, pervaded, the audiener, aifd/T"^'

cordially passed a warm vote of thanks to tho performers, who were, Mesdames Hanson (who kind'y presided at the piano). Rowe, and Metealfe; and Messrs. Lapham, Nicholls, E. Hanson, Harris, Rowe, and Lumsden. The school -children played a very conspicuous part in the entertainment, and he must indeed be a misanthrope who would not be pleased with their singing of " Ring the bell, watchman," and " Marching through Q-eor^ia "—" — they also sang " God save the Queen " in first rate style. The lady singers were warmly applauded and encored, and the gentlemen received their duo meed of praise. Mr.,Lapbam's reading of " Kishogue," and Tom Nicholl's rendering of " My old wife and 1," being the gems of the evening (always excepting the children.) Dancing followed the concert, which was in aia""bf the school funds ; and I hear a handsome testimonial to the teacher. Mr. Lapham, is to be the fitting finale to the affair.

The collection in aid of the Queenstown Hospital reached a little over £31, or about 10s a head for every adult miner actually working on the Nokomai — a very creditable result, and I should say satisfactory to the Hospital, who I don't think thought to collect above 1 £8 or £10 here.