SWITZERS.

Tuapeka Times, Volume III, Issue 203, 21 December 1871, Page 6

SWITZERS.

(From our own Correspondent.)

I have very little to report from Switzers. In every respect our affdrs are very quiet. The celestial element is quietly taking possession of our goldfield, and the Caucasian barbarians are as quietly receding. J hear that several European miners intend seeking " fresh fields and pastures new " when the Christmas holidays are past. From Muddy Flat there is nothing new, e?eep£ that severa} parties who have got encouraging prospects iv

tb£ terrace are putting tunnels into ttieir claims from the fiat — the only ~>vny the ground can be worked profitably. There is no timber near, either for mining purposes or fuel. I h.ear that some of the squatters won't allow any prop timber tp be taken from fheir runs. Whether they can legally prevent: such being done or not, is beyqnd my ken. I think it a fit subject for a mining association to enqujre into. If communication is tp be kept open to Switzers in the winter season, it is time some steps wGre 4 ytaken in the matter. The last flqod\ Whad caused the Waikaia river to Qyeiiflow ita banks

and wash a channel jacross the flat, in ffilu'ch a stream of water is continually making the wagon road a swamp. Unless something is done soon, the probability is that the people of Switzers will be short of provisions before winter is past, as we are already entirely at the mercy °? the ©l©m«mte. gjp£» o^«j^cisTTwe have been favoured ~~\vith the presence of the Inspector of Schools in our midst. It is the first time he hag b.een at Switzers. He

examiiied the school, and as a matter

pf course he spoke highly qf the progress th.c children were making. Whether schoolmasters are never sure when the Inspector may drop in upon them and keep the school always in a fit state for inspection, or on account

of the benignity of Mr. Hislop's disposition be thinks it best always to speak encouragingly, I know not ; but I haye noticed that that gentleman, in his official capacity, speaks highly pf all the schools he visjts..

Qur. amateurs have again come nobly forward and giyen a performance on on behalf, of the schpo} funds. Notwithstanding the short notice giyen, the benefit realised the nice sum of £9 7s. 6d. — a gqod Christmas box for the Committee.