BUTLER MURDERS.

Waikato Argus, Volume II, Issue 94, 13 February 1897, Page 2

BUTLER MURDERS.

San Francisco, February 9. In the course of an interview, Captain Fraser, of the Swanhilda, stated that he received a report from the captain of the s.B. Taupo tliat Butler was on board, and was anxious lest he should incite the crew to mutiny, or fire the vessel. The chief officer of the Swanhilda watched Butler closely throughout the voyage, but found that But'er worked well, and was thoroughly cogDisanc of a seaman's duties. No idea as to the information received from the Taupo was conveyed to Butler, who was led to believe her report had reference to the discovery of new shoals. Butler often displayed women's jewellery, and had in his possession a sent; book with the name " Mrs Weller " inscribed in it. Butler was rebuked forswearing at the Magistrate at the hearing of the applicafor his extradition, which was further adjourned. February 10. Butler admits that he went under the name of Richard Ashe. He declares that Harwood is living in London today, but did not say why he assumed Harwood's name. He had (he said) a dozen aliases, some of which he had forgotten. Early in 1896 he went to Africa, and afterwards returned to Australia. He &aid, " I can prove I was not in Australia when sonic of the murders charged against me were committed." Butler said his family lived near Hull, but refused to say exactly where. Butler was completely stunned on being accused of the murder of Preston. Newspapers containing the details of his murder were produced, and the accused professed to be astounded. Constable Conroy explained how direct evidence wa3 obtained of Weller and Butler havinp gone to the mountains together unaccompanied by a third person. Etta Butler, of Napa, who cla : med the accused as her husband, now admits that she made a mistake.