Fort Beaufort Advocate 1871 4 October - December
Saturday, October 7, 1871. (Missing)
Saturday, October 14, 1871.
PUBLIC SALE
In the Estate of the late GEO. WIGGILL, of Brandt Bosch, Winterberg.
The Undersigned, instructed by the Executors, will sell by Public Auction on Thursday, November 9, and at the above named Farm “Brandt Bosch” in the district of Fort Beaufort, the whole of the Moveable and Immoveable Property belonging to the above Estate, consisting of
1000 Superior Merino Sheep,
35 Head of Breeding Cattle,
3 Spans Heavy Trek Oxen,
1 “ Young do, do,
1 Spring Cart, together with Horses, Harness, &c, complete,
Several Riding and Draught Horses,
1 Tent Wagon in good order.
1 Buck Ditto.
2 Brand-new Tent Wagons,
1 Understel – also new,
Wagonwood, wagonmakers and Blacksmiths’ Tools, &c, &c.
The whole of the Household Furniture.
Immediately after which will be sold the Farm “Brandt Bosch,” (The residence of the Late George WIGGILL), situate in the Winterberg, district of Fort Beaufort, comprising about 1500 morgen of the renowned Winterberg Veldt.
The farm is heavily wooded, and the numerous picturesque kloofs not only afford shelter and food for cattle in the bleakest winter, but are the source of never failing Streams and Springs, rendering the Irrigation of the whole Farm an easy task. One stream alone turns two Flour Mills, and could be made to water Lands of almost any extent. The Homestead is large and well-built, and the surrounding Outbuildings comprise Workshops for carrying on the Wagon-making business in its every branch. The well stocked Orchards and Vineyards are now in prime order and full bearing.
The Farm ‘Thorn Hill’ will then be brought to the Hammer.
This well-known Property is situate in Kaal Hoek, and is only about four miles distant from “Brandt Bosch.”
The extent is about 1800 morgen, and several Homesteads are scattered over this area. The Veldt can boast of the same advantage as “Brandt Bosch,” and the whole stands unrivalled as a Sheep and Agricultural Farm.
Also 2 Valuable Farms situate in a rising part of the Free State; Diagrams of which will be shown, and particulars announced at the time of Sale.
This is an opportunity of purchasing good remunerative Farms, Stock, &c., which is seldom offered, and should induce a large attendance of Speculators and Farmers, as the terms will be very liberal.
Note the time and place of sale, viz: at the Farm “Brandt Bosch” (the residence of the late George WIGGILL), in the Winterberg, division of Fort Beaufort on Thursday, the 9th November next, to commence at 10 0’clock – sharp!
Provisions will be provided.
John H. PARKER, Auctioneer.
SALE OF LANDED PROPERTY.
The undersigned, being favored with instructions from Edward BELL, Esq., in his capacity as Executor Dative in the Intestate Estate of the late John BURKE, will offer for public competition at Alice (in front of his Mart), on Wednesday, 18th October next, a certain piece of ground, situate in the town of Alice; in extent 41 square roods and 96 square feet; near the Gaga and Chumie Rivers. Granted to the late Henry CALDERWOOD, Esq.
Titles Clear.
For further particulars apply to the Auctioneer at his Mart, Alice, where the Diagram and Transfer Deeds can be seen.
A Liberal Credit will be given. – Sale to commence at 12-sharp!
A. T. GOODCHILD, Auctioneer.
Alice Auction Mart, Sept. 30, 1871.
KENNISGEVING.
Ik de ondergeteekende, Willem Andries Frederic NEL, verklaar hierdoor dat al hetgeen ik gezegd heb van den heer Nicholas Hidge RADEMEYER, thans woondende te Bultfontein onwaar en leugenachtig is, en dat het my van harte spijt dat ig zyn karakter daar door benadeeld heb.
Aldus gedaan en geteekende te Du Toit’s Pan, den 6den dag van September, 1871, in tegenwoordigheid der ondergeteekende heheigen.
(Ges) W. A. F. NEL.
(Ges) J. W. PIZENTHAL.
( “ ) P. CARROLL.
(Voor waare copij)
Thos. BEETON,
Vrede Regter.
THE FORT BEAUFORT ADVOCATE.
Saturday, October 14, 1871.
Latest Telegram.
Advocate Office,
Monday, Oct. 9, 1871.
Mail Steamer “Syria” arrived from England in 26½ days.
Passengers for Algoa Bay: -
Mr. FACHSE,
Mr. PETERS,
Mr. & Mrs. WOOD,
Mr. HARVEY,
Mr. BETLY, and
Mrs. GOOD and son.
MISCELLANEOUS.
FORT BEAUFORT is famed for being prolific. Last week a lady presented her delighting spouse with twins. This week another lady has improved upon this, having made the enraptured husband, the happy father of no less than three bouncing girls. We expect that the customary bounty of Her Majesty on such occasions as the last, will be extended to the fortunate parents.
MR. PIERS, Postmaster-General, may be expected here shortly. He will return to Cape Town via Port Elizabeth.
VALUABLE PROPERTY. – Yesterday, Mr. Peter POTE, instructed by the directors of the E. P. Guardian Loan and Investment Company, put up to competition the well known farms “Jammer’s Fontein,” “Bosch Fontein,” and “Buchna,” situated in the division of Alexandria. Some time ago, we are told over £10,000 was offered for the estate, and, in fact, valuation was fixed for a like amount. Yesterday, when the farms were put up, first separately, and afterwards together, in the estate of Mr. E. HEUGH, but £2,100 was bid. The Hon. G. WOOD was the bidder, but no sale was declared by the representative of the trustees. – Journal.
NOTICE.
We the undersigned have granted our general power of Attorney to Mr. Elijah WIGGILL of Queenstown to act for us and on our behalf.
Ruth WIGGILL,
Humphrey HOLLIS,
October 10, 1871.
NOTICE.
The undersigned having been duly appointed Executor Testamentary in the Intestate Estate of George WIGGILL “Brandt Bosch” district of Fort Beaufort, requests that all claims against the said Estate to file them with the undersigned; and those owing monies to pay the same to the undersigned within six weeks from this date.
Elijah WIGGILL
Queenstown, Oct. 10, 1871.
POSTSCRIPT.
ACCIDENT. – A young lad named OXFORD, in the service of Messrs. J. Shaw & Co., broke his leg while jumping off a counter, on Thursday.
UPSET. – A wagon containing a family of women and children was upset at English Drift, on the Koonap, on Wednesday last. Several hurts were sustained, but nothing very serious.
A CONFERENCE of Missionaries connected with the London Missionary Society, was held in the Independent Chapel in this town, on the 11th instant. The ministers present were the Revds. R. BIRT, T. D. PHILIP, E. SOLOMON, A. van ROOYEN, J. READ and F. KEYSER.
ANNEXATION OF THE DIAMOND FIELDS. – We are informed on reliable authority that Commandant BOWKER received a telegram on Wednesday last to proceed immediately to the Diamond Fields and proclaim the disputed ground British territory. The order was promptly complied with, he having left by post-cart on Thursday morning. – Journal.
AN INDIAN GIRL, who fell in love with a fellow, rode twenty miles with a revolver in her hand, to where the chap was chopping in the woods, and told him if he didn’t marry her she wold make a tunnel through him. The wedding came off that afternoon. He said he never would quarrel with a woman about a little thing like that.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS,
In the Insolvent estate of Petrus Gerhardus FERREIRA, lately of Buxton in the Division of Stockenstrom, Farmer.
The first and Final Liquidation and Distribution Account in the above Estate, will lie for inspection of Creditors at the Office of the Resident Magistrate of Stockenstrom, at Eland’s Post, for a period of Fourteen days from this date; after which, if no objection be raised thereto, the Honourable the Supreme Court will be moved to confirm the same and order the Distribution thereof.
M. E. SMIT, Sole Trustee.
Seymour, Stockenstrom,
October 14, 1871.
Saturday, October 21, 1871.
ELECTION OF WM. FLEMING, ESQ., FOR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
FORT BEAUFORT PROVISIONAL COMMITTEE
Thos. WARD, Esq.,
J. de SMIDT, Esq., M.D.,
James SCOTT, Esq.,
Wm. ESTMENT, Esq., M.D.,
Jno. QUIN, Esq., M.L.A.,
W. KENT, Esq.,
W. MORKEL, Esq.,
H. CALLAGHAN, Esq.,
W. LLOYD, Esq.,
P. LAWRIE, Esq.,
W. EWING, Esq.,
Chas. MALLETT, Esq.,
E. P. SOLOMON, Esq.,
S. PAYNE, Esq.,
E.A. MILLER, Esq.,
E. NORTON, Esq.,
Thomas QUIN, Esq.,
T. JACKSON, Esq.,
G. C. KNIGHTLY, Esq.,
A. MCKAY, Esq.,
J. BEGBIE, Esq.,
C. B. HUTCHINS, Esq.,
A. B. COHEN, Esq.,
J. J. MULLER, Esq.,
W. J. QUIN, Esq.,
James WHITECROSS, Esq.,
F. GODDARD, Esq.,
T. HANLY, Esq.,
J. LLOYD, Esq.,
With Power to add to their number.
STOCKENSTROM COMMITTEE:
W. H. BATES, Esq., M.D.C., Chairman,
M. E. SMIT, Esq., M.D.C., Secretary,
J. J. van AARDT, Esq., J.P.,
J. C. CULLUM, F.C.,
P. READON, F.C.,
Rev. J. READ,
Jas. GREEN, M.D.C.,
John HANNAH, M.D.C.,
J. FOURIE, M.D.C.,
H. HATTA, M.D.C.,
A. van der BURGH, M.D.C.,
A. de LANGE, M.D.C.,
A. HANNAH.
J. J. MARX.
James READ, Jun.
W. READ,
D. FOURIE,
J. JORDAAN,
G. de BOER,
W. SPOCHTER,
C. ZEELAND,
P. JAGER,
H. VINCENT,
Booy ROOY,
Volkers de LANGE,
W. KLASSEN,
N. KLASSEN,
D. BASSON.
With Power to add to their number.
NOTICE TO DEBTORS.
In the Insolvent Estate of H. E. MCTAGGART.
All persons indebted to this Estate are required to take notice, that unless the amounts due by them to this Estate, are at once paid, legal proceedings will be instituted for the recovery.
John QUIN,
Trustee.
Fort Beaufort.
NOTICE TO DEBTORS.
In the Insolvent Estate of R. M. ROBERTS.
All persons indebted to this Estate are required to take notice, that unless the amounts due by them to this Estate, are at once paid, legal proceedings will be instituted for the recovery.
John QUIN,
Trustee.
Fort Beaufort,
Sept. 22, 1871.
MISCELLANEOUS.
THE ANNIVERSARY SERVICES in connection with the Scottish Chapel Sabbath School, Alice, will be held to-morrow morning at 11 o’clock. The Rev. Dr. James STEWART will preach.
THE HON. J. C. HOOLE proceeds to Cape Town by the Celt.
WAGON HIRE. – On Tuesday last the current rate of carriage from Port Elizabeth to Graham’s Town was four shillings per 100 lbs.
A WELL-EQUIPPED PARTY is about to leave Cape Town for the purpose of prospecting for gold in the neighbourhood of Mitchell’s Pass.
RUMOUR. – A rumour is current that one of the Burghersdorp parties, the Messrs. KIDWELL, have been he fortunate finders of a 175 carat diamond. We shall be glad to hear the report confirmed. – Gazette.
MESSRS. BRONGER & SON have arrived in Port Elizabeth. They are proceeding to Commando Kraal to prospect the country in the neighboured, with the view of ascertaining the best route for a railway.
POSTSCRIPT.
WE UNDERSTAND that R. F. RORKE, Esq., M.L.A., has received an appointment as Collector of Revenue at the Diamond Fields, at a salary of £350 per annum.
IT IS COMMON talk about Cape Town that the proclamation, annexing the Diamond-fields, will be published in a few days. Some of the arrangements have leacked out, and among them we hear that Mr. Advocate BARRY is to be appointed Recorder at the Fields on £1,200 a year, and Mr. Advocate THOMPSON, M.L.A., Public Prosecutor, on £600 a year. We are glad to know that for the sake of the junior members of the bar there is some prospect of work for them to do. to dig they are not able, and to beg they are ashamed, and it is pitiable to see them compelled to waste their time and alents over such speeches as “A similar motion, my lords.” There will assurdly be good practice for som in the new Court at the Fields, and others will benefit by the departure of their seniors. – Argus.
DEATH OF A DOUBLE BABY. – ONE HEAD OUTLIVES THE OTHER. – There was recently born in Boston a most remarkable child. It presented the phenomenon of two heads, four arms, and two legs, all upon a single body. The girl- for such was its sex – died recently. The first half or head breathed its last at five, and the second shortly after eight o’clock. The child had enjoyed excellent health from her birth – nine months ago – until within two weeks, at which time one half exhibited signs of illness. It recovered, but a few days since the other – or the other half – was taken sick and died. Upon one end of the body reposed the head of the dead infant; upon the other that of the live one, with its eyes still bright and curious, and its lungs in full breathing order – Medical Press.
FATAL ACCIDENT AT HOWISON’S POORT.
Journal.
Great anxiety and consternation prevailed in Grahamstown on Sunday last, in consequence of the arrival of a special messenger, who reported the loss of the passenger-cart, the drowning of its passengers, and the washing away of the whole down the Fish River. The weather had been bad for several days. The rains falling had been unusually sharp and heavy, and the whole country was regularly soaked. The downfall commenced on Thursday last, and from that time to the hour on which the accident occurred, it continued without intermission, causing all the small gullies and streams to be flooded, and making travelling anything but a safe or agreeable duty. The Port Elizabeth passenger-cart seems to have started as usual on Saturday morning, but in consequence of the rains and darkness did not venture farther than the Kareiga Hill that night. On Sunday morning, however, the passengers started early and seemed likely to reach town in safety. Unfortunately, just as the most unpleasant and what would be considered the most dangerous portion of the journey had been accomplished the melancholy accident, which it is our duty to record, took place. Before entering into any further particulars it may as well to quote the report of the field-cornet, Mr. W. WEBB, which was kindly rendered to us to-day: -
I send you an account of a sad accident which as cast gloom over our city this morning, the deaths by drowning of our much esteemed friend Thomas LANGFORD, Esq., and Mr. SHACKLETON and his son, as given by the passenger cart driver (Rob. SMITH.)
“I am the driver of Mr. THOMAS’ passenger cart. I started from Reit Vley at half-past three o’ clock on Saturday afternoon, and came to the Kareiga about eight o’clock at night. Mr. LANGFORD wished me to stay there all night, because it was raining and very dark. Mr. LANGFORD staid in Mr. THOMAS’ forage-house, and I took charge of the cart. I started again till Sunday morning about 5 o’clock, it raining all the road. I came to Howison’s Poort, where the accident happened, about half past 6 o’clock. When I came to the river, the little boy, SHACKLETON, said to his father “Let me get out, and I shall be safe.’ He said “Never mind, my son, I know the drift and there is no danger.” Mr. LANGFORD was in the back seat with the little boy, and Mr. SHACKLETON in the front seat with me. I tried to drive into the stream, but the horses refused to take the water, I then turned the horses round and brought them back, and asked what I should do. Mr. LANGFORD asked Mr. SHACKLETON what was the best. Mr. SHACKLETON said – ‘I know the drift; it is shallow.” I then drove in. When we got into it the left hand grey horse was taken off its legs. The cart then capsized. All I could hear was ‘O God, the cart is capsizing!’ I heard no more. I then struggled and got out, and I think I saved what saved my life was my big waterproof coat floating me. I then ran to Mr. PARKINS’ and reported to him what had happened.”
Mr. SHACKLETON has left a widow and three children to mourn the loss of a kind and indulgent father. For the benefit of the widow and orphans a subscription list has already been opened. Mr. SHACKLETON was connected with the management of the Messrs. BENJAMIN and Co.’s woolwashery at the Poort, and very much respected in that capacity.
Another of our townsmen had a very narrow escape. Mr. David SAMPSON, the well known farrier and Town Councillor, was endeavouring to cross on horseback and got washed down the river, but managed to steer out of the current before it was too late.
The body of the late Mr. LANGFORD was discovered to-day by some coloured men, about a mile and a half below the drift where the accident took place. Mr. WEBB extricated the body from among the bushes and stumps of trees, and saw the head is very much cut and bruised through contact with the boulders in the river. Upon the body was the watch of the gentleman whose mortal departure from our midst we mourn so much. The dial stood at seventeen minutes to seven, o’clock this afternoon.
The cash which was in the cart has, we hear been found and is in charge of the proper custodians.
The funeral of the late Mr. LANGFORD took place on Tuesday. There was a large attendance.
Saturday, October 28, 1871.
THE DEATH of Mr. James KIDD, father of MR. C. KIDD, late of K. W. Town, is announced. Deceased was a British Settler of 1820; he came out with the Salem Party, and had reached the ripe age of 75 years.
MISCELLANEOUS.
HIS EXCELLENY the Governor has been pleased to appoint Mr. Abraham SIMS to be Field Cornet of the ward Winterberg, Fort Beaufort, in the room of Mr. J. C. HATTING, resigned.
MR. JAMES LEONARD, of Somerset East has surrendered his estate.
WOOL. – We hear that Mr. van der Merwe obtained in King Williamstown, on Tuesday last, 14¾d per lb for his washed wool. – Watchman.
M. H. BLOXAM Esq., has been appointed Justice of the Peace for the district of Victoria East.
DEAN MERRIMAN has been unanimously elected by the Synod of the Church of England at Grahamstown as the future Bishop of the Eastern Province.
DEPUTY-COM-GENERAL BRUNETTE arrived from England ex R.M.S. Syria, to relieve Deputy-Com-General ANGELL at King William’s Town, who returns to England.
MR. J. MCCORMACK, formerly clerk in the Control Department, has received the appointment of Town Clerk in the room of Mr. BRIGHT, resigned. There were 8 applications for the office. – K. W. T. Gazette.
A COLOURED MAN named Koes CROSER has been sentenced to death at Beaufort West for the double crime of rape and murder.
GOOD LUCK. – We hear that Mr. LEPPAN is returning from the fields after a stay of a few months with over 140 diamonds, valued at several thousand pounds. Mr. LEPPAN sold his claim before leaving for £800.
A MYSTERIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE. – We are told that people who go to Switzerland should be careful about bathing in the Lake of Wallenstadt, because “a number of persons” – exursionists probably – who ventered to swim in this water in the course of the season never came out of it, either dead or alive, and the matter has at last been made the subject of a serious investigation. As tending towards a solution of the mystery, it is stated that several fishes of an enormous size have been recently observed gambolling in the loch, but “no one can at present give any accurate description of these monsters of the deep.” It is to be hoped that the relatives of the unfortuante individuals who have disappeared in the Lake of Wallenstadt will insist on a careful and deliberate inquiry into the habits of the new kind of shark that has evidently developed the most uncomfortable propensities in Switzerland. Our coasts and rivers are at any rate free from fished addicted to drawing bathers; but from a scientific point of view it would be interesting to learn more of the terrible creatures, for an account of which we are indebted to that excellent holiday newspaper the Swiss Time.
THE DIFFICULTIES OF DIAMOND SEEKING. – A correspondent writing from Burghersdorp says: - “I passed a man in Burghersdorp, named PEDLAR, who has been singularly unfortunate. He resided somewhere near King Williamstown. He sold off all that he had, purchased a span of oxen and wagon, and started for the Fields. All his oxen died. He has been lying three months and two days at Saunder’s, about 18 miles from Burghersdorp. Provisions ran short, and he was kindly helped by the various passengers in the Diamond Carts with a little money to buy food with. A couple of transport wagons lent him other oxen yesterday, and brought him into Burghersdorp. He has a family of five little children. How the poor unfortunate man will get to the fields I do not know; if he does succeed in getting there I cannot imagine what he is going to do.”
THE POST CONTRACTS. – From a telegram received in town, we learn that Mr. THOMAS has secured the contracts for the conveyance of mail from this both to Fort Beaufort and King Williamstown. The contracts extend for the term of four years. Mr. THOMAS’s was not the lowest tender, but was accepted on account of past experience of his service. – Journal.
MR. FRANCIS LYON BARRINGTON. – This gentleman, well known for years at George and Knysna and lately at Cape Town, as a general agent, and who left the colony only a few months ago, to return to England, has since come into possession of his inheritance, by the death of his mother, the Hon. Mrs. BARRINGTON, sister-in-law to the Hon. Mr. BARRINGTON, M.L.A. for George. By the decease of his mother Mr. BARRINGTON acquires an income of about £11,000 per annum which can be easily worked up to £15,000 a year, as the family estates are large, good, and only need the owner’s personal attention for a time to this. When the last mail left, Mr. BARRINGTON was on a yachting cruise in the Mediterranean. He formerly was an office in the Royal Navy.
DIAMOND FIELDS.
THE DIAMONDS found now are increasing very fast indeed, in number.
DE BEER’s new rush is turning out to be a marvellous place.
THE VALUE of claims rise daily. As much as £2000 has been made of a claim.
£400 to £500 has been given for a bit of a claim but a few feet square, and there is hardly a bit of that diamondiferous.
MR. B. an (the South Australian legislator) and Mr. LAWRENCE (a South Australian Magistrate) who arrived some months ago, have each been pocketing £300 a week.
THE LARGEST diamond reported this week is one of 50½ carats, found at De Beer’s.
MESSRS van HEES & Co, of Dutoitspan, have found another 46 carat stone, but slightly-tinged, and of good shape.
THE ORANGE River has been too full for the pont to work lately, and traffic has been greatly inconvenienced in consequence.
THE LATEST passenger cart from the diamond fields confirms the rumour that the territory has been officially proclaimed to be British.
THE WORK down the river is going on very satisfactory. Delport’s Hope and Forlorn Hope are holding their own.
AT A PUBLIC MEETING held at the New Rush (De Beer’s) on Monday, 9th inst, several important resolutions were passed, among which the principal were as follows: - That the late Committee shall be dissolved; that a New Committee shall be elected; and that in future no Inspector or official of the Free State Government shall be chairman or a member of the Committee. A provisional committee was appointed to arrange for the election of the new body.
ACCORDING to all accounts the sickness in the Free State camps (Pniel excepted) is greatly on the increase, and deaths are said to be numerous. I have no desire to create unnecessary alarm, or to write a single word detrimental to any interest. It would not only be wrong to cloak over the real state of the case, but it would be productive of much mischief and suffering. There can be no question that these camps are in a horrible unclean state; and this is not to be wondered at when it is remembered how suddenly the vast multitude now congregated there were brought together. The diggers complain of the Government, and the government officials regret the want of co-operation upon the part of the diggers; and it is pretty clear from what took place at a meeting held at De Beer’s last Monday; that there have been faults, or failings, on both sides.
It does appear to me as if the diggers whilst they have many causes of complaint do not make sufficient allowance for the difficulties which exists in carrying out sanitary arrangements. If they did, instead of ousting committee after committee, they would take more practical methods of forcing on sanitary reform. If what Mr. FINLASON says is true – and no doubt it is – viz, that when he called for tenders for cleaning out a well the lowest was £730, and another had tendered to sink a well for £800, and another had asked from 15s to £1 per day for negroes, it is no wonder that more has not been done.
103 CARAT DIAMOND. – A correspondent writes: - On Tuesday the 3rd inst, as a party at Colesberg Kop were about leaving off work, the owner said, “pick out a little stuff for me to go with.” While this was being done, he suddenly cried out for the one who was picking to stop, and jumping into the claim, hauled out a diamond of 103 carats.
A DREADFUL ACCIDENT occurred at the same time and place. A claim fell in, killing three natives and an old white man.
A PASSENGER through Fauresmith states that the death rate on the Fields averages 5 per diem, but that the diggers are too much absorbed in diamond seeking to head the number of deaths. The farmer though, were “hooking it.” – Cradock Express.
POLITICAL MEETING AT GRAHAMSTOWN.
Journal.
MR. H. B. CHRISTIAN arrived in town from Bedford yesterday at noon, and at a very short notice a meeting of his committee and supporters was called, for half=past five in the evening. Owing to the circumstance that a large number of persons were attending the funeral of the late Mr. LANGFORD, and Mr. SHACKLETON and son, the meeting was not so numerously attended as it otherwise might have been.
Amongst those present were:
Mr. GILBERT (in the chair)
Messrs. S. CAWOOD,
BARR,
OGILVIE,
AYLIFF (Mayor),
NELSON,
ORGILL,
MINTO,
CLOUGH,
SHEFFIELD,
BARKER,
MINGAY,
HUDSON,
HOCKEY,
GROCOTT,
O’BRIEN and
FRANKEN.
Mr. NELSON, as secretary to the committee here read the Grahamstown requisition, to which Mr. CHRISTIAN made a short verbal reply.
After some conversation, and several questions being put to Mr. CHRISTIAN, Mr. R. AYLIFF proposed the following: -
“That having heard Mr. CHRISTIAN’s views on the question of Responsible Government, Federation, and Railways, this meeting expresses its confidence in Mr. CHRISTIAN, and resolves to do all in its power to secure his return.”
This motion was supported by the Hon. S. CAWOOD, and carried with applause.
The meeting then dispersed.
Saturday, November 4, 1871.
GOVERNMENT GAZETTE.
NOTICE.
Return of Licences issued by the Distributor of Stamps at Fort Beaufort during the month of October 1871: -
Wholesale and Retail for half year ending 1st Jan., 1871. (£2) –
C. BIRKETT, D’Urban Street, Fort Beaufort.
Retail Shop for year ending 31st Dec., 1871, (£1 10s) –
J. MULLIGAN, D’Urban Street, Fort Beaufort.
Hawker’s Licence for half year ending 31st Dec., 1871, (15s)
G. KING, Fort Beaufort.
Game Licence for half year ending 31st Dec., 1871 –
J. P. van GASS, Fort Beaufort district.
W. R. PIERS, Dis. Stamps.
Stamp Office,
Fort Beaufort, Nov., 1, 1871.
REMOVAL.
Mr. Attorney SOLOMON has removed his Office to the old Market House.
PUBLIC SALE OF LANDED PROPERTY
In estate of the Late Mrs. Catherine Gertruda VAUGHAN.
The undersigned, in his capacity as Executor Dative in the above Estate will offer for sale by Public Auction, in front of his residence, Campbell Street, Fort Beaufort, on Tuesday, November 28, 1871, the following Properties, viz: -
1st. The Dwelling House and Ground at present occupied by the undersigned, comprising Shop, Bake House, 5 Rooms and Kitchen, with extensive back garden ground. (In extent one hundred and ninety-five square roods and forty-five square feet.)
2nd.The adjoining vacant erf, in extent one morgen, thirty-one square roods, and thirty square feet.
3. Part of Erf No. 30, Durban-Street, adjoining the residence of Mrs. STOKES, in extent 118 sq. roods and 108 sq. feet.
Diagrams of which will be shown, and all other particulars made known on the day of sale.
J. H. WINDELL, Executor Dative.
Fort Beaufort, 3rd November, 1871.
MISCELLANEOUS.
MR. RUSHBY has put a clock in a window of the upper storey of his shop. It will be a great boon to the inhabitants to have something by which to regulate the time.
THE REV. D. PHILLIP, of Hanky, lately passed through this place on his return home. He preached in the Independent Chapel on Sunday.
ARCHDEACON MERRIMAN (Bishop elect of Graham’s Town) arrived here by passenger cart on Saturday, and left for Queen’s Town on Monday morning.
THE GLASS BLOWERS. – Mr. and Mrs. WOODROFFE, the renowned glass blowers have arrived, and will give their first entertainment this evening in the Benefit Hall. We strongly advise all who wish to spend a pleasant evening not to omit a visit to the Glass-blowers, where they will find instruction elegantly blended with amusement. Our country friends ought not to omit this opportunity. Mr. and Mrs. WOODROFFE will give entertainments during the whole of next week.
THE DEATH OF MR. H. SPARKS, senr. of High-st., Grahamstown, is recorded.
THREE HUNDRED and fifty wagons have been counted by a traveller on the road between the Fields and Grahamstown.
IT IS SAID that one firm alone in Queenstown during the past month, despatched thirty-one wagons loaded with merchandise for the Vaal River!
WAGON HIRE. – As high as 7s 6d per 100 lbs was paid a few days ago for carriage from the Bay to Fort Beaufort, and 5s to Graham’s Town.
A SCRETARY is wanted for the East London Divisional Council – salary £60 a year. Applications to be sent in by Wednesday, the 8th inst.
A BAY PAPER says five wagons loaded up for the fields yesterday at 35s per 100 lbs and on which £500 was advanced. Wagons have since been engaged at 30s.
DEATH OF MR. W. BIRT. – Our obituary notice to-day records the death of an esteemed fellow-townsman, Mr. W. BIRT, of the well known and long established firm of Wm. BIRT and Nephew, wholesale ironmongers.
A LIBERAL AMOUNT has been subscribed for Mrs. SHACKLETON, who lost her husband and son by the late accident at Howison’s Poort. About £200 has been collected for her in Grahamstown, and £165 in Port Elizabeth.
APPOINTMENTS. – Mr. Coenraad Henri de HART has, by His Honor the President, been permitted to act as a sworn translator in the Dutch, English, French, and German languages.
RUMOUR OF THE BOERS TURNING OUT TO A MAN. – We were this morning shown a letter from a respectable gentleman at the Diamond-fields. The writer states that, “in the event of Sir Henry BARKLY annexing the Diamond Fields, the Dutch Boers would turn out the man, “but, adds the correspondent, “no doubt they will have to ‘turn in’ again sharp. – Watchman.
FATAL DRINKING BOUT. – On Saturday last a soldier of the 85th Regiment named DWYER, undertook, for a trifling wager at a certain canteen in town, to drink consecutively twenty glasses of brandy. He appears to have swallowed more than half the quantity, when he faltered or fell. He was assisted to Barracks, and placed in the guard room. His alarming condition having been brought to the notice of the regimental authorities, medical aid was called in to the unhappy sufferer; but by the time the regimental surgeon arrived his condition was all but hopeless, and he died – a victim to his own folly, and to what would seem the very criminal assistance of those who joined in the drinking contest, and the part who sold the liquor glass after glass – to one man.
A NEW KIND OF FLOUR-MILL. – The chief feature of this invention consists in the method in which the wheat is reduced to flour. The grain falls from a hopper into a chest in which bard are moving in opposite direction with immense velocity. The grains are struck, and by the blow reduced to powder. The flour is said to be of a superior character, and the cost of production very much less than the ordinary grinding with stones. A mill on this principle is in full operation in Edinburgh, and the proprietors state that they pass now one hundred and sixty bushels an hour through the machine. It is said to be well adapted to hard, flinty wheat. The acting of the blow from swiftly-moving bars on the grains of flour is something like the effect would be of striking a floury potatoe with a round-stick or cricket bat. The mill is called “CARR’s disintegrating mill.” It will be a strange revolution in milling, if this invention supercedes the use of mill-stones, after their having been in use, one way or another, from the earliest times. One of the advantages claimed is that the flour never becomes hot in grinding, - so the mill can be worked continuously, night and day, at any speed, and the old hindrance of stopping to dress the stones is altogether avoided. – Farm.
PRIESCA DIAMOND FIELDS.
(From the “Colesberg Herald.”)
In these columns and elsewhere we have emphatically prophesied the discovery of Diamond Fields along the Orange River. In our advertising columns will be seen a Government notification of the opening of a diamond field at the Priesca. As our readers are aware, several diamonds have been found there, and one a 50 carat gem. We know that the present occupiers of the farm have been digging for diamonds in some sort of fashion, and by last accounts we learn that on the very day of the arrival of the Civil Commissioner’s Clerk to investigate previous reports, a fine stone of 3 carats was turned out by the wife of a Boer, who was searching for diamonds in the absence of her husband. Victoria West is in a wild state of enthusiasm concerning the Priesca Diamond Fields, and have already take out 90 claims. As will be seen by the advertisement, Mr RAWSTORNE, Civil Commissioner’s Clerk at Victoria West, is to proceed to the spot as Commissioner as soon as 100 claims are taken out. This number and many more will be undoubtedly taken, so that gentleman’s departure for the spot is fixed for the 25th of this month (Oct.)
The country around is described as most picturesque and varied. Abundance of game is to be found all around. The river, along the banks of which the farm is, is beautifully flanked by luxuriant trees. Who knows but that we are on the eve of the discovery of another Pniel? Who would have dreamt when the Klip Drift diggings with their few adventurers, that in two years such grand results would come about? What with gold-fields, diamond-fields, and further probabilities of both of these all throughout the country, the prospects of South Africa are most brilliant.
DIAMOND FIELDS.
ORANGES. – A load of oranges was brought on to the market at Du Toit’s Pan on Wednesday last. Retail price went up to three pence an orange.
GREEN PEAS. – On Thursday some lots of green peas were sold at seven shillings and sixpence the half peck – just enough to make one’s mouth water at dinner.
MR. ADVOCATE COLE is expected up by the Capetown transport wagon due in Pniel this evening. He is to be counsel for the defence in the case of LOWENTHAL v. UNGER.
ONE DAY this week two bullocks fell into one of the claims at the New Rush, and two mules into another. The bullocks were killed, and had to be cut up to be removed, and one of the mules had to be shot!
ON SATURDAY last Messrs COBBE and COLE drove over to Pniel and returned to Du Toit’s on Sunday. On Tuesday they started on the return trip, via Jacobsdal, Fauresmith, Colesberg and Cradock. They passed the Jacobsdal Drift of the Modder River on Tuesday without delay, and on the same day proceeded a stage on their road to Fauresmith… We are informed that Jacobsdal is to be included in Messes COBBE and COLES’s line, which we hope will be shortly established.
GOODS TRANSPORT WAGONS FROM CAPETOWN. – Several wagons, with cargo, have arrived in the Pan this week from Capetown. They have accomplished the distance in an average of thirty days. We direct the attention of Port Elizabeth to this.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS.
In the Insolvent Estate of John ATON (Deceased), late of Rietfontein, in the division of Fort Beaufort, Farmer.
All persons claiming to be Creditors under this Estate are required to take notice that the Undersigned have been duly elected to and confirmed in the appointment of Joint Trustees of the said Estate, am that the Master has appointed the third meeting to be held before the Resident Magistrate of Fort Beaufort, at his office, at Fort Beaufort on Saturday, the 18th November 1871, at 10 o’clock, in the forenoon, for the proof of debts, for receiving the Trustees’ Report, and also for the purpose of giving directions to the said Trustees as to the management of the Estate; and all Persons indebted to the said Estate are required to pay the same to the Undersigned on or before the above date or proceedings will be instituted against them.
C. HOLLIDAY, Sen.,
T. WARD,
Joint Trustees .
WANTED,
A Situation as Nurse for children in a family proceeding to the Diamond Fields.
Apply – Mrs. BRENNAN, at this Office.
Saturday, November 11, 1871.
DENTAL NOTICE.
Mr. Samuel A. CLINTON (Firm of Clinton & STROUD, Surgeon Dentists, Port Elizabeth), will pay a professional visit to Fort Beaufort on or about the 24th inst.
His address and further particulars will be publicly notified on his arrival.
(ADVERTISEMENT)
Eland’s Post,
Nov. 4, 1871.
Mr. Editor, - Sir, - Having been informed that my husband, Isaac SMOOLMAN, A.B.C., has been placed on Mr. FLEMING’s Committee, and as I know he has received nothing for the honor, or for the influence he possesses, - I beg you will be kind enough to allow me to inform those gentlemen who took that liberty, that they had better take his name off again, as it is more to his – I should say our – advantage to support Mr. CHRISTIAN, who is a kind gentleman, - and we having relations in the Civil Service, must stick up for our rights.
Yours, &c.,
Eliza SMOOLMAN.
Stockenstrom, Nov., 5, 1871.
SIR, - This being Guy Fox Day, although a Sunday, I make bold to say to those supporters of Mr. FLEMING who are so noisy just now, that the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Where is the pudding? I know, Mr. CHRISTIAN is the man – he is the pudding. Mr. FLEMING is merely an independent sort of fellow, who lives in the Colony because he likes it, - but what has that to do with business? The bridge that carries me over, says I – vote for Christian and tick, - and he will not put on the screw. A live dog is better any day than a dead lion. FLEMING to the dogs!
Piet ABRAM
STOCKENSTROM, Nov. 6, 1871.
To the Editor.
Sir, - Permit me, through your columns, to ask of the person or persons who manufactured Mr. FLEMING’s Stockenstrom Committee, by what authority my name has been placed on it?
It has certainly been done without my knowledge or consent; and I must request that my name be forthwith expunged from the list. I wonder how many of the other persons whose names are put down gave their consent.
My Anti-Responsible friends tell me frankly that Mr. FLEMING’s integrity is unimpeachable, and that his straightforwardness and honesty cause him to be respected by all who know him; and everyone, I think, must admire the highly honourable way in which he has acted during and since the last session of Parliament. But these high qualifications are of themselves scarcely sufficient to warrant us in entrusting our interests to his keeping, when he tells us beforehand that on a vital question he will vote contrary to our views and sentiments, and contrary, in our opinion, to the best interests of the Colony in general and of the Eastern Province in particular.
I have, &c.,
A. van der BURG, M.D.C.
Eland’s Post,
District Stockenstrom, Nov 7, 1871.
Sir. – Perceiving that my name has been placed on Mr. FLEMING’s Election Committee for Stockenstrom, without my consent and contrary to my wishes, - allow me to request, through your columns, the person or persons who placed my name there will cause it to be withdrawn. My name will be found on Mr. CHRISTIAN’s Committee.
A. de LANGE, Sen., M.D.C.
MR. CHRISTIAN’s ideas and utterances on the subject of Pledges, as expressed by him in his reply to the Port Elizabeth Requisition, dated 15th April, 1864.
Extract from reply, dated 20th April, 1864.
“Should I have the honour of being your representative in Council, I would go there free and unfettered, only assuring you that, to the best of my judgment, I shall support such measures as shall appear to me best adapted to the requirements of the Colony.”
ELECTION OF H. B. CHRISTIAN, ESQ. FOR THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
The following influential Committee has been formed in the District of Stockenstrom to secure the return of H. B. CHRISTIAN, Esq., for the Legislative Council: -
John INGLETHORPE
A de LANGE
William GRAHAM
W J BOTHA
John GREEN
A H JASSON
J WINDELL
A van der WESTHUISEN
R W HUNT
A GROEPE, Jun.
H J HENRICE
A ARENDS
S J HENRICE
M APRIL
M HIGGINS
F ARENDS
John STARLING
C GROEPE
G F KNOTIZE
J F ARENDS
C A LOMBARD
A GROEP, Sen.
D M van de KLERK
J ARENDS
G HALGREEN
A BERG
B F HENRICE
J FABER
W J J BOTHA
J GALVIN
C J BOTHA
C STOLTZA
G S BOTHA
D GREZMAN
J H de LANGE
A WEMIERS
T C HENRICO
Klaas WEMIERS
F J BOTHA
F WEMIERS
S de LANGE
Darin WEMIERS
J van der BERG
W S HENRICO
C JASSIB
S de BOER
H van der BERG
S VANECK
P JAGERS
Klaas VANECK
Casper KLEIN
C SHARP
M J MARX
F A HOAR
With Power to add to their number.
MISCELLANEOUS.
THE MUNICIPALITY has purchased a fire engine with appurtenances from the War Department for the service of the town.
THE POLICE, we are informed burned down about 130 huts of tenants of land on the Blinkwater commonage. We are told that many of those people hold receipts for the House Tax paid to Government for the tenements destroyed. It is said that similar a raid is to be made on the native tenants on this commonage living at Appie’s Drie. What next?
MR. ADVOCATE THOMPSON passed through this place on Saturday last, on his way to the Fields to assume the office of Public Prosecutor, to which he has been appointed. On reaching the Blinkwater, his cart broke down, and he was obliged to return to Fort Beaufort, when another cart was procured and he proceeded on his journey. Capt. R. RORKE, also left by post cart on Sunday morning for the same destination to commence his duties in the office to which he has been appointed. Mr. Advocate Barry, we understand, has also left Graham’s Town to commence his duties as Recorder at the Fields.
A NEWSPAPER to be called The Diggers’ Gazette is being started at Dutoitspan. This will make the third newspaper at the Fields.
RESIGNATION. – We hear that the Revd. Canen St. LEGER has resigned the Rectorshop at St. Michael’s Queenstown and is about to be appointed to the Diamond Fields. – Free Press.
A CHALLENGE! – Mr. Samuel LOXTON, M.L.A., has published a challenge in the Queenstown Free Press “to walk the greatest distance in the shortest time without food or drink or any sort of sustenance whatever, medicinal, or smoking, or chewing tobacco, after starting. Distance not to be less than fifty miles.
Terms: fifty pounds or more a side.”
DIAMOND NEWS. – Several lucky parties from this part have arrived from the Diamond Fields. The 33 carat diamond found by DEWEY and MILDENHALL will be sent to England. Mr Henry KEYS, of Lushington, has come home, and brought 12 diamonds – one of 18 carats, do. 17, and 10; nine of them he found in one day. Mr. J. ATTWELL has diamonds valued at £5,000. Besides these, other parties have arrived, having had a share of luck. – Chumie Banner.
DEATH OF ANOTHER 1820 SETTLER – The ranks of the Settlers of 1820 have now been reduced by that fall destroyer, Death, to a mere skeleton, and of late it has become quite a common occurrence for the press to record the decease of one of the “Pilgrim Fathers.” Mr. William JACKSON, of the Bongolo, breathed his last on the evening of Tuesday last, after a lingering illness of some months’ duration. The deceased came to this country with the Settlers of 1820, being at the time a child of two years old. He had long been a resident of this district, and was generally respected and esteemed. – Representative.
LATEST TELEGRAM.
Advocate Office,
Wednesday, Nov. 8.
Mail Steamer ‘Cambrian.’
CAPTAIN DIVER had to run into Saldanha Bay, having run out of coal.
MR. DOVETON, third office, arrived on horseback this morning at five o’clock, bringing the intelligence.
PASSENGERS for Algoa Bay:
Messrs ROBERTSHAW,
VINLOCH,
DAVIES, and
Mrs. TOBIN and infant,
Mr. and Mrs. BAILEY and two children,
Mr. and Mrs. NELSON and two children,
Mr. and Mrs. NEWSOME and infant,
Mr. and Mrs. SCHWARTZBURG,
Mr. GRIFFITHS,
Mr. POWELL.
MR. VETUENELLY, a first class passenger, and connected with the press, fell overboard, and although the boat was in the water within four minutes, he was drowned.
DIAMOND FIELDS.
THE REV. MR. FULLER, while on the Fields collected about £55 for the South African College Extension Fund.
DEATH AT DE BEER’S. – Mr. SAUNDERSON, who was lately married to the widow of the late Mr. Joseph CAWOOD, died on Thursday morning at De Beer’s.
‘DUST, OH!’ – For the last three days the weather at Du Toit’s has been simply horrid. The wind has blown hot and dry from the north-west, and the dust has been a plague.
DIAMOND CLUSTERS. – Two specimens of diamond clusters, apparently embedded in green stone, have been found at Du Toit’s Pan this week. They are similar in size, appearance and general character to the specimen in the possession of Mr. TOBIN. They are curiosities and would be valued by Museums.
ACCIDENTS AT THE NEW RUSH. – A fatal accident happened at the New Rush Digging’s on Wednesday. A native, two mules, and a cart fell into one of the claims. The two mules were killed, and the native subsequently died of the injuries received. Two oxen fell into another claim and were killed. The New Rush is dangerous, and the diggers and the authorities should at once take into consideration precautionary measures.
SORRY OF TRAVEL. – As the Capetown Transport wagon did not arrive at Pniel on Monday morning, the down passengers were started from Jardin’s by private cart, the intention being to exchange passengers on meeting the wagon on the road. The meeting took place at Radloff’s, but the passengers, eleven in number, declined to leave the wagon on account of their heavy luggage. The wagon thus passed on to Pniel, leaving the down passengers at Radloff’s waiting the return trip.
POSTSCRIPT.
A PARTY OF POLICE left on Wednesday to burn out the natives on the Upper Blinkwater.
THE SALE held by Mr. J. H. PARKER of the late Geo. WIGGILL’s property, was very successful. The farms “Brandbosch Spruit.” 1500 morgen, fetched £2,000, the BOTHA’s being the purchases. Another farm, “Thornhill,” fetched £1600. Oxen fetched £10 each; and a second-hand wagon and span of oxen together realised £205. Cows sold for £6, £7, and £8; hamels 8s 9d; ewes and lambs, all to count, 6s 6d. Many who had gone to the sale in the expectation of getting stick cheap were disappointed.
THE REV. T. E. FULLER returned to Cape Town, via the Diamond Fields, last week. During his tour he collected over £300 in aid of the funds of the South African College.
CAPTAIN GEO. HOLMES, the well-known merchant and American Consul at the Cape, left the colony by the Syria, one visit to England and America. Before leaving, with his characteristic benevolence, he made a donation of £100 to one of the charitable institutions of Cape Town.
SECRETARYSHIP VACANT. – Mr. W. GREGOROWSKI, secretary to the Graaff-Reinet Board of Executors, having resigned, intending to proceed to the Diamond Fields, application from persons desirous of obtaining the situation are invited, to be sent in not later than Dec. 5. The emoluments are £300 a year and free house-rent.
UNSUCCESSFUL DIGGERS. – The Uitenhage Times says: - “We have this week to welcome back from the diamond fields Capt. CAITHNESS and Mr. BERNICOTT. We are sorry that we cannot congratulate either on his good fortune. Each has carried out his original intention and given the Fields a fair trial; digging for a twelve-month. Captain CAITHNESS has found perhaps enough to cover expenses, but MR. BERNICOTT nothing. Both seem to say that drink is the besetting evil of the diggers; and they tell many sad tales of careers which have had a terrible ending there.”
IN RE BOVEY. – In the Supreme Court last Tuesday Mr. John QUIN was appointed provisional trustee in this estate and after some discussion, during which the Chief Justice was informed of Mr. MEURANT’s conduct, it was agreed that if it were thought necessary that some person other than the resident Magistrate should preside at the meeting of creditors, an application must be made to the Court in proper form for that object.
THE EDITOR of the Cradock Register gives as good an illustration of “running with the hare and following with the hounds” as could be found all the world over. He gives a list of papers in the Eastern Province that are for and against the immediate introduction of responsible government. On the side for we find the Cradock Afrikaner, on the side against the Cradock Register. Looking at the imprints we find then the same “Printed and published by the proprietor Henry E. TURKINGTON, Adderley-street, Cradock.” With our knowledge how an inland newspaper proprietor has to distribute himself over the work of his office we find no room for the suggestion that Mr. TURKINGTON is not the editor of both papers, as well as the proprietor. He must be a man of great versatility of talent, and strange elasticity of conscience who can write in one paper for a thing and in another against it, and both papers his own, be being no hired scribe. Perhaps Mr. TURKINGTON can give a satisfactory explanation of the editorial phenomenon. – G. R. Advertiser.
Saturday, November 18, 1871.
DIVISIONAL COUNCIL VICTORIA EAST.
Notice is hereby given that the appointment of Mr. A. T. GOODCHILD as Collector to this Council is cancelled from this date.
J. DORRINGTON Jun.,
Secretary.
Divisional Council Office,
Alice, Nov. 10, 1871.
TO BE LET,
That fine farm “Umdalla,” measuring 2,040 morgen, formerly part of the Fort Beaufort Commonage. There is a good House and Outbuildings thereon, and the farm is suitable for all kinds of Stock. There is a bountiful supply of Water from the Kat River and Fountains.
Also –
Two adjoining Farms on the Koonap, measuring together about two thousand five hundred morgen, - namely, “Clifton,” on which is a good Dwelling House and Outbuildings, with large Garden; and “Baviaans’ Krantz.”
Apply to Mr. Charles HOLLIDAY, Sen.
Fort Beaufort, Nov. 9, 1871.
SPLENDID FARM FOR SALE.
The Undersigned hereby offers for Sale the Farm ‘St. Lawrence,’ in the Winterberg, - in extent about 1800 morgen.
There is abundance of Wood, Water, and Grass; and all kinds of stock thrive amazingly upon the Veld. As an Agricultural Farm it is unrivalled. – For further particulars and terms, apply to W. FINNAUGHTY, or to the undersigned.
James MUNDELL, Sen.
Nov. 6, 1871.
THE COMMERCIAL HOTEL
(Late BISHOP’s)
Fort Beaufort.
Be it hereby known to all who love a hearty welcome and good cheer, that I the undersigned, have taken over the above Hotel. Good wine, it is said, needs no bush and a jolly host needs no better sign than himself. All who come to COHEN’s Commercial shall be treated as if they were COHEN’s. In fact, COHEN will take more care of his guests than he will of No. 1. Man and beast will find COHEN’s Commercial to be the easiest of homes and the best of stables. As witness my hand and signature.
A. B. COHEN.
MISCELLANEOUS.
ABOUT A DOZEN of those gentleman in Kaffraria whose names have been placed without their authority or wish upon Mr. CHRISTIAN’s Committee, have sent a “lawyer’s letter” to the Secretary, demanding that their names be instantly taken off the lists.
MESSRS LEE & CALLAGHAN, auctioneers, of Adelaide, obtained remarkably good prices sold by them in the estate of J. H. ENGELBRECHT (deceased), on the 7th instant. The sale was held at Groen Draai, Winterberg.
CASES OF ASSAULT by Kafirs on European females seem to be on the increase in Natal.
THE HIGH COURT. – Mr. S. B. MERRIMAN has been appointed Clerk to the Recorder of this Court at the diamond-fields.
THE SOLDIER OF 32nd, named BOGGIS, who underwent preliminary examination a short time ago on a charge of causing the death of his comrade, has been released from custody, the Solicitor General declining to prosecute.
INCEST. – Joseph HUNDERMARK was arrested by Chief Constable BIRCH at the Izeli on Friday last on a charge of incest. The unhappy victims of his brutality being his two daughters aged 14 and 11 respectively. The preliminary examination was held on Saturday last, at the conclusion of which the accused – who said he was innocent and would reserve his defence – was committed for trial. – Gazette.
WR ARE INFORMED that by the next mail steamer, of the following one, Mr. H. B. CHRISTIAN is to proceed on a visit to England on “urgent private affairs” consequent on the death of the late J. O. SMIT, Esq. In the event of his election of the Council, however, we are told that he purposes being back again at the Cape in time for the next meeting of Parliament. – Argus.
VALUE OF DIAMONDS. – The Natal Mercury says: - “Messrs GRANT & FRADD have received account sales of a parcel of diamonds consigned to their London agent by the S. S. LUNSDEN, in which an 8¼ carat stone realized £250! This stone was remarkable here for its great purity, and it is a noteworthy coincidence that £250 has been offered for it on the Fields prior to shipment.”
THE GOVERNMENT has replied to the memorial from Beaufort West for the removal of Captain TINLEY, and the prayer of the memorialists is answered as follows: - That his Excellency has inquired into the relations which exist between the Divisional Council and the Municipal Commissioners and the Magistrate, and that he does not find any proof of their being of the hostile and antagonistic nature which you represent; but, on the contrary, they have been combining together for the good of the community; and his Excellency sees no reason for instituting any further investigation of Capt. TINLEY’s conduct on the strength of the memorial which is signed by very few residents in the Town of Beaufort West.
THE NEWS OF Mr. SCANLEN’s death, received the other day will cause general regret throughout the Colony. The deceased gentleman had, indeed, long retired from public life, and had been so often the subject of serious seizures that no one can be surprised at the announcement of his death. Nevertheless, it will cause deep and sincere regret. Mr. SCANLEN was a high-minded gentleman of very considerable ability, who, throughout his public career, won the esteem of all classes of politicians. Thoroughly uncompromising in speech and action, he was yet courteous in manner, and even generous in his style of debate. Few of those who had the pleasure of discussing public questions with him will forget his emphatic manner of address, and the clear-headed, manly counsels he was wont to address to the House of Assembly. Mr. SCANLEN was a thorough believer in both the power and resources of the Colony, and was wont, in a very decisive way, to rebuke those who were fair to lean upon the military resources of Great Britain. He frequently deprecated with emphatic earnestness the artificial props by which certain interests and places were supported, and he insisted that the Colony would be better if every way left to its own resources. He was wont chivalrous to insist that the East by itself was fully equal to the task of defending the Frontier, and was unworthy of herself in not fully accepting the responsibility. We can well remember one of his friends, after listening with admiration to an address in which these views were propounded, exclaiming, “If all the Frontier men were such as you – as fearless and patriotic – there would be no question of the ability of the Colony to hold its own against all comers.” In his own district, as well as throughout the Colony, Mr. SCANLEN’s name was honoured and respected. There may have been men of greater ability and culture associated with the political history of the Colony, but none, we venture to say, more trusted for integrity of purpose and sterling independence of character than the late member for Cradock. From one end of the land to the other his loss will be mourned, and his memory greatfully cherished. – Argus.
INSOLVENCY. –
James LEONARD, of Somerset East; Assets, £10,000; Liabilities, £17,073 19s 11d; deficiency, £7,073 19s 11d.
A QUANTITY of young trees and plants have been forwarded to order from Cape Town for the Diamond Fields.
THE MORTALITY in Cape Town continues to increase more especially among children. Of the 56 deaths reported at the Town house last week, 45 were of children under ten years of age.
MR. F. VITZITELLY. – This gentleman, a passenger by the Cambrian, is, if we mistake not, the celebrated draughtsman employed on the staff of the Illustrated London News. In the telegram we observe that a gentleman “connected with the press” fell overboard and was drowned. We hope, for the sake of art that this gentleman and Mr. VITZITELLY are not one and the same.
SUICIDE OF DR. KOETZE. – The Standard publishes the following in a telegram from Clanwilliam: - Shocking news from Bredasdorp yesterday. The report of a gun was heard in Dr. KOETZE’s room, at his lodgings, and the door having been forced open the Doctor was discovered quite dead. He was quite well up to the day previous to his death. – In another part of the same paper we find the following. We regret to hear that Dr. KOETZE, who, suffering from sun stroke, was confined at Robben Island, from which he was allowed to return to the mainland when it was thought he had recovered, committed suicide.
POSTSCRIPT.
FATAL ACCIDENT. – A melancholy accident took place at HEWSON’s Hotel, at the Koonap Bridge on Tuesday last, from the incautious handling of fire-arms. Mr. C. JACKSON had been practising with a revolver, at a mark and having as he though discharged all the barrels, re-entered the hotel, when a discussion arose as to whether he could snap a pistol without winking his eye. Mr. JACKSON told a bastard boy, an old servant of his, to watch his eye while he snapped the pistol, at the same time presenting the pistol in his direction, and pulling the trigger, when the revolver went off and a bullet entered the skull of the unfortunate boy, who died in about half an hour afterwards. The dismay and horror of Mr. JACKSON may be imagined at this tragic termination of his injudicious playing with fire-arms. The pistol had been snapped a dozen times or more, the chambers making two or three revolutions, and Mr. JACKSON, and all present were under the belief that all the charges had been fired off. It is supposed that the cap of one of the chambers had fallen off, and left a small portion of detonating powder in the nipple, which caused the explosion. The District Surgeon was at once sent for, but life had been extinct some hours before he had arrived. An investigation into the sad affair was held before the resident Magistrate on Thursday, and Mr. Jackson formally committed. The evidence showed that the affair was entirely accidental. Mr. JACKSON was admitted to bail. He feels keenly for the result of his carelessness.
NOTICE.
All persons are hereby warned against cutting down and taking away any description of Timber whatever, out of the Forests on the Farms of Mrs. Mary CHALMERS, at the “Glato,” Chumie.
After this notice, any persons found trespassing as above will be prosecuted without respect to class or color.
A. M. CHALMERS,
For Mary CHALMERS.
Alice, Victoria East,
2nd November, 1871.
LATEST TELEGRAM.
Advocate Office,
Monday, November 13,
Cape Town.
Steamer CELLA arrived during the night, from Dartmouth 7th October.
Saloon passengers: -
The Misses HARRIS,
LILLING,
MCGRATH,
Mr. and Mrs. POLLOCK,
Messrs JACKSON,
WROE,
O. F. VETBERG,
GELLIFFE,
BOTHWELL,
LITTER,
GULYMAN,
ABBOTSON,
LEGGETT,
LUBBY,
Mrs. and Miss WYKEHAM,
Mr. and Mrs. GLOVE,
Messrs. DRUMMOND,
CLAUS,
CHUNTOUNESE,
Robert WATERS,
John and George FORD,
BASSON,
PENRY, and
MATHIE.
Wednesday, November 15.
ROMAN last night.
Passengers for Algoa Bay –
Dr. MORGAN,
Mrs. GREENSHULDS and child,
Mr. and Mrs. D’ARN,
Mr. Joseph REK,
Mr. JONES,
Rev. Mr. and Mrs. PRIESTLY and one child,
Mr. CAWOOD,
Miss CAWOOD,
Rev. S. B. CAWOOD and servant.
TO TRESSPASSERS
Persons are hereby warned against trespassing in any way, whether by walking, hunting or otherwise, on the Farms ‘Mereber,’ Bledermont,’ and ‘Weltevreden,’ in the district of Victoria, the proporty of the undersigned.
J. H. P. BEZUIDENHOUT.
Nov. 8, 1871.
Saturday, November 25, 1871.
MISCELLANEOUS.
ACCIDENT. – On Monday night a wagon fell over the side of the causeway, on this side of the Koonap Bridge. The owner, who was asleep in the wagon, had his foot severely hurt.
WE EXCEEDINGLY regret to have to record the death of Mr. W. H. BIRCH, who arrived here a few days ago on a visit, with the intention of making only a few days’ stay. On Tuesday last Mr. BIRCH was about proceeding on a trip to the Katberg, when his horse threw him just opposite the store of BIRCH Brothers, and he received a severe injury. The unfortunate gentleman was carried into Mr. WRAGG’s Hotel, and continued to grow worse until death terminated his sufferings on Wednesday night. Mr. BIRCH was well known in Fort Beaufort, having formerly carried on business here.
A GOLD NUGGET weighing 9½ ounces has been found at the new fields. It has created quite a sensation among the diamond diggers.
MR. WOLLANTON proceeds early next week to Great Namaqualand to hand over the new Mining Company the valuable mineral site and concessions obtained in the neighbourhood of Pomona Island from the native chief, David CHRISTIAN.
APPOINTMENTS. – His Excellency the Governor has been pleased to make the following appointments: -
Johannes Christoffel TRUTER, Esq., to be a road Magistrate, under the provisions of Ordinance No. 9 of 1846, and to be Civil Commissioner and Resident Magistrate of Calvinia, in the room of P. J. de SCHMIDT, Esq., transferred.
Heinrich MEYER, Esq., M.D. to be District Surgeon of Calvinia, in the room of N. E. SCHONNBERG Esq., M.D. from the 1st proxima.
Johannes Christoffel TRUTER, Esq., to be a Justice of the peace for Capetown and district thereof, and the several country district respectively during pleasure.
J. F. BOYES Esq., and Richard Foster RORKE, Esq., to be inspector of the Diamond Fields at Klipdrift and Pniel, respectively, in the territory of Griqualand West, under the Provisions of Proclamation No. 71 of the 27th ultimo. And to cancel the commission of the peace for the district of Alexandria, issued on the 1st March, 1869, to Henry MADER, late clerk to the Civil Commissioner and Resident Magistrate at that place.
A SMASHER OF DIAMONDS. – There is on the Fields a Mr. MCCARTHY, who at one time was a proficients at the hammer and anvil, who seems to be a knowing one as regards diamonds. It is reported of him that he had a large diamond with a speck in the centre. He offered it to a diamond merchant, who would not give but a very small sum compared with its estimated value, viz, £430. MCCARTHY refused to sell. A few days after he appeared before the same merchant, and offered a number of small stones for which he obtained a larger sum than was offered for the large stone. MCCARTHY then asked if he would not make some advance for the large stone previously offered. The merchant refused. “Why,” says MCCARTHY, “You have purchased it.” “I am sure U have not,” replied the merchant, “For I have not bought a large diamond for some time.” “You bought that, though” replied the other, “for I took it home on leaving your office, put it into a pestal and morter, broke it up, took the speck from it, and have just sold the pieces to you at an advance.” Both parties were, however, satisfied. It is also reported of him that he had a large diamond, rather flat; with double edges, having a speck in the centre. He took a cold steel chisel, put between the two edges, and split the diamond, removing the obnoxious spot, and selling one half the gem for a larger amount than he had previously been offered for the whole – Free Press.
EXTRAORDINARY STONE. – Mr. THORNBURY, who has just returned from the Diamond Fields, has shown us an extraordinary stone which he has brought down with him for the purpose of sending it to England. At first sight it looks like a large ruby of a peculiar beautiful colour. Looked at from two difference points, it presents two difference colours – one the light amethyst and the other the deep lovely pigeon blood. The stone is of 17⅝ carats, and has been found at Hebron. Mr. THOMS, lapidary, has stated it is a most unique stone, that he has never seen the like of it in his life before and that he would sooner have it than two diamonds of 72 carats each. He says it is a combination of crystals of the Oriental amethyst, and the pigeon-blood ruby. The stone is supposed to be of great value. – Mercury.
SPURIOUS COIN. – We hear there are numbers of bad half-sovereigns in circulation in the town. One gentleman had three tendered to him in a very short time. They purport to be from the Sydney mint. Free Press.
COAL. – We saw a fine sample of coal in possession of Mr. C. SONNENBERG, found on a farm belonging to the firm a few miles from du Toit’s Pan. They gave £1500 for the farm, and were offered £7000 for it immediately after the discovery of the coal. – Free Press.
ATHLETIC SPORTS AT FORT BROWN.
No. 1. Troop F.A.M. Police.
Nov. 7, 1871.
President and final referee:
F. W. K. WILDE, Esq.;
Stewards:
T. GARNER, Esq.,
Capt. WYNNE,
J. P. van ROOYEN, Esq.,
Pte. WALTERS;
Hon. Secretary:
Sergt. KEYS.
Programme.
Heaving the weigh, 25¼ lbs, 2s 6d – Private WALTERS, (18ft. 11in.)
Heaving the cricket ball, 2s 6d – Private F. KOKARD, (107 yards)
Vaulting with pole, 5s – F. KOKARD (6ft 4in)
100 yards race, 5s – ABRAHAM
3 standing jumps 2s 6d – ABRAHAM (19ft 6in)
Mile race, 10s – E. WILDE (5 minutes – a very good run)
Running high jump, 5s – F. KOKARD (5ft)
Running long jump, 5s – ABRAHAM (19ft 7 in)
Double race, 2s 6d – R. and W. KEYS (100 yards)
Standing high jump, 7s 6d – Sergt KEYS (4ft 2in)
Standing long jump, 7s 6d – ABRAHAM (9 feet 2 inches)
Hurdle race 200 yards, 4 hurdles of 4 feet high, 10s – Private WALTERS
Climbing without use of legs, 10s – Private RICHARDSON (30 feet)
Sack Race, 1—yards, 10s – Private W. KEYS.
DIAMOND FIELDS
(From the Diamond News.)
SIR HENRY’s LAST.
In his last letter to the President, Sir Henry BARKLY points out that Du Toit’s Pan is six miles to the west of the boundary line – that is six miles on the British side of the line. His Excellency tells the President that even now the question of the disputed territory may be referred to a commission of sic, and an umpire in South Africa, provided an idea of subsequent reference to foreign arbitration be abandoned. His Excellency closes his despatch with the following words: - ‘It only remains for me to express, in conclusion, an earnest hope that your honour will give such instructions to the officers of your Government within or near the disputed territory as will obviate all risk of a collision with the British Authorities, reserving any further assertion of the claims of the Free State, if it be still thought fit to prefer them, for the consideration of the joint commission proposed in this letter.’
THE FREE STATE PROTESTS.
Mr. Landdrost TRUTER has handed into Mr. Commissioner CAMPBELL a protest against the assumption of authority on the part of the British Government in the district of the Diamond Fields claimed by the Free State. In doing this, Mr. TRUTER has, we presume, merely followed out the instructions sent him by the President.
SUICIDE AT DE BEER’S.
Michael LAZEROVITCH, an Austrian committed suicide at De Beer’s on Tuesday morning last, a little before sundown. The unfortunate man had for some time shown evidence of unsound mind and of an intention to put himself to death.
DUST STORM.
On Sunday evening week the Du Toit’s Pan, De Beer’s, and New Rush Camps were maddened by a dust storm from the North West, which lasted neatly a couple of hours.
The wind was very wilful and did a deal of damage. Half the population in the Fields had to hold on by poles and ropes like grim death, during the time the storm lasted. In some cases holding on was of no use. Bell tents went after bell tents by the score, especially at the New Rush & De Beer’s.
THE 154 and the 103 carat stones lately found have been shipped to England through Mr. UNGER.
MR. MCKAY, Market Master has been appointed Collector for the Diggers Central Hospital.
A LUCKY KICK. – A gentleman at the New Rush happened, one day last week, to kick a lump of the rejected stuff deposited not far from his tent, and out fell a diamond of 13 carats.
ENTERPRISE. – Mr. SONNENBURG has purchased TARRY’s mule train, and intends running it between the Fields and Queenstown. This is exactly the thing to do. It will be seen from an advertisement in to-day’s paper than another Capetown passenger line has been established. Mr. ELLA is getting new wagons made for his Queenstown line.
THE GOLD FIELDS.
THE LYDENBURG GOLD FIELDS. – The following letter is published in the Diamond News of the 4th instant: -
Pretoria, October 11, 1871. –
F. G. SALMON, Esq., Dutoitspan, Diamond Fields. –
Dear Salmon –
According to promise I now write you about the gold. The Gold Fields are a true bill and payable, both in quartz and alluvial. I have been up there myself, and have washed out alluvial (nuggetty) gold – 2½ grain in three hours. Every one who has seen it says it is very good, and will pay. Quartz in any quantity. I have brought samples with me, both quartz and the wash, which I intend to take to Natal with me, if I do not come to the fields myself. If I do, then I will send a lot of the quarts and alluvial deposit down by Dr. TAYLOR to Natal. I wish you would pass the word amongst the Australians, and tell them about the gold. It is a fact beyond a doubt. Tell Tom BURREL. He is in a tent about 500 yards from your place, on the lefthand side of the road, under a tree. I promised to send him a word. Please give him the enclosed letter. How are you getting on. If you happen to come up, and wish to go to the fields, it is 160 miles to Marabas-stad, and twelve miles from there to the fields. The farm is called ‘Eersteling,’ and belongs to BUTTON. Call on A BODRICK and he will describe the road to you. I have given him every direction. If any people come up, direct then for information. I have asked him to hive it. Send up as many people as you can. There is plenty of gold – alluvial as well as quartz 0 and they need not be afraid. The only drawback is that water is rather scarce, but that can soon be stopped by making dams or reservoirs. There are lots of facilities for making dams. Hoping you are quite well, I remain, &c.
Wm. LEATHERN.
THE GOLDFIELDS. – On Tuesday last, Mr. W. R. PARKER received a small sample of alluvial gold from Mr. E. BUTTON. That exhibited by Mr. PARKER is about four penny-weights altogether – one piece of which weighs about two pennyweights. These fragments are said to be only a portion of the result obtained after two hours’ washing. – Colonist.
GOLDEN NEWS. – The following letter corroborates the letters from the Buttonian Diggings: - “Heidelberg, October 11, 1871. Mr. P. H. ZIETSMAN. –
My dear sir, -
I take the liberty of writing to you to inform you that gold has been found at Waterberg, about three days from Pretoria: This is no hoax, for I have seen and handled some splendid samples of quartz and alluvial gold. I write you this as I though you would like to try your luck in that line. I shall be off as soon as I can shake the post off my hands. [The writer is post contractor.] It is true, and the gold is in payable quantities. Hoping this will please you, ****
I remain, &c.,
W. A. DUBOIS.”
THE ALICE SLANDER CASE.
GOODCHILD v. ROWLAND.
(Communicated.)
This case, which has now been pending over eight months, arose out of words used by defendant towards plaintiff at a public meeting held in the Reading-room at Alice. Plaintiff sued defendant for £20 as damages sustained, in that he (defendant) had said in a public meeting, that he (plaintiff) was not “trustworthy,” and that he was or had been guilty of the crime of “embezzlement,” – or words to that effect.
Defendant, whose case was ably conducted by Mr. H. E. MCTAGGART of this town, pleaded “justification,” and brought forward a mass of evidence in support of this plea. Plaintiff, who conducted his own case, brought no rebutting evidence.
The trial, including a remand, lasted three full days, and excited considerable interest in Alice; when, after a patient hearing and thorough investigation, judgement was given for the defendant - : “Absolution from the instance, with costs.”
POSTSCRIPT.
STATE OF THE POLL. –
Stockenstrom,
139 for FLEMING,
97 for CHRISTIAN.
Fort Beaufort,
110 CHRISTIAN,
79 FLEMING.
No return from Kroomie and Lieufontein
Alice,
27 CHRISTIAN,
7 FLEMING.
Bedford,
40 CHRISTIAN
7 FLEMING
Somerset,
48 FLEMING
37 CHRISTIAN
Grahamstown
471 CHRISTIAN
22 FLEMING
K. W. Town
117 CHRISTIAN
110 FLEMING.
WE REGRET to state that Commandant and Commissioner BOWKER has been ill for some days past.
OFFICIAL. – We hear that R. W. H. GIDDY, Esq., C.C. of Cradock, has been appointed to the Magistracy of Pniel. W. T. GILFILLAN, Esq., has been appointed by the Commissioner to act pro tem.
AS WILL BE SEEN on reference to our advertising columns, Professor F. DIAMOND, the well-known athlete, has accepted the challenge thrown out by a man named Samuel LOXTON, to walk any-one fifty miles without taking stimulants of any kind, for £50 a side. The challenger is stated by the local papers to be the representative in Parliament for Queen’s Town. If so, we congratulate the electors of that district in having the services of a man who combines the duties of M.L.A., and public pedestrian. – Diamond Fields.
THE CASE OF LOWENTHAL vs. UNGER has been referred back by his Excellency the Governor to be tried by Mr. Recorder BARRY, and will come on next week. Mr. UNGER has, we believe, retained the services of Mr. Advocate THOMPSON.
THROUGH the annexation of the Diamond Fields to the British Empire, the army of enrolled agents who have hitherto practised here as lawyers, have been thrown out of Court, and like Othello find their occupation gone. Should however, the Fields be annexed to the Cape Colony, their want of legal training will be overlooked, and, as heretofore, payment of the sum of £10 will entitle anyone to dub himself legal advisor. – Diamond Field.
DIED. – At Fort Hare, on the 24th November, 1871, Herbert PATRICK, aged 10 months and 3 days, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. QUINN of Fort Hare.
Mr. and Mrs, QUINN beg to tender their sincere thanks to Drs. PALMER and STEWART, and also to the inhabitants of Alice.
Saturday, December 2, 1871.
DIED, - At Fort Beaufort on Thursday the 23rd of Nov., William Henry BIRCH, aged 30. Mr. Trinley BIRCH of Port Elizabeth tenders his thanks to all those who were kind enough to render assistance to his late nephew during his last illness.
SALE OF VALUABLE ERF,
In the Estate of the late Willem KOOPMAN.
Will be sold by Public Auction, on Thursday, December 7, 1871, at Seymour, that Superior Erf, being Lot No. 26, Situated at Readsdale.
Conditions will be made known on the day of Sale.
M. E. SMIT, Auctioneer.
Peter READON, Exor. Dative.
MISCELLANEOUS.
THE BISHOP of the Free State passed through to Graham’s Town this week. He preached in St. John’s Church last Sunday.
ASSAULT. – A Fingo was severely assaulted on Saturday last by some Kafirs. It appears the man was assaulted by some of MACOMO’s tribe, because he was endeavouring to procure a horse on which to convey that chief from Fort Beaufort.
THERE HAS BEEN some little excitement amongst the Kafirs in consequence of the imprisonment and removal of MACOMO. About half-a-dozen of this tribe have left this week for Kafirland, among them two or three who have been in Municipal employment for some years.
MR. H. SPARKS has returned from his trip to the Fields, and during his five weeks’ stay unearthed nearly £1,000 worth of diamonds from a claim for which he gave £500. The claim is not nearly worked out, and he has refused £2,000 for it.
MACOMO. – On Saturday morning last about 4 p.m., in obedience to instructions from the Governor. MACOMO was forwarded to Grahamstown in charge of a party of Mounted Police, en route to take up his old quarters in Robben Island. He should never have been allowed to return to the frontier.
EAST LONDON. – The Lile, 240 tons burthen, came into the Buffalo River yesterday in splendid style. It is said there are now about 20 feet of water on the bar, and that the Bismarck could as easily be brought in as the Lile – Watchman.
MR. ELLA, of Queenstown, has made arrangements to run a passenger cart right through on from the Diamond region, to the South African Gold Fields.
MR. W. B. SMITH, late Secretary of the Kowie Harbour Company, has just received an appointment as Inspector of Claims at the Diamond-fields.
AS ANOTHER illustration of wonderful success at the Diamond-fields, we may mention the case of a German captain, named BEHRMAN, who some months ago had the good fortune to lose his ship, the Elite, at Port Alfred. He went up to the Fields, worked hard there for a time, and on Sunday went home as a passenger in the Cambrian, the fortunate possessor of £10,600 in drafts on Europe, and diamonds valued at £5,000 more, still to dispose of.
P. GOOLD, Esq., M.L.A., left King Williamstown for the Diamond Fields on Thursday. We are not aware whether he contemplates making any lengthened stay on the Fields.
THE SEARCH for diamonds at the Remhoogte, Prieska, and other parts of the Orange River within the colony is said to be unremunerative.
THE LEFT WING of the 2nd – 20th Regiment (320 men) marched early this morning en route for Ireland, via East London. With them they take the only approach to military music that we have lately had here, viz, the drums and fifes. We hear that on Saturday evening the non-commissioned officers of the 75th gave a farewell entertainment to those of the 20th. The regiment which has left us bore an excellent character amongst the townspeople, all of whom will wish them a prosperous voyage and future happiness. The Volunteer band played them out of town. – Gazette.
A VIRGINIA EDITOR has come to the conclusion that a man might as well undertake to hold himself at arm’s length, and then turn a double somersault over a meeting-house steeple, as to attempt to publish a paper that will suit everybody.
IT IS THE opinion of Mr. J. H. RILEY, Consul General for the Orange Free State, America, that diamonds and gold will be found in the Table Mountain range of South Africa, and that large deposits of gold will soon be discovered. He has recently visited the Diamond Fields, and is about to publish a work on the subject.
DIAMOND FIELDS.
DEATH OF REV FATHER HIDIEN.
INCREASING MORTALITY.
RECEPTION OF PROCLAMATIONS.
(From A Correspondent.)
Du Toit’s Pan,
20th November, 1871.
IT IS WITH feelings of the deepest regret that I communicate the sad news of the death of our much-loved and venerated Priest, the Rev. Father HIDIEN, who departed this life on Sunday evening the 19th instant, at 9 o’clock, after an illness of six days. The cause of death was fever. Father HIDIEN was loved and respected by all – both Jews and Gentiles. Nothing but over-exertion of both body and mind brought him so early to the grave. He was the first priest on the Fields, and the first to lay his life to be sacrificed. It would be impossible for any one to describe all the good works that have been performed by Father HIDIEN since his arrival here. When he first came he was quite a stranger, and without money he undertook to commence an hospital. Any one would be astounded to see all that have been in that hospital, and the relief that has been given to all classes and creeds. Last night when he was dying people came from all quarters of the camps. All spoke of the great loss that will be felt by the poor and destitute, in losing him who was so good to them. He seemed to know that his time was drawing nigh. Before the attack became severe he spoke of his death, and where he would like to be buried. A short time before his death the Rev. BOOMPART arrived, but the good father was already unconscious.
YOUNG CHARLES HOLLIDAY, son of Mr. Geo. JACKSON, died on the 18th instant of fever.
THE DEATHS are increasing to an alarming extent. Nine were buried yesterday. Not one day passes without four or five deaths. If some change doesn’t take place, it will be impossible for any person to remain on the Fields. Everything looks gloomy.
ON FRIDAY, the 17th, the Proclamation was read by Mr. CAMPBELL on the Market Square. I never saw such a cool reception from any public as the Commissioners received at Du Toit’s Pan. I don’t think the feeling for the British Government is so great as people imagine. Mr. R. RORKE takes office to-day. I fancy things will not go smoothly for very long. The farmers are quite willing to turn out and have a brush with the Police.
People are trying hard for billets under the new government. It seems all to go by favor. You can see men from morning to night trudging after those in office, or some of their relatives. Poor De H_____ is from morning till evening with R_______, but I don’t think there is the slightest chance for him. Those in office look out for their sons or brothers.
THE BRITISH FLAG has been hoisted with due ceremony and amidst deafening cheers in all the camps.
SEVERAL NEW RUSHES have taken place, and the claims appropriated immediately.
Mrs. A. SAUNDERS has lost both her sons (MITCHLEY) by fever.
DIAMONDS are being discovered in several districts of the Free State.
MESSRS J. J. YATES, THOMAS, GOOLD, and MCDONALD arrived at Burghersdorp on Friday evening.
A NORTH GERMAN CONSULATE. – We hear on good authority that an address, signed by a large number of Germans, now at the Fields, has been forwarded by last mail to Prince BISMARK, requesting him to create at once a Consulate of the North German Empire and the Diamond and Goldfields. We are authorised to say that in the address M. von KRAUT, Esq., has been highly recommended to his Government for the above honourable appointment.
REV. B. IMPEY. – Mr. IMPEY leaves the fields for Bloemfontein on the 20th inst, and expects to be in the colony by the end of the year. Mr. IMPEY has been ten months on the Fields, during which time he has held service in all the camps. In every aspect as a minister, Mr. IMPEY has commended himself to the communities amongst whom he has labored. He will be succeeded by the Rev. Mr. PRIESTLY, who is now on his way from England.
SICKNESS at the Fields is terribly on the increase, and it is alleged as attributable principally to the bad water, of w3hich even there is a scarcity at the Fields.
PULLING DOWN THE FLAG. – A good deal of excitement has been occasioned by one Capt. Augustus LINDLEY taking upon himself to pull down the British flag, which had, on the 17th inst., been hoisted for the first time officially, after so much delay, at Dutoitspan. What motive actuated the gallant Captain, we have not learnt. Capt. LINDLEY derives his military rank from having served for a time in the Teaping or rebel army in the late rebellion in China. He is likewise the author of “After Ophir: or, a Search for the South African Gold Fields,” and of “The Log of the Fortune.” Captain LINDLEY, who was at once apprehended by the British authorities and lodged in durance vile, has since been set at liberty. It is understood that the act of Capt. L. was intended in the light of an earnest protest against the British occupation, and not as a mere mad freak. No written report on the subject has reached is. We fully expect that the gallant Captain, being a public writer of some standing and ability, will shortly make his views known to the world. – Friend.
MURDER. – A Kaffir has been found at the bottom of a well at the De Beer’s. Murder was at once suspected and a Hottentot was taken up on the charge. The Kafir had evidently been struck on the head by a heavy stick.
A PERSON OF the name of COOK, who resided in his district several years ago, as schoolmaster in the country, and salesman in one of the shops in town, and who just before his death was following the profession of homoeopathist, was killed a few weeks ago in the Fauresmith district, by a farmer named DIEVENAAR. The unfortunate circumstance, it is alleged, happened in the following manner. The deceased had outspanned upon DIEVENAAR’s farm, and on some matter or other an altercation had arisen between them, which leading to high and abusive words, the farmer ordered deceased to quit his place immediately, and leaving went to the house. The deceased we are told, after inspanning his vehicle to leave, came to the homestead to have, as he is alleged to have said, a last say with the farmer. He was met by the farmer’s wife, who urgently dissuaded him from going into the house to see her husband, who she said was very much incensed at the ill language which had been used to him; and any meeting between them, in the present state of her husband’s temper would be sure to result in blows. The deceased unfortunately did go in, words come on, blows followed, and, helped by the farmer’s son, COOK was felled to the ground. He rose up, returned to the vehicle, and asked his wife to fetch him some water. Before she could return the deceased was a corpse. The farmer and his son we are told have fled. – Burghersdorp Gazette.
MR. SAMUEL OATES, late of Grahamstown, died at Albania, WATERBOER’s country, on the 11th instant. [Transcriber’s note – this was a stand-alone entry)
POSTSCRIPT.
THE GOVERNMENT, we understand have ordered an inquiry into the case of the Tambookies who have been burned out at Blinkwater by the Police.
VOTERS. – Out of 1,037 voters in the Districts of Fort Beaufort and Stockenstrom, only 460 voted at the late election. In Stockenstrom there are 474 voters, of whom 263 went to the poll. In Fort Beaufort there are 563 voters, of whom only 197 went to the poll. So that only 197 Fort Beaufort electors recorded their votes, leaving 366 absent or not voted. In Stockenstrom, out of 474, 263 voted, leaving absent or not voted 211.
WE HAVE BEEN informed on good authority that the fleecewashed wool belonging to J. MILLER Esq., of Noorwood Farm near Adelaide, realised the highest price, (2s 1d per lb.) according to the last wool catalogues. This clip was shipped through Messrs HOLLAND, BOTHA & Co. of Adelaide. The wool was on 6 months growth, and yet the price realised for it appears to be about 2d per lb more than was obtained for any other fleecewashed wool during the sale.
WHALE. – A whale, measuring about twenty-eight feet in length, was captured in the Bay on Saturday last. At the midday market yesterday it was offered for sale by public auction; but was declared not sold for £42. – P. E. Telegraph.
A VERY LARGE SHARK, eighteen feet long, was caught yesterday whilst feasting off the whale captured on Saturday last. This is the largest shark, we believe ever taken in this harbour. – Ibid.
THE CAPE PAPERS record the death of Mrs. Henry CLOETE, widow of the late Hon. Justice CLOETE. She died at sea on board the Beethoven within two or three days’ steam of Madeira, on the 12th October.
SAILORS. – It is seldom that one sees a genuine old “shellback” up in this part of the world, but on Monday last a party of real ‘old salts’ passed through here, on their way to the diggings. They had a couple of carts and decent cattle, and appeared to be just the sort of men for a digging life. But then, an English sailor is good for anything – except humbug – Era.
THERE WAS A NOTICE in the Government Gazette the other day not a little remarkable. It was about eggs, as far as we remember, and we are not sure that it was not about a patent for a new method of teaching grandmothers to suck them. But the remarkable thing about it was the assumption of the Attorney-General, who seems to have established a kind of “Home Rule” among us. He says: - “Given under my hand at Cape Town, the 17th day of November, in the thirty fifth year of our reign. W. D. GRIFFITH.” Whether W. D. G. has “jumped” Her Majesty’s throne or not, we can’t say but we submit it is too bad that such a disloyal notice should be inserted in the Gazette.
ARTHUR ORTON. – This individual, whose name figured so frequently in the reports of the great TICHBOURNE case, has, it is mentioned in late Melbourne papers received via Mauritius, been discovered in Australia, and would proceed to London.
MR. W. FAIRBURN, who succeeds Mr. F. J. BECKER, as Accountant to the Standard Bank here, arrived on Monday last, having left Capetown on the previous Friday. We believe that Mr. FAIRBURN was for some years in the Swellendam Bank. – Richmond Era.
DIAMOND FIELD TRANSPORT COMPANY. – Mr. Jan van der MERWE of Ceres, the managing director of the new Transport Company, passed through here on Wednesday last, having been up to the Diamond Fields to make arrangements for the working of the line. He has made a slight alteration in the route, and instead of running via Colesberg, Philippolis, &c., the wagons will go from Hanover to Philipstown and thence through Salt Pan’s Drift. Mr. van der MERWE says, the number of hours actually occupied in travelling from Wellington to Du Toit’s Pan, will be 95, but that as the passengers will be allowed six hours every night for sleeping, he expects that it will take 6 days to do the entire journey. The waggons have been built expressly for the Company, upon a new principle, and will be commodious and well ventilated. Another great convenience will be, that passengers, instead of clambering up behind or becoming tied up with the reins in attempting to get up in front, will be able to enter the wagon by doors on either side. The allowance of luggage is liberal, 40lbs. With regard to the funds of the Company, we learn that 1,000 shares were at first issued and disposed of so rapidly that another 300 were issued of which only 150 were unsold at the date of the last advices. We wish the Company every success and as its funds are ample, and its directors practical men, we have no doubt that our wishes will be realised. – Richmond Era.
TELEGRAM.
ARRIVAL OF THE MAIL.
Advocate Office,
Thursday, Nov. 30, 1871.
Saxon just arrived.
Passengers for Algoa Bay –
Mr. MORRIS,
Mr. MORAM,
Miss OGLE,
Miss. SCHWETER,
Mr. BAILEY,
Mr. BOND,
Miss LISCHE,
Mr. GLOVER,
Rev. Mr. BEVAN,
Mr. STOCKDALE,
Mr. DREYFUS,
Mr. ORDEN,
Mr. KERSHAW,
Mr. MARSDEN, and
Mr. BEERE.
Saturday, December 9, 1871.
SALE OF LANDED PROPERTY, LIVESTOCK, ETC.
Cradock Fire Insurance and Trust Company.
The Undersigned duly instructed by the Secretary of the above Company, will sell by auction at Seymour, on Tuesday, 12th December, 1871, Postponed from 7th on account of the weather, at 10 o’clock a.m.
THAT VALUABLE PROPERTY at Bell Vale, lately occupied by J. F. STEBBING, being the Erf No. 6 in that Location.
Among the advantages to be gained by the fortunate purchaser of this handsome Property, may be mentioned a commodious and substantial Dwelling House, and an Orchard stocked with choice Fruit Trees, comprising Orange, Naartje, and a variety of others in full bearing.
Terms of Credit very Liberal Interest at 6 per cent only; - and Sale without Reserve.
2. IN THE INSOLVENT ESTATE OF CASPER OLIVER.
Duly authorised by the Trustee in the above Estate, the undersigned will sell by Public Auction, at Seymour on the 12th December next.
That superior erf at Readsdale, being lot no 36, formerly occupied by Insolvent.
This property is one of the most Extensive in Readsdale, and is value by the Divisional Council as £450.
Credit 6, 12, 18, and 24 months.
Interest at eight percent per annum.
M. E. SMIT, Auctioneer.
3. IN THE INSOLVENT ESTATE OF WILLIAM KOOPMAN.
Acting under instructions from the Executor in the above Estate the undersigned will sell by Public Auction on Tuesday next, the 12th Inst., that well known Erf at Readsdale, lot no. 26, in the Estate of the late Willem KOOPMAN, measuring 2 morgen and 279 Square Roods.
M. E. SMIT, Auctioneer.
MISCELLANEOUS.
MR. CLINTON, Surgeon Dentist is now here professionally, and will leave this evening for Adelaide, Bedford, Somerset &c.
MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT. – The Journal contains the following particulars of the recent fatal accident at Trompetters Drift: -
Mrs. WINSTANLEY and young daughter left Grahamstown for Fort Peddie on Tuesday morning in a cart driven by Mr. BAKER, of the Market-Square, for the purpose of attending her son’s wedding: in endeavouring to cross the Fish River at Trompetter’s the current proved too strong, and the cart was washed over. Mrs. WINSTANLEY and child being drowned and Mr. BAKER having to swim for his life. The King Williamstown mail cart narrowly escaped a similar fate, in crossing the drift at Committee’s; one of the horses drowned, and the passengers, of whom there were several, were placed in considerable danger. We are informed that Mrs. WINSTANLEY’s first husband (Mr. SOLE) met a similar fate to that of his now deceased wife, he having drowned in the Keiskama river some years ago. We hear that the cart was washed away and the horses drowned.
GRAAFF-REINET. – Mrs. EDWARDS, wife of the Wesleyan minister of Graaff-Reinet died on the 25th ult.
ANOTHER OF THE BRITISH SETTLERS of 1820 has moved off the stage of life – Mr. Jeremiah GOLDSWAIN sen., in his 70th year.
MR. KING, the celebrated messenger, who rode express from Natal in 1842, and gave information respecting the siege of Major SMITH by the Boers, died lately in Natal.
DEATHS AT T HE DIAMOND FIELDS. – The death is announced of a Mr. Thomas SIMPSON, aged 57, and also of Mary Ann, widow of the late John Hancorn SMITH, aged 55. A Mr. Alfred TALBOT has also died there.
SALE OF FARM. – The Farm “Lehman’s Drift” – sold in front of the Court house at Queenstown by Mr. F. B. BROWN realised £360 – purchaser Mr. J. J. VENTER. The Farm was sold under an order from the Eastern Districts Court in the matter of C. OELFSE and his Curators – Free Press.
QUEENSTOWN PARTIES. – Since their arrival at the New Rush, Mr. G. STILWELL has turned out 28 diamonds, valued at £250. Mr. W. STILWELL 27 diamonds, value at £200, and Mr. J. BARRABLE 13 diamonds, valued at £300. We are also glad to hear that one of the Messrs. PARKER’s parties since some change has been made, has been more successful, turning out a 37 carat and other diamonds.
A FAIR AND BAZAAR in aid of the funds of the Albany Hospital, was held at Grahamstown on Wednesday, by which £150 odd was realized.
Mr. H. B. CHRISTIAN, who has just been elected a member of the Legislative Council, left for England by the R.M. St Roman yesterday. – Telegraph.
DEPARTURES. – By to-morrow’s cart to the Diamond Fields we lose several of our fellow townsmen. Mr. SMITH, of the firm of TOWNSEND and SMITH, and Mr. SCHERMBRUCKER leave by this opportunity, but we trust soon to welcome them back. Mr. DRURY, of the Standard Bank, also leaves to-morrow, for his new appointment in Port Elizabeth, - a fact upon which we congratulate him. – Gazette.
THE VERY REV. Dr. MURPHY. – Among the passengers for England by the Roman yesterday was the Very Rev. Monsignor MURPHY, D.D., who goes home for the benefit of his health. We hope that the change of air and scene will have the desired effect, and that we shall have the pleasure next year of welcoming Dr. MURPHY again amongst is fully restored to robust health. Before leaving he was presented with a purse containing £218 subscribed among his flock by whom he is most affectionately reverenced.
DEATH OF THE REV A HIDIEN.
The Rev. Anatole HIDIEN was born in Bourges in France, in the year 1840. From his earliest childhood he was specially devoted to the cause of charity. After a splendid seminary and collegiate career he was consecrated for the work of Foreign Missions at the unusually early age of 24.
His thoughts at this period were directed towards Oregon in North America, for his departure for which every preparation had been made, but a call from South Africa came, and his destination was changed. In the year 1864, he first arrived in Natal, where he officiated for a few months. He was then called to the Mission in Basutoland, where he has labored for seven years. Among the natives he was loved as well as respected, and he was very much attached to the black children of the station. He built schools and a convent, and may be said to have been the mainstay of the Basutoland Mission. To obtain funds for the work there he had frequently long and weary journeys to make into the colony, and he became one of the most familiar friends of the present Bishop of Grahamstown, Dr. RICARDS, who was so recently his quest here on the Fields. Wherever Father HIDIEN went he made himself beloved by the people and it is no untruth to say as regards this little world of South Africa, that his death will be universally regretted. He was given charge of his last district in June, and arrived at Bultfontein on the 4th or 5th of last July, and from that day to the hour of his death his labors for the establishment of a mission and the promotion of charities have been incessant.
The order to which he belonged, the “Oblates of Mary Immaculate,” is particularly and pre-eminently distinguished in the Catholic Church for charity, and among the Fathers of that charitable order there was no more open-handed, large-hearted lover of the poor than our much lamented friend. In the midst of his struggle to establish a church and schools he found time to originate a society of young men for charitable purposes on the Fields. The society he founded opened a public dispensary for the poor, and employed a medical officer. Hundreds of cases were relieved at the free dispensary and of all the out-patients two only died. Father HIDIEN has also a few tents for in-patients, and his hospital was a credit to the charity of his congregation. He was well and liberally supported in all this by men of every religious denomination, and both Jews and Protestants voluntarily contributed funds to promote the works that were carried on by him for the poor.
One of the last acts of his life was in the most liberal manner to make over his hospital tent with some excellent furniture to the Diggers Central Hospital Committee, to be for the same charitable purposed, but no longer under private management.
Father HIDIEN died at nine o’clock on the evening of Sunday last, the 19th inst, of typhus fever of the worst kind, and in him the poor and suffering people have lost a friend and a father. The Roman Catholics have lost an energetic and well loved pastor, and the camp has lost one of its largest-hearted and most liberal public men.
The funeral of the lamented deceased took place on Tuesday about midday, and was largely attended. – Diamond News.
DIAMOND FIELDS.
THE MORTALITY at the Fields is becoming alarming, and many are leaving for healthier localities. Seven corpses were conveyed in one wagon to their last resting place, but the local paper does not mention this circumstance, but records as unusual mortality that seven deaths were registered as having occurred at the New Rush last week.
Gold. – The Transvaal Advcate is responsible for the following titbit: - “A Mr. VENTER has found near Marrabas-stad a nugget of the size of a bullet of 25 to the pound. He dug it out with an ox horn.
GOLD AT DUTOITSPAN. – The following is an extract from a private letter: - “ I heard at Du Toit’s Pan, on Friday last, from a trustworthy and reliable authority, but I am not at liberty to mention his name, as Mr. WEBB does not wish it to be made public until all things are settled, that Gold has been found at Bultfontein, by Mr. WEBB. I cannot sat whether its in payable quantities or not. It was found very deep……..I saw 18 funnels in one day at Dutoitspan and the New Rush.”
POSTSCRIPT.
SHOW OF DIAMONDS – Mr. G. MANNING returned from the fields on Thursday last bringing one of the largest and prettiest assortment of diamonds it has ever been out lot to behold. There were one thousand four hundred and eleven gems weighing 2,538 carats, (the largest 37½ carats) the whole valued at £20,000. Mr. MANNING intended taking the lot to Port Elizabeth – but having disposed of one parcel for £14,000 cash, he will in all propability sell the remainder here. – Free Press.
DESERTERS FROM THE PRUSSIAN MAN-OF-WAR. –
Whilst the Prussian Man-of-War Nymphe was in Table Bay, several men, amongst them a midshipman, deserted. After the vessel had left, the midshipman was caught, and the representatives here of Prussia wished to have him placed in durance vile. This was refused, and we hear theat the midshipman, STUTTERHEIM, is in custody on board of the Bismarck. He is a nephew of Baron von STUTTERHEIM, who, it will be remembered, was the founder of the German Legion. – Standard.
BY THE SAXON we have received intelligence of the success of another Cape student. Mr. R. P. SOLOMON, who took the first-class certificate and bursary in connection with the Board of Examiners in June last, has been the successful competitor for an exhibition at St. Peter’s College, Cambridge. The value of the exhibition was £40, but in consideration of the special excellence of Mr. SOLOMON’s work it was raised to £50. The examination covered a fair range of mathematics. The classical subjects were Aeschylus, the Prometheus Vinctus, and Livy, Book v. We heartily congratulate Mr. SOLOMON and the South African College on this success, and trust that his University career, begun with such promise, may be successful and distinguished throughout. At the College yesterday the success of its late student was celebrated by a holiday, the request for which came, we believe, direct to the professors from some of the “old boys” at Cambridge. – Argus.
Saturday, December 16, 1871.
WARRANT OF APPREHENSION.
To the Field-cornets, Constables, Police Officers and other officers of the Law proper to the execution of criminal Warrants.
Whereas, from information taken upon oath before me, there are reasonable grounds of suspicion against William BROWNLEE of Fort Beaufort, that he did between the months of March and 12 December 1871, commit the crime of theft, of a Horse the property of Charles MALI.
These are, therefore, in Her Majesty’s name, to command you that immediately upon sight hereof you do apprehend and bring the said William BROWNLEE or cause him to be apprehended and brought before the Resident Magistrate of Fort Beaufort to be examined, and to answer to the said information, and to be further dealt with according to Law.
Description.
William BROWNLEE a Bastard, about 33 years of age, about 5 feet 10 inches in height, speaks English, is dressed in European clothing, practices as a native doctor, was last seen riding towards Alice.
Given under my hand at Fort Beaufort this 14th day of December 1871.
D. ASHBURNHAM,
Acting Res. Magistrate.
NOTICE.
It is hereby notified that I have, by and with the consent of the Divisional Council, appointed Mr. William COCKCROFT Poundmaster of the Botha’s Kloof Pound in this Division.
Percy NIGHTINGALE,
Civil Commissioner.
Civil Com’s Office,
Alice, 13th December, 1871.
TO BUSINESS MEN & CAPITALISTS.
The Undersigned, duly authorised, will receive Tenders up to the 31st December, 1871, for the most eligible Business Properties in Fort Beaufort.
They comprise:
1st. – The Property at the Corner of Campbell-street and Market-square, occupied, on Lease, by Mr. C. MALLETT, at a rental of £120 per annum.
2nd. – The Double-Storeyed Building in Campbell-street, adjoining the above, and occupied, on Lease, by Messrs PAYNE & MUGGLETON, at a rental of £66 per annum.
3rd. – The Property facing Market Square, now in the occupation of Mr. MCTAGGART, at a rental of £66 per annum.
These Properties were let a few years ago at considerably higher rentals than those above stated, and as there is little doubt but that the enormous increase of wealth which is now pouring into the Colony, in consequence of the discovery of Diamonds and the greatly increased value of Wool, will give an impetus to Trade and Speculation that will enhance the value of First-class Property very considerably. It is unnecessary to describe the advantageous position of these Properties for Business purposes, as they are well known to be without exception the best in the Town.
To Capitalists this is a chance for safe and profitable investment that seldom offers.
To Business Men the obtaining of either a part or the whole Block means a Fortune.
Tenders will be received for either one or the whole of the Properties.
Successful Tenderers would have to take over the present tenants according to terms of Lease.
Terms of Credit required must be stated in the Tender.
The Advertiser does not bind himself to accept the highest or any Tender.
Further particulars on application to the undersigned.
B. D. GODLONTON, Agent for the Owner.
Grahamstown, December 1, 1871.
MISCELLANEOUS.
THE PASSENGER TRAFFIC through Fort Beaufort is now very great. Almost every day well-laden carts arrive or depart, to or from Queenstown or Grahamstown.
MR. ATTORNEY CORYNDON still lies very ill at the Fields.
WE REGRET to learn that the Rev. E. D. HEPBURN, of Uitenhage, is seriously indisposed.
A CASE OF SMALL-POX had made its appearance in a Malay house in Port Elizabeth.
MR. REUBEN AYLIFF, M.L.A., Mayor of Grahamstown, has left on a second visit to the Diamond Fields.
MR. C. T. CAMPBELL, late of Grahamstown and at present at the Diamond-fields has we believe received an official appointment there.
ON MONDAY MORNING a telegraph pole at Grahamstown was struck by lightning the stroke cutting right through the insulator.
DIAMONDS to the amount of £20,190 has been sold by auction in Capetown since the departure of the last mail steamer.
THE BROTHER of the Marquis of Lorne is about to marry the daughter of one of the wealthiest hotel proprietors in New. York.
MR. TOBIN was busy, when the English mail left, with his lecture on the Diamond Fields, which he was to deliver at the Polytechnic.
OUR NEW MAGISTRATE. – It is currently reported in town this morning upon good authority that Mr. BROWNLEE has been appointed to succeed Mr. GRIFFITHS as Magistrate of this place. If this rumour be correct, we congratulate the division generally upon the fact. Mr. BROWNLEE will undoubtedly be the right man in the right place when located here.
K. W. T. Gazette.
THE GLASS BLOWERS. – The Watchman in its critique on the Glass Blowers says: - We cannot refrain from remarking that after witnessing the efforts of the troupe of Glass Blowers to please all parties, and there extremely courteous demeanour towards everybody, we are perfectly surprised at the petty peevishness exhibited by one or two disappointed individuals at Fort Beaufort, and, cannot think that either Mr. PEACHMAN or his employers merited the slur cast upon them.
A FEARFUL ACCIDENT of a quite peculiar kind occurred on the 30th September near a small town in the interior of Indiana. Arrangements had been made in the town for a balloon ascension by Professor WILBUR, an aeronaut of experience, who was to be accompanied by a Mr. KNAPP, the editor of a country newspaper, and a large crown had assembled to witness it. The balloon had been fully inflated, and the two men were just about stepping into the car, when the cords parted prematurely, and the whole fabric rose rapidly into the air. Attempting to climb into the car, they succeeded only in grasping the ropes and were thus carried upwards with great velocity. Mr. KNAPP disengaged himself before the balloon had risen more than forty feet and fell to the ground, fortunately without sustaining serious injury. Mr. WILBUR held on, still endeavouring to get into the car, but was unable to do so, and after having attained the awful elevation of a mile could hold on no longer and was dashed head long to the earth. The spectators below stood paralysed with horror as they saw the unhappy man, at first a mere speck in the sky, whirling downwards, a helpless victim whom they were impotent to save, and the agony of the moment was enhanced by the presence of the wife and daughter of the aeronaut, who saw the whole dreadful disaster. The impact of the body caused a depression of eight inches in the earth, and the body itself was an indistinguishable mass. The fall is almost without precedent, for its appalling length through the air.
CAPT. WATTS, accompanied by Capt. SCHON returned from Bird Island on Wednesday afternoon, in the steamer St. Croix, bringing twenty-nine bales of wool and sundry other articles from the brig Edith Smith, which is reported to be a total wreck.
DIAMOND. – From account sales of diamonds received by Messrs RICHARDS, GLANVILLE, & Co., per Saxon’s mail, it would appear that small stones of average quality have not deteriorated in value – a parcel insured for £500 having realised £735. – Journal.
THE GEM OF RICHMOND. – This large (124 carats) but faulty diamond, belonging to Messrs STEVENS and RAATHS, and found at Du Toit’s Pan, reached home safely, but us very unfavorably reported on. The flaws are numerous and important, and it is estimated that it will realise only £1,200, or thereabouts, in its rough state. – Richmond Era.
DIAMOND FIELDS.
MR. SOMERSET, grandson of the late Col. SOMERSET, has been appointed clerk to Mr. ORPEN of Griqualand West.
MR. DUNBAR has been appointed Sub-Inspector at De Beer’s.
DIAMONDS BY THE lb. – Mr. ROSSENSTEIN, of Messrs ROSSENSTEIN and FOTES, is about to visit Port Elizabeth. He takes with him diamonds weighing 1½lbs. We have seen this extraordinary parcel – a sight rather trying to self-control.
THE LAST NEW RUSH.
On Wednesday last, Inspector RORKE and his assistant completed the registration of claims at No. 2 Rush, De Beer’s; and it was expected that the survey of the ground would take place immediately after, and that licences for digging there would be at once issued. The Inspector, however, will not proceed to proclaim the kopje open as a public diggings until, according to the terms of the Governor’s proclamation, there are at least a hundred diggers on the spot, or application is made to the Commissioners to declare it open.
THE LATEST SCANDAL. – An elopement from De Beer’s on Tuesday night had been the subject of much gossip in the camps. The fair LUCRETIA has left a worthy and disconsolate husband. May bitter remorse of conscience be the fruits of her faithlessness.
WE HAVE BEEN informed by no less than three diggers that a huge diamond was unearthed at Colesberg Kopje on Friday or Saturday last. The weight of the stone is stated to be 1,045 carats! Neither of our informants had seen the precious gem, but they knew parties who had! We have not had the pleasure of seeing the stone ourselves, nor can we ascertain its whereabouts. Under these circumstances, we take the liberty of doubting its existence.
IN ACCORDANCE with the wishes expressed in a numerously signed requisition, Mr. W. FARREN, late of Queenstown, received the appointment of Market-master at the Colesberg Kopje.
VEGETABLES. – The Dutch farmers resident in this neighbourhood are beginning to see the desirability of growing vegetable for the digging community. During the week there have been large quantities brought in and disposed of at fabulous prices.
ONE HUNDRED PERSONS DIED IN A DAY.
From the Diamond-fields the most lamentable accounts are being received of the increase of the fever and the terrible mortality among the diggers. On one day it is said that no less than a hundred persons had died at the Fields. The average number of deaths is computed to be about 25 daily. From one claim we are told in the last week five corpses were conveyed at one time in a Scotch cart. Many of the diggers it is said are leaving the Fields to return to their home till the winter sets in. – Burghersdorp Gazette.
ADELAIDE.
(Communicated)
Our usually quiet village presented quite a lively appearance on Thursday the 7th inst., the Odd Fellows having appointed that day for the opening of their Lodge. The ceremony was performed by D.P.G.M. E. PAGE, assisted by P. G. FREDERICKS of the Loyal Kaffrarians Lodge, N. G. MEADE and several Brothers of the Loyal Eastern Star Lodge Fort Beaufort. The following Bros. were installed as officers of the Loyal Victoria Lodge:
Bro. R. MILLS, N.G.;
Bro. R. JARVIS, V.G.;
P.S. E. PAGE, E. S.
At two o’clock the Brothers marched in procession to Christ Church when an appropriate address was delivered by the Rev. J. ALDRED. After service the Brothers again formed in procession and returned to the Lodge room. In the evening the visiting Brothers were entertained at dinner, after which the usual toasts for the occasion were drank, and all together a very pleasant evening was spent.
TELEGRAM.
ARRIVAL OF THE NORSEMAN.
Advocate Office,
Thursday, 14th Dec., 1871.
Capetown.
Norseman six this morning.
Passengers for Algoa Bay –
Messrs HAMELBERG,
MILLER,
LEESEN,
SEARLE and child,
BISRANCH,
Mr. and Mrs FENSONS,
Mr. and Mrs EARLY,
Messrs MALDEY,
DAVEY,
DISE,
WEBSTER.
THE QUEEN’s health is improving.
POSTSCRIPT.
WE HAVE TO acknowledge the receipt of a new journal published at Dutoit’s Pan – the Diggers’ Gazette. It is a neat little paper, and contains a good deal of news.
THE DIAMOND FIELD says that claims maintain high prices. Mr. J. VIGNE, auctioneer, Dutoit’s Pan, disposed of half a claim, which had been worked out to a considerable extent, for something over £1,100. – The same paper says the New Rush has turned out a failure.
HORSE SICKNESS. – Many fatal cases of horse sickness have occurred within the last few days. Three have died during the week on the commonage, and Mr. GRAY has lost three. On Friday Mr. MILDENHALL lost one, and Mr. W. AYLIFF another. It is feared that great losses will be sustained from this cause.
ABOUT A HUNDRED natives, mostly beach-workers, have left Port Elizabeth in a panic, arising from a reported case of smallpox. Dr. ENSOR and another medical man deny that smallpox has shown itself in the Bay. The report is supposed to have originated from the South Easter having been placed in quarantine.
AT THE FAURESMITH Circuit Court judgement was given against Messrs. BLAINE & Co., for £1,500, exclusive of £500 advanced on two diamonds (one of 43 and another of 25 carats) which had been consigned for sale through them by Mr. SIEBER; on the ground that they had, contrary to instructions, disposed of the diamonds for a much less price than was fixed by the consigner. The diamonds were sold for £300; and it was alleged that Mr. SIEBER had refused £2,000 for the diamonds, which had been valued by Mr. HOND at £2,500.
MR. R. W. H. GIDDY, the newly appointed Magistrate of Pniel, was presented with a numerously signed address before his departure from Cradock, expressive of approbation of the manner in which he had discharge his magisterial duties, and furthered the social and material interests of the district of Cradock. We believe the office of C.C. and R.M. of Cradock will be kept open for Mr. GIDDY for six months, should he feel inclined to return to the Colony; and the signatories to the Address express the hope that he will return, and promise him a hearty welcome. The Register says Mr. GIDDY has left for Pniel, and that it is thought likely he will return to Cradock should he find the climate of Pniel unsuited to his health.
DIED, at the Diamond Fields on Friday, December 1, 1871, after a lingering illness, Ambrose George, aged 18 years and 2 months, the beloved son of Mr. and Mrs. W. GREEN of Balfour.
“Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight.”
Saturday, December 23, 1871.
DIAMOND DIGGERS AND THE PUBLIC GENERALLY.
DYSENTRY
Cured by the new Medicine specific, prepared almost entirely from Colonial Herbs, and which, since it preparation, has never been known to fail.
No Diamond Digger should leave for the Fields without a good supply, and no House ever be without a bottle of it. – Sold Wholesale and Retail by Jesse SHAW & Co., at Fort Beaufort, and their Agents, Messrs SAVAGE & HILL, Port Elizabeth;
GODLONTON & RICHARDS, Graham’s Town;
J. T. GROCOTT, Graham’s Town;
S. WHITE & Co., Cradock;
J. N. DAWE & Co., Graaff-Reinet;
Jas. HODGES, Queenstown;
WHITCHER & DYER, King Williams Town and Keiskama Hoek;
J. B. TEMLETT, Alice;
Jas. VERITY, Adelaide;
F. HOLLAND & Co, Adelaide;
J. SHAW & Co., Bedford;
J. SHAW &Co., Eland’s Post;
Wm. WARREN &Co., Colesberg;
E. SHAW & Co., Uitenhage;
W. BOBBETT, Du Toit’s Pan;
HILL & PADDON, Klip Drift;
Diamond News Office, Klip Drift.
NEW SHOP.
Mrs. VERITY begs to inform the inhabitants of Adelaide and its neighborhood, that she has commenced Business, and that her stock will be found to be well assorted, and marked at Low Rates.
Agent for the “Specific” – the new Medicine for Dysentery, &c.
Fort Beaufort, 19th Dec., 1871.
MARRIED, On the 13th Dec. 1871, by the Rev. MEADEN, Rector of St Johns Winterberg, Mr. John James EDWARDS junr. of Winterberg, to Jessie Baxter second daughter of Mr. J. F. SHEPPERSON of Queenstown.
MISCELLANEOUS.
RETURNED. – Several townsmen have returned, and are returning from the Fields to spend the Christmas with their families. Amongst those who have returned within the past few days are: - Messrs VICKERS, J. VIGNE, P. MORKEL, W. ESTMENT, jun., MUGGLETON, C. POPE, G. BREMNER, G. FITZPATRICK, A. STANTON, and G. JACKSON.
PUBLIC SALE AT SEYMOUR. – The landed property offered to public competition by Mr. SMIT at Seymour on the 12th inst., sold as follows:
Erf and house in SOULTER’s estate, situate at Bellvale, to F. FABER, sen., for £120;
Erf No. 30, Readsdale, to Trustees Queenstown Fire Ins. Co., for £110;
Erf. No. 26, Readsdale, to J. LAING, q.q., for £25.
The moveable property offered for sale realised fair prices.
LAND SALE. – The landed property in the estate of the late Mrs. C. G. VAUGHAN, was sold by Mr. HENMAN, on behalf of the Executor Dative, on Wednesday last, as follows: -
The house and shop occupied by Mr. WINDELL, was knocked down to Mr. J. SHAW for £220;
A large erf adjoining about 1½ morgen, extending from the street to the river, was sold to the Rev. Mr. HENCHMAN for £110;
An erf in D’Urban-street, next to Mrs STOKE’s, was purchased by Mr. W. CALLAGHAN for £32.
MR. H. W. PEARSON has been re-elected Mayor of Port Elizabeth.
IT IS SAID that the Aliwal North paper is about to be resuscitated.
DIVORCE. – In the Eastern Districts Court on Tuesday last Judges DWYER and SMITH pronounced a decree of divorce a mensa et thoro in the matter of FINNAUGHTY v. FINNAUGHTY, as prayed by the petitioner, Mr. William FINNAUGHTY.
MR. BLORE SAYS: - It may be interesting to your readers to be informed, that 418,000 inhabitants of this Colony reside within 100 miles of the sea coast, and only 198,000, including 75,000 Kafirs and Fingoes, beyond that limit; consequently with reference to the Colony, three-fourths of the transport is restricted to within 100 miles of the seacoast; which accords with the weight of produce raised in the maritime districts in proportion to the whole Colony.
TRYING TO DO business without advertising is like winking at a pretty girl through a pair of green goggles. You may know that you are doing, but nobody else does.
THE ELECTION. – The Scrutineers have completed their work. The returns show a total majority for CHRISTIAN of about 1,600. The official certificate will go down by post to-morrow. – Journal.
A GERMAN residing in the King Williams Town district was bitten by a snake on Saturday last. His wife, who, fortunately for him, was near at hand, sucked the poison from the wound, and thus saved him from much suffering and probably from premature death.
FAURESMITH. – The Fauresmith Bank is now established. The provisional committee have allotted 1,200 shares. – Some very good diamonds were found at Jagersfontein last week, and amongst them a beautiful gem of 12 carats, by a Mr. BOUWER. The gem is a pure white. A 44 carat was found on Monday.
TRAFFIC. – Last week at one time there were seven hundred transport oxen outspanned on the farm “Knapdaar,” halfway between this and the Orange River, and over a hundred ox-waggons waiting at the Orange River, to be ferried across. This day we are informed there are over a hundred waggons delayed across the rivers waiting their turns to be ferried; and the punt we understand is unceasingly at work.
DIAMOND FIELDS.
A SAD END. – The body of an Englishman stiff and cold, was found lying in the main street, Du Toit’s Pan, early on Sunday morning, and immediately conveyed to the lockup, and consequently buried by order of the authorities. The unfortunate man, a stranger in a strange land, was seen in the neighborhood of a public house on the previous evening.
DEATH OF MR. J. KEMP. – Mr. James KEMP of Port Elizabeth, breathed his last at Klip Drift on Thursday. He had been ailing for some time, and went up to Klip Drift for a change of air and scene. The funeral took place yesterday, and the most remarkable feature in it was that the remains of the deceased were followed to their last resting place by his late most intimate Port Elizabeth friends.
A CORRESPONDENT writes to the Burghersdorp paper from the New Rush: - The number of people dying here from drink is positively startling. Scarcely a morning passed but what some men are picked up in the streets or round about the tents. On Thursday morning no less than five were picked up dead. Fever is also very prevalent just now in the camps and the scarcity of water very much felt.
LAST WEEK a cart and two mules fell into one of the claims at Dutoitspan. The mules were instantly killed by the fall. A white man who was working in the claim, and upon whom the cart and animals fell, was crushed to death.
POSTSCRIPT.
MILITARY Messes and Regimental Bands are abolished by Mr. CARDWELL.
ODDFELLOWSHIP. – The election of the minor officers of the Loyal Victoria Lodge took place on the 19th inst., when the following Bros. were elected: -
Bro. C. BARNETT, R.S.N.G.;
Bro J. R. POHL, LNSG;
Bro O. WILTSHIRE, RSVG;
Bro. R. MCKEATING, LSVG;
Bro. H. SIMPKINS, Warden;
Bro. W. GUNN, IG;
Bro. H. ARMSTRONG, OG;
P.S., E B PAGE, Lecture Master;
Bro. C. BARNETT, Treasurer.
SUICIDE. – The Diamond Field reports the suicide at Pniel of Mr. Sydney WOOD, an Englishman about 60 years of age. The unfortunate man shot himself.
A NATIVE was found dead the other day at De Beer’s New Rush. A post mortem examination was held on the body by four medical men, and they discovered that the heart was completely surrounded by a hard cake of fine dust. – Diamond Field.
A BRILLIANT TREASURE. – The largest and most splendid collection of diamonds we have yet seen was shown to us yesterday by Mr. ROBINSON. There were some of all shapes, but very few off-color or spotted. A ninety-three was among them. The weight of the whole was about five pounds! – Beaufort Courier.
MR. COLIN T CAMPBELL, lately residing in Grahamstown, and for many years editor and proprietor of the Anglo African, has, we are happy to learn, received the appointment of secretary to the Commissioners at the Diamond Fields at a salary of £300 per annum. Mr. CAMPBELL is permitted to continue his notarial practice independent of his appointment.
OBITUARY. – The Angel of Death has been more than ordinarily busy this season, especially among the young, whom the Lord loveth best. The Rev. James SCOTT, the universally esteemed Wesleyan minister of this town, was bereft on Sunday evening of his infant daughter, a sweet flower that had seen but ten fleeting months. The esteem in which the sorrowing parents are held was manifested by the large number of sympathetic friends who followed the remains of their little darling to “God’s Acre,” on Monday afternoon. The Rev. Mr. GIDDY performed the last solemn offices for the departed. It is superfluous to add that we, in common with all who are in the remotest degree connected with the amiable and worthy Mr. and Mrs. SCOTT, condole sincerely with the stricken parents – Friend.
MRS. SHIRES, while on her way home from the fields to Natal with her husband, has also died, after having previously lost a child at the fields.
A THIEF SHOT. – Our readers are aware that for some time past Mr. D. SLUITER, has been constantly losing eggs from his ostrich nests, and has used every means to discover the depredators without avail, until Monday night last. Mr. E. van KART went out to the farm and took his turn at watching, unknown to every one except the owner of the farm, which resulted in his shooting one of the thieves dead on the spot. When Mr. van BART told us we started, fearing that he might come under the lash of the law for sending a thief so unceremoniously out of existence; but we were instantly relieved from our fears when he said the thief he had shot was a wolf. There were three of them, as it now turns out, which had been in the habit of robbing the nest, as marks of their teeth were found on the eggs, and spoor discovered about the place. On following the spoor of the wolves at different places broken egg shells were found strewn about, proving that they were in the habit of carrying the eggs away before eating them. A great deal of suspicion had been thrown on natives for the repeated thefts, and Mr. SLUITER has gone to considerable trouble and expense in trying to find out and put a stop to the mysterious disappearance of his ostrich eggs. We congratulate Mr. van BART on his grand success in ridding the ostrich camp of one of the thieves, and thus setting Mr. SLUITER’s mind perfectly at rest as to who and what he was indebted for the loss of his cherished eggs. We trust the remaining two thieves will shortly come within range of Mr. van BART’s rifle, when we shall have to record the complete extirpation of these novel ostrich nest robbers. – Uitenhage Times. [Transcriber’s note – KART vs. BART, this is exactly as it was typed]
Saturday, December 30, 1871.
DEATH AT BLINKWATER.
DIED on the 30th December, 1871, at BAKER’s Hotel and Store, Blinkwater, after a lingering illness of nine months. – the much-beloved, never-to-be-forgotten Mr. TICK alias Credit, own brother to the oldest Inhabitant.
Mr. CASH having been duly appointed Executor Dative, will be the only recognised agent by which business can be transacted in future.
MISCELLANEOUS.
VESSELS arriving at St. Helena from Table Bay are put in quarantine, in consequence of the prevalence of measles in Cape Town.
THE FIRST SOD of the Port Elizabeth and Uitenhage Railway will be turned by His Excellency the Governor, at a spot near Rawson Bridge, on the 6th January.
PRINCE ALBERT. – The murderer Koos CROESER, was to be hanged, within the prison walls, on Tuesday, the 12th instant. He was as quiet and reconciled as could be expected, though his whole body quivered when the Deputy Sheriff informed him on Friday last that the warrant for his execution was here, and would be carried out on the day named.
YESTERDAY the largest diamond yet brought down from the Fields was exhibited in Cape Town. It is the property of Messrs de KOCK & PENTZ, and is 135 carats in weight. It is regularly octahedral in form, perfectly free from flaws, and off-coloured only at the ends, while the central portion appears clear as of the first water.
BEAUFORT WEST. – The farm Leuwekuil, Salt River, bought a short time back by Mr. R. MARCUS in the insolvent estate of J. de KLERK for £625, has just been sold by the latter gentleman to P & C. de VILLIERS for £1,250. – Just as we went to press last week, Mr. HULL arrived at the hotel, and brought the news of sudden death of Mr. Barnard BANTJES, an old resident of this town, but residing for many years past in the Free State. He has been very successful at the New Rush, having netted, according to those who were in a position to know, about £8,000, including finds and the proceeds of his claim, which he had just sold, intending to leave for Beaufort. He was only two days ill. – Courier.
MR. F. STEYTLER, formerly R.M. and C.C. clerk at Colesberg but lately of Hope Town, has resigned his appointment (now conferred on Mr. J. F. WEBB, of this town), Mr. STEYTLER proceeds to the fields, and he is said to have been one of the most efficient clerks in the service. – Kaffrarian Watchman.
FATAL ASSAULT. – We hear that Andries du TOIT, son-in-law of Gabriel JACOBS, of Gansvley, district of Victoria, has been murderously assaulted by a Hottentot, his servant. It appears that about three weeks ago, du TOIT warned the Hottentot not to drive the stock on the water-course; but he disobeyed and as the latter was walking up to him, the Hottentot stabbed du TOIT in the thigh and the back. The doctor was sent for from Fraserburg, who pronounced the wound not mortal; but the unfortunate young man died two weeks afterwards. The Hottentot is in gaol awaiting his trial. – Beaufort Courier.
WE HAVE always been with those who believe that Dr. LIVINGSTONE would sooner or later emerge from the wilds of African. If the news which we have just been placed in possession of is true, and we have no reason to doubt it, Sir Roderick MURCHISON died but a few weeks to soon for him to have learnt that the opinion he had always maintained with regard to LIVINGSTONE was correct. We are in possession of intelligence for Johanna to the 3rd of November, and we are informed that Dr. KIRK had received letter from LIVINGSTON, who was at Ujiji in good health. Our informant assures us that there is not the least doubt as to the truthfulness of this. – Standard.
POSTSCRIPT.
BY THE EXPLOSION of the boiler of the steam wool washing works at Uitenhage on Saturday last, the stoker was killed, and a coloured man seriously injured.
WE HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of Almanacs published by the Journal, Watchman, Telegraph, Somerset Courant, Friend, and Free Press.
CHRISTMAS passed off quietly enough here. The rain made things rather dull. The Journal says “a small boy” was seen in High Street, Grahamstown. The place therefore was not wholly without life. Two small boys and a turkey cock were counted here, - the latter supposed to have made felonious escape just in time to prevent execution. He looked a miserable self-convicted criminal, and probably has repented and submitted to his fate with a good grace by this time.
ELLA’S CARTS have conveyed over two hundred passengers to and from the fields during the past month.
UITENHAGE. – The Times of Friday says: - We learn that our respected fellow-townsman, Colonel J. NIXON, has succeeded to a title and property worth £10,000.
R. W. H. GIDDY, Esq., the British Civil Commissioner and Resident Magistrate of Dutoitspan, who supersedes the Free State Commissioner, Mr. O. J. TRUTER, arrived at his destination last Thursday, and assumed the duties and responsibilities of this important office.
THE CRADOCK MAGISTRACY. – The local paper hears it is rumoured that S. V. CLOETE, Esq., C.C. & R.M., Richmond, is likely to be appointed to Cradock.
SUICIDE OF A KAFIR. – Last week a Kafir was found in the Tambookie Location hanging to a tree quite dead. This is considered a very singular occurrence, as Kafirs have never been known to commit suicide. This is said to be the only case of the kind known up this way. – Free Press.
APPOINTMENTS. – Mr. J. C. GRAY, of the Colonial office, has been promoted to the appointment of clerk to Mr. THOMPSON, the Public Prosecutor at the Diamond Fields; and Mr. MONTAGU, of the Education office, has been similarly advanced as clerk to the Master and Registrar of the Recorder’s Court.
THE ROMAN CATHOLIC BISHOP of Grahamstown has made application for a grant of land for the purposes of his Church and the erection of a School House, with a view to opening a Free School in Queenstown. The Municipal Board decided to recommend that two full-sized erven should be granted. This is equal to six erven the size of those in Grey and Prince Alfred Streets. – Free Press.
THE KATBERG ROAD is said to be getting into very fair order. Mr. FLETCHER has recommended to Government the necessity of altering some of the sharp turns, by rounding and widening them and doing away with others, and it is likely this will be carried out. Should it be done, and the road well macadamized from bottom to top, and top to bottom – it would be the finest as well as the most majestic mountain pass in the Colony. Free Press.
SALE OF LAND. – We have been informed from a trustworthy source, Mr. Jan WESSELS has disposed of his two farms Oliphantsfontein and Nemaauwdheidfontein situate in the neighbourhood of Dutoitspan, to an English Company, for the magnificent sum of £28,000. The price of land throughout the State indicates an upward tendency. This pleasing and profitable fact is owing to the discovery of the marvellously rich South Africa Diamond-fields. Mr. van der MERWE has sold his farm, adjoining de Beer’s, for the same extent of ground at Remah, and £2,000 to boot. Mr. BOUDILLON, of this town, has been employed to survey the farm, so as to ascertain the extent of ground to be given in exchange. – Friend.
THE “BRITISH FLAG.” – The British rule is not acceptable to the Diggers. A returned digger told us the other day that no soon had the Free State officials given up authority than the natives became unruly beyond endurance. One black fellow said to his master, “I intend to go on a spree to-day.” The master replied, “You had better not, or I will have you up before the Magistrate.” The black then said, “Do you see that flag,” pointing to the Union Jack. “I can get drunk under that flag if I like, and who is to hinder.” The man did get on the spree and remained away three days!
A correspondent writes under date Dec. 16, 1871: - “There is great dissatisfaction here amongst diggers about British Rule. I fancy there will be a “big row” before long.
The Road Inspector had his leg broken while fighting with a digger. The diggers say they will not submit to British rule. The natives are getting most insolent. One native had the impudence to tell his master ye4sterday that he was a free man now that the British Government had taken the reins, and would not do what he was told. They would not get thrashed anymore; but would get comfortably housed and fed for any misdemeanour. A nigger was taken before the Magistrate a few days ago charged with attempting to stab the master. The case was a very aggravated one, and was clearly proved. Prisoner was only comfortably housed and fed for one week. If he had been tried by Free State authorities he would have had a narrow escape of being “whipped!”
JUDGE LYNCH AT NEW RUSH. – In my last, I stated that nothing out of the common had transpired. This week it is different. On Monday there was one of the most glorious “shindies” is has been my lot to witness, and I’ve seen a few at Klip Drift and Pniel in the good old times. To tell the story briefly it is this I must premise, however, that you are well aware that for some time past, we have been pestered with a lot of blackguards who have been in the habit of buying stolen diamonds from natives for nominal sums. This was getting unbearable, but fortunately things were brought to a climax on the day mentioned. It occurred in this way, a Native servant in the employ of a MD., was over-persuaded by a canteen keeper named H_____, to sell a pure gem of about 2½ carats for 14s. After the nefarious transaction, the nigger, being probably conscience stricken, told his master the whole circumstance, and the latter at one called a meeting of diggers and related what had transpired but counselling them to refrain from using violence. This counsel was unheeded, and a body of diggers some 2,000 or 3,000 strong, marched en masse to the canvas house of the illicit trader, and after speaking to him like “Dutch Uncles” pulled down his canteen, tore the canvas in ribbons, and committed the whole structure to flames. As the fire did not blaze sufficiently to suit the tastes of the avengers, the head of a cask of “smoke” was knocked in, and the contents poured on the flames. The cash box, containing a good quantity of notes, &c, shared a similar fate; ale and wine casks were smashed, and the contents let waste; in fact everything belonging to it g_l__r of Klipdrift, for he it was, was completely sent to “eternal smash.” I must not forget that H______ at first showed fight, but a “persuader” on the head caused him to “get.” Four other tents at the New Rush were served in a similar manner, the crowd going about preceded by a batch of natives, and when the latter gave a certain signal, whatever tent they pointed at went to “blazes.” Three tents were also burned to ashes, one of which was burnt by mistake, but that was only a trifle in the imagination of the excited mob. – Diamond Field.
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