A NEW ZEALAND BIRD-STORY.
[To THE EDITOR OF THE "SPECTATOR."] SIR,—The letter of L. Obel which appeared in your issue of September 1st on the subject of the needless slaughter of birds reminded me of an incident which came under my notice at Okarito (New Zealand), a mining township, shortly after the " rush." Near the camp, or township, there was a beautiful lagoon, in the centre of which a native crane, white as snow, was in the habit of posting himself either to enjoy the sun- light or to look out for bis food. He was very much admired by the miners. One man, however, was cruel enough to shoot the bird from mere wantonness, for he did not attempt to recover the body. Justice was soon on his track, for the enraged miners caught the offender, threw his weapon into the lagoon, thrashed him with a proper attention to details, and kicked him out of the camp, weeping bitterly. These miners showed an example that could be followed with advantage.—I am, Sir, &c., Fielding, N.Z., October 23rd. GEORGE KIRTON.
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