MINTARO.
[From our own Correspondent.]
Mintaro, July 6.
Since my last report we have been favoured with beautiful growing weather, and the crops in this neighbourhood, in as far as the time they have been sown, bear a most favourable aspect.
On Thursday evening last, about 8 o’clock, a most serious fire occurred at Kilmore Farm, Farrell’s Flat, the residence of Mr. Daniel Brady, about three miles distance from Mintaro. The particulars, as far as I can ascertain, are as follows:— The fire originated in some unaccountable manner in a detached building adjoining the barn, which was used as a cart-shed and stable, and was covered in with paling. The fire communicated from that to the barn, which was a stone building but roofed with timber and straw, and ignited with fearful rapidity. A winnowing-machine, by the kindly exertions of the neighbours in conjunction with Mr. Brady, was saved, but it was impossible for any human being to save anything further. I am informed the wheat and property were insured. From 1,400 to 1,600 bushels of wheat was burnt. An inquest was held at Mr. Brady’s on Saturday afternoon last, when a verdict was returned to the following effect, viz.:— That the said premises were wilfully and maliciously set fire to by some person or persons unknown. It is to be hoped that the Government and the office who insured this property will not spare expense or reward in sifting out and bringing to justice the person or persons who committed this foul act, and I am aware that 20 guineas will be added to such reward, as I have authority for saying the same.
