News Of The Day. (Press, 3 May 1909)

The latest incident involving Amy Bock has garnered significant attention across New Zealand. Bock has managed to convincingly deceive her acquaintances by masquerading as a man and going through a marriage ceremony with another woman. This extraordinary episode has sparked widespread interest, with many eager to see her portrait, which is set to be featured in "The Weekly Press." The portraits, taken in 1886 when Bock was 25, depict her in various disguises, including female attire and male clothing shortly before the wedding. In local news, a new School Committee has been elected for Riccarton, led by C. E. T. Hill as chairman. Additionally, detectives in New Plymouth arrested a man charged with thefts, including a safety razor set and a racing saddle. A meeting was held to discuss electing a new trustee for the Kaiapoi park following Dr. J. A. J. Murray's relocation to Australia. Meanwhile, Miss Ada Ward expressed her delight in meeting members of the Edwin Geach Company after a lecture at His Majesty's Theatre, while also advocating for a crackdown on vulgar show performances. There are intriguing developments in the world of magic, with Mr. James Stirton claiming to have deciphered the secret behind a renowned illusion, which, if validated, could earn him a reward of £500. Several private performances have reportedly confirmed his claims. A social meeting is set to open the session for the Christchurch Methodist Literary and Debating Society, led by the new minister, Rev. C. H. Garland, who emphasised the need for energetic measures to make meetings more engaging. Concerns were raised about the utility of a bishop, reflected humorously in a remark from a historical Governor of New Zealand regarding the lack of roads for the ecclesiastical carriage. This anecdote recounts how Bishop Selwyn humbly traversed the terrain, exemplifying his commitment to the community. In the realm of local interest pieces, "The Weekly Press" includes a range of illustrations, from views of Constantinople to birdlife in the Auckland Islands, alongside the ongoing story of Bock, which continues to captivate the public. In other news, a bazaar opened by the Hon. J. B. C. Bull in aid of a local church was well-attended, and notable incidents include a dramatic moment at Wellington wharf when a passenger realized he was on the wrong steamer. Additionally, a missing child was found sleeping in a box, causing great relief to parents in Timaru. The budding Marshland Farmers' Club also had its inaugural meeting, highlighting community engagement and a desire for agricultural advancement in the region. On a more serious note, a solicitor faced scrutiny for financial mismanagement in court, where it was noted he had scant income and significant debts, raising questions about his ability to practice law. These events, alongside a plethora of other local updates, reflect the everyday life and challenges faced by New Zealanders in 1909, showcasing a blend of societal issues, community spirit, and curiosities that paint a vivid picture of the era.

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