At the Supreme Court to-day, iv Chambers, the case of Fenwick was discussed. It will be recollected that the court formerly found that Fenwick was of unsound mind, but capable of taking care of his own affairs. Mr Mahoney now moveel for a discharge, but his Honor said he could not grant it under section 179, as he had found that Fenwick was of unsound mind. Mr Mahoney said the position was a very peculiar one. Fenwick's friends were anxious to have him go to Eugland, but the authori ties could uot release him. A committeo could not be appoiuted to manage his affairs in the face of the order of the court, and he could not get out to manage his owu affairs. His Honor said that if Government chose to set the orders of the court at defiance the responsi bility rested with them. No order was made. The hearing of a claim made by Paul Tuhaere, a Native chief of Orakei, against the Govern ment for £5220 compensation, has been ad journed until 18th June next. This claim is made iv respect of certain land, 13 acres and 4 perches, part of the Orakei block, near Auck land, taken by the Government under the Public Works Act, and for alleged injury done to certain land by the erection of fortifications. Messrs R. C. Carr and R. C. Barstow have been appointed assessors. Mr Porter's house, burnt down on Sunday, was insured for £100 iv the Victoria office and for £30 iv the London and Lancashire. The furniture was insured for £31 in the latter office. A six-roomed house was burnt down at Papa kura yesterday. It was owned by Mr Samuel Bell, and was insured in the Royal office, but the amount is unknown.
