THE TIME BALL.
(to the editor of the independent. August 17, 1868. Sir,— Last month Wellington sent true time to Hokitika. Many will like to know how this was done, so I send you a short notice. I received a telegram from Lieut Woods, the Government Surveyor, asking for time. I took observations of Sirius and Canopus, and so was positive that our time was absolutely true. I then went to the telegraph office, asking for help in the matter. Mr Lemon and Mr De Sauty at once gladly assisted me. They first telegraphed to Lieut Woods to look out at noon. All stations between Wellington and Hokitika were told to cease work at five minutes to twelve, and to connect with us and the West Const. At twelve o'clock, as the ball began to drop, Mr De Sauty pressed down his instrument, and the answering impulse was felt at once at Hokitika; having crossed tho Straits, and run down to Canterbury, and across the island in no time. In the afternoon we had for reply, " Thank you. Time ball and our chronometer only differ 1-10th second. I am, &c. A. Stock.
