Obituaries Australia

The details of what is apparently a most heart-rending case of suicide came to light on Friday morning when Nicholas Sadlier, son of Mr. Nicholas Sadlier owner of the Albemarle station, near Wilcannia (N.S.W.), who is well known in squatting circles, was found dead in a chaffhouse at the rear of his parents' residence, in Roberts street, New Glenelg. His right foot had been divested of boot and sock and it was at once apparent that the fatal shot had been fired by means of his toes. Evidently, too, the muzzle of the gun had been placed in his mouth as the marks of powder were clearly impressed on the lips as well as on both hands. The result of the shot was of course most disastrous so far as facial appearance was concerned and although medical aid was procured almost immediately it was too late to be of any avail. The police were made acquainted with the circumstances, and on their arrival at the scene of the tragedy Dr. Ellison was in attendance. The most cursory glance disclosed the fact that life was extinct. The deceased was a remarkably bright and intelligent youth of 15 years, and had been attending St. Peter's college. It is stated that the unfortunate lad was very much aggrieved at something that had taken place at the college, and on Thursday he was reported to have expressed a strong aversion to going back to school. From his behaviour on Thursday evening, however, it was judged that the occurrence was not troubling him to any great extent. Young Sadlier was present at the New Glenelg Mission Hall entertainment and apparently was in very good spirits. His relatives did not entertain the slightest suspicion of his being worried in any way. The following note addressed to his younger brother, was found by the side of the deceased:—"Dear Redney—I am going to kill myself. You can have everything of mine. I am your dearest Nick. I hope God will forgive me. Give my love to mater and pater. Say good-bye to all my pals. Hip! Hip!"

By an order of the coroner the body was removed to the house where an inquest will be held at half-past 11 o'clock this morning. Profound sympathy is expressed for the family who have lived at Glenelg since Mr. Sadlier relinquished pastoral pursuits in Tasmania to take up the same business in New South Wales.