Mayor So Instructs Local Police With Reference To Ku Klux Kidnapping

Mayor Newman has taken a hand in the stage play of the Ku Klux Klan here recently. His letter to the Gazette follows:

Editor, Picton Gazette:—

Referring to the stage play of the Ku Klux Klan in front of the Theatre, Jan. 6th, when they apparently kidnapped one of their own members, some persons being sufficiently thoughtful to get the number and make of the auto, the Chief of Police was able to locate the owner, who is a Belleville citizen.

On Saturday last the organizer for a few Counties in this district called on me, admitted their guilt, said that it was the work of a few new members who did not understand that such work was distinctly contrary to their rules and regulations.

I have the name, street address and telephone number of the Organizer, who has promised me that there will be no more such stage play on the streets of Picton and that no member of the Ku Klu Klan will appear on the streets of Picton behind any mask.

Relying on this promise I have instructed the police and advised citizens to regard as a possible very dangerous criminal and treat accordingly, any person or persons wearing a mask of any kind on the streets of Picton.

Yours truly,
Fred Newman,
Mayor