The Rev. William Hamilton, M.A., Presbyterian Minister, died at his residence, 'Cavitelee,' yesterday morning. He was a very old resident of the district, having come here from New South Wales in 1847, after a residence at the Goulburn of about ten years.

The rev. gentleman had attained the ripe age of 72, and was very widely respected by all classes and denominations. His death has caused quite a gloom in the township and district, for he has been intimately connected with its history, in various respects, from its earliest days up to the present time, and was the pioneer of the Protestant church in the extensive district lying between Lake Corangamite, Lake Bolac, and the Hopkins. Shutters are being kept up in all the principal places of business, and widespread gloom has been occasioned by the sad event.

The cause of death was diarrhoea, from which deceased had suffered for a month, during the whole of which time he was confined to his bed.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday morning, from 'Cavitelee,' for the Mortlake Cemetery, at twelve noon.