THE TURN OF THE TIDE.

Evening Post, Volume XXXVI, Issue 111, 7 November 1888, Page 2

THE TURN OF THE TIDE.

When the Premier was interviewed in Chriatchurcb by tho unemployed some time ago, one of the arguments used was the exodus of working-men from this colony to . Anstralia. It was pointed ont that every' steamer was taking away large numbers of artizana and labourers— steady, industrious men, who were unable to find employment in New Zealand, or were attracted by the prospects of higher wagea and greater opportunities in New South Wales or Victoria. The Premier did not appear much impressed by the argument, and bluntly expressed his confident belief that most of them would soon be very glad to come back to New Zealand if they were able to do so. Some people attempted to scoff at this prediction, and blamed Sir Harry Atkinson for failing to recognise what they deemed the gravity of the situation. For ourselves we commended his attitude, and expressed our belief that he would prove a true prophet. Events are already justifying the prediction. Every Bteamer from Australia is now bringing back large numbers of the very class who were recently so eager to flock to Australia, and no doubt the majority are men who find that thoy made a mistake in leaving New Zealand for Australia. Last week's steamer to the Bluff brought 59 steerage passengers, and this week's steamer 85. At this rate it will not be long before our recent loss of popui lation is fully made up. Of course there are amongst those who went away a great number of men who, however anxious to get back, unfortunately lack the means of doing so. That this is the case there is abundant evidence. The captains of steamers from Australian ports to New Zealand are innni dated with applications for reduced or free ' passages, and have to use the utmost vigilance to guard against " stowaways." Every mail brings hundreds of letters from men expressing regret at having left New Zealand, and stating that they are far worse off in their new country than here, and are striving hard to earn the means of getting back. The lesson has been a severe one to the colony and to them, but its ultimate effects on both will probably be beneficial.