The Lyttelton Times.

Lyttelton Times, Volume VIII, Issue 513, 3 October 1857, Page 4

The Lyttelton Times.

Saturday, October 3. The general testimony borne to the value of Mr. Mtz Gerald's services "cannot be enhanced by any remarks of ours. The public have in different ways come forward with a zeal very unwonted, to express their grateful sense of the untiring energy and great 'ability which the late Superintendent devoted to the public service. However much individuals have differed from Mr. Fitz Gerald as to some of the measures which he advocated, there are few in this settlement who are not prepared to acknowledge the value of his services to New Zealand generally, and to this province especially. To say more here would be only to adopt the language of the different addresses which have been presented -to him within the last few weeks.

His departure for England appears to many of us to loosen one more link of our connection with the founders of this settlement in the old country. Mr. Fitz Gerald, as a member of the Association and as one intimately acquainted with the initiation of the Association's scheme, was the natural successor of Mr. Godley in the management of our affairs; he belonged, in fact, to the same dynasty, if we may be allowed the use of such an expression in our popular Government. Two chief rulers in succession have seldom retired from their leadership with so general a feeling of good will expressed towards them by those whose interests have been entrusted to their care. There are some, however, who will be perhaps glad to see a new set of men in power, and a new order of things initiated. We must hope for the best, and .give a fair ■ trial to whoever may be entrusted with the reins of Government. We cannot, however, think that anyone will soon give the public of Canterbury cause to forget Mr. Godley and Mr. Fitz Gerald. . We are only echoing the general voice of this Province when we express our hope that Mr. Fitz Gerald may be successful in his present mission, and that when it is completed he may again appear among'us with recruited health and strength to renew his public labours. '