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Nelson Evening Mail, Volume I, Issue 122, 26 July 1866, Page 2

The Rakaia bringing the first English mail via Panama, arrived at Wellington at midnight of the 23rd hist. She left; Panama June 24th. The whole distance from England, more than 18,000 mile?, has been accomplished in three mouths, inclusive of stoppages of 17 days, the Rakaia having left Miltbrd Haven on the 21st April. The weather was unfavorable during the latter half of the passage, or the Eakaia would have reached New Zealand in 25 days from Panama. The passengers by the Rakaia, are the Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Mauusell and Mr. G-ibson, Auckland j Mr. Smyth, Wellington ; and the Rev. Mr. Poore for Mel- ' bourne. The Ruahiue arrived in Wellington on the 20th, aud sailed for Panama, with the homeward mails on Tuesday, the 24th inst. It is stated that the Government intend to act upon the order in Council, which was issued in December, 1864, imposing a penny postage rate on newspapers conveyed by post. The- united press of the colony denounced the measure^ in so forcible a manner that the Government were glad to withdraw it. The order states that the number and bulk of newspapers passed through the post-office, causes, to a considerable extent, the large expenditure at present incurred on account of the transmission of mails inland. It strikes us that the revival of this exploded order ia Council, is as much

to fetter the newspapers of the colouy as to raise revenue. It is impossible to read the Wellington newspapers without arriving at the conclusion that the Government have a great down on the newspaper press. The quarrel is an absurd one and it is easy to foresee which party will survive the contest. The usual fortnightly meeting of the. Band of Hope took place last evening. Between five and six hundred children were present. Some of the children recited pieces on the subject of temperance, for which they were reworded by books. The magic lantern was exhibited, and afforded great amusement to the young people. Mr. Crisp presided.