The Evening Star. TUESDAY, JUNE 27, 1871.

Auckland Star, Volume II, Issue 456, 27 June 1871, Page 2

The Evening Star. TUESDAY, JUNE 27, 1871.

The Harbour Board met again to-day, the subject of deliberation being the late election to the office of Treasurer and Secretary. There has been but one feeling abroad, so far as we have found; with reference to this matter, and without raising any question as to the fitness or otherwise of the gentleman elected, we again protest that it is exceedingly improper that any person should hold such a responsible position, as the nominee of a minority in the Board. This has been asserted out of doors, and re-asserted by members of the Board, who had not to-day the manliness to standby their convictions. Mr. Cochrane afforded an opportunity which the public demanded to have this appointment placed on a proper basis. So far as we can read his intentions, there was nothing inimical intended for Mr. Ogilvie, but simply that the scandal should be removed of his., holding office by a fluke. ■■ Had Mr. Ogilvie exhibited a proper spirit, he would have relieved the Board from the invidious position of deliberating on this question in his own presence, and permitted the Board.to have done its duty; and if elected m a proper manner his posi'■tiop, would have been a much more satisfactory, one than it can possibly be in present circumstances.

.-, Butwe.donpt quarrel with Mr. .Oilvie. He has acted in this as most would have done, believing a bird in the hand to be worth two in the bush But the conduct" of those who have sueakingly behind his back been running him down, and protesting against -bur election, and then were cowed by his presence, .or by the fear of giving

viction abroad, the thanks of the public are due. There were expressions used depreciatory of public opinion and the Press as its exponent. This is a usual rus~ with those who wince most keenly under its lash,. and are most ready to invoke its aid when they have their own axe to grind.. But whether the Harbour Board, or any other institution, carry^ out the wishes of the public or sneer at public opinion, such trickery as that with which the Harbour Board has now formally identified itself deserves and will receive exposure. •