THE PREMIER AT NELSON.

Press, Issue XLI, 25 February 1885, Page 6

THE PREMIER AT NELSON.

NELSON, January 30. There was a crowded and enthusiastic meeting to-night when the Premier delivered a statesmanlike address, ignoring questions of party politics. He spoke at some length concerning press criticisms, and after alluding to why the present Government existed, referred to some measures they had assisted to pass. The bulk of his speech: was devoted to the three dangers besetting democracy—namely, war, the absorption of power by the few, and the amassing of wealth in afew hands. In connection with the first danger, he spoke of Confederation, and said that the aim of the South Pacific Colonies should be to band together for general purposes. He did not object to the European Powers colonizing, but he did to the formation of depots. Under the second danger he spoke of Local Government, referring to the danger of the Central Government absorbing the whole powers. He said without I*c«al Government J there was no true liberty, but the question waa a large one, and had not been settled in England or Europe even, the Irish question biing one of Local Government. The condition of ig"gi«»»* and America showed the result and danger of the absorption of wealth by a few. He spoke freely on the means which he oonsidered would avert these dangers, which might lead to anarchy, and

referred to education in a similar strain'to t that in wßLt|£ he spoke at the Dunedin j meeting. Bereferrea to the prevention of j the acquiring of large estates, mopping up the land by a few, and advocated , technical education, the teaching of thrift, temperance, co-operation, and the esta- ! blishment of small industries,. the exer- ' cisc of kindness, self-denial, self-respect, 1 and strong individuality, together with i strict justice to all. The speaker was very eloquent at times, and was repeatedly cheered. A veto of thanks on the motion of Major Pitt, was carried with enthu-