THE GOVERNOR'S FAREWELL SPEECH.

Evening Post, Volume XX, Issue 210, 8 September 1880, Page 2

THE GOVERNOR'S FAREWELL SPEECH.

[united press association.] Auckland, 7th September. Sir Hercules Bobinson, in replying to an address of the City Council, presented at Government House, said :—": — " I can assure you that, if I had had liberty to consult only my personal inclination in the matter, I should not now be bidding adieu to New Zealand. Indeed, it is with a feeling of heartfoit regret that I view the approaching termination of my official connection 'with this great and important colony; and in taking leave of it I have to express my sense of the pleasure which I have derived from my residence in it. I have also to acknowledge the manifestation of respect and good feeling made by the citizens of Auckland upon my short but very pleasant visits to your town. The first favorable impressions which I formed of New Zealand have been more than confirmed by subsequent experience. The country is one of surprising promise, and it abounds in more natural advantages, in conjunction, than are to be toun'i in any part of her Majesty's wide dominions. I fear that the acquisition of such a vast inheritance has led you into an extravagance which may give some trouble yet You will have to encounter financial difficulties which will tax the wisdom and public spirit of your statesmen, and try your patience to the utmost. I do not; think you will succumb under these difficulties, but they will prove a trial, from which you will rise with renewed strength and an increasing spirit for true progress. Your country is capable of sustaining, with comparative ease, exceptionally heavy burdens, but it is well to remember that New Zealand is now tha most heavily taxed and great'y indebted hind in the whole world If a wellwisher may venture a word of counsel, I would advise you to re3t contented with the pre-eminence, and not experimentalise in the direction of the proverbial last straw, which might involve the country in irretrievable ruin and disgrace. Once more allow me to express my good wishes for your future welfare and advancement. Though leaving New Zealand, I shall continue to think of and regard her, for she has taken too deep a root in my heart to permit my interest in her lapsing with my official connection. From my far distant homo in South Africa I shall watch your progress with unabated interest, and observe your prospects with undiminished feeling.