GHOULISH WORK.

Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 182, 9 August 1901, Page 3

GHOULISH WORK.

(To the Editor of the Times ) Sib.—Already the wreckers are at work, seizing upon the remark of the Premier that care must be exercised in the disposition of the funds of the colony, and that he could not accede to the wishes of those who desired to earmark the public moneys | for their own district without regard to ! the requirements of the rest of the colony*. A certain portion of the press has given way to the deepest pessimism, and reckon the colony is completely ruined. No doubt the wish was father to the thought, and in their desire to make political capital out of the matter, it is being used to the very utmost to the discredit of the colony. If there was anything wrong with the finances it was quite right and proper that the Premier should speak out straight, and withdraw* before it was too late, rather than have the olden ways of doing things, when it was the custom not only* to keep things dark till the blow* came but also to bolster up financial institutions at the state’s expense for private reasons. But until it is proved that the colony is in a bad state, it does seem wrong that journals should take advantage of what influence they posses to blast the fair fame of the colony. Q«r prosperity has already excited the envy of the neighbouring states, and they will be only too ready and willing to assist in pulling New Zealand from, its high position. Enemies of the colony will be only too sure to cable to the Australian colonies the most exaggerated reports, and they will be just as careful to see the press comments telegraphed back. Nor will they be satisfied with exploiting the colonics in this way, but they will also extend their operations into the Old Country, with the object of affecting the colony’s credit. Were this done in the case of a firm or individual, the matter would be considered criminal, and the perpetrators landed in gaol. With the State it will be described as patriotism, and the wreckers will glory in their work Wo might well exclaim, “ Oh patriotism what evils are wrought in thy name ! ”

1 am, etc.,

New Zealander.