The Hastings Standard Published Daily. THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 1897. THE SHORT SESSION.

Hastings Standard, Issue 292, 8 April 1897, Page 2

The Hastings Standard Published Daily.

THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 1897. THE SHORT SESSION.

For the cause that lacks assistance | For the wrongs that need resistance. For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do.

The progress made by the new Parliament is rapid indeed, and if Mr Seddon keeps things moving there is every probability of work being concluded by to-morrow night. The Address in Reply appears to have fizzled out mysteriously. The reason given by our special correspondent should prove flattering to Mr T. E. Taylor, who is reported to have made so striking an impression that no member of the House cared to follow him. Probably it was the barrenness of the Acting-Governor's speech that gave would-be orators no cause for comment. After the collapse of the debate Mr Seddon stepped into the breach, and to the surprise of both sides of the House laid his Financial Statement on the table. Of course his figures are by no means complete, but the colony will certainly rejoice to learn that there is a surplus of £840,000 on the year's transactions. Members will, no doubt, want to know something more with reference as to the manner in which the totals are arrived at; but the House is evidently sympathie with the proposal of the Premier's visit to England, and there is every likelihood that adverse criticism will be reserved until the second session in September next. According to reports Mr Seddon is not likely to have an imposing bodyguard, but a small contingent will probably accompany him for the Diamond Jubilee procession.