Untitled

Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume 4, Issue 195, 15 June 1861, Page 4

To the Editor of the Hawke's Bay Herald. Sir, — In your last week's impression I read a letter complaining that there were no evening classes for adults, or any means provided for the improvement of the large body of the community who are employed during the day. Now, Mr. Editor, I am full aware K. T. Z.s statement is correct, but how is it we lack those means ? I read in other colonial papers of 'classes held, and lectures delivered in connection with Mechanics' Institutes or Young Men's Associations; but, I suppose, Napier must be behind hand in these as in other matters. But why ? that is tlie question. I believe the Provincial Government voted £200 for the purpose of an Institute, and some £100 have already been colected, and yet nothing done. Surely those who have the subject in hand must either be very dilatory, or else know nothing about the matter. We hear a great deal about local improvements : — ' making roads, bridgesj. &c, but the chief necessary — the improvement of the mmd — is passed over, or, rather, left in abeyance. I am certain that, were any kind of institution formed for the improvement of the working class — those who are the bone and sinew of a young colony — there are many who are able and willing to come forward and assist, both by conducting classes and delivering lectures.

Do those gentlemen who represent us in our Provincial Couucil consider they have done their duty towards promoting the interests of their constituencies by simply placing a sum on the estimates for a certain purpose? Is their sphere of usefulness to be confined to the Council Chamber ? They are expected to Bee that what is voted is. applied, j in fact, both in Council and out of it, to 'do all in their power to promote the interests of that particular constituency they represent, and the Province in general.

Apologising for troubling you at such a length, I remain, yours, &c, SIGMA.

Napier, Jane 13, 1861.