MR. BARLEYMAN AND THE NEW PLYMOUTH HARBOR.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume I, Issue 31, 28 July 1880, Page 3

MR. BARLEYMAN AND THE NEW PLYMOUTH HARBOR.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE STAR.

i * Sir, — I was surprised to read that Mr. Barleyinan had proceeded to Wellington, ostensibly in our interests, to use his utmost endeavors to thwart our New Plymouth Mends in then* work of constructing a harbor within easy range of our farmers and merchants. I feel assured that, no matter what our individual opinions may be (respecting the prospects of the scheme being thoroughly successful) each thoughtful person is disposed to give our neighbors fair play in attempting to secure such a desideratum as a good harbor at New Plymoiith. True, a few selfish, narrow-minded spirits will be found in every community ready to obstruct any good work emanating from others ; • but I am bold to say that every true Briton feels thorough contempt for, and detests any petty intermeddling, with the unmistakable object of injuring a good cause. If the harbor fails, we have nothing to pay ; if it succeeds, it is for us a free gift. In it we will have a good port for our produce and merchandise. Down, then, with this un-English behaviour, and let our energies be devoted to the extension of our railways and the development of our own resources, and not spent in attempting to injure others. Let us not be led into battle with imaginary monsters, in order that some giant at law may distinguish himself as a hero. Hawera has done some great and noble things, and made its name in the history of New Zealand. Let no ignoble act mar its fair fame. If we cannot do any positive good, let those who have assumed the leadership in this matter refrain from doing a great evil. Who, then, does Mr. Barleyman represent ? He does not represent the public, for the public of Hawera would scorn such meddling action, as going out of its way to harm others. Let us have the names of those large-hearted individuals who have sent him there for our so-called good, and let us have reasonable grounds as to what the so-called good would be if the New Plymouth Harbor Bill were quashed. — I am, &c, Citizen.