MR PIPER AT RICHMOND.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XXVII, Issue 268, 14 November 1893, Page 2

MR PIPER AT RICHMOND.

Mr Piper addressed the electors at the Oddfellows' Hall, Richmond, last evening, when about CO e'ectors were present, including a few ladies. The Mayor, Mr G. Talbot, occupied the chair. Mr Piper touched upon the most important questions of public policy, his speech being very similar to that already reported in our columns. Mr Wray asked what Mr Piper meant by " pettifogging legislation." Mr Piper mentioned the Codlin Moth and Noxious Weeds Bills, and the Bill introduced by Mr Ueeves providing for the settlement of disputes between a servant and her mistress. Mr Ilansen asked if Mr Piper thought there would have been as many candidates for the seat if the honorarium had not been raised to i240. Mr Piper could not speak for others ; for himself he would be content with £100 to cover expenses. He had done a great deal of public work without pay. Mr Fittall referred to the Volunteer question. Ifc appeared from Colonel Fox's report that we had forts aud guns, but not enough men to man them in case of need; what we seemed to want was more permaneat men efficiently trained, who could be moved abojt. lie agreed with what had been recommended about the defence of YVestport against a hostile cruiser demanding a cargo of ccal. Mr Piper referred to the small standing army of the United S:ates— about 25,000 — enough to keep the Indians in order ; but when need arose, soldiera were created out of the militia, and it would be so with us. As to the defence of Westport, his own kaowledge of the Crimean war showed that no ship dared go where there was danger of mines and torpedoes; they were the best defenoe for us. A man-of-war might land a force on our coast, but he doubted whether it would get away again. Mr Wray proposed a vota of thanks to Mr Piper for his able address. Mr Wagg seconded the motioD, which was carried unanimously. A vote of thinks to the Chairman terminated the proceedings.