OUR NEIGHBOURS.

Northland Age, Volume IV, Issue 42, 22 June 1908, Page 5

OUR NEIGHBOURS.

PERIA.

(From our Own Correspondent),

During the past few days we have experienced very delightful winter weather; although cold and windy there has been a dryness about the atmosphere which is phenomenal to this part of tho Province at this time of year. I notice Mr. W. McKay, of Oruru, is almost ready for customers. He has built a comfortable little store, the interior of which is replete with all necessary appurtenances to the trade. I am Bure we all wish him luck. Competition does much always in keeping things regulated.

I see you have already been informed of the last meeting of our Debating Society, therefore it is needless for mo to enlarge further on the subject—in passing I might add that Mr. John Garton also supported Mr. Fisher. Our next meeting will be on tho 27th instant, when the subject matter of debate will be as to whether the term “ Extraordinarily prosperous ” can bo lightly applied to the people of New Zealand. Mr. Geo. Wilkinson in the affirmative and Mr. J. A, Maria in the negative.

The Maori settlement is somewhat deserted just now, many of the Natives being out oil the guiAfields taking advantage of the soft nature of tho ground to facilitate the more successful unearthing of that articlo of trade, kapea, which has done so muoh in adding to their worldly emoluments. I learn from good authority that Sir Joseph Ward has been lately reminded of his promise, made to Mr. Hazard, that ths Peria river should be bridged at the two Peria crossings. May the reminder produce a practical reply ! We are still a long-suffering community ont this way. I suppose nowhere else in New Zealand or in any other land would the people tolerate the arrangement we are meekly and uncomplainingly complying with relative to the mail delivered by tho Clansman every Thursday in Mangonui. Were no coach leaving Mangonui before the Monday no ono would complain, hut as this is not so we would like to know where the bitch is. Truly the appellation “Sleepy North” is justly applied. Sir Joseph Ward agreed when here that the position was ridiculous—it is still ridiculous, and will from all appearances remain ridiculous till tho next mail contracts are let.