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New Zealand Mail, Issue 546, 22 July 1882, Page 18

The Government hare at length determined to take the necessary measures for placing the principal ports of the colony in a state of defence sufficient to protect them from surprise by a hostile cruiser. On the occasion of the late visit of a Russian man-of-war to this harbor, we pointed out the necessity of such a movement, and remarked on the likelihood of our witnessingtheappearanceof asimilat vessel on other than friendly ends intent, if a war in which England might be involved were to break out in Europe. The political sky was then very far from being devoid of indications of an approaching storm, but the idea of actual strife was naturally put away into the distance; and the theatre of probable hostilities being also remote, the thought of preparing for a contingency which might never happen was dismissed from the public mind. Now, however, that hostilities in which England is the chief actor have really commenced, and containing, it may be, the germs of a general conflict, the matter has forcibly obtruded itself upon the people’s notice as one which will no longer admit of delay, The question of our defences has, accordingly, been earnestly discussed by the Harbor Boards and Chambers of Commerce at our principle ports, as well as by the Press of the colony, and messages from all quarters have been transmitted to the Defence Minister urging immediate action. In fact, the excitement of the eivic mind caused by the outbreak in Egypt and the storming of Alexandria has been in complete contrast with its former apathy, insomuch that the terms employed in the telegrams forwarded to the Hon. Mr Bryce were fitted to convey the impression that the enemy was already nearing our shores, and placing his guns for action. The transition from a feeling of security to one of panic is easy, and indeed natural, but it must ever be remembered that the one equally with the other must be rendered amenable to reason. There is no immediate occasion for apprehension, but it is nevertheless time for us to be prepared for eventualities. The statement made in the House on Monday night by the Defence Minister and so cordially received—was such as became a .man who, betraying no anxiety, yet wisely resolves to hold himself ready for emergencies. His communicating with Colonel Scratchley, whose advice as to the simplest and most approved methods of defence is of the very highest value, will contribute at once to the economy and effectiveness of the plan adopted, as mistakes which otherwise might be made will thus be avoided. The sum of £50,000 intended to be devoted to such a purpose may seem small, but at all events it will serve for a beginning, and may be increased as circumstances require. Besides, the very fact that we are preparing against hostile surprises, once known, as it will be, will make an enemy very cautious how he makes an attempt on our approaches, which in itself is no small protection.