New Zealand Times. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1874.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 4261, 16 November 1874, Page 2

New Zealand Times. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1874.

We cannot permit the Governor to take his final departure from the Seat of Government, without saying a few words, on behalf of the public, by way of farewell. Sir J ames Fbrgusson has had the good fortune, during his tenure of office in New Zealand, to win the favorable opinion of everyone whose confidence and respect is worth having. It is true, his Government has been unmarked by any circumstance of a special character. When he assumed tho Government, on the 14th of Juno, 1873, the colony was at peace with the Native race, and had entered on that colonising policy which has already done so much to bring it into prominent notice at Homo. It was reserved for the last hour of his administration almost, to witness the revival of party conflict, and to dictate a reply to Sir George Grey on tho great constitutional question now agitating the country, which, we take leave to say, is perfect of its kind, and taken in connection with his Excellency’s correspondence with Sir George Bowen ou the duties of a constitutional Governor, proves him to be specially qualified to fill the high office which he now voluntarily resigns. But Sir James Fergusson, during his residence in New Zealand, has seen much of the country and its institutions. He has made himself personally acquainted with its natural capabilities, and ho is familar with the strong, as well as tho weak points, in our political and social systems. He is a close observer, and brings a practical and cultivated mind to the consideration of the problems which lie before him. It is gratifying, therefore, to know that Sir James Fergussoh has formed a very favorable opinion of tho colonists of New Zealand, and of the country itself as a home for British people. His interest in Now Zealand will not ccaso on his return to England, whore no doubt he will be called upon to take an active part in public life. In His Excellency, therefore, New Zealand may count upon a friend who knows and appreciates its value ; —one who has not been sparing in his censure, if he has sometimes been a little forward in his praise. Tho colony, whatever may be the merits of his successor, will regret Sir James Fergusson’s premature departure. While, therefore, we “ welcome tho com- “ ing,” let us “ speed tho parting guest,” and wish His Excellency a pleasant voyage, and prosperous career.