EIGHTY-FIVE YEARS AGO

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27392, 18 May 1950, Page 6

EIGHTY-FIVE YEARS AGO

FROM THE FILES OF THE ©tago 2)atl? TEimes

, DUNEDIN, MAY 18, 1865. “ The quantity of gold exported from Otago during the current year to date is 120,7600 z 16dwt. The total since the discovery of the goldfields is 1,742,2170 z 16dwt.” *

“ From all the goldfields without exception, the accounts justify us in asserting that the portion of the mining population who have persevered are making good wages, that many are rapidly accumulating handsome capital, and that those who unwisely were drawn away to other goldfields and have returned find no gold diggings equal in probable remunerativeness to those of Otago.”

“In the only foreign war which Great Britain has engaged in since the first settlement of Otago the Southern Colonies enjoyed an entire immunity from offensive action on the part of the national enemy. It has, however, subsequently transpired that a scheme for a descent upon the colonies has been entertained by Russia in the event of a fresh war—the object of that Power being to strike a sudden and effective blow at Australasia. In case of hostilities breaking out with any maritime Power, these rich-and prosperous colonies would present an enticing point of attack, while their isolated position would encourage a bold and adventurous enemy,”