"LOOKING BACKWARD."

Taranaki Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 8833, 17 July 1890, Page 3

"LOOKING BACKWARD."

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, — I do not refer .to Bellamy's book, but to our own Borougb Council. Surely this body must have woke up a couple of centuries behind, when they discover that there is no method of retrenchment which is sufficient to cover past financial mistakes unless it includes the charging of a subscription to those who would frequent the Reading Room ! What will the Old Country think of a go-ahead colonial town thus out of harmony with the present day thought and effort ? Why, sir, everywhere we see the obstacles to spread of knowledge being removed, but wo, forsooth, are to Bet a contrary example, and, for the sake of a very doubtful benefit, curtail a positive boon. I hope, though, more enlightened counsels will prevail. Before the resolution of the Council is carried, I- trust the ratepayers will be fully informed as -to the actual money saved, and how the committee propose to administer the new regulations. Has there been any very wide dissatisfaction at the cost of this particular item ? I have not heard it." That some improvement in details as to the present management may be possible is more than likely, but it should sooner .be to extend than cripple its influence. . These are times demanding economy. Certainly; but to commence your operations on that which moderns pronounce a necessity is open to a difference of opinion as to its wisdom. If a man values the Heading Boom he will be willing to pay for it. Just so ; but possibly to those best able to pay it ie the least needful; and surely our ratepayers do not grudge the occasional, or even frequent, use of-the papers on the table by those who do not pay rates except indirectly. Then about our young men, our artizans, and others who are making practical use of the scientific and industrial papers — does the community reap no benefit eventually ? What about strarigers passing through our town, or remaining for a temporary period, is it proposed to make them a charge, or do we coolly close our doors in their face ? Hospitable, is it not ? Finally, can no alternate mode of raising funds be found ? What about a subscription list (apart from membership) for the public good — if this be really the proverbial last straw on the poor camel's back. Hoping to see further correspondence on the subject, — I am, &c, «» A Resident.