Correspondence.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 286, 14 April 1869, Page 3

Correspondence.

LITERARY INSTITUTE. to the editor of the star. Sir, — The subject of the Literary Institute has been so often brought before the public of late, that any more remarks may seem to many superfluous ; but there is yet something left to cay. The Literary Institute seems to be fast going out of public favour, and will, if great efforts are not made, scon die a natural death. It will be remembere 1 by many that, some twelve or eighteen months ago, when the then Mechanics' Institute Avas in a very declining state, it had its name changed to the more dignified title of Literary Institute — which, it was thought at the time, would carry raore weight with the public, and thus once more place it in a good position ; but although it did revive it a little, it is noAV again almost on its last legs. At the quarterly meeting of members, held on the 31st March last, I was glad to observe that a new committee of management had been elected in place of those gentlemen lately resigned, which committee consists of bona fide members of the institute. This is a step iv the right direction; for whatever may be the merits of the late committee, it is very evident that they had not the confidence of the bulk of the members; nor can they be seid to have identified themselves enough with the institute to give satisfaction. Men are placed in such positions because it isy supposed they will reflect honour upon the institute in consequence of their exalted position in society ; but Avhatever may be the success in other places, in the present one it has undoubtedly failed. What is really Avanted, is a committee consisting of members who have the Avelfare of the institute thoroughly at heart; who go there regularly, and by so doing have a better chance of ascor taining the requirements of all the other members. I believe that it is the intention to get up a chess club afc the institute, which 1 Avish every success, and hope that it will not " dry up " (coloninlly speaking) as quick as the last one did. In concluding, I would urge the ncAv committee to do their utmost to prevent the society from falling right to the ground; for now that the dark nights have set in, and out-door recreation is at an end, the Literary Institute ought to be well patronised. Your obedient servant, A. N.