THE GOVERNOR AT CHRISTCHURCH. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRISPONDENT.] Christchurch, Saturday.

Waikato Times, Volume XVI, Issue 1358, 15 March 1881, Page 2

THE GOVERNOR AT CHRISTCHURCH. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRISPONDENT.] Christchurch, Saturday.

At the banquet in the Oddfellows' Hall to the Governor to-night, 200 were present. The Mayor of Christchurch was chairman. Replying to the toast of his health, the Governor expressed gratitude at the welcome. He was not surprised that Canterbury was always conspicuous by its loyalty, and here, as in all the colony, the representative of the Queen received respect. It was fortunate that, in the constitution of the colony, the position of the Governor was to bring him into close connection with no political party. For fifteen years he had been a Governor of Crown Colonies, and for the last five years he had exercised authority more than usually absolute. It may be asked if a man who had had these powers would submit to the restraints of constitutional government. In reply, he held that in countries where the mass of the inhabitants outnumbered those who hold the power, and were of a different race, it was necessary, for justice to all, that power should be vested in one man. In English communities, however, the form of government existing in the colony was the only one desirable. The power must rest with the people themselves. If it were asked had he learned his proper constitutional place, he would say "yes." His estimate of the functions of a colonial Governor were those of Lord Dnfferin — to oil the machine of Government, and keep it going easily. The man who had had despotic power was not likely to fight for shreds of authority which could not replace what he had been used to. He had had the pleasure of theacquaintance of the founders of Canterbury — Lord Lyttelton and Mr Godley— and he felt a special interest in Canterbury. His conviction was that the present depression was temporary. From seeing the rescources of th« colony he felt that its future prosperity was sure. He proposed the "The Prosperity and Welfare of New Zealand." The Premier, in replying to the toast of the Ministry, said the Ministerial Bench had not been a bed of roses. He entered office at a time of serious depression, but had unwavering faith in the future of New Zealand. The result justified that belief. Thanks to she habits of economy of the people, the extension of local industries, and the last good harvest, the colony was now on the eve of recovery. The duty of the Government was to assist, in developing the resources of the colony. They might depend on the present advisers of tho Governor doing 1 all that was in their power to effect that end.

~ "Wh% did j<m send tb!»t iqesstga tq me by a barefooted boy ?"--r"Bocau?e I kneyf he iraa going on a bootless errwd.".