H.—9

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developing itself to pit dark labour against white labour—not to raise the one, but to lower the other. But Governments cannot do what I have suggested, and time will be required before there will be full recognition of the dignity and value of labour, whether perftrrmed by the black or white man. You will see, from what I have said, that theoretically I do not approve of the introduction of coolie labour for the purpose of reducing the value of white labour in the colony. Indeed, in my opinion, the great success of New Zealand materially depends on the high value which is set on labour, and I have always considered that when labour commands high wages prosperity is most certain to reign. Believing, however, as I do, that high-priced labour and its necessary concomitant— ingenious labour-saving machinery would not be inconsistent with the success of a sub-tropical production, which peculiarly suited the colony, I would gladly see a trial made on the most economical terms. For example, I believe, if it can be shown that tobacco-growing will suit the climate, and be profitable with coolie labour, that the productiveness of the soil (in parts of the country practically almost inexhaustible) and other favourable circumstances will enable the industry to be continued with white labour, mainly, if not exclusively. Nor would I object to the coolie if he became more than a labouring machine. I have no objection to the denizen of any country if he can be civilized, and if he will harmonize himself with the institutions of the country in which he lives. I have thought it only a fair return to your letter to give you my individual opinions on the subject, as you do me the honor to say you set some store by them. lam unable, however, to say what will be the view of my Government on the subject. I feel that your letter is altogether too important to be withheld from them, and I have ventured to think I shall be consulting your views in laying before the Government a copy of your letter, and asking them if they wish to take any action on it. I have, &c. E. Buck, Esq., India. Julius Vogel.

By Authority : Geokqe Didsbukt, Government Printer, Wellington. —1878. Price 6d.]