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Auckland Star, Volume II, Issue 370, 17 March 1871, Page 2

We regret to find that since the arrival of the Wonga Wonga, a report has been current in. the city with reference to the new Trans-Pacific mail contract, which is an unqualified untruth. "What purpose can have been intended by such a ruse we are at a loss to discover, except it be the temporary enjoyment of a little idle boasting. It is not difficult to see the hand thattraced the fabrication, and adroitly obtained for it publication ; but a moment's consideration might convince the most simple-minded that such an insult to the public must bring reaction. Tt is alleged that Neilson's contract has been entirely ignored by Mr. Webb, and that the general impression in San ITrancisco is, that Webb's line will not start, or if at all, it will be for mere experiment. We are in a position to state that this representation is utterly devoid of truth; and though, as has been generally expected, the terms of the contract have been modified, in all its main particulars the contract will be carried out. Letters have been received in this city from Holladay and Brenham, dated Kan Francisco, 16th February, which announce telegrams from Webb and Holladay, who were in the Eastern States, stating that the Nevada will leave San Francisco for Auckland on the 7th April, and the agents here are ordered to prepare 1,000 tons of coal for the ship. The Nevada will not go on to Sydney, but arrangements will be made the following month for connecting with that port. Of course there are those in this city who at heart desire the ruin of the place, and would rejoice witli a " dismal" joy over everything that would seem the defeating Of the hopea of Auckland. That the whole bod}' of the people must rejoice to learn that in all particulars in which A.uekland lias an especial interest the terms of the contract will be carried out, and New Zealand will retain that position iv connection with the mail route to which, from her spirited enterprise, she is entitled.