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Clutha Leader, Volume III, Issue 152, 8 June 1877, Page 4

We have not heard much of the cry of "dull times" in this quarter of late. j We presume the reason is that th-i phenomenon does not exist in the I Clutha. After a plentiful harvest, the prices of produce have considerably advanced, and there is a prospect of a yet further advance. The settlers therefore have no grounds of complaint, and they don't complain. So far as the township is concerned work has hitherto been plentiful. Numerous new dwelling houses are springing up, and as these are not built for speculative purposes, but for occupancy by the owners, they indicate progress and prosperity. Tents are also commenced to be reared upon unoccupied portions of the town, and this reminds us that during the next few months of winter and spring ten thousand pounds will be expended unon public works within the township. We believe the Clutha ought to be jubilant, but then we are not an excitable people. Still, the fact remains that within the next four or five months ten thousand pounds has to b,e expended within the township, .jU.a .matter of course a large portion of this.smn will find its way to the coffers of local tradesmen, storekeepers, butchers, bakers,

hotelkeepers, shoemakers, and others. The circumstances and prospects are now very favourable for all such. It is for them to bestir themselves so as to secure the fullest advantages of the favourable opportunity. There can be no doubt that if those of Balclutba don't do so, others will step in and reap the benefit. Tradesmen, storekeepers, &c. t in other townships would be glad of the chance. We trust those of Balclutha will be equal to the occasion. In all likelihood, before the present contract is completed another will be entered into for the section of railway to Clinton. In the meantime we trust Balclutha will have secured the patronage and good graces of those engaged at the present works, and then there will be little difficulty in getting* it continued throughout the future contract. In addition to the works above referred to, there is also the prospect of a few thousands being shortly expended upon the erection of a new church and a bank within the township. With all this public expenditure in view, and xvith good prices for agricultural pro--duce throughout the district, we humbly submit that the people of Balclutha ought in fairness to confess that " the good time coming" so long promised at length has arrived.