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Evening Star, Issue 3379, 18 December 1873, Page 2

Wk are well assured that the inhabitant* of Dunedin will gladly subscribe to the proposed testimonial to the Honorable J. Vogel expresnive of their approval of the measures initiated by him for the advantage of New Zealand. He has had much to contend wdth, and has met it successfully. Personal hostility, political animosity, the timidity of the weak, the prejudices of tho ignorant were arrayed against him and the Ministries of which he has been a member during the last five years. Their Native policy was looked upon with distrust by the rncu whose doctrine was to Gorujiior a peace instead of allowing a poaco to coiujuer y tiicii railway policy was icgardedby some as ofumorical, before its time, and financially impossible ; their financial arrangements were de--1 or,unrod aF) tending to bankruptcy. Although i the cud is not reached, and from the nature

of tilings never will be so long as development is possible, sufficient is seen of the results to justify confidence in the impetus to progress given V>y tlie measures ho has been mainly instrumental in carrying. The inhabitants of this Province have profited largely through them. Instead of stagnation, we have activity; instead of distrust, confidence. Property lias risen in value, manufactures arc established, population has increased, trade and commerce are extending. Although much depends upon the energetic character of the Provincial Government, it cannot exert an influence beyond limits prescribed by the General Assembly. No doubt with us the spirit of Mr VoUßlfs measures has been ably supported by our own Superintendent, but lie could not have moved had not his wav been made clear for him. We understand, as in the case of Mr Couden. no lowest limit will he placed upon the sum to be received ; and a shilling from one who can afford no more, is squally an expression of approbation, as fifty pounds from him to whom such a sum is no object.