COUNTY GOLD DFTY.

Inangahua Times, Volume IV, Issue 20, 25 May 1877, Page 2

COUNTY GOLD DFTY.

[TO THE KDITOB INAtfOAHtTA TIMES.] Sib,— The above anticipated item of County Itovenuo as shown by the Council Budget being in itself considerably larger | than the whole amounts derivable from other sources, suggests the desirability of that very prolific " Milch cow," being well looked after by those intrusted with the administration of Count} affairs. That being so, the question may with strict propriety be asked, have honorable Councillors in the exercise of their ad minis* trative functions, taken such steps in the matter &9 wiU have for its end the cerj tainty of a faithful return of our fair share of the revenue accruing from that source P Reports by the local press of Council meetings have not shown, that I am aware of, any brilliant opinions, or suggestions on the question, save and except the fact that circular letters have bocn sent to some local gold buyers in the outlying Hidings, requesting them to keep and i furnish an account to the Council of all gold purchased by them. That (as far as it goes) is eoriainly a step in the right direc, tion. But at most is but a half measure, and dependent entirely upon the humours or crotchets of the person addressed. Now it occurs to me, sir, that a more effective way of securing tho services of the gont' cman to whom I am referring (and services they unquestionably are and of great moment to the County) would be for the Council to appoint two of their body as a committee to visit the several Ridings, and interview the local buyers, pointing out the desirability of their cooperation, and at the same time furnishing them with any necessary books of account bearing a heading "Inangahua County Gold Account," or something to connect it with the County, and with a view to securing the very fullest return allow such buyers a small percentage on their purchases as compensation for their trouble. I feel certain, sir, tbafc such a course would, if initiated, ensure 'their willing co-operation, accurate returns,, and more than compensate the percentage, "which of necessity would be small?" Yet, nevertheless a graceful offer io be appreciated, and possibly as gracefully declined.— l am, Ac, Pboobess.