THE PRICE OF GOLD.

Kumara Times, Issue 2708, 27 May 1885, Page 3

THE PRICE OF GOLD.

[to the editor.] Sir—lt is not without real cause that I draw public attention to a subject which concerns both the miner and business man. It is an admitted fact that the miners, by their own unaided energy, have enriched these lovely is'ands beyond the most sanguine expectations of all by causing the development of what would still be hidden treasure, and have placed New Zealand in a comparatively short time equal to most and ahead of others of the Australasian colonies; not merely in gold alone, but in many other natural productions which abound profusely. The cry has. been all against our Government for not fostering and assisting ; bnt lately, we must say, that our rulers have come forward nobly. It is another institution which, since the discovery of gold in New Zealand, has been and is crushing the poor miner ; I mean the Banks, and to which so far we have not been indebted for much assistance. I have heard many expressions of opinion as to their value on the goldfields, but all are unanimous in saying that they are merely moneychangers, and to a certain extent pawnbroking establishments; for no matter how legitimate the enterprise may be, they will run no risk to develop it, but merely stand behind their counters and give their promissory notes for our bullion. In this place there are many who have assisted largely to make their dividends; and when, after years of labour and expenditure, they ask a very moderate assistance to carry on their work, what do we find when we solicit it ? Why this—not the decisive “Yes,” or “No ;” but, “ Well, really, we would like to assist, but,” &c., &c. Now, sir, I think it is time we took some steps to benefit ourselves, which can, I think, be easily be done if we only band together. In another letter I purpose giving an outline of how this may be done; and at the same time I would be glad to hear other opinions on the subject. Trusting to your usual courtesy to insert this—l remain,‘yours, &c., A Miner. Kumara, May 25, 1885.