PROVINCIAL NEWS.

Kumara Times, Issue 2794, 4 September 1885, Page 2

PROVINCIAL NEWS.

EAST AND WEST COAST RAILWAY. MONSTER MEETING IN CHRISTCHURCH. [united press association.] Christchurch, September 2. A monster open air meeting was held here to-day in favour of the East and West Coast and Nelson Railway. It was the largest gathering that has ever taken place in this city. A procession composed of representatives from the various Trades and Friendly Societies, members of the City and Borongh Councils, County Councils, Road Boards, Industrial Association, and other public bodies, whs marshaled at Cathedral Square, at two p.m,; thence they marched through the city to Hagley Park, the procession being quite a mile in length, and the streets crowded all along the line of route. At the park a mass meeting was held, attended by quite 20,000 persons, of both sexes. Mr A. Ayers, the actingMayor, presided. Mr C. C. BoWen proposed the first resolution as follows :—“ That in the opinion of this great gathering representing all classes of the people of Canterbury, it is an injustice to the interests of Canterbury, Westland, and Nelson that the prosecution of a colonial work of the importance of the East and West Coast and Nelson Railway, should be any longer delayed, and that while trusting that the sum of £150,000 placed upon the Estimates, will not be rejected by the House, the Legislature be earnestly invited to proceed with the development of a scheme for dealing comprehensively with the construction of this line.” Mr G. G. Stead seconded the resolution, which was carried by acclamation.

Mr Acton-Adaras moved “ That the gathering desire to tender its best

thanks to the Canterbury and other members of the House of Representatives who have advocated the construction of the East and West Const and Nelson Railway, and trusts they will not relax their efforts, until this important work has been commenced.”

Mr J. D. Frankish seconded the motion, which, like the preceding one, was enthusiastically received and adopted. Though the assemblage was so large and the greatest enthusiasm prevailed, the proceedings were most orderly throughout, nob a single accident or case of disorderly conduct occurring to mar the success of the gathering.