PUBLIC MEETING.

Lyttelton Times, Volume III, Issue 109, 5 February 1853, Page 7

PUBLIC MEETING.

A meeting was held at the White Hart Hotel, Christehurch, on Tuesday evening last, to receive the reports of the Gold Searchers, which, notwithstanding the unfavourable state of the weather, was numerously attended. H. I. Tailored, Esq. was moved to the Chair. The Chairman opened the business of the meeting by observing that the object of it was clearly stated in the placards posted for the purpose of convening it. He was not himself much interested in the gold-digging question, but he should be always happy to assist in forwarding whatever might be considered most advisable for the public good, aud on the present occasion he should be glad to hear every person state their views on the subject, either for or against, to arrive at the most general opinion. Mr. Dobson being called upon to move the first resolution stated that it had been drawn up not for the purpose of checking the remarks of those who might consider the object of the meeting an undesirable one, but rather to give every one an opportunity of expressing his opinion, whatever it might be, in the fullest manner, whilst at the same time' the discussion which was likely to ensue would have a definite and tangible character, instead of being merely a desultory conversation, as would most likely have been the case had the promoters of the meeting left the resolutions to spring out of the discussion itself. The resolution was as follows :—■ " That the development of the mineral resources of the Canterbury Settlement is an object of the deepest importance to the prosperity of the colony." Mr. Dobson made some valuable remarks with respect to the probabilities of finding gold, which we have no space far this week, but shall insert them in our next. Mr. Sutelifle seconded Mr. Dobson's resolutions, which was carried. Mr. Paekcr, in introducing the 2nd resolu-

tion, begged to remark that the reason he was engaged in the present meeting was not from any particular' desire for gold digging, as a quieter and less excitable pursuit, suited him much the best; but that finding a very general excitement was going on amongst his neighbours, which he thought was carried too far, or not far enough, and feeling desirous to lend a helping hand to whatever may tend to good in anyvvay, he undertook to assist the object of this meeting by proposing the 2nd resolution, thinking by this to put the matter to a chance of* a positive proof, that either there was gold, and that sufficient to remunerate the diggers, or to satisfy the public this was not a gold-digging region, and so that we might all turn our minds to the usual routine of colonial pursuits. In offering a premium for the discovery of Gold, we should also secure that of Copper, Coal, and . other minerals that might turn up in the search for it, and thereby forward the object of the Ist resolution. Mr. Packer then moved — •'That this object will be best promoted by offering a premium for the discovery of a Gold Field, available to this settlement." Seconded by Mr. Spillard. Mr. Joseph Brittan begged to remark that he attended the meeting from a report that one was about to take place, as he understood, for the purpose of raising a subscription to satisfy. a party who would attend and engage for a suitable reward to point out an available and profitable Gold diggings—for this purpose he would willingly subscribe his mite; but as from the placard he saw in the room, the meeting was held for the purpose of offering a reward to any party who should be the first to point out a remunerative Gold field, he most decidedly objected, especially so near the Harvest, and thought it an erroneous idea to try to allay the excitement by offering a premium, thus adding fuel to fire by way of extinguishing it • he should, therefore, move as an amendment— " That it having been reported to this Meeting that a person is in possession of the knowledge of an available and remunerative Gold Field in this Settlement, a subscription be entered into for the purpose of giving him an adequate remuneration on his making such knowledge known to a Committee to be appointed." , . Seconded by Mr. C. Percival. A lively conversation ensued in which Dr. Barker, Messrs. Sutcliffe, Hart, Gregg, Long, and Dr. Martin engaged, and during which many interesting statements were made respecting the journey of the late Gold searchers, and what they saw and heard during their progress.. Mr. Packer in reply to Mr. J. Brittan observed, that it had been expressed by some,, that it would be a serious inconvenience for many to leave so near harvest in search of Gold, neglecting to get in the Corn, but it must be borne in mind that those who had already been, • and were determined to go again, were not at all likely persons to go to Harvest work, and we could best then endeavour to decide this question which is of great importance to very many ; so let us encourage them to go on the work with a good heart, wishing them God's speed, remembering that it was part of the blessing. passed on the Israelites that their promised land was productive of Iron and Brass, and shall we coldly look on such riches that are, doubtless, intended for our good if we will but strive for them ? The Chairman put the amendment to the meeting, which was lost, only five hands being held up° for it. The 2nd resoluion was then put and carried, by the same majority. The;; 3rd resolution was moved by Dr. Martin,, seconded by Mr. Wyatt, and carried, ".. " That a Committee be appointed to raise a subscription, and to superintend the appli-. cation of the amount so subscribed in rewarding any successful candidate finding : such Gold Field." The following gentlemen were appointed ott the Committee, with power to add to their numbers — Dr. Martin, j Mr. Carr, Mr. Wvatt, | Mr. Spillard, Mr. HaY, Mr. Sutehfie, Mr. Gould, j Mr. Swinburne. After passing a vote of thanks to the worthy Chairman for the able and kind manner in which he conducted the business, the meeting separated highly pleased. We understand upwards of £100 is already promised.— Communicated.