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Lyttelton Times, Volume III, Issue 113, 5 March 1853, Page 9

To the Editor of the Lyttelton Times. Sir,—Having been one (among a great many others, I believe) who decliued signing the Address to the Governor-in-Chief, which- appeared in your last week's publication, perhaps you will allow me briefly to explain my reasons for so doing. From the sentiments and general principles embodied in the Address I do not differ. With the recommendation tu sink all past animosities, and mutual feelings of hostility and distrust (if any such exist) 1 heartiiy agree; and I sincerely hope that no narrow-minded party feelings, or petty jealousies will be allowed to obstruct the fair introduction, or mar the harmonious working, of the new Constitution, which has been conferred on the people of this country by the Crown and British Parliament. Why then, it may be asked, not sign the address? Simply because 1 regard it as superfluous and uncalled for. Because I for one never, that I am aware of, eutenained such feelings of animosity or jealousy as are referred to in it, and therefore cannot think that I a:n called on to make a recantation of sentiments I never felt. Qui S'excuse s"accuse. By signing that paper I virtually confess that I have been, with others, in ;i state of '* organised hostility against the Executive," that 1 have been influenced by feelings or" animosity and distrust, and that such violent part \ -heats ami animosities have not only been allowed to spring-up, but "have taken deep root" .^'Ug us. Against these at.su.m;>tio^ i .c>\ called on to protest. If there be'any - v :".m there would seem to have been so-.n-.: (■ •-■ j ■''.•' n-'.v'u indulged

these sentiments and given encouragement to these feelings, let them make the recantation by all means. If sincere, it is graceful and becoming, and can hardly fail of the object it professes a desire to attain. But whether or not, we say, it does not touch us. " Let the galled jade wince, our withers are unwrung." In giving expression to these views I believe I am speaking not merely my own sentiments but those of a large majority of the peaceable and loyal inhabitants of this settlement, who have hitherto taken no part in the noisy demonstrations of a factious minority. In declining to sign this Address, I believe they have been influenced by no other feeling than unwillingness to stultify themselves, by admitting a participation in a course of " organised hostility to the Executive" which they have never taken part in. That they have as earnest and sincere a desire as those who have signed the Address, to see such animosity and hostility done away; with, and to ensure the hearty co-operation of all parties in order to give to the new Constitution a fair trial, I think cannot be doubted; and, should the fitting opportunity present itself, I believe that they will not be found wanting in properly expressing their views, and in paying to the Head of the Executive in this country that proper respect which is due to the Queen's representative from every loyal and well-disposed community of Englishmen. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your very obedient servant, W. G. Brittan. Christchnrch, March 1, 1853.