The Lyttelton Times.

Lyttelton Times, Volume V, Issue 309, 17 October 1855, Page 4

The Lyttelton Times.

Wednesday, Oct. 17

The rapid discharge of the cargo of the " Merchantman," which vessel was cleared out in three days from her entry, reflects credit both on the agents and on the parties to whom the discharging of the cargo was entrusted. We trust that the cargo of all vessels entering this port will meet with as ready a transfer. The loss occasionally incurred by the charterer by an unreasonable detention of vessels in harbour, (which is most frequently caused by the want of energy of the masters themselves, and of the other parties concerned in the discharge of vessels so delayed,) no doubt frequently retards the shipment of goods to that particular port where these expences are incurred. We therefore are all interested in every facility being given for the expeditious discharge of merchandise consigned to this place, and we trust that the successful exertions made by all parties concerned with the «* Merchantman," will stimulate all to use similar despatch, and so gain a good character for our Port.

Yesterday, in the Provincial Council, Mr. Ollivier presented a petition in favour of the proposed tramway from Christchurch to Sumner, and moved a resolution to empower His Honor to employ all monies in hand, and to raise whatever further sum

might be necessary by debentures, to complete the same — Mr. John Hall moved a counter resolution, to the effect that the cart road from Christchurch should be metalled, as completion in part of the great line of communication between the-Port and'the Plains. This amendment, we believe, was carried by a majority of 12 to 3.