VICTORIA.

Lyttelton Times, Volume VII, Issue 444, 4 February 1857, Page 12

VICTORIA.

By way of Hobarton we have received news to the lS^h ult.The Ministry had been left in a minority on the second of Mr. Dufly's " Members Qualification Bill," but the ' Argus' of the 9th rejoices to state that upon consideration they had determined not to resign. This assumption turns out to be correct. The Chamber of Commerce has appointed a sub-committee to consider the National Bank scheme. Bush Fires. —We have just been informed of most tearful ravages resulting from the fires between Ballaarat and Sulky Gully, for nearly nine miles ; property of various descriptions has been destroyed. ■ Homesteads, gardens, fences, and some valuable farming property have been burned, —the damage in many instances almost irreparable. This must be the result of disgraceful carelessness, if not of mischief; and it is time some steps were taken to prevent the fearful havoc to which the farmers are constantly liable.— Ballarat Times. There have been other tremendous bush fires in various parts of the country. There had been a fire in Swanston-street, but happily the damage was confined to two shops alone. We hear that Mr. Chief Justice A'Beckett. is about to resign his office, and retire on a pension of £1200 per annum. We hear it is also stated the Attorney-General is to be his successor. This seems unlikely, but it is well vouched for. After all it is not surprising. Mr. Stawell must now wish for rest and retirement from political strife, and there is no post that would be so desirable to himself as that of .Chief Justice. — Age.

(Continued from our last.)