THE TERMINUS QUESTION.

Manawatu Herald, 31 January 1879, Page 3

THE TERMINUS QUESTION.

(From the Rangitikei Advocate i.fSatiuTt ia rumoured thiit certain representations, 1 which are being made at headquarters anent the relative superiority of the Palmerston over the Foxton route for the projected inland railway line, are of n character that can scarcely be considered legitimate. Looking at the matter from a broad poiat of view, it would appear that the townships on the route of the present existing railway would be actuated by feelings stronger than mere ordinary local jealousy, were they to offer any objection which would place obstructions in the way of other placet, less favourably situated, i being connected with the iron road. Other circumstances bebg equal, unquestionably the inland route should place the country which it traverses in direct communication with a port. If the tenoinus is Foxton, which it appears by disinterested authorities it Blionld be, the country between Piiikakariki and Manawatu, and between Rangitikei and Manawatu, will be connected by rail with a port. But if Palmerston ia the terminus, the port will be separated from all those diitriotß y j an additional and entirely unnecessary extra distanco of 24 miles. Vow the proposed arrangement can injuriously effect the townships ou the present main route, which now enjoy railway com* munication, it puzzles us to understand. But there are wheels within wheels, and we confetti we are not behind the scenes, so eaniot tell by whom the wins are being palled, nor- what secret influences aro at work. Nor, indeed, do wo wish to know. We would prefer to thiuk that the actions of each party in the matter are controlled by honodt, upright, s'raightforward motives, and that no unworthy or discreditable influences will be brought to bcur. Let the case be decided on its honest meritp, and the boua fide claims of each portion of the county considered by the light of their respective special features,position, andsur- ( rounding*. Then, none need feel ashamed of the part they are taking or may hereafter take, in the present agitation.