Manawatu Herald. [Established Aug. 27, 1878.] SATURDAY, DEC. 31, 1904. The Advent of 1905.

Manawatu Herald, 31 December 1904, Page 2

Manawatu Herald. [Established Aug. 27, 1878.] SATURDAY, DEC. 31, 1904. The Advent of 1905.

“ Ring out the Old—Ring in the New,” is a familiar term used at this period of the Calendar,—signalling as it does the dawning of the old year and the rising of a new one. The past year has not been entirely free from strife. It has been responsible for much friction. The greatest war ever known between two nations commenced within its months. Many political changes have been made, especially throughout the Australian Commonwealth, where changes of leadership are all too frequent. The Dogger Bank Outrage ranks amongst the most serious happenings of 1904—at least, to Britishers, whose integrity is at stake on the issue'of ’the Commission held relating thereto. Many other changes of| note have taken, 11 place in all cpjmtriea.. Coming to

New Zealand, apart from the fact that we have “farewelled ” Ranfurly and “ welcomed ” Ekmket as His Ma jesty’s representative, no political change has been found necessary. Our Democratic inhabitants are perfectly satisfied with Good Old Dick Seddon and Party, and we venture to say that when the results of the 1905 Election are known, Richard John Seddon’s supporters will be found returned with a larger majority than ever, despite the uproar made over his “ Shops and Offices Bill.” Both Wellington and Christchurch have installed electric tramways in their city thoroughfares, whilst the metropolis boasting of the seat of Parliament have opened a Town Hall, which much larger cities would feel proud of. It is pleasing to record advanced prices in many of»New Zealand’s products—notably wool. Certainly, the weather of 1904 was anything but good, though prosperity has not been hindered, and we have only to refer ourselves to the increased totalisator receipts all over the Colony at Xmas time to know that money is not scarce. The Government have opened up new railways, and made a further reduction in travelling rates, many new Government buildings have been erected, new private firms and companies are finding their way to our shores to try their fortune, and everything in fact augurs well for the further advancement of our resources. Prosperity seems to be the lot meted out to New Zealanders, and with careful and judicious legislation the coming year should bear further evidence of progressive times. Death has rei moved many from our climes. However, it is pleasing to record an increase in marriages and births. Also that the arrivals in New Zealand ports exceed the departures. All things considered, we are in for a good time, and with the hope that our readers will start the new year with a greater desire to treat fellowbeings as humanity—bearing naught but goodwill, the Makawatu Herald heartily wishes all