OPENING OF THE DUNEDIN AND CHRISTCHURCH RAILWAY.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5449, 13 September 1878, Page 7

OPENING OF THE DUNEDIN AND CHRISTCHURCH RAILWAY.

BANQUET AT CHRISTCHURCH. (PEBMESS AGENCY.) Christchurch, September 5. Tho much talked of banquet came off tonight in the Provincial Council Chambers. Altogether about 200 guests sat down to table. The chair was occupied by the Mayor of Christchurch, Mr. Henry Thomson, who was supported on his right by his Excellency the Marquis of Normanby and the officers of H. 11.5. Nymphe, and on his left by the Hon. Messsrs. Stout and Fisher. The vice-chair was occupied by Mr. John Oliivier, and among the guests were tho Mayors of Wellington and several suburban municipalities, as well as the Christchurch Councillors and mauy members of public bodies. The dinner was supplied by Mr. Morton, of Morton’s Hotel, and was in every respect worthy of the occasion. The reporters and the band were placed in the gallery, and during tho evening tho latter discoursed a number of musical selections in excellent style. The cloth haviugbeeu removed, the Chairman read a number of apologies from gentlemen who had been invited, but who could not attend, amongst whom were Sir George Grey, Sir Win. Fitzherbert, and Sir Jno. Richardson. Tho usual loyal and patriotic toasts wore proposed and drunk with enthusiasm. His Worship then proposed " The Health of His Excellency the Governor,” which was received with loud and prolonged applause. The Mayor said that ever since his Excellency’s arrival in New Zealand he had afforded valuable services in connection with all public and beneficial institutions. (Cheers.) His presence there upon that occasion was a farther manifestation of the interest he took in all our colonial undertakings. (Applause) The toast was drunk with three times three. His Excellency returned his sincere thanks for the cordial manner in which tho toast had been responded to. It- was indeed true that he took a deep interest in the welfare of the colony, and he had great pleasure in being nresent on such an occasion as this, which was a most important epoch in the history of the colony. It was the close of the first act of the great Public Works policy introduced into the country by Sir Julius Vogel; and no one remembering 1810 but would admit that the policy had been a great public success. No doubt mistakes had been made iu carrying out the details, for they could not expect a policy of such vast importance to be carHed through its initial stages without mistake. (Cheers.) In a few weeks he hoped there would be complete railway communication between Amberley and Invercargill, making a stretch of line opened np of 483 miles; and was that nothing for a new country ? It was a matter of fact that in proportion to the population there was more railway opened up in this colony than in any other country in the world. (Load cheers.) ■ The success of the last loan in England astonished everybody, and he believed some of the credit of that was due to the gentleman to whom they gave credit for the rest. It had been said that the debt was large in proportion per head to the debt of England. That might be true ; bat in proportion to the'revenae it was very much le*s. (Cheers.) His Excellency then spoke of the marvellous strides the country had made iu every respect daring tho last few years. (Cheers.) With the energy and resources of the people, they might rest satisfied that the debt was one which the country could afford to bear. (Cheers.) He congratulated them sincerely upon the event which they had that night met to celebrate, and he could only hope that the prosperity of the colony would continue to advance year by year in the future as it had done iu the past. (Cheers.) ' The Chairman said it had been suggested that .some mark of approbation ought to be « given to Sir Julius Vogel, and it was proposed on the following day to send him a telegram congratulating him upon the completion of the line of railway between Christchurch and Dunedin. Mr. G. Stead proposed “His Excellency’s Advisers,” coupled with the name of the Hon. Robert Stoat. Mr Stout, who was very warmly received, said that though he desired to eschew politics on this occasion, still the toast was one of a political character; indeed, the very hall in which they stood was of a political character, and when it was first built it was intended that it should bo a place of meeting for the General Assembly. Whatever side was in power ought to receive a fair co-operation at the hands of the House. The present occasion was one that transcended politics. Twentyfive years ago it took twelve days to go overland from Christchurch to Dunedin. In connection with this matter they should not'forget tiie name of Mr. Moorhouse, for after all Sir Julias Vogel was not the founder of the railway system. (Loud and prolonged cheers.) It was due to the pluck of Mr. Moorhouse that Canterbury bad made such vast strides in railway matters, and distanced all the other parts of New Zealand. If the Opposition would allow them to be so long in office they would give another banquet in honor of the opening of the railway between the West Coast and Christchurch. (Cheers and laughter.) In Dunedin there was a feeling that the Canterbury people looked down upon them,—(No, no* —but he did not believe it. In making enquiries he found the majority of the Mayors had been Scotchmen, and even the present Mayor came from the north of the Tweed. The opening of this railway would bring the people of the two places still closer and nearer together, and would enable them to get rid of many of those feelings which perhaps now animated some of them (Cheers.) He hoped that none of them would do anything that would not tend to push ahead a nation which had so far shown her willingness to push her fortunes by her energy and her industry. The Hon. J. T. Fiseer also returned thanks. The Hon. H. B. Qresson proposed the toast . of "The Army, Navy, and Volunteers,” coupled with the names of Captain Townsend (of H.M.S. Nymphe), Colonel Brett, and Major Lean. Captain Townsend and Major Lean responded. Colonel Brett was not present. Dr. Tuhnbull proposed “ The General Assembly of New Zealand,” coupled with the name of the Hon. Mr. Miller and Messrs. O’Rorke and Bastings. He said the Assembly bad achieved for itself a name worthy of a great colony. The Hon. Mr. Miller responded. He said it was well known that public measures were subjected to severe criticism in the Upper House, and without such criticism no national excellence could be arrived at. There was much more time in the Upper House to debate all matters than in the Lower House. On the present occasion, on behalf of the Legislative Council, he congratulated the country on the completion of the line between Christchurch and Dunedin, and he hoped that the railway would cement the bonds-of friendship between the two cities. The Hon. G. M. O’Rorkb responded on behalf of the House of He said they were all delighted with their visit to the South, and particularly with the rapid strides which the railway works had made iu this part of the colony. From a little seed a gigantic tree had grown up, and would have tho effect of wonderfully improving every part of the country through which they passed. He hoped on some future occasion they would have the opportunity of celebrating the junction of the two great cities of the North by the same means. (Cheers.) Mr. Bastings said it could not he denied that they had for a long time been advocating the interests of a colony about which they knew very little. He had been one of the first to propose that the House should be adjourned In order to visit tbe South on this occasion, and he hoped on some future occasion the members of the South would pay a visit to the North. (Cheers.) Ho had heard that some of tho members of tho House did not intend on the next day to visit Dunedin, hut if that were so, ho would say that those members wore utterly wanting in public spirit. The Governor proposed the next toast, which was that of “The Mayor of Christchurch.” He said it had struck him that the Lord Mayor of London would very soon have to vacate the chair in tho hatter of hospitality if this sort of thing went on. (Loud cheers.) Such meetings as the present did a great deal of good, as they brought men from different parts of the colony together. (Applause.) He thought, on behalf of ail in the room, he might offer his sincere thanks for tho noble hospitality which had been extended to them that night, (Loud cheers.) • His Worship responded, and said he felt extremely gratified at the manner in which the toast had been responded to. It could not bo denied that this was a great occasion, which would be remembered for a very long time to come. (Cheers.) He wished to apologise to tho gentlemen present for the great inconvenience which they must have felt from beta" overcrowded. (No, no.) But on such an oo° casion he bad wished to have every public body present represented, and he was thoroughly well satisfied with the result. (Cheers.) Mr- John Oluvier proposed the next toast,

the toast of. the evening, which was “Thi Mayors and Councillors of. Christchurch and Dunedin.” It was just twenty years since, in connection with his friend Mr. Moorhouse, he had proposed a system of railways in Canterbury, the latter proposing tho same from one end to the other. He remembered tho occasion when Sir Julius Vogel, then Mr. Vogel, said publicly that they owed nothing to Inm with regard to railways, bat owed something to Mr. William Sefton Moorhouse. (Loud cheers.) They were now called upon to celebrate a marriage between Canterbury’s eldest daughter. Miss Christchurch, and Otago’s elder son, Mr. Dunedin—(loud cheers and laughter)—and the stalwart Mr. Dunedin had come to escort his beautiful finds to her home. Let them take her. There she was, richly endowed, and they hoped tho union would be a happy one Ho would therefore ask them to drink to the health of the bride and the bridegroom, otherwise “ The Mayors and City Councillors of Christchurch and Dunedin.”

The Mayor of Dunedin first responded on behalf of himsolf and his brother Councillors. He said he trusted the iron-horse would havo the effect of sweeping away anything of illfeeling between the two places, if such really existed.

Mr. Thomson, the Mayor of Christchurch, also responded. Tho Hon. John Hall proposed tho next toast, which was “The Promoters of Railways in Christchurch,” coupled with the name of Mr. W. S. Moorhouse. (Loud cheers.) He said tile work of carrying a tunnel from Lyttelton to Christchurch was at first laughed at and poohpoohed, but Mr. Moorhouse hammered away at the work until it was au accomplished fact, and a groat public boon to Canterbury. The railway was the key wliich unlocked our great national resources, aud the day when that tunnel was opened was tho inauguration of a new era for tho Province of Canterbury,, and particularly for tho city of Christchurch. Sir Julius Vogel had shown to the people of tho colony that it svould be wise to proceed with the scheme of public works, and the inauguration of that scheme which afterwards took place had done much for the good of the country. (Cheers.) It could not be denied that the benefits to the country resulting from these works had been immense ; and, more than than that, Sir Julius Vogel had shown since leaving New Zealand that his heart was bound up with the colony for which he had douo so much. (Loud cheers.) Mr. Moorhouse responded at spm» length. On rising ha was received with loud and prolonged cheers. Ho said ha could not but feel remarkably flattered sit having his name associated in the way it had been with thorailwayaand with Sir Julius Vogel, who was to him as a mountain to a molehill. That gentleman was no longer a popular politician, aud ought to be dealt with tenderly ; he had for a time played a brilliant part in the cetany, and nt the present time he was doing noble service for the country as Ageut-General. (Loud cheers.) He was the unceasing advocate of theinteresta of the oniony,and at all times did his best to bring New Zealand into the very Hist rank among the colonies of the British Empire. Sir Julius Vogel had told the world that here we had all things present to make this a- great country. (Loud cheers.) Iu his opinion New Zealand must give a tone, if not laws, in this part of the world, and before long he believed she would be the premier among the whole of the Australasian colonies, and her flag would sweep the seas for supremacy in the Pacific. (Cheers.) Before sitting down Mr. Moorhouse said : “ I could not but pay a tribute of praise to Mr. John Oliivier, who supported mo nt the time as member of the'Executive.” (Applause.) Several other toasts were proposed, aud the proceedings closed about half-past 11 o’clock.

CHRISTCHURCH TO DUNEDIN, (from our special correspondent.) Dunedin, September 6,

This morning, some time before daylight, the streets of Christchurch were all astir, and numerous traps were picking up passengers for the railway station. By half-past five there were a great many people on the platform, and before six all passengers took their seats. Thera were probably about three hundred passengers. The arrangements made by the Railway Department were very good, aud all gat seated without any confusion or annoyance. People were somewhat surprised to hear capital singing from one of the carriages. It appeared that several of the most skilled musicians in Dunedin had formed themselves into an impromptu glee clnb, and had a part of the carriage appropriated to the Dunedin City Council. When the train stopped along the line the bystanders got capital staging gratis. The Dunedin railwav employes’ band, who travelled from Dunedin to take part in the celebration, played some excellent selections, under the leadership of ex-Major Atkinson, who was formerly iu command of the Otago volunteers. We were singularly fortunate iu the weather, for there was a sharp frost and clear sky in the early morning, and during the whole day it was as pleasant as could be desired. Anyone who has travelled over the Canterbury plains knows the advantage of a bright sky and a cool breeze when crossing them. As the sun rose the snow-clad peaks of the main range looked very beautifal indeed, and for many miles they afforded a welcome relief to the eye that became wearied by the monotonous plains which stretched away on each side. The train went along on the level country at a fair pace, aud nothing in any way eventful occurred until Ashburton was reached at half-past eight o’clock. Hero his Excellency the Governor was received by the Mayor, who presented .an address. Then there was a general adjournment to a large hall, in which a bountiful breakfast was spread ; bountiful it must have been, for it withstood the attacks of over 300 huugry people. Ashburton is a rathef young but rapidly-increasing township. It is said to be very prosperous, and appears to b« so. Situated on the plain, there is no limit to its extension ; and, as an Auckland man remarked, it might be as big some day as Christchurch is now. What struck strangers most was the absence of population in the country passed through. Houses were few and far between. Some day it will bo very different, for thousands might he settled upon these plains. The wide and undefined rivert beds of 'Canterbury greatly surprised those who 1 had not seen them before ; but as all the rivers were very low no idea of their appearance when flooded could be gathered. From time to time the speed of the train varied very much, it being ruled ap arently by tho condition of the line. Sometimes less than 30 miles an hour was done and sometimes considerably more. However, there was a splendid spurt put on north of Temuka, one mile was run in one minute ; another in one minute seven seconds; and a third in one minute twentyfive seconds. There can be no doubt that for a time the train ran at the rate of CO miles an hour. This is great speed for a narrow gauge line, aud when the train was going at this pace tiie carriages kept steady. This is certainly the first time such a speed has been attained in New Zealand by so long o, train.

Timaru was reached at 10 minutes past 10. After an address had been presented by the Mayor, the Governor and suite and a number of visitors wore driven round the town. Near the station there was a triumphal arch, and there were several other decorations. The volunteers turned out and formed a guard of honor. Timsru has progressed greatly during the last few years, but much needs a breakwater to ensure its permanent prosperity. This was evinced by the sight of a ketch and the schooner Lapwing lying on the beach. There was no sign of the barque Melrose, which was lately wrecked, she having completely broken up. At Oamaru some vessels sheltered by the breakwater during the heavy sea were safe, being protected by the breakwater. One hundred* and thirty miles had been travelled over, by half-past 11, and exactly at noon the train was crossing the Waitaki, the boundary between Canterbury and Otago. The passing of the boundary was greeted by some with cheers, and the Glee Club sang “Glorious Apollo,” which for some reason was considered appropriate. The Oamaru people made the arrival of the train a great occasion ; the artillery fired aud two corps of riflemen presented arms. The train then ran to the breakwater, when Mr. Sumpter, the Chairman of the Harbor Board, presented an address, and asked his Excelleney to name a wharf erected inside the breakwater “The Normauby Pier,” In replying, his Excellency congratulated the Oamam people on the success the breakwater had proved. He said the opening of the lino would long ho a bright spot in the history of the colony. Two of the most important districts in the col»ny were united by railway. He hoped that in a few months the gap between Dunedin and Invercargill would bo filled, when there would be communication from Amberley to Kingston, a distance of 13# miles, without a break. After the visit to the breakwater, there was lunch on the upper floor of Mr. Sumpter’s store, and about *IOO people sat down to it. The Mayor, Mr. Steward, presided, and apologised for having to “ Speed the parting guests.” The train could not wait, and lunch had to be disposed of in fifteen minutes. ,

Oamaru has gone ahead wonderfully daring tho last two years, and is now a thriving and handsome town. The large stores, densely packed with sacks of wheat, completely astonished Northern visitors,yet thisisa long time after the grain season. On leaving Oaraaru tiie train was drawn by two engines of extra power, which were necessary in consequence of tiie many carves and inclines. The country from Oamaru south differs greatly from that in Canterbury, the hills being numerous, and the scenery much more diversified. There were still thousands of acres of rich agricultural soil; indeed, from Christchurch to Waikouaiti the good wheat-growing laud seen from the train would grow enough to provide flour for all the Australian colonies. If the celebration of the opening of the lino does nothing but make members and others from the North Island acquainted with the unbounded resources of Southern Canterbury and North Otago in'this respect, it will have done a lasting good. At Palmerston there was an address by the Mayor, and a late lunch was laid out in the railway shed, which was briskly attacked, the journey having made people hungry. From Waikouaiti to Port Chalmers there are very numerous engineering difficulties, the curves being very sharp and the gradients pretty severe. There were many places that might make a nervous man uneasy, but at Purakanui the line runs along tho edge of a cliff at a height of 200 ft. above the beach, on to which one could jump from the platform of the car. Then the Deborah Bay tunnel and two or three shorter ones were run through before a junction was made with the Port Chalmers line. Dunedin station was gained at half-past six o'clock, about three - quarters of au hour behind time, and the large crowd that had assembled had got rather weary. The volunteers were drawn up in-great force as a guard of honor, and the cadets mustered very well. The arrival of the train was notified by flights of rockets and very hearty cheering. Many of the principal buildings were illuminated, aud four electric lights made the streets very brilliant.

Dunedin,- September 7. AU the visitors who came by the special i train have been much pleased with the courtesy aud attention they have received. Tho Mayor of Dunedin had arranged for beds at the various hotels, and on tiie run yesterday these were distributed, so that on arrival each one had only to drive straight to his hotel without hunting for a bed. Tho scene at and near the railway station on the arrival of the train was something to be remembered. There were over 10,000 people waiting, and their cheers, with the firing of the guns of the volunteer artillery, the constant whizzing of rockets, the bright flash of the electric lights, and the picturesque effect of many elegant Illuminations, together caused a feeling of excitement among the spectators that will make them look back in years to come to this event as a great occasion. Speaking in general terms of the Christchurch and Dunedin line, it may be divided into tw* parts—Christchurch to •amaru being oue, aud Oamaru to Dunedin the other. On the northern portion there was not a single engineering difficulty to overcome with the exception of bridging the rivers. The great works necessary for these bridges are of course not seen by the passengers, and the importance of them is underrated. The first tunnel is south of Oamaru. From Waikouaiti to Sawyer’s Bay, Port Chalmers, the country is very difficult, and it is quite possible that the construction of this line will prove to be a grave blunder. Tiie carves are so nearly continuous, and the gradients so numerous and severe, that it seems hardly possible that long trains, loaded with grain or other produce, will ever be taken over them at reasonable freights. Both passengers and goods could be taken cheaper and quicker from Oamaru to Port Chalmers by steamer than by rail, and it does not take a prophet to foretell that ere long a fifteen knot boat may be running between the two places. It has already been suggested that the rails should be taken up, the line made into a district road, and another railway made by a different route. On a very large proportion of the Waikouaiti and Sawyer's Bay. section a very slow rate of speed can never be departed from with safety. Wiien the train left the Christchurch station there was a general impression that the journey would prove very wearisome, but thanks to the fine day, the beautiful scenery, aud the many events of the journey, tiie. trip was highly interesting, and extremely' enjoyable. All along the Una from Temuka groups of old and young folks were gathered together to see tiie monster train and the Governor, and they all cheered lustily as we swept by. At Burnham Industrial School the cadets saluted. At the Waikouaiti kaik a number of Maoris stood on a bank above the cutting and shouted words of Welcome, some of the native women waving ancient aud highly prized greenstone mere, weapons that had been used in the wars of long ago.

Who is the originator of the Public Works policy is a question that is exercising the minds of some. To the majority the answer “Vogel” at once presents itself, but in Christchurch some say “ Mooi-house,” and at Dunedin others declare for “ Macandrew.” The most reasonable reply would seem to be that Mr. Moorhouse is entitled to the full credit for ■ the Lyttelton tunnel ; Macandrew is the father of the Otago railways as they stood before 1871 ; but to Sir Julius Vogel is due the entire honor won by the actual origination of a great colonial scheme of public works. In the minds of many men there prevailed a belief that some day New Zealand would have railways, but to most that time was seen far off in a distant and uncertain future. Sir Julius Vogel boldly proposed the apparently impossible, and forced the people to become converts by the strength of his reasoning. It is a matter of history that his opponents foretold a heavy indebtedness, but had the original scheme been carried out the lands that would have been reserved would have on the completion of the lines repaid their cost. Why land was not placed at the disposal of the colony for so wise a purpose is also a matter of history. The feeling in Dunedin seems to be strongly in favor of giving Sir Julius Vogel the place of honor as tho actual originator of the great scheme of public works that has made New Zealand advance more rapidly than has of late years any of her sister colonies. Owing to the short stoppages made by the train several people jvero loft behind on the journey, and in order to brio--.- them on a special train was run, which arrived at a very late hour with some who had been cast away at Ashburton, Timaru, Oamaru, and Palmerston. It is said that no leas than thirteen members were not punctual at the various places. This morning the special train to Lawrence was not largely patronised, several who intended to make tho trip not feeling disposed to journey so far. Those who went made a late start. A special train left for Mosgiel at ten o'clock, and a number of Northern members went by it to inspect the Woollen Factory. They were .greatly pleased with what they saw there, and were not a little astonished at the Taieri Plain, with its numerous thriving farms. At two o'clock a large party visited the timber factory of Messrs. Guthrie, Larnach, and Co., where all hands were in full work. Any description of what was seen hero would be too long for a telegram, and it will suffice for the present to say that the machines did all sorts of things that many of the visitors had previously thought to he impossible. This factory is certainly one of the sights of the colony. When it was opened in 1876, people said it,was too large ; but now additions more extensive than the original building have been erected aud will soon be in use. A great many boys are employed, and some of them are wonderfully expert in working the machines. Tho banquet is to be given on the floor of the new wing, of which the hall forms a part. The tables will seat four hundred without tho least crowding. The walls have been tastefully decorated, and hung with pictures and mirrors. At two o’clock this afternoon his Excellency the Governor opened a Carnival in tho new premises of Messrs. A. and J. Ingles, Georgestreet. Tho proceeds are to be given in aid of the funds of tho Dunedin Benevolent Institution. A very extensive stock of all sorts of goods, the gifts of many people, is offered for sale, and it is expected that a handsome sum will be realised for the charity. Tho buildings, which cover a large'area, and are four storeys high, are intended for a drapery and furniture shop. THE BANQUET AT DUNEDIN. Dunedin, Sunday. The banquet last night was a very great success. About four hundred sat down, Tho large hall was brilliantly lighted, and looked remarkably well. It was probably the most ' successful affair of the kind given in the colony. Some of tho speeches made were very good. The toast of “Sir J. Vogel," proposed by his Worship tho Mayor of Dunedin, was received with the most hearty applause, and throughout the evening the mention of Vogel’s name in connection with tho Public Works scheme was constantly and loudly applauded." An attempt to diminish the honor due to him as

the propound;,r of the Public Works policy was received with biases and other signs of disapprobation. ju responding to the to wt of “ ilia Excellency the Governor" the Marquis OF Norsianby said : Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen, —X thank you sincerely for the very cordial manner in which you have drunk my health. It is at all times most pleasing to mo to go about among and associate with the colonists, and especially is it so upon this occasion, when we are met to commemmorate an event wh'cli promises so much advantage to the colonists over whom I have the honor to preside. The event which we have met to celebrate is the conclusion of that great Public Works policy which was instituted by Sir Julius Vogel. (Loud applause.) We were reminded the other night at Christchurch that ive must not ascribe all, the honor in regard to railway comunioation to him. (Hear, hear.) I fully admit the fact, and I will give due honor and credit to my friend (Mr. Moorhouse) whom I see setting upon my right, who first had the boldness ,to undertake to tunnel the hill which separates Christchurch from the sea. (Loud applause.) It was a bold idea in the young state of the colony at that time, and no doubt it led to the larger scheme, but there can be no dispute that Sir Julius Vogel was the man who had the courage to propose to Parliament and by his ability and perseverance carried to a successful issue this great scheme. I say, therefore, that while Canterbury owes a debt of gratitude to Mr. Moorhouse, the colony of New Zsaland at large owes a deep debt cf gratitude to Sir Julius Vogel. I have been told by many that New Zealand was going too fast, that her debt was enormous in proportion to her population, and that we must look out for the consequences. Well, I am not surprised that those who do not know the resources of this great country, and the energy of the population, should entertain that opinion. I confess candidly that before I came to the colony I entertained it myself, but I no longer fear, because I know the richness of the soil, the energy of the inhabitants, the salubrity of our climate. (Applause.) What is that which is most required in a young country ? An energetic,persevering, and industrious population. What is the next thing required ? Easy communication, by which you open up the country and carry the produce of your labor to market. (Hear, hear-.) What is the use of having a rich soil and an energetic population if you can't send the produce of your labor to market. -I think the evidence we have at present before us of the increase in the growth of grain and the increase in the price of land afford ample evidence of what the railway system will do for this country. But a few years ago most, if not the whole, of your com was imported; but this year you yourselves have raised 250,000 tons of grain for exportation. That means a very large and important income to the colony, and it will enable you to pay a portion at any rate of the interest of the money you have had to box-row. (Hear, hear.) How has the money been spent that was raised since the institution of the Public Works policy ? We have not squandered it. We have not spent it upon wars, or placed it in useless investments. We have invested it in great public works, such ns men in England invest their capital in and expect to receive a return. (Applause.) The result at present In this island, where the railways arc not complete, though more complete than in the North Island, is that they pay two and a half par cent, interest upon the money invested. That is now the case, and we may look forward to the time when the inrestmeuts wo have made will no longer b-a a burden upon the country. I believe that they will in time to come be a source of revenue. I have now looked at the pleasing portion of the picture, but there is another side to it which it is well to look at. I tell you that I myself have no fear of the debt of New Zealand weighing down tile country or interfering with the enterprise of the people ; but it is a heavy debt, and it should suggest to every nlind caution for the future. I believe one great object should be to press forward as much as possible, and as fast as our means will allow, the great lines of communication from one end of the colony to the other. (Applause.) When these are complete it will be easy for us turn our eyes and look in what direction now country can best be opened up. When great works of this kind are undertaken by a country which is under a free constitution, there is always a little pressure experienced which it is hard to resist ; and what I advise is, that the good sense of the country should tend towards the view I have expounded, which is, that our first object ought to be to complete the great threugh lines. There is no doubt that each district is inclined to think its own particular spot the most important, in the colony, and •that it is more productive, has richer soil, and more energetic inhabitants than any other place ; and the people believe that if they can only got a railway to their doors their prosperity would be complete. But we must remember that in legislating for a country the proper thing to do is not to legislate for any particular spot, but for the general benefit, happiness, and prosperity of the whole. I believe if the people will only look at it in that light the general opinion in the country will be that we ought first to complete the through line in this island. You have nearly done so, but you must not forget that the South Island is net the whole of New Zealand. You have obtained the benefits, and you should he ready to extend the hand of good feeling towards your brother colonists. I think it is unnecessary for me to say any more about the advantage of railways. There was a word in one of tho telegrams road to-night which caused a little laughter. There is a great deal of truth iu it. I believe that railway communication from one end of the colony to the other will smooth -and soften these little feelings of animosity and jealousy which we all know exist, and which, I trust, will now soon be buried, only to remain matters of history. (Applause.) Gentlemen, whether you come from England, Ireland, or Scotland, you are all New Zealanders ; you are all founders of a country which I believe in a few years "time will bo a great one, and your object ought to be to cherish that country and make the best of that which a bountiful Providence has given you. (Great applause). The Mayor's Speech. The speech of the Mayor of Dunedin at the banquet on Saturday in proposing the health of Sir Julius Vogel has caused a groat deal of discussion and criticism. I send a full report of it. His Worship said :—I ask you to give ms your attention for a few minutes while I propose to you a toast wliichT think most appropriately appears on the programme this evening. It is a tdast which may be received with enthusiasm by all—no matter what their political proclivities may b», whether they be supporters of the Ministry, or belong to that useful institution called the Opposition, (applause), an organisation which I am sorry to see appears now to be fast becoming scarcely as formidable as usual under a system of responsible government, This is a toast which I believe, were it possible to assemble them all, together, would be enthusiastically received* by the whole population of tho colony. It is tho toast of “ Tile Author of the Immigration and Public Works Policy—the Hon. Sir Julius Vogel.” (Cheers.) It has been said, “ Give honor to whom honor is due,” and iu proposing this toast I do not desire to detract from tho merits of other people, such as those whose names have been mentioned this evening in connection with the first railway in the colony. It does not iu my opinion lessen the honor clue to Sir Julius Vogel to say that a similar idea bad occurred to his predecessors and contemporaries. In like manner it might be argued that the theory of gravitation had existed in tho minds of men before Sir Isaac Newton had presented it to the world in a practical 'shape and demonstrated its truth. Other minds may have conceived the idea, but I claim for Sir Julius Vogel tho merit of having presented a scheme in a matured form, fully demonstrating its practibility and its usefulness, at a time of depression, when tho country required a great mind to extricate it from its difficulties. What was tho condition of tho colony at tlie period I am alluding to ? The country was suffering from the effect of the protracted native disturbances iu the North, which had severely taxed its resources, and nearly exhausted its credit. Trade was in anything but a prosperous condition. The banks were calling iu their advances, and the panic was so great that it was difficult to realise securities except at a ruinous loss. Hen who under normal conditions would be in easy circumstances were reduced to bankruptcy, and a general feeling of insecurity prevailed. It may be said that crises are common to all countries, and that in tho ordinary course of things New Zealand would have emerged and have maintained her relative position amongst her neighbors. Possibly she might have done so, and in the course of a century or so have attained to her present rank. But undeterred by the discouraging state of affairs I have mentioned, at this time, when the credit of the colony was nearly exhausted, Sir Julius Vogel proved himself equal to the emergency, and by a hold stroke raised Now Zealand at a bound to the foremost rank in the colonics of the British Empire.;

Men of leas courage' aud ability would have met the necessities of ‘the time by means of revenue derived from the imposition of additional burdens upon , tlie people; but the great man whose name 1 have mentioned had not only the miad to conceive but the courage to propose and the ability to carry through the grand policy one of the fruits of which we are this evening celebrating in the customary British fashion. His scheme was by many regarded as wild and extravagant, and his proposal to borrow millions from British capitalists was considered prep isterous, and the failure of the proposed loan confidently predicted. He, however, successfully met the objections to bis proposals, passed the measure through Parliament with the aid of large-minded men like himself, and floated the loan. The colony then entered upon its present career of prosperity. Confidence was restored ; trade flourished ; population increased, and property rose in value tenfold ; and this prosperity has since been felt by all classes of the community. I venture to say, in conclusion, that the name of Sir Julius Vogel will not only bo inscribed amongst those of the ablest statesmen of New Zealand, but he will be ranked with those great men of the world who, disregarding their 0 .vii interest, have devoted themselves to their country, and left behind them well-defined footpriutsjon the sands of time. (Loud cheers.) 1 now propose to you “The Health of Sir •Julius Vogel.” All to-day it has been raining, and the town looked decidedly miserable. Yesterday the dust was flying in clouds.

(VER TRESS AGENCY). Dunedin, Sunday.

The Mayor’s banquet, iu celebration of the opening of the railway from Dunedin to Christchurch, was hold last night in Messrs. Guthrie and Larnach's new building. Tho banquetting hall was fifty yards long, and for grandeur of appearance was unsurpassed by anything hitherto seen in Dunedin. The Mayor of Dunedin was iu the chair, and was supported on his right by the Governor, tho Rev. Dr. Smart, Judge Williams, and the Hon. Mr. Fisher; and°on Li a left by Mr. Bastings, M.H.R, Bishop Moran, Judge Bathgate, and the Attorney-General, A number of apologies for unavoidable absence having been read, and the usual formal toasts disposed of; The Chairman proposed “ The Health of the Go*-*eruor.” [His Excellency’s speech will be found reported in our -own correspondent’s telegram]. The next toast of importance was that of “ Tho Ministry,” which was proposed by Mr. John Davis, and responded to by Messrs. Stent and Fisher. Mr. Stout said he regretted the absence of tile Premier, which he attributed to ill-health, arising from over-work in the interest of the colony. However much anyone might he opposed to the Premier, they would all give him credit for meaniog well to this great country. He then referred to the absence of Mr. Macaudrcw, and to the action which Mr. Frederick Moss had taken iu the Provincial Councils of Otago fourteen years ago iu regard to the initiation of railways iu Otagi. Reference had that night been made to a man of wonderful sagacity and great ability, and who meant well for the colony, and who was now trying his best for it. Ho meant Sir Julius Vogel. (Cheers.) But this would be a poor colony if it could only boast of one great man. There were other men who would he remembered when all present would have passed away. They had their Greys, Staffords, Donald McLeans, and Donald Reids. (A voice ; Yes, and Donald Reids too.) The schemes which the present Government were bringing forward might not be ttbe most perfect, but the members of the Government thought that they were the most perfect, aud if they were wrong the Parliament could apply the remedy. Mr. Fisher also responded, and said that the time was very dangerous for speechmaking, as he might be asked what he had said and what he meant by it. He contended that to provincialism was due the inauguration of the Public Works policy, and it was his friend, Mr. Moorhouse, who was the first to set tho log rolling. He was not going, to say anything against Sir Julius Yogel, but it was the idea of Mr. Moorhouse which was the success, aud it was easy for Sir Julius Vogel to follow it np. (Hisses and marked disapprobation.) In a case of this sort they should give credit to whom credit was due. He was not taking one bit of credit from Sir Julius Vogel, but he said the province of Canterbury, through Mr. Moorhouse. was the province which set the log rolling. “ Success to the Railway Enterprise of New Zealand” was ably proposed by Judge Bathgate, and responded to by Mr. Blair, Engineer . of the Middle Island, aud by Messrs. Conyers, Prondfoot, aud Higginson. The latter said that though Mr. Blair got the credit, Mr. Carruthers was responsible for everything which had been done.

Other toasts of a formal character were then proposed, and the proceedings ended shortly after 11 o’clock.

The carnival in aid of the Benevolent Institution was opened on Saturday by the Governor, and was a great success. The receipts on Saturday amounted to £3OO. The Governor and Northern visitors leave for Christchurch to-morrow morning.

THE JOURNEY BACK TO CHRIST-

CHURCH.

(I'ROJt ODR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.) Christchurch, September 9.

Wo arrived at twenty minutes to eight o'clock this evening, more than an hour behind time—delay being caused by the wet rails. The train was longer than on Friday. The weather has been very diasagrecablo, and we have to-day passed through about two hundred miles of rain and an enormous and incalculable quantity of “ unearned increment.” The plains looked very dreary, aud at times the mist prevented anything being ssen at a distance of more than a couple of miles off. The immense fields of ploughed land in Canterbury and tho vast areas of ground with the young crop just springing up are astonishing to those who do not know the mode adopted for getting the land cropped with grain prior to having it laid iu grass. The rain was greatly wanted in the Oamaru district, and iu some parts of Timaru. The farmers now have plenty. Passing along the brink of tho precipice at Blueskin was more dangerous to-day, for the reason that tho water was rushing down tho hills, forming cascades, which threatened to bring down pieces of rock, roots of trees, and big landslips. Should a slip occur while a train is passing in all probability tho carriages would fuff over the precipice. Some of tho passengers could not bear to look out, but as the train creeps along very slowly the danger is not at all as great as some may think. A start was made from Dunedin at a quarter past 7,-and Palmerston, forty-throe miles distance, was reached at 10. Here there was a short stoppage, aud a great scramble was made for the hotel. At Oamaru there was a large attendance of spectators on the platform. This was the luncheon station, and those who got into the room found plenty of cold meat aud sandwiches, with an unlimited -supply of beer, wines, aud spirits, provided by the local committee. At Timaru there was a geueral scramble for a meal, for which half-a-crown was charged, but a good many thinking it was free left without paying. Owing to the cold weather eatables aud drinkables were in great demand, and another rush took place at Ashburton. People took what they could get and were thankful. In the train there wore two Pullman’s cars, one of which was used by the Governor aud suite. Tho other was rushed the first thing this morning, and those who got seats were well rewarded, for there is an absence of the jarring and noise that makes travelling in soma of the cars so tiring and annoying. Riding in number 95 was comparatively a luxury. Tho train was within 120 miles of Christchurch at 2.15, eighty miles at twenty minutes past four. There was no fast running to-day during any part of the journey. It is said that several excursionists have been left behind at some of tho stations, but I cannot learn their names. A groat many people came to the Dunedin station to see the visitors off.

All tlie excursionists aro highly pleased with the hospitality both public and private which they received, and there is not one who will not look back with pleasure to his trip to Dunedin on the occasion of tho opening of this large section of tho grand trunk line. Tlie Christchurch people have taken tlie matter much more coolly than the Dunedinites, and Oamaru seems to have felt more interest in the event than did Timaru. A special train left for Lyttelton at halt-past ten, and the Taupo and Hiuemoa started for Wellington shortly after eleven.