WORKING MEN'S RIGHTS LEAGUE DEPUTATION.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 5767, 23 September 1879, Page 3

WORKING MEN'S RIGHTS LEAGUE DEPUTATION.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE SEW ZEALAND TIM I T. Silt,—Yesterday a deputation, consisting of Messrs. Hylton, Evenden, Bovis, Hibbcrd, C’afXanach, Pratt, and others, waited upon the Premier in order to ascertain what concessions, apart from the privileges at present enjoyed, they would be likely to receive from the hands of the existing Government, with reference to settlement upon Crown lands. Many words of common sense wore spoken, and there was withal no absence of nonsense. Amongst the most glaring of absurd proposed favors were those which fell from the lips of Mr. Tlibberd, who got in a fog when ho reached the teem, plough, and timber, part of a bonus in addition to the proposed Act providing for deferred payments for the land itself. Others forming part of the deputation (duly appreciating the real value of the oily remarks of Sir George) contented themselves with hearing all and forming their own conclusions. The Minister for Hands (Mr. Thomson) was ready at a moment to say all that Sir George may have forgotten, and even when pressed by the Premier to bring in the draft of the new Act (in the shape of a bluff), actually did not insist upon its being read. Anyone who could see a hole through a ladder could discern how cleverly the trickster and his “ buttoner” sold the deputation. The proceedings were abruptly brought to a close after about three-quarters of an hour’s interview by Mr. Levin rising to thank the Premier fas a matter of courtesy) for listening to them. However, this was an unfortunate circumstance, inasmuch as several pointea questions were to have been put, the answers to which would have proved interesting to those of your, readers who can reckon up windy benevolence and loud-sounding promises at their proper value. As the opportunity was missed, it is quite possible that you will open your correspondence columns—as you have done for years past—for the free expression of the opinions of real working men without fear or favor.—l am, &c., One op the Deputation.