PENNY BEADINGS.

Southland Times, Issue 970, 17 June 1868, Page 3

PENNY BEADINGS.

(TO THB BDIXOB OP THB SOTTTHIAinJ TIMES). Sra,— l have been to the Penny Readings, and I like them well enough to go again. I signed the memorial to the Superintendent to give the promoters the Council Chamber, and ,have read his reply ; he appears to urge two objections to its use for that purpose. . One, that he has no power to give it, and another that it would, or the furniture would, receive, some damage. The first objection does not hold good, as he has already often, and lately, given it for purposes foreign to Council business. The other objection there is little weight in, as the Penny Beadings have hitherto been, and are likely to be, remarkably orderly ; and surely it is far better that the Council Chamber and its furniture should wear out than rust out, and if the Superintendent wants a guarantee, that shall save the place from any special damage, I am Very willing to join the promoters in giving it. The place belongs to the people, and the signatures to the memorial represents a majority of the people of the towD, and if the voice of 80 per cent of the whole adult population is required, they would give it ; why then hold it useless against those who would turn it to, a good uaeS — I am, Sir, yours respectfully, Shopebepeb. June 16, 1868.