NOTES BY THE MAN IN THE STREET.

Southland Times, Issue 1126, 19 March 1869, Page 2

NOTES BY THE MAN IN THE STREET.

No. 2. (TO THB EDITOB OP THK SOXTTHLIND TIMBS.) •Sir— We, ia the street, want to know iow it is that in thia quiet little community the matter of the election of a Bishop could not be entered into without the rival parties rushing into print. One to read the papers would imagine that the election of the Bishop was the all important topic of discussion in Southland, in place of which it in reality only concerns one of the religious bodies. Indeed, to judge by the talk of one side it would appear as if the very existence of England's greatness depended upon the fact of Dr Jenner being excluded from exercising episcopal functions ; while tbe opposite party contend that if he is not elected eternal disgrace will henceforth attach to the name of Englishman— that, in fact, the British Constitution will be rent in shreds, and then a long good-bye to the liberties of the " true born Briton. Now, to the impartial observer all this seems very funny, but yet very silly. Cannot the members of the Church of England manage to arrange their own little differences quietly' and amicably, without intruding their disputes upon the public who do not feel interested. Let them take the advice of the " Man in the Street," and abstain from the display of any ebulition of temper ; let them bear in mind the sweet little nursery rhyme which so beauti tully expresses it — Those little hands were never made To tear each others eyes out And depend upon it they will not regret following it. Ah! Walter, my friend, you have succeeded at last. After the display of no ordinary amount of ingenuity and perseverance you have accomplished your purpose. The leg of mutton haa fallen into your outstretched arms, your eyes are no longer painfully strained watching the oscillation of the tempting bait. It was a gallant struggle in the Council. On the one hand, might be witnessed the nervous twitching of the outraged Commissioner, as with reproachful countenance, he nobly descanted on the ruthless attempt made to oust him from his comfortable quarters, to be suspended in the interesting occupation of solving the difficult problem, " how not to do it." Whilst on the other, the student of human nature |might take a lesson from the manoeuvre** of the Treasurer, warily en. gaged in defending his tender nestlingsplace and pay— until he found the " Fates" were against him. Indeed, I cannot help giving my tribute of praise to the manner in which Mr Blacklock retired from the field. He did not exhibit any narrow-minded prejudice, but gracefully gave way to his opponent. It is an old and a true saying, "it is a wise general that provides for aretreat." £ think Mr Blacklock has acted the part ofthe general. Who can tell, but he may yet outflank his opponent. ■.••** . Are we to receive a visit from His Eoyal Highness ? A.sk Mr Jones, and he will tell you that of all the provinces in New Zealand, Southland presents the most favorable inducements for gratifying the Sailor Prince's well known love of sport. What could be more exquisite than the physical exertion of bagging rabbits, lunching at the "club," ■ attending a " ball" at the railway station, or of emptying your pockets. I hope, however, the Prince will come and I am sure not one item of the above programme would be omitted or taken exception to. Lecleec.