THE PREMIER AT NELSON.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1298, 3 February 1885, Page 3

THE PREMIER AT NELSON.

There was a crowded and enthusiastic meeting at Nelson on Friday night, when the Hon. the Premier delivered a statesmanlike address, ignoring all questions on party politics, He spoke at some length concerning Press criticism, and after alluding to why the present Government existed, referred to some Measures they had assisted to pass. The bulk of his speech was devoted to the three dangers besetting democracy, namely; war, the absorption of power by the few, and amassing of wealth in a few hands. In connection with the first danger ho spoke of confederation, and said that in the South Pacific colonies should band together for general purposes. Ho did not object to the European Powers colonising, but did to their

forming depots. Under the second clanger ho spoke of local government, referring to the danger of central government absorbing the whole powers. Without local Government he he’d there whs no true liberty. The question, however was a large one, and had not been settled by England or Europe even ; the Irish question being one of local government. The condition of England and America showed the result and danger of the absorption of wealth by a few. He spoke freely on the means that be considered would avert these dangers, which might load to anarchy, and referred to education iu a similar strain to that at the Dunedin meeting. He referred to the prevention of the acquiring of large estates, mopping up the land by a few, and advocated technical education, the teaching of thrift, temperance, and the co operation and establishment of small industries, the exercise of kindness, selfdenial, self-respect, and strong indvidualiiy, together with strict justice to all. He was very eloquent at times, and was repeatedly cheered.