The Evening Star. PUBLISHED DAILY AT FOUR P.M. Resurrexi. SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 1884.

Thames Star, Volume xv, Issue 4767, 19 April 1884, Page 2

The Evening Star. PUBLISHED DAILY AT FOUR P.M. Resurrexi. SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 1884.

Although the matter of Borough retrenchment has been for some time under the consideration of the Council, and its financial condition has long been a subject of much solicitouspess, the matter of any definite settlement being come to has from time to time been postponed, but at last we are enabled to contemplate the fact that resolutions, of much simplicity, yet of moment, have been passed by a fully attended meeting of the Council. There is not the slightest doubt that had the business been one of a prirate proprietary much more promptness would hare been displayed in its transaction. It was somewhat peculiar to observe a body of thirteen men sitting down to seriously consider a very important report, and settle questions of consequence, who had not apparently resolved upon what course they would pursue, even while that course was as plain and open to them as it well could be. It was certainly strange that not one of those who were responsible for the report being presented seemed to be over anxious to father it, and although one of the committee appointed to draw it up formally moved its adoption, it was left to another Councillor to help the carrying of its provisions into effect. Certainly, it was a very disagreeable task, but nevertheless a stern duty, to propose the reduction of salaries of certain officers, and the discharge of a very old and useful servant; but inexorable necessity so demanded, and the breach left for obeying the command of that necessity was promptly filled by Cr McCullough, who seemed to entirely grasp the situation, and taking the matter in hand, in a practical and business-like way, be "saw it through." The result as a whole is satisfactory, although the cause of the action taken, viz., our circumstances, may be a little deplorable. Perhaps the fact of living in the same town, and daily mixing with those interested in the movement just made has acted as a deterrent in the way of Councillors being too prominent in moving in this matter, but it would havo certainly seemed more in accordance with the fitness of things had one of the committee appointed to draw up the report shewn some interest in it, and endeavored to see their bantling reach maturity. However, we have every reason to be satisfied that our official expenditure has been brought to so reasonable a limit, and we cannot help feeling that to the energetic action of the Middle Ward representative who so vigorously took the matter in hand at

the last meeting, much 'of the result is due. It is of course to be regretted that expenditure on roads within the Borough will be curtailed, but when pur position is considered, it must be admitted that there wag no other remedy for our financial sickness. vlt is certainly a step to be applauded that the Council has resolved to set aside, one fourth of its entire revenue, in reducing its overdraft, and although we are in hopes and expectation of brighter times, yet, should the present dulness continue, we can comfort ourselves with the knowledge that our indebtedness is decreasing, and we are living within our means.