CHARLESTON.

Westport Times, Volume III, Issue 372, 9 October 1868, Page 2

CHARLESTON.

The valedictory banquet to Mr Kynnersley, which took place on Tuesday evening, in the large room of the Bank Hotel, was all that could be desired. As may be supposed, a fair number assembled on the occasion, and about 70 gentlemen sat down to table, and from the manner in which the guest was received, it was obvious, that only one idea prevailed in the minds of those assembled, i.e. that of paying a last tribute of respect to the high ability which distinguished his recent career. The chair was taken by Mr. Hugh Jones, Mr. Kynnersley being on his right hand. The viands which were alike abundant, and excellent having been fully discussed, the following toasts were duly honored —The Queen, The Governor, Sir. Q-eorge Bowen, The Superiatendant, and The Army and Navy, the latter being briefly respoftded to by Mr. Kynnersley. The Chairman then proposed the health of the guest of the evening, and concluded by presenting him with a Testimonial neatly embosed on Vellum. Mr. Dwan, in presenting an embroidered purse containing fifty sovereigns, passed some high eulogiums on Mr. Kynnersley's character and administrative abilities as Commissioner of the Nelson South Wust Gold-fields.

Mr Kynnersley's health, having been drunk with all honors, Mr Jackson sang the sweet song " Maggie Dear."

Mr Kynnersley, who was warmly received, said, that as they were meeting probably for the last time, he trusted that the company would kindly excuse him for not responding, as he would wish to the flattering enconiums, passed upon him by the Chairman, and by Mr Dwan. He thought that some explanation was necessary, relative to his recent resignation as Commissioner of the South "West Groldfields. Up to the time when his office ceased to exist, he had been four years in charge of the goldfields, and though that was not a very long time, it must be considered, that one who devotes himself assiduously to the duties of that station, undergoes a greater amount of anxiety of mind, than in any other position perhaps in the Government. Since the period of his entry into office, he had always endeavored to do his duty to

: the country, disregardful of popularity, or unpopularity, (Cheers). An important part of that duty, was ; to keep ■ever before the Government, the necessities and requirements of the district under his control (Cheers). He always was of opinion, that the revenue should be spent, in that part of the Province where it is moist required, and he believed 'that no part required it more than the "West Coast. What he •'always contended for was, that this was a more difficult country to •manage same advantages not being •possessed as-on the East Coast; and "that whatever revenue 'was contributed by the goldfields, should be spent on the goldfields, ' (Cheers). He believed the Provincial '■ Council at Nelson, fully intended to do justice to these goldfields, though with all due respect to Mr llorn, he thought it would be as well if no representatives were sent thither from the West Coast at all. (Laughter) -He then referred at some length to "the amount of revenue which he was instrumental in expending on the goldfields, as well as the support which he received on all occasions from the * Government. He was fortunate too, he continued, in having a most efficient -staff of officers, and could honestly say, that he believed a more effi- ■ cient staff did not exist, than those on the South West Gold-fields. His great fortune too had been that all worked harmoniously together, and though a great deal of the credit was ostensibly his, a great deal was due to Mr Harris, and others. But his greatest fortune was to have the confidence of the people among •whom he dwelt, (cheers) It had been -said that Government appointments were given through favour, but he would take the liberty of stating, that with one or two exceptions he had never previously known any person who received a government appointment on the West Coast.

About twelve months ago, owing to the bad state of health under which he was laboring he had intended to apply for leave of absence, but at that time the new rushes to Mokihinui, Addison's, &c, precluded its expediency. Soon after, when Dr Giles arrived, he thought that no difficulty could intervene ; but before going away he wished to see the Agricultural Lease Regulations in working order, and the Goldfields' Regulations revised. (Cheers). Then the political disturbances broke out, and most persons were now agreed as to the propriety of the course then adopted. AH that he would say in connection with that matter was, "that he felt thankful for the support -given him by the people of Charleston during the time of enquiry. (Cheers). stigma which remained upon his name after the disturbances would not admit of his departure ; but after the result of the Commission was pronounced in his favor, he began to reflect seriously about himself. During the years of his office he had saved nothing, and was as rich when he arrived as now when leaving. This was in a great measure owing to his being precluded by his position from investing in any mining speculations; and as he believed there was no further necessity for the office which he held, he thought it better to resign and devote a few months to the task of recruiting his health. In the event of his succeeding in this, he would again return to New Zealand, but whether he did Boor not,he should always take the liveliest interest in the district. He concluded by returning thanks for the testimonial and the presentation of the purse, and sat down amidst hearty applause. A variety of toasts then followed, including " Our local Representatives," responded to by Mr Home in a satirical speech; the " Resident Magistrate," duly replied to by Mr Chas. Broad, R.M.; and the health of the " Ladies," .proposed by Mr Kynnersley, and acknowledged by Mr Russell.

It -was nearly two o'clock before the company rose from table, and tben the greater number remained to take part iin a ball which was held as soon as the room was cleared of the banqueting encumbrances.