MOKIHINUI.

Westport Times, Volume VIII, Issue 1201, 11 August 1874, Page 4

MOKIHINUI.

[FROM OUR OIVS CORRESPONDENT.] Business in general for the last fortnight has shown a decided improvement for the better. People who have been living hitherto in a state almost approaching penury have had constant and remunerative employment for some time hack, are now waking up from their previous state of languor and showing strong symptoms of animation. The dilapidated and grass grown streets of Mokihinui are now often betroddeu with business' hurried foot steps, while in the evenings the enlivening influence of James Hennessy is observable. And if broils and black eyes may be taken as evidence, money is more freely afloat.

Those who are not employed at the coal mine or at the new wharf have found ample employment in the new coal barges which started to work for the first time on Saturday-last, to ply from the mine to the wharf. And the quiet river is now often disturbed by the splash of oar.--, and the banks re echo with the cheery voices of the bargemen. A few tradesmen are busily engaged repairing and fitting out boats for river traffic in readiness for the glorious golden Halcyon days, the advent of which is looked forward to as certain, as soon as the spirit of enterprise movos to action the cautious and faint of heart among directors. The Beacon of progress has at last beeu hoisted in the shape of a new signalstall'which was planted in position last week, by Mr Lewis Sweet, for the purpose of signalling to the steamers expected to enter the river regularly in a short time. Tho staff is a lofty and substantial spar, fitted in a thorough workmanlike manner, and reflects great credit to Mr Sweet, who has erected it entirely at his own expense. An example of enterprise which might be followed by others. lie has also erected two beacons, has procured a code of signals for use, and made all other arrangements necessary for receiving vessels at any time ;' thus showing that some at least among the much enduring and patient residents of this place can put their shoulders to the wheel when they see a chance of progression.

I hear of threatening legal troubles and quibbles, as to the right to have and to hold, among the coal prospectors in this district. Little importance need be attached to it, for the spirit of cuterprise and the teachings of common sense will no doubt suggest an amicable settlement of any differences without resort to the Devil's Own Corps.