agricultural pursuits; yet energetic individuals struggle along under very trying difficulties. An exhibition of works of art, &c., was held in 1872, and showed a surplus after clearing all expenses. A second one was held at Christmas, 1873, which turned out a great success, the surplus fund being devoted to the establishment of a mineralogical museum. From public and private subscriptions various prizes and medals were awarded to the succeessful exhibitors. The exhibits consisted of oil-paintings, drawings, water-colours, photographs, curios, ladies’ industrial, floricultural, horticultural, dairy produce, poultry, miscellaneous, including manufactures of bricks, leather, soap, ales, &c. Religious ordinances were soon observed. In the early part of 1866 the first minister arrived. He was a Roman Catholic priest, who held service in a building adjoining the bank. Then ministers of other denominations (including the Bishop of Christchurch, who travelled overland and held service in the Corinthian Hall) followed. They were usually hard-working devoted disciples of Christ, and were much esteemed for their zeal and untiring industry. There are now churches and chapels to satisfy the wants of the different creeds. There are also now efficient well-conducted schools, where the young are fairly taught all the ordinary elements of education.
Coal is found all along the Coast. It is advantageously worked from the Buller to the Grey. Southwards, indications of coal are found, but they have not been turned to account yet. The coal turned out at the Grey is good for gas, as well as fuel, and gas companies have been established at Greymouth and Hokitika, both paying satisfactory dividends.
The country towards the great backbone, or dividing range, abounds in various mineral ores, which, when the country is better opened up, are likely to yield remunerative returns to enterprising adventurers.
It should be borne in mind, that the establishment of branch banks afforded to the diggers, and business people, settled along the different townships of the Coast, very tangible advantages. The diggers received full value for every ounce of gold they produced, and the traders had their cash and securities safely kept and ready at call when required. It is not too much to claim a small share of credit for the good management of banks which prevailed on the West Coast. No encouragement was given to undue speculation, and each man’s financial abilities were dealt with on their merits, and consequently business flowed, and receded, with quiet equanimity, and few failures of any magnitude occurred. As a rule the bankers secured the goodwill and respect of the community.
And now, my dear reader, I must say farewell. I trust you have realised the promises of my preface. I have “nothing extenuated, nor have I set down aught in malice.” On re-
