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sth. It would dispel the misgivings entertained as to the inhabitants of the West Coast being regarded by the Legislature rather as temporary sojourners than as ordinary colonists, and have a direct and potent influence in promoting settlement. That the unalienated lands of Westland offer an ample and substantial security for the repayment of the cost of such portion of the railway proposed as may be constructed within her boundaries. That uncertainty exists as to the route by which the proposed junction of the East and West Coast should be effected, and the following have been represented as practicable, viz.:—Ist, via the Amuri; 2nd, via Hurunui ; 3rd, via. Porter's Pass ; 4th, via Browning's Pass ; and sth, via Whitcombe's Pass. That it is expedient to take the necessary steps to ascertain which route is the most feasible, and at the same time would confer the largest advantages, before deciding as to any, and that your Petitioners desire to see this important question settled on broad grounds, regardless of local feeling. Your Petitioners therefore pray that your honourable House will take into serious consideration the importance of connecting the East and West Coast by railway, and will cause the necessary surveys to be made with a view to deciding as to the best and most practical route for the same. And your Petitioners will ever pray, &c. [Here follow 1,824 signatures.] By Authority : Gbobob Didsbebt, Government Printer, Wellington—lB73. Price 3d.]

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