The Hope for the Future.

The depression which we are now passing through is undoubtedly largely aggravated by the reckless system in which we have lived too freely upon borrowed money, and can, I think, even now be easily tided over by the determination of one and all, not only to live within their income, but to live lives of industry and thrift—for with the application of the latter, New Zealand possesses advantages which compare most favourably with any other country under the sun. In conclusion, I wish to draw the attention of the members of this Conference to our indebtedness to the Minister of Lands, who so readily fell in with our request, and has granted free passes to one delegate from each society, and two from some of the larger associations—only imposing one condition, that nothing political should be introduced, and in order to keep faith with the Government, we, as a Revising Committee, have only submitted subjects which we thought strictly in accordance with that condition. Thanking you, gentlemen, for your attention, I will now ask you to proceed with the election of your chairman. (Applause.)