Page:The Present State and Prospects of the Port Phillip District of New South Wales.djvu/154

 at Portland Bay. They have the defects naturally incident to the newspapers of small communities, being much taken up with matters of personal rather than general interest, with frequent attacks on individuals, besides numerous squabbles amongst themselves, and infinite abuse of each other. It is, however, to be hoped, that they will improve as the place advances, or be superseded by others of a higher stamp. I |am the more sanguine in this hope, as an excellent example is afforded by the Sydney newspaper press, both as regards ability and moderation. I am myself best acquainted with the Sydney Morning Herald, and can speak as to the temper and talent with which it is conducted; but I believe that the same observations are applicable to the other papers.

There are two banks established at Melbourne—one a branch of the Bank of Australasia, and the other of the Union Bank of Australia. There was another entitled the Port Phillip Bank, which closed last year with loss to the shareholders, but having discharged all its liabilities, and paid a small dividend on each share. There is a mechanics' institute, the building belonging to which is used as a town-hall, and for holding public balls, concerts, &c. There are several hotels, some of which are very well conducted. Some of the others begin very well when first set up, but gradually decline into pot-houses. There are two steam flour-mills, and a foundry for the making and repairing all kinds of machinery. Then there are steamers plying to Sydney, Launcestown, and Geelong; also smaller ones, used