Page:Transactions and Proceedings of the New Zealand Institute - Volume 1 (2nd ed.).djvu/492

Rh effect this association or not, as may be thought desirable. We have complied with all the preliminary conditions that have been prescribed. If we prefer a separate and independent existence, there is nothing to prevent our taking that course, but for my part I think there are sufficient advantages to be derived from association to lead us in that direction.

We are all aware ow difficult it is in a new country, such as this, to find men competent in knowledge, and enjoying sufficient leisure, to devote their time to superintending the formation and establishment of a museum and a laboratory. The Act provides that the services of such a person shall be available for institutions associated with the parent Institute. The Act also provides that a yearly sum of £500, at the least, shall be placed on the colonial estimates, to be applied in the payment of the general current expenses of the parent establishment and of the several societies or associations incorporated with it. There are other advantages, but it appears to me that I have said enough to lead to the conclusion that the Auckland Institute should be incorporated with the New Zealand Institute.

Thus, we see that the New Zealand Legislature, impressed, no doubt, with the importance of promoting the general study and cultivation of art, science, and literature, has endeavoured to do its share of the work by giving a legal constitution to an institution formed for the advancement of those objects, by providing competent assistance, and by contributing towards the necessary expenses to be incurred. But it is not in the power of any Legislature alone to create a permanent and flourishing institution of this character; it can only be done by the energy and co-operation of those fitted to undertake the task, and that not by one spasmodic effort, but by patient and unflagging perseverance. No doubt, in order to induce a sufficient number of persons to give their time and attention to the support of such an institution, it is necessary that they should be convinced that they will derive therefrom an adequate amount of amusement and profit.

Now, it is admitted that the first and principal duty of every man is to provide for the daily wants of himself and those dependent on him; and, moreover, it is a duty that he owes to his country. No man can neglect this without entailing suffering and disgrace to himself. All other employments must yield to this; and if the pursuit of science and literature necessarily involved a neglect of this first duty, it would be a crime to urge men to devote their attention to it. But there are hours of leisure and recreation, and it is those that can be properly and profitably employed in such pursuits. It is, I think, fortunate that there are occasions on which men of all parties, whatever may be their creeds or political views, can meet on common ground. It is, I say, fortunate that occasions occur on which people of all shades of opinion, political or otherwise, can meet and unite for a common object.