of the capital at once. Some difference of opinion has been expressed among the intending colonists on this subject. Of course, such opinions, formed in ignorance of local circumstances, cannot be regarded as at present entitled to much consideration. But I call your attention especially to the circumstance, that the question of the site of the capital has been considered, at all times, as one upon which the opinion of the Land Purchasers in the Colony themselves (to be ascertained by you in the best form which may be practicable) ought to exercise an important influence. Apart from a positive engagement with them to that effect, reasons of policy would lead to the same conclusion, it being in the highest degree important that in the first infancy of the settlement, no discontent or disappointment should be felt by them on such a point.”
* * * * *
“So far as any opinion has been formed here upon the question, it appears generally favourable to the adoption of Port Lyttelton as the capital. As a principle, the Committee think that it would be improper to fix the site elsewhere than at the natural point of conflux of the population, which must at first, as they imagine, concentrate itself round Port Lyttelton.”
Mr. Godley referred the matter to “the Society of Land Purchasers” (as the Society of “Canterbury Colonists” was now called), and a general meeting was held on December 20, at Lyttelton, and presided over by Mr. W. G. Brittan, and the following resolution was carried unanimously:—
“That this meeting is of opinion that of the two sites offered to their selection by the Association for the capital, that marked on the map by the name of Christchurch is the more eligible, and that Mr. Godley be accordingly requested to declare immediately that the capital of the settlement will be fixed at that site.” The resolution was forwarded to Mr. Godley, and he, on
