To the Same.

—I most entirely agree with you about a mark of distinction for Godley. It is a bright thought, and must be worked into a fact. I must confess, however, that at first the notion appeared to me utterly impracticable. And so it would prove, if ordinary means of realizing the idea were adopted. The ordinary means are party favour, working on public reputation. But Godley is anything but a Whig or of Whig connexions; and he has no public reputation. Add, that he is cordially detested by Lord Grey, in whose department the granting of such a royal favour would be held to rest. And lastly, Lord Grey dislikes, and would gladly disparage and stop the enterprize for being the founder of which Godley deserves, and for aid in carrying out which he ought, to receive a mark of honour. So you must adopt some extraordinary means, or give up the idea. Not liking to give up the idea, I suggest that a petition to the Queen be proposed, praying for this distinction for Godley, both as the founder of the enterprize, aud as expressive of Her Majesty's interest (like Elizabeth's) in such enterprizes, which benefit these Islands, and extend the Empire, &c. &c. &c. This page 128petition should be signed by as many public men as could be got to sign it: and then presented by a deputation to the Premier, with a request that he would present it to the Queen and support its prayer.

If they made Godley a C.B. or a Bart., all would be well: if not, the mere petition (which we could publish after it had failed) would by itself be a great mark of honour. If you approve of this course, I will draft a short petition.

I agree about your other suggestiona: but query, who is to be the organizer? Unless some one person take the matter up and make a business of it, as he would of a campaign if he were a general, it will come to nothing.