rd, 1848._ The Separation Despatch.--To such writers as cannot
comprehend the policy of the Russell administration, it is common to
decry everything which they have attempted, as stupid and impracticable;
but we, who deem ourselves wiser in our generation, view their conduct
in a very different light, and give them credit for no ordinary talent;
great energy, and more perseverance in our affairs, than can be, under
existing circumstances, ascribed to any Ministry in our day. They took
office at a period of great political excitement, and still they have
devoted much attention to Colonial interests; and they have
extraordinary claims upon our beloved Victoria, having granted us that
boon we long demanded in vain from former Ministers.

The Despatch officially announces that Earl Grey is to bring in a Bill
for the Separation of this, from the Middle District at last, and that
we will form a Colony of our own, under the new name of Victoria. The
Constitution of this Colony will to some extent be identified with those
of the other Australian Colonies.

At present, Earl Grey has put forth simply the general principles; the
details, he says, will form matter for serious consideration and anxious
deliberation.

We anticipate some of the Sydney papers will be coming out with a
cart-load of nonsense; running down Earl Grey's plan, but we will defend
it from their senseless and ignorant declamation.

Monday, _July 10th, 1848._ Political Gazette. The Elections.

Our readers must be aware that the writs for the election of members to
serve in the new Legislative Council of the Colony of New South Wales,
have been issued, and that his Worship the Mayor of Melbourne will hold
a meeting of the electors of the City of Melbourne, in front of the
Supreme Court House, La Trobe St. on Tuesday, 25th day of July, for the
nomination of a member to serve in said Council for the Electoral
District of Melbourne.

Wednesday, _July 19th, 1848._ The Elections.

The outrageous attempt to thrust Mr. Adam Bogue upon the District, as
one of our members for the Legislative Council, has displayed that we
are looked upon as a refuge for the destitute; and that the opinion of
Port Phillip in Sydney is, that any beardless boy without name,
character, or property may be raised upon our shoulders into an office
of great influence, and almost supreme importance.

We have the welfare of the district sincerely at heart, and we advise
the electors to ret