In the introductory leader addressed 'To the Public' on page one of the first issue (11 July 1844), the editor sets out the newspaper's mission explaining that the purpose of the paper is to devote considerable space to the interests of the district particularly the encouragement of agriculture. The intention is to steer clear of local prejudice and personal vituperation in efforts that will be devoted to the 'good of the whole, not the caprice of the few'. In addition, the task will be to 'watch over the Administration of Justice, and the Proceedings of the District Council'. Space will also be made for 'Fashions, Poetry and Romance' and to this end, on page two of the same issue, the editor requests that, 'In order that we may present to our readers as much variety as possible, we particularly request the literary gentlemen of the district to lend us their aid; but before doing so we beg them to study that portion of out introductory leader, in which we eschew personalities'.