the cost of Independence?'' But for blacks and whites the question tended to have different meanings.

For blacks, it meant could Bermuda afford to continue stifling national pride by not cutting ties with Britain.

For whites, it was a question of how much going it alone would cost Bermudians financially.

The differing views were clearly spelled out at a packed Cathedral Hall in Hamilton.

This was the second public meeting held by the Cabinet committee which is preparing a paper on Independence. Last month, just 30 people turned out for the first meeting.

The Cabinet committee is chaired by Deputy Premier the Hon. Irving Pearman.

Its members include Finance Minister the Hon. David Saul, Education Minister the Hon. Clarence Terceira, Human Affairs Minister the Hon. Jerome Dill, and Transport Minister the Hon. Maxwell Burgess.

They were all present last night before a predominantly white audience.

Mr. Pearman hammered out his committee's terms of reference, saying it would examine such matters as the economy, nationality, passports, the judiciary, external affairs, defence, the Police, marine and shipping activities, treaties and civil aviation.

It was apparent, however, that the question of cost was the main issue on people's minds.

Dr. Terceira delivered a warning based on the experience of the Bahamas after it gained Independence. A friend had told him: "Whatever you estimate for your first year cost, be sure to triple it.'' Dr. Terceira said there were a lot of hidden costs associated with Independence.

These included how much Bermuda would have to pay for overseas representation.

White members of the audience urged Mr. Pearman's committee to look at the experience of former colonies in the British Empire.

Some voiced concern over the prospect of income tax if Bermuda slashed ties.

Others wondered what would happen to the judiciary, in particular the system of appealing to Britain's Privy Council.

For many of the black people present, however, the risk of not going Independent was crucial.

"It would be very dangerous for people to discount out of hand the issues of national pride,'' said one. Others railed against the "evil of colonialism'', and the lack of identity many blacks had with Britain and the Union Jack.