Snobbery in High Places.

Cromwell Argus, Volume V, Issue 220, 27 January 1874, Page 6

Snobbery in High Places.

The powers, that bo apppar to entertain somewhat peculiar notions respecting the fitness or otherwise of individuals for the ofliee of Justice of the Peace. It has been a rule almost invariably observed to bestow, that honor on the Mayors of Municipalities irrespective of their social rank. The practice is per se very questionable, seeing that it is a step in the direction of an elective magistracy, such as exists in the United States, and which, as experience demonstrates, does not work well. But so long as this practice obtains, and is expressly sanctioned by the Municipal Ordinances, the Central Government assume a most invidious task when tliey take upon themselves to decide as to the social fitness of Mayors for the judicial office. The people of Cromwell have chosen aB their Mayor a citizen of credit and repute. Nothing is alleged against his character ; but, sad to relate, he is a butcher ! And the Government, in their wisdom, have thought fit to " exercise a discretion in the matter." So at least runs the letter to the Town Clerk, though the "discretion" maybe well doubted. "It depends (writes the Under-Secretary) upon the position and occupation of the Mayor, whether he is appointed or not." Character, be it observed, does not enter info the calculation at all. Apparently a man may be an open violator of all the ten commandments, a drunkard, or an immoral reprobate, such as any gentleman would be afraid and ashamed to admit into his family circle. But these are not regarded as disqualifications for a seat on the Bench. No ; it is "position and occupation" which are taken into consideration by the Minister of Justice and his colleagues. And they draw the line (hear it, shade of Cardinal Wolsey !) at a butcher! If this was a huge Pickwickian joke it might cause a smile. As it is a melancholy fact, it excites—and justly excites—indignation. In other municipalities, men not one whit move suitable for the office, nor of higher social status than the Mayor of Cromwell, have been honoured with the coveted J.P.-ship. The people of Cromwell ma} 7 well ask why the man of their choice has been singled out for such an unprecedented slight. Would it not be desirable for the Government to publish a list of the " occupation!*" which will vender a Mayor ineligible for the appointment I And also a list of the improprieties which a roan may commit without being disqualified thereby.— Southern Mercury.