MR. MYERS UNDER FIRE

Dominion, Volume 13, Issue 47, 19 November 1919, Page 8

MR. MYERS UNDER FIRE

HIS LEADER'S FINANCE JEERED AT A DERISIVE AUDIENCE . By Telesraph-Spocial Corresßonileut. Auckland, November IS. Hγ. Myers's meeting lust night cauuot bo regarded as ft very successful Liberal .denionstrafcon. It is true that the hall was crowded, but the audience ino.uded a very considerable labour clement, and many of thoso present were merely interested spectators. The meeting was quite good tempered, but Mr. Myers was subjected to a running fire of interjections from start to finish. Mr. Myers a own friends were- ovidontly getting wearied by his long personal explanations, and tho nationality controversy seemed to give a rather unpleasant flavour to the whole proceedings. The candidate's attempts to rouse enthusiasm ever the achievements of Liberalism fell very flat, and when he spoke,of what Sir Geoigo Grey had dono for New Zealand tho audience listened with respectful silence.' . The meeting was also respectful but undemonstrative, when ho. referred to the late Mr! Seddon's career, but when he spoke of Sir Joseph Ward's leadership his remarks evoked derisive laughter. Tho statement that Sir Joseph Ward was a great financier was received with jeers.' When Mr. Myers went on to say that tho Literal leader was a modest man who did not advertise himself, there was another outburst of ironic laughter. When tho merriment had subsided someone asked Mr. Myers if he was joking, but he said he waa quite serious. When tho candidate mndo an- appeal to labour to renew its former alliance with tho Liberal Party, ho was answered with emphatic crios. of "No" and "Never again.' The significance of such incidents cannot bo mistaken. They point to tho waning power and; prestige of Liberalism, which is Incoming a spent force. Tho mention of tho good work done' during tho war by Sir James Allon was received with appkuso. The campaign in Auckland seems to be goin? very well from tho Reform po:nt of view. >