THE MEETING AT ALEXANDRA.

Dunstan Times, Issue 1010, 26 August 1881, Page 2

THE MEETING AT ALEXANDRA.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —As my name has appeared rather prominently in connection with the late meeting held at Alexandra for the purpose of protesting against the division of the Dunstau electorate, I would crave space to say a few words regarding my presence there, and in answer to Mr Mackersy’s letter of the 19th Mr Mackersy seems to be under the impression that 1 went to Alex andra for the sole purpose of attending the said meeting. This was not the case ; as a matter of fact 1 had forgotten that there was to be a meeting at all, and it was only during the course of ray stay there that it was again brought to my recollection I attended simply because I happened to be there at the time, and, although I did take an active part, 1 hope that the right to have a voice in matters of political significance, which is the right of every elector, is not to be denied me because I happen to live in Clyde. As regards the charge that the Clyde people influenced Alexandra in this matter, I may say that I don’t believe it for a moment I give the Alexandras credit for more independence of spirit than it seems Mr John Mackersy does The resolution which was carried was proposed and seconded by two well-known residents. and, although amended in a slight particular at my suggestion, the sense was m no way altered. I f there were those there who did not agree with what was done —which I beg leave to doubt —why didn’t they propose a further amendment which embodied their views ? In fact, Mr Maokorsy’s letter seems to me to be written more with the object of fostering that senseless feeling of jealousy between townships, which apparently exists in the minds of some—Mr Mackersy, certainly—than for any other purpose, for to attempt to show that the people of Alexandra, as a whole, were in favor of being joined to the electorate of VVakaia, is too absurd. And yet that is what Mr Mackersy would wish us to believe, and also that Clyde interfered, and said—“ No you sha’nt 1 You shall do as we have done I ” And Alexandra did her bidding 1 Really, this is too hard a nut to crack 1 However, sir, I will not trespass further on your space. Mr Simmonds will no doubt have something more to say on the subject, as I observe that his conduct is called in question, and even you, sir, have not escaped Mr Mackersy’s righteous (?) anger.—l am, etc., L. D. MACGEORGE Clyde, August 25.