ABOUT THE LOBBIES.

Evening Star, Issue 4152, 17 June 1876, Page 3

ABOUT THE LOBBIES.

(Frm w Special Reporter.)

Wbixisqton, June 17.. The Premier showed a great want of tact yesterday in not at first giving the information that was given after the second division. -Had he done so when Sir George Grey moved the Suspension of tho Standing Orders, the debate and two damaging divisions would have been avoided. Ministers were also not in accord in their statements. Major Atkinson . was particularly valiant, challenged the Opposition to fight, and otherwise was rattier offensive generally, from the lofty, martinet, braggadocio style he used.. This dictatorial style, if successful last session, 1 will certainly not be so this one. The tone of the Opposition is certainly galling. Sir George, as usual, represented himself in well poised language as a model of patriotism and purity, whuo the Ministry were full of corruption. Mr Stout and other lawyers contended that the proclamation Was illegal. Mr Rolleston made a bit when he asserted that further legislation had been promises, his statement being supported by Mr Stout, and a second point when stating that Mr Russell had paid neither the purchase money nor interest on the purchase value. The young members were also doubtful, Ministers at first being so reticent, while at the same time they were waiting to vote in support of them. Several waited out refusing to vote. Among these were Messrs Larnaofc, Manders, Pyke, Fitzroy, aid others. The position of new mtfgbera favorable to the Ministry is a disagreeable one to them apparently. Upon the second division Ministers were also overweighted. Independent supporters could not speak from the attitude taken by the Government. It is understood after the adjournment that Ministers intended resigning. A caucus meeting of their supporters was held this morning and is still going on. Ministers will be urged to retire from their present position. r T A want of candor at the first caused all this confusion. Tho House is evidently inclined to strictly watch all matters affecting the lands;

;.The reply to the Governpr's speech fell tamely. The speech cit°elf is considered full of padding.

{From a Correspondent.)

Wbllkhjtow, June 17. The Ministry will probably resign. Their caucus, asked them not to do so, but it is said they will. The plot thickens.

{Per Press Agency. J

. The supporters of the Government, at a meeting this afternoon, urgently requested Ministers not to resign office. - Ministers have not yet decided on their course of action.