PARLIAMENTARY INCIDENTS.

Globe, Volume VIII, Issue 997, 5 September 1877, Page 3

PARLIAMENTARY INCIDENTS.

[from the correspondent of the press.] Wellington, September 4, 8 p.m. The Education Bill passed the second reading last night, with a majority of thirty-five. The religious clauses in it were strongly objected to. During nearly the whole of the afternoon the House was in committee over it, and they are now discussing the seventh clause. Mr Reid brought forward the Land Bill today for the second reading. He explained its provisions clearly, and they all passed without a murmur. There is a good deal of talk about “ the middle party,” but so far they have played their game so quietly that it is thought they hardly know what cards they hold in their hands. They arc reticent as to their movements. Sir George Grey does not appear well. Last night, when speaking on the Education Bill, his voice throughout was an octave lower than at the beginning of the session. Depression may be the cause thereof, arising from the later succession of defeats. It is said confidently that ere long he will return to his hermitage at Kawau. The “party” is divided against itself. Messrs Rolleston, Montgomery, and Sir Geo. Grey all want to be leaders, and Sir Geo. Grey cannot brook reverting to the position of subaltern. The evidence in the “Waka Maori” libel case was concluded to-day.