Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 1896. Mr J. G. Wilson.

Manawatu Herald, 12 September 1896, Page 2

Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 1896. Mr J. G. Wilson.

« It would be exceedingly ungrateful to allow the fact of the severance of Mr J. G. Wilson's political connection with this district to pass unnoticed. The very fact that his retirement may cause an hitherto Opposition electorate to become a Government one is an instance of the great hold he had over the electors. Mr Wilson has represented this coast in Parliament for the long term of sixteen years, and retires with the proud record of having never yet been beaten at the polls. This is an instance of his popularity, gained by straightforward action and universal conaiderateness, as it is acknowledged, as a member, he was ready to do what he could as much for an opponent at the polls as for an ardent supporter. This, at election times, prevented any warm feeling being displayed again3t him, and frequently gained him a vote. As a candidate, Mr Wilson has always exercised great choice of language when, though rarely, referring to an opposing candidate, so that when all the uproar was over, there was nothing to regret, and nothing to prevent; him being] on good terms with them. This way of running a political campaign is pleasant and highly desirable everywhere, and we are pleased that the gentleman we have so long supported is entitled to so much praise in this respect. We believe that on all occasions Mr Wilson ha 9 voted according to his belief as to what would be for the good of the State, and he has always striven to advance the interests of the district he was the representative of. In all purely local matters he took a thoughtful and liberal interest in, and it is to be hoped that his absence from politics will not necessarily mean hi* retirement from them. It will be difficult for this electorate to find a successor to fill alt the requirements for a member so well as our retiring representative had, and we are sure electors of all shades of colour will join with us in regretting that he will not be to the front again. Without exaggeration we may also add that all the electors will also join most heartily with us in thanking Mr J. G. Wilson for his long services in Parliament, and for services out of Parliament which he has so ungrudgingly rendered.