TAONUI RIDING.

Manawatu Times, Volume III, Issue 7, 16 November 1878, Page 2

TAONUI RIDING.

The result m this Riding has been exactly as we predicted, although we confess, the contest was more close than we had expected. This, however, may be- accounted for by the feet that Alt* Linton's return, was looked upon as so certain tliat many of his supporters, did not trouble to vote. When it is borne m mind that there were 238 voters on lhe roll, many of those possessing plurality of votes, and that the total number recorded for both oandidates, merely reached one-third of that numbo*^ it will be- seeu that very little interest was taken m the proceedings. The feeling existing between the two candidates was a refreshing contrast ta that exhibited m, other Ridings, and it might be safely said that not one single word had been uttered from the commencement td the- end of thecampaign, either by the principals or their supporters, of an unfriendly or personal nature. Mr Monrad has been defeated but not disgraced, and when it is considered that he lost the battle, by so small a nam-. ber, and secured so many votes against such a popular man as Mr Linton, he has good reason to be proud, and it speaks well . for the high estimation m whioh he is held by his _e.-ow-set-.e-_. Without for one moment wishing to depreciate Mr Monrad's abilities, we heartily concur with and rejoice \in the verdiofc of the electors. They h*v< secured the services of an able, energetic, and conscientious representative, and we feet convinced that when his term of ofliee expires he wiU have secured more steadfastly his old supporters, and won over many of his past opponents. At half-past seven on Wednesday evening, Mr Heeling, the Returning Officer, made the following official declaration of the poll, at the Town Hall, Palmerston ; —. Linton. Monrad.

Majority for Linton ..» 7 Mr Linton then came forward and said -• Gentlemen, I have to thank yot» sincerely for the honor you have paid me iv electing me to be your representative. I must say that the contest has been carried on m the most friendly spirit, and Mr Monrad and myself are the best of friends. At my meeting last night I told you what I would do if you elected me, and now that you hove done so, I oan only pledge myself to perform my duties honestly and faithfully. Mr Monbad next came forward 'and thanked those who had accorded him such liberal support. He would, however, have been better pleased had he received 43 instead of 35 votes. Nevertheless he believed fchey had elected a mon who would do tlie riding justice— at least he hoped so—and as he (the speaker) had a good deal of honor, without any of the trouble, he would conclude by again thanking those who, had supported him. Mr Hevbt Mo'Sbii. said that as a sup. porter of Mr Linton he was of course proud of having elected his man. Still he must bear witnesi* to the friendly feelings wliich had beon exhibited throughout the whole cf the proceedings.

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