STAFFORD HIMSELF.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume IV, Issue 213, 10 September 1869, Page 2

STAFFORD HIMSELF.

A correspondent of the Hawke's Bay Herald is responsible for tho following: — A really unpardonable abuse of accidental circumstances is used by Mr. Stafford to retain his hold upon the official residence. A fortuight after Mr. Fox assumed office, finding no offer of moving out of the Prime Minister's house was made by Mr. Stafford, Mr. Fox is said to have written to him to know when it would be convenient to move. To this no reply was made by the occupant. A month passed by, and au official intimation was sent requesting Mr. S. to turn out. This brought a reply of a most unexpected character. I should now tell you that Governmenthouse being rebuilding, his Excellency the Governor is residing in a private residence, taken for his use by the late Government. The lease at first was drawn out in the name of the Queen j but being objected to by the lessor, Mr. Stafford's name was inserted, and the lease was accordingly made to Mr. Stafford, of course acting for the Government, who have paid the rent. However, when Mr. Stafford was pressed the other day to give up the Ministerial residence, he declared that if the Government turned him out he would turnout the Governor, be claiming that the Governor's house was his, the lease being in his name. There the matter stands. Mr. Fox dares not insist upon his rights, for no one doubts that, with the disregard of all proper consideration which is the peculiar characteristic of the* late; Premier, he would carry out his threat— -take advantage" of a position to which lie has not: the smallest-equitable title, and insult the QOr yernor. Thus he .is likely; to succeed in setting ■everyone: at defiance.. 7 ; ; It is heedless 1 to; say that other man in ; the cou^ : considerably - ■ theti theiind^ ; '.;;ih/;:continmn^ 'AAyA,