PARLIAMENTARY NOTES.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume VIII, Issue 214, 5 September 1873, Page 4

PARLIAMENTARY NOTES.

The Wellington correspondent of the Auckland Star, evidently a gentleman possessing a keen sense of honor, telegraphed as follows last Saturday : — " A change of tactics was made by the Opposition only after the debate on the Provincial Loan Bill commenced. After Messrs Gillies and Wood were applauded so warmly, and a feeling so marked and determined was manifested, it was determined to press for a division. Southerners appear generally strongly opposed to works being rolled back on the land fund. The unanimity of the Southern caucus has been exaggerated. Mr Macandrew unwittingly led the < overnment into an ambush. Mr Filzherberi and the Wellington firm are in opposition. The excitement in the House and around is very great. Mr Stafford's speech is described by members as the finest ever heard from him. It was calm and exceedingly telling. Mr Gillies was mad with fun, and Mr Wood was smiling with preternatural blandneas. Mr Stafford resumed all his old activity and interest in the proceedings. Mr Sheehan hurled the words home into Mr Voxel's face, who during the whole proceedings had manifested a pained expression and attitude. Mr Swanaon danced a pas seul outside the House. Mr M'Lean sat imperturbably solemn on the back bench, like a venerable Maori chief. Mr Reynolds' whole face smiled viciously. Mr O'Borke was tjaiet and indifferent, as if he had reached the point of which be spoke when scathing Mr Vogel's factious opposition and overbearing conduct. He bad said "There, is a limit to endurance." Mr Batbgate looked motherly and kind. His speech 'was maternally expostulating and full of Scripture texts, and although not intended, kept the House in a succession of peals of laughter, led by the sonorous voice of Mr Bunny with « hear, hear." Mr Bunny has not yet spoken, but his soul seems on fire for the fray. Mr Fitzherbert sat with his hat over his brow motionless, as he ever ia when gathering thunder. Mr Macandrew in the back ground appeared gloomily brooding over the unfortonate mesa into which he had led the Government. He is called the archprieet of log-rolling, but the violation of rights on the floor oi the House deeply moved his soul. Mr Luckie was lively as a flea on a hot griddle, here, there, and everywhere, carryiDg messages for Mr Yogel, at which he is no good, as members laugh and wink at him when he tries to persuade them as a messenger. He is very active in delivering notes, bringing them out to Mr Yogel in the lobby or the Ministers' room, or to a seat at the table. He is invaluable, as he does what no one else could or would do. The contrast between the Ministerial and Opposition sides of the House is remarkable. Almost all the ability and eloquence are in opposition, and Mr Bathgate had to reply to Mr Stafford. It is believed by the Opposition that the division will be right, but powerful influences are at work. Mr M'Lean in the lobby promised Mr Carrington a harbor at Taranaki. Mr Luckie is busy giving invitations to Mr . Vogei's dinners. Tha assault is general on purse and stomach. The political atmoßphere is decidedly electric."