The Telephone. PUBLISHED EVERY EVENING. GISBORNE, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume I, Issue 131, 14 May 1884, Page 2

The Telephone. PUBLISHED EVERY EVENING. GISBORNE, WEDNESDAY, MAY 14.

Although the peculiar circumstances of the situation necessitated the calling of the meeting which was held on Monday night, yet it was very evident that, beyond getting an expression of those present, no really definite result could follow, in the absence of the third candidate. One cannot help seeing that the ardent admirers of Sir Julius Vogel are inclined to strain matters, and have apparently ignored many things in connection with this subject which is not likely, in the end, to gain them much support and countenance. It would be well in this instance to remember that it always takes two, at least, to make a bargain. The conditions on which Sir Julius Vogel’s nomination was to be made and accepted was to be contingent on two events—first that it should be the general wish of the main body of electors, and secondly that all candidates in the field should retire in his favor. As far as the first condition is concerned, if we take Monday night’s meeting for our guide, there is a possibility of us being in favor of his nomination, but this is more than negatived by the published and definite declaration of Mr. Rees that he positively refuses to concede to the second condition. This, of course, at once absolves Mr. Locke from any further necessity for hesitation; and he has accordingly taken the only course consistent with his own honor and position. Under these circumstances it would nati rally appear almost useless to nominate of Sir Julius Vogel. If the district is the sufferer, Mr. Rees alone is to blame; and he has evinced such utter disregard of the vital interests of the constituency as to render him unworthy the support of any elector. Up to the present point Mr. Locke has earned the respect and good will of all by his unselfish action in this matter ; but though he was at liberty to go as far as making the liberal offer he did, yet it must be remembered that his supporters have a voice in the arrangement, and must take care that his liberality does not defeat the very object he has in view. Daring the last meeting we heard a great deal of truth about the immense advantages which were likely to accrue to the district from a month or two’s representation under the magic name of Sir Julius Vogel. But the only speaker who dealt with the question in a clear and sensible manner, and who showed any correct knowledge of the real position of affairs, was Sir George Whitmore, who thereby proved himself 100 old a political bird to be caught by chaff. Can it be thought for one moment that Sir Julius has evinced such a strong desire to enter politics solely for a few short months—perhaps weeks. Is it not a fact that a wily statesman like him, scenting the battle not very far off, sees a more than probable chance of attaining to a command in the reformation of the broken ranks, which is sure to follow upon the imminent battle about to be fought, and where leaders of ability will be eagerly sought for on all sides. This, no doubt, is the real “ axe to grind,” which Sir George Whitmore referred tq, in his shrewd remarks. By these comments we do not for one moment wish to deny the evident benefits which would certainly result to the district through being fully represented by a member of Sir Julius Vogels magnitude. We wish to dispel any over sanguine impression, which it has been sought to instil into the minds of those who do not trouble to think for themselves, by stating that Sir Julius Vogel will possibly be able to pass our Harbor Bill, and do so much for us even in a few short months or weeks. At the same time further benefits might reasonably be looked for by a lengthened representation by a man who truly stands higher in the ranks of state-craft than any of those who have brought us to the present dismal pass. Certainly we might look for a reasonable share of the loaves and fishes. But there are not wanting those who attribute the present existing depression, to the faults in carrying out Sir Julius’ public works policy. If such really is the cause it would be particularly desirable that its originator should be given the opportunity to point out where the defects in his scheme occurred, and also to advise the remedy. No doubt by returning Sir Julius we should be doing the State much service. But much as we should like to see such a desirable result brought about, it is plain that, so far as we are concerned almost unsuperable obstacles present themselves; and unless all honorable obligations are totally disregarded, and numerous promises ignored, Mr. Locke will still receive that amount of support which he has now proved himself justly entitled to. Others may find it politic and be shrewd enough to make a great show of virtue out of necessity but without Gisborne proves herself eminently deserving of some of the bad things which are so frequently written about her, she will not be led away by the ignus faatus of election stratagem. If there is to be a contest (and Mr. Rees’ announcement settles this point) it is evident that Sir Julius Vogel will be quite impotent to do us any good this session. We have little doubt but what the public will show, by their voting, the due appreciation they have for the party which—first in the person of Mr. McDonald, and now in that of Mr. Rees—has practically disfranchised the district at a time of such vital importance to our welfare and progress.