MR ISITT'S LETTER.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIV, Issue 136, 4 December 1911, Page 4

MR ISITT'S LETTER.

ANSWER BY MR. MASSEY. By Telegraph—Press Association. Auckland, November 30. The remarkable attack made upon Mr. Massey, Leader of the Reform Party, by Mr. Isitt in connection with what is known as the Taylor-Massey incident was the subject of comment by Mr. Masfey in his speech at Grey Linn this evening. He said that during the debate late one night some very serious charges were made against the Opposition in connection with the notorious Black pamphlet. "I am afraid I lost my temper," said Mr. Massey, "and some other members lost their's also. A very bitter quarrel arose between myself and a gentleman who has passed away. We both said tilings that should never have been said. Mr. Taylor died somewhat suddenly at the beginning of last session. There was only one thing for me to do, and I did it at the very first opportunity, in my speech in the Address-in-Reply debate. "I do not know that any honorable man could do any more," continued Mr. Massey. "I was not asked to do it, but I was informed afterwards that it was intended, by a personal friend of Mr. Taylor's, that I should he asked. On the following day I received the following telegram: "Personally indebted for your action. Glad you spoke before my letter received. (Signed) Isitt."' (Loud applause.) "I am afraid that telegram has been forgotten," said Mr. Massey. "Now they are going to make political capital against me and my party and they are doing it from behind a dead man." (Loud cries of "Shame.")