THE ELECTION.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1636, 20 September 1887, Page 2

THE ELECTION.

TO THE EDITOR. Sib, —With you permission I would like to say a few words with reference to the Political Reform Association of Winchester, and the unmanly way in which they tried to hoodwink the electors of Gladstone and Rangitata. Mr Postlethwaite laid the foundation stone of the Society m a speech which was as unreasonable as it was slanderous and untruthful. Then again, when Mr Twomey came to Winchester to address us the Jarrikins of the district openly avowed they would disturb his meeting, and yet the Political Reformers, who claim to he gentlemen, took no steps to at least give him a fair hearing. But the larrikins signally failed in their attempt to disturb his meeting, and every lover of justice and fair play were glad they did.. But when Mr Rhodes came to Winchester the scene was changed. The Reformers mustered in force, and occupied strategic positions all over the hall, and one of their number stood sentry at the door with the scimitar of justice in his hand, and woe betide the larrikin who would dare to disturb the golden calf in his flights of “ oratory.” I have no hesitation in saying that the Political Reformers of Winchester (with one honorable exception) acted unmanly and unjustly, and instead of furthering the interests of their candidate they have alienated from his standard every lover of justice and fair play. There is in Winchester a prominent supporter of Mr Rhodes who has raised cries unworthy of a man, and which he would not dare to utter in public. I would urge upon the people to resent the injustice which has been done, and not allow themselves to be turned aside by senseless cries. The only class we all need be afraid of is the Political Reformers. Their creed is “ Self.” Therefore I say Englishmen, Irishmen, and Scotchmen electors of Gladstone and Rangitata let us not allow miserable prejudices to blind our better feelings on polling day, but take the advice of that grand old man, Mr Thomas Ley, and vote for Mr Twomey, the friend of the farmers and working men, and who supports the best Government we ever had. Apologising for trespassing on your spaee so far, I am, etc.,

J. D. Jokes Winchester, Sept. 19th, 1887.