MAJOR ATKINSON.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume VII, Issue 2119, 13 October 1885, Page 2

MAJOR ATKINSON.

The Otago Daily Times writes Again, Major Atkinson and a good many of liia followers who voted against the tariff are avowedly Protectionists, and it was by combining with them that the victory of free trade was secured. Such triumphs as these afford the best testimony to Major Atkinson's skill as a party leader. We venture to say that there never has been a better leader of the Opposition in the House since constitutional government was established in New Zealand. In spite of the disadvantages under which he struggled, through so considerable a majority of the House having been elected in opposition to him, Major Atkinson not only succeeded in keeping his party together and himself at the head of it, but he decimated the Ministerial ranks, and won the good opinions of many who did not dare to give their votes. The whole session was one series of successes for the leader of the Opposition. None knew better than himself that at no time was it possible for him to gain a majority, but nevertheless he contrived to humiliate the Government until they fell into contempt, and to practically impose his will on the House. We do not quite know how Major Atkinson reconciles to his conscience his voto against the tariff and the West Coast railway, but to have supported the Government upon either question woqld have lqst him tlio leadership of the Opposition; and as he used his influence upon the right side, we will not examino his opinions too closely. Rather are we inclined to be grateful to him for havincso effectually put tho brake upon Sir Julius Vogel, and saved the country from embarking upon a mischievous policy. What revenge could be sweeter to Major Atkinson than the breaking-down of his great rival's scheme of finance, especially when he was able to assist at its burial?"