MR RUSSELL AND HIS TONGUE.

Waikato Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 2373, 24 September 1887, Page 2

MR RUSSELL AND HIS TONGUE.

TO THE EDITOR. Sib, —It is invariably used as an argument in Mr Russell’s favour, in discussing tbc relative merits of llie two candidates for the Waikato seat, that Mr Russell's speechmaking capabilities ought to be taken into consideration. Well, anybody admits that this gentleman has any amount of tongue, and a good cheek to hold it in, but the difference of opinion comes in as to the quality of the verbiage that Hows from it. A man may be able, as Mr Russell undoubtedly is, by pandering to the selfish instincts of a class, to carry his points with a mob of unthinking and selHsli men, and to prevent their viewing politics in other than a very narrow light. Rut it should be home in mind that, in addressing a body of intelligent and thoughtful gentlemen, such as it is to be hoped our next Parliament will consist, this qualification will avail him nothing, for members judiciously beat a retreat when speakers of this stamp get upon their legs. Although Mr Whyte is not a great orator, when he docs speak, he speaks to the point and thoroughly means what he says, and in consequence, when he addresses the House his utterances carry weight with them. Therefore, it is to be hoped that the electors on Monday next will take care that they return a well-tried man of sound judgment and unimpeachable character, who has served them well and faithfully for many years, in preference to a stranger having no stake in the district, whose opinions on any one subject are, like Joseph's coat, of many colours. —Yours, &c.,

Stickjaw Hamilton Kast, September 23rd.