RAGLAN.

Waikato Times, Volume XXXI, Issue 2528, 22 September 1888, Page 3

RAGLAN.

Election of Councillors for the Karioi Riding.—At last the day of election (Wednesday, 19th inst.) arrived, and the six councillors, Messrs Langley, McDonald Mitchell, Sutton, Thomson, and Wilson put to the test of the ballot box the various promises they, or their friends, might have received on their behalf. From the very first it was seen that an unusually keen contest would be conducted, and the excitement increased during the day as the several voters arrived on the scone of action from Kawhia, Aotea, Ruapuke, Waitetuna Wainui, Karioi, and all parts of the district, even one voter coming from Auckland to record his votes. To the student of human nature many a varied lesson might have been learnt, both amusing and instructive. From the old man of eighty who had witnessed many a like contest, to the young one just entering in his political career. All earnest on their way and anxious to convince, or be convinced, as the case might be, "Who were the men for Galway," and as combination alter combination was formed during the day, the aspect changed from time to time as transformation scenes in a magic lantern, until the closing scene of the grand tableux took place. At a little after 11.30 a.m.. Mr Sutton stepped upon a box in front of the polling booth (Council Chambers), and gave an address, which was of some duration, and was listened to with earnest attention. After dinner Mr S. Wilson, one of tho candidates, retired in favour of Messrs Mitchell and Langley, after which the voting became more rapid, and tho excitement was kept up until the close of the poll at 6 p.m. Mr Pegler was the only scrutineer appointed acting for Mr Mitchell. Almost every voter in the district had used his privilege and recorded his vote. Whilst the returning officer, Mr Somerset, was counting the votes, intense interest and expectation was apparent outide. The poll was declared as follows A. R. Langley, 55; T. Mitchell, 32 ; C. Sutton, 26; W. Thomson, 16; J, K. McDonald, 5; S. Wilson, 2. Deafening cheers arose from the supporters of the successful candidates, as the returning officer declared Messrs Langley and Mitchell elected councillors for the Karioi Riding, and the councillors were lifted shoulder high by their ardent and victorious supporters. Councillor Mitchell thanked them for their kindness, etc., and expressed his determination to do all he could for the best interest of the entire district, etc. Mr Langley also returned thanks, and thus closed a day of excitement. But one ratepayer expressed a hope that they would form themselves into a Ratepayer's Association for the purpose of keeping in check the expenses of the Council, a most desirable and proper precaution to take, not only in reference to County Council, but also in Parliamentary procedure.