CORRESPONDENCE.
MR DUTHIE’S MEETING AT STRATFORD.
TO THE EDITOR.
Sir, —Pray allow me a word re Mr J. Mackay’s letter on the above subject. As you are well aware, sir, I have had con siderable experience in political meetings. I noticed Mr Mackey sitting on one of the front seats in the hall, and I further noticed that he did not hold up his hand in support of the Government motion. When the motion was put of a vote of thanks, and—in reality—no-confidence in the Government, a show of hands took place. I counted the number of hands held up, and made them 29. When a show was asked of a vote of thanks only, and of confidence in the present Government, 33 hands were held up. I was at the ex treme end of the hall, consequently had full view of every one present. The chairman declared the amendment lost and when taxed by a prominent public man if he had counted the show of hands replied he had not. The majority in favour of the Government was so palpable to those at the rear of the meeting that it was no wonder cheers were raised for Mr Seddon. It is usual in such meetings, more especially when there is a close con test, for the number of hands to be counted by the chairman. This was not dope OB this occasion by the chairman’s own admis sion.—l am, &c.. Tour Stratford Correspondent.
CRICKET.
