POLITICAL ITEMS.
♦ (pkom our wellington corbeßpondent.,) (By Telegraph.) Wellington, June 18. Notwithstanding the telegram which was read to the House this afternoon intimating that the French landing and hoisting of the flag had created a strong sensation m England coming so soon after M. de Freycmet's assurance, the debate is being vigorously pro« ceeded with to-night. The Premier advised delay pending the receipt of further infor mation, but as many members had prepared speeches they were loath to allow their labours to be wasted. There was a short debate on tho Midland Hallway Bill this afternoon, and members who had previously opposed the bill ex pressed their intention of supporting the con cessions asked for by the syndicate, on the ground that as the House had passed the act m 1884 it would bo unfair to commit a breach of faith with those to whom the contract was assigned. Messrs Bolleston and Sutter spoke m favor of the bill. The former gentleman, m the course of his re marks, Btrongly censured the Lytttlton Times for the systematic and bitter attacks made upon him during several years by that journal. Much amusement was caused among members as the member for Geraldiue, when c includ ing his remarks upon the Lyttelton Times, looked up at the Hon. Mr Beeves, who was sitting m the Legislative Councillors' gallery. The editor, Mr Laughnan, was taking notes m the reporters' gallery.
THE VOLCANIC DISTURBANCES.
