[from oub special cobeespondkntJ WELLINGTON, Oct. 22. Tho Hoq W. W. Johnston has appa rently, after much reflection, decided not to-.become a candidate for the city, thus destroying the hope of . an Opposition I bench to include Messrs Duthie, Bell and Johnston. Mr Bell has yet to give his decision. Major Sommerville is likely to oppose Mr Willis for Wanganui. Dr Newman continues to hold meetings of the Hutt electors nightly, and this dis trict gives promise of a hot contest. His opponent, Mr Wilford, made a new departure by summoning a meeting of Maoris, about thirty-seven being present. Mr Wilford dwelt on the disabilities of the Natives, the restrictions on their lands, and the management of their estates by the Public Trustee. From a Government candidate it would appear a curious deliverance in the light of recent legislation, hut Mr Wilford apparently impressed his audience, for Wi Hapi, the chief, took occasion to say that Mu Wilford was the first candidate for Parliamentary honours who had taken the trouble bo address them, and the meeting proceeded to form itself into a Committee to work the districts. A little "rift within the lute" was visible at the meeting of Dr Newman's Petone Committee last night, when some discussion arose on an alleged case, of intimidation.
