January 25. No decision will be come to as to the Auckland representation in the Cabinet till the arrival of Mr Goldie, who is expected by the Waihora 10-raorrow, and who is now freely mentioned as the most likely man to fill the vacant place. Mr Cadman's claims as a strong party nun are not disputed, but on the other hand it is thought that Mr Goldie's appoint ment would be the most popular, so far as the Auckland Provincial District is concerned. Moreover, he is regarded aa an independent member, and his inclu sion in the Ministry would, of course secure his vote. Retrenchment, too, is promised as a strong card in the platform of the present Administration, and the inclusion of this arch-economist should be a guarantee that retrenchment is abso lutely intended. His inclusion is popu lar on both sides of the House, and the member for Awarua should strengthen Mr Ballance's Government, It is an open secret that he was strongly pressed to take office, but his business engage ments would only admit of his inclusion without portfolio Such a thing would pass in the Legislative Council, but it is a novelty to see a member of the Govern ment in such a position in the Lower House. A short session is now inevitable, and another week is likely to see an adjourn ment made till the close of the financial year. Those members who are engaged in farming say it is fearfully inconvenient for them to be away from home at the present time. The supporters of the late Ministry may not object to an adjourn ment for three months, but if it is attempted to prorogue the House, thus insuring the extra cost of a double honorarium, a division will be insisted on, so that the earnestness of members with regard to their retrenchment may be placed on record. It is rumored in the lobbies this after noon that Sir M. O'Rorke is to be called to the Legislative Council, with a view to his accepting a portfolio later on.
