THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

Auckland Star, Volume XVIII, Issue 228, 28 September 1887, Page 5

THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

OFFERS OF SCATS TO THE rREHHSSB.

He Positively Declines. (BY TELEGRAPH—OWN" CORRKSPOXPKXT.) Dun'edix, this day. Sir R. Stoitt yesterday had five seats, from Auckland southwards, placed at his disposal if he would consent to reconsider his determination to stand or fall by the verdict of the Dunedin East electors. The Premier, however, declined to entertain the offer?. The following correspondence is published : " Dnnedin, September 27.—My dear Sir Robert: The pleasure and the worth of my own victory is deeply darkened by your defeat. I said at the hustings that I would rather lose ray own election than you lose ypurs. This morning 1 conferred with some of my principal supporters, and suggested that I should offer to resign in your favour. They heartily concurred. Feeling, as I do, that your absence from the House in the present juncture of affairs is nothing less than a colonial calamity, 1 am satisfied that the electors of Dunedin Central will cordially approve of my action, and that if you accept my offer you will be returned without opposition. The country can well spare me, but can't spare you.—l am, etc., Frko. Fitch ett." " My Dear Fitehett,—How can I adequately express my thanks to you and the others who have kindly offered to resign in my favour. I can assure you I shall never forget it as long as memory endures. I. have, however, resolved not to accept any seat. You are young, and just entering the political arena, and you must be careful of your future. If I can assist you m any way do not fail to ask me. No ; you must not think of resigning. I cannot accept such an offer. But the fact that such was made shall be treasured by me.—Yours very truly, Rotikrt Stout."

A petition is being got up to ask Sir Robert Stout to reconsider his decision.