MR R. MONK IN REPLY.

Auckland Star, Volume XX, Issue 290, 6 December 1889, Page 4

MR R. MONK IN REPLY.

(To the Editor.)

Sib, —In your issue of yesterday an elector expresses himself over whab he considers my inconsistency in voting against Mr Ballance's motion for a dissolution, and thereby helping to continue a Parliamenb which, I consider, has nob met fche expectations bhe country formed ab bhe time ib was returned.

If "Elector" had read ray remarksmadoab the time thab motion was before the House he would note that I put forth some good reasons for acting as I did, also that I oxpressed myself with stronger disapproval before members (who could then contradict my statements) than wero my utterances ab Devonport; and if "Elector" had questioned me then I think I could havo satisfied him of the probability thab a dissolution would nob have eventuatod in an improved Parliament, my bolief being that Wellington and the South, because of the immediate relief they aro feeling through good harvests and satisfying prices, are indifferent to those issues over which we are earnestly concerned. " Elector" should remember that accuracy is desirable in stating the sayings o£ others, for I did not " lecture on the venality or want of patriotism shown by all the members," etc., nor yob did I except or prai3o inysolf. I said that I regretted the result of many of the divisions in the present Parliament— that there is no lack of ability in tho House but a want of patriotism. Does "Elector" think otherwise ? If so, he for one is not in the mood with which I hope the country will be stirred at the next election. R. Monk. Auckland, December sth, 1889.