The Late M.P.C. for the Arrow.

Bruce Herald, Volume VII, Issue 650, 17 November 1874, Page 5

The Late M.P.C. for the Arrow.

Mr Clarke, late M.P.C. for the Arrow, hat been attacked in some quarters for his assertion that he resigned because he found it impossible to get a recognition of the just claims of his district, by either the Superintendent or Executive — or, indeed, for the matter of that, even by the Provincial Council. Since Mr Manders 1 unopposed return, Mr Clarke has published the following reply to the attacks made upon him : — 1. I was elected by a small majority, in an over-divided field. My pledge was to support the Superintendent's and progressive measures, and "to do the best I could for this district."

2. The question of local self-government, as it is called, was not under consideration at the time of my election. 3. I have used every remonstrance which decent language and behavior permitted in pleading the cause of the district with the Provincial authorities, as well as the Provincial Council — and all in vain.

4. To repeat such remonstrance after such treatment would be simply contemptible ; and you, Sir, would be first to say my want of success was owing to my want of tact and courtesy. 5. Had I spoken of constitutional changes in the Provincial Council, I would be undoubtedly silenced by the statement that I had not the opinion of my constituents, and was representing myself, not them. 6. In the election of Mr Henry Manders I claim a most complete victory for my principles ; and I feel confidence that notwithstanding those merits which you have lately discovered in your humble servant, Mr Manders will prove himself a credit to the district which he has so long and so faithfully served in many public manners and matters. 7. Your representative is now armed with the most powerful unanimity of this constituency, and the fact cannot be denied by the Provincial authorities, who cannot say they have answered him before, or that he is " too enthusiastic or visionary." 8. The satisfactory state of circumstances which we boast of in having obtained the public expression on the question at issue could not have been brought about by any other means but my resignation, which you have characterised as silly, ill-advised, and hasty, which I deny.