POLLING DAY.

Greymouth Evening Star, 7 December 1911, Page 3

POLLING DAY.

TELEGRAMS.

THE FINAL SHOTS FIRED. [BY telegraph—special to the stab.] CHRISTCHURCH, This Day. The campaign was brought to a close last night with a large number of meetings, some of them decidedly stormy. In several local electorates the candidates have contrived to quarrel on per, sonal grounds. The question whether the word "mongrel" as used by a" Avon candidate was general or specific in its application may possibly decide the fate of the seat. Mr L. M. Isitt (Independent), and Mr J. D. Hall (Opposition) who have fought fiercely in Christchurch North, held meeetings that probably foreshadow the,result of the polling. Mr Isitt spoke" three times to lal'ge and apparently enthusiastic audiences. Mr Flail drew only a small attendance to the Central Hall There appears to be no ground for a modification of previous estimates of the situation in" Canterbury. Indications suggest that the Liberals have real prospects of winning Rakaia and Ashburton, where some good speeches by the Native Minister may turn the scale.

A surprising feature of the situation in regard to the licensing poll is the evident nervousness of the official Liquor party. Christchurch gave a small maiority for No-license in 1908, and apparently the effect of the National Prohibition issue on the present poll is regarded with uneasiness. The prohibitionists are not anticipating much success, but they have worked verv hard. The Rev. R .S. Gray tried to address a huge crowd in Cathedral Square lasl night but could not secure a hearing. The interrupters were a minority and there were stormy scenes requiring po lice interference.