Defeat of Stout.

Gisborne Standard and Cook County Gazette, Volume I, Issue 48, 1 October 1887, Page 3

Defeat of Stout.

Dvxedix, September 29. The Star says;—Sir Robert Stout today had five seats placed at his disposal, if he would consent to re-consider nia determination to stand or fall by the verdict of the Dunedin East electors. The Premier, however, declined to entertain the offers. We fiftve been permitted by Sir Robert io publish the following letters, Which speak for themselves ; —

My dear Sir Robert,—Ths pleasure anti Worth of my own victory is deeply darkened by your defeat. I said at the hustings that I would rather lore my own election than see you low yours. This morning I conferred with some of my principal supporters, and iuggested that I should offer to resign in youi favour. They heartily concurred. Feeling, M I do, that your absence from the House in the present juncture of affairs is nothing less than a colonial calamity. I am satisfied that the Dunedin Central will cordially approve of mj action, and that if you accept my offer you will be returned without opposition. The country can well spare me, but it cannot spare you.—X have, etc., Fbbd. Fitchett. My dear Fitchett,— How cun 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 so long as my 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 1 pan assist you in 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, Robkbi Stout.