REACTION AGAINST SEDDONISM.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XXX, Issue 285, 2 December 1896, Page 2

REACTION AGAINST SEDDONISM.

A Big Silent Vote Expected. Mr Grimmond at Hokitika. (From our Special Correspondent). Hokitika, This Day, Mr Griinmond's candidature in opposition to the Premier is the one subject of talk throughout Westland. Since the day of nomination Mr Grimmond has conducted a most active campaign throughout the most populous parts o£ the constituency. At Ross, on Saturday night, he had an excellent reception, and was applauded to the echo. Eimu received him most flatteringly and at both places he should head the poll by big majorities. Mrs Seddon was among the audience at Kanieri and a couple of Seddonites considerably disturbed the meeting. Despite this a motion of thanks and confidence was carried with cheers, counter cheers being given for the Premier. The meeting here last night was the largest political gathering for years past. Mr Grimmond spoke for two hours and was repeatedly interrupted by prominent Seddonites. Mrs Seddon and her daughter occupied front seats, but despite this and interjections the candidate delivered an outspoken address and was warmly applauded all through. At the conclusion tho applause lasted a considerable time and was most hearty. Mr Bevan ex-AI.H.R., presided and nad a difficult task in keeping the questioners, all prominent Seddonites, in order, but he succeeded admirably, while Mr Grimmond's replies met with pronounced applause. The Eov Mr Wood, who moved a vote of thanks and confidence, delivered an incisive speech which was loudly applauded. Dr Kendall seconded the motion. Mr Pollock attempted to move a direct negative but being ruled out of order, spoko against the motion amid interruption. Tho motion was declared carried on a capital show of hands and the mooting dispersed with cheers for the rival candidate. Mr Grimmond speaks at the northern ond of the constituency to-night and to.norrow. Friends of the sitting member expect a large majority but Mr Cirimmond will receive a big measure of silent support throughout Westland and his return is by no means improbable. The result of meetings so far has proved that there is considerable genuine opposition to Mr Seddon in the district. At Kaneiri Mr Grimmond had a meeting hostile to him,