THE PREMIUM'S DEFEAT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXIV, Issue 8065, 28 September 1887, Page 5

THE PREMIUM'S DEFEAT.

iBY TBLEOBAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Nelson, Tuesday. The great excitement which prevailed yesterday in respect to the elections has given place to-day to a feeling of general regret and depression consequent on the report that Sir R. Stout is not returned. Mr. John Kerr, who was elected for Motueka by a substantial majority, telegraphed to-day, asking whether Sir Robert would accept his seat, but he has received a reply as follows :— "First, congratulations ou your success; second, many thanks to Nelson people and to yourself, but I will not accept any other eeat."

Dunedin, Tuesday. Sir R. Stout had the offer of at least five seats to-day, but he adheres to his determination not to enter public life again. Dr. Fitohett addressed the following letter, and received the accompanying reply :—

" Dunadin, September 27.—My dear Sir Robert: The pleasure and the worth of my own victory are nearly darkened by your defeat. 1 said at the hustings that 1 would rather lose my own election than you lose yours. This morning I conferred with some of my principal supporters, and suggested that I should offer to resign in your favour. They heartily concurred, feeling, as I do, that your absence from the House in the present juncture of affairs is nothing lees than a colonial calamity. lam satisfied that the electors of Dunedin Central will cordially approve of my action, and that if you accept my offer you will be returned without opposition. The oountry can well spare me, but can't spare you.—l am, &c, Fred. Fitchett."

"My Dear Fitchett,—Ho;v can I adequately express my thanks -io you and the others who have kindly offered to re»ign in my favour. I can assure you I shall never forget it as long as memory endures. I have, however, resolved not to accept any seat. You aro young, and just entering the political arena, and you must be careful of your future. If I cau assist you ia any way do not fail to ask me. No ; you must not think of resigning. 1 cannot accept such an oiler. But the fact that such was made shall be treasured by yours very truly, Eobt. Stout."

A number of gentlemen assembled in the Chamber of Commerce in the afternoon, when a motion was carried that those present form themselves into a committee to proceed to get up a monster petition asking Sir R. Stout to re-consider his intention.