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New Zealand Herald, Volume XXIV, Issue 8066, 6 October 1887, Page 4

The political situation in Wellington is awakening much interest as the day ap« proaches on which Major Atkinson undertook to report to the Governor his chances of success in forming a Ministry. One thing which becomes very apparent from to-day's despatches is, that the movement in favour of an Atkinson-Yogel coalition has now come to an end. In view of the issue on which the country had just given its unmistakeable decision, nothing but the sheerest folly could ever have induced anyone to imagine that such a proposal would meet with any favour save among Sir Julius Voxel's personal friends. In place of this a report which is more likely to have a solid foundation is, that Sir Frederick Whitaker will have a good deal to Bay in the construction of the Government that Major Atkinson may submit to His Excellency. The fact of his proceeding to Wellington thus early is no doubt due to the solicitation of Major Atkinson, and those other members whom Sir Froderick was formerly associated with in office. And, though, in consequence of the enfeebled state of his health, he may not see his way to accept any responsible position in the Cabinet, his countenance and support at this critical stage.in the colony's history, will yet be of incalculable value to the Administration. It is possible that ho may be induced to take some office without portfolio; and this, while it would not require his residence at Wellington, would give a stability to the Ministry such a3 could not otherwise be easily secured. All things considered there is, as we have steadily maintained there would bo, a most satisfactory prospect of the Opposition being able to supply a strong Ministry, such as will command their united support and give a welcome assurance that the affairs of the country will bo placed on a safer and more economis footing than they have been for the past three years.