STRATFORD.

New Zealand Times, Volume LVIX, Issue 2999, 10 December 1896, Page 1

STRATFORD.

Special to the New Zealand Times. Stbatpoed, December 8. The strain of the general elections here was intense. The motif of the female franchise was plainly seen by the large numberjof women who thronged the polling booth all day. The women, it is admitted, hero made by far the best canvassers, and the ladies committee of the now member worked like Trogans. The election of Mr Walter Symes ns member for the district is !a popular one, and on his return to his home, near Toko, on Saturday, almost the entice population turned out to welcome him. A couple of Oppositionists who attempted to heckle the Premier during his speech here last Wednesday night were treated rather roughly by the young men of the town. One of ths interrupters had to seek police protection to gain his homo that night, while the other was publicly decorated ! The friends of each candidate worked remarkably hard, but the odds in favour of the Government man were overwhelming. The New Plymouth Cycling Club, to the number of some 50 or .so, including three ladies, had a run to Stratford on Sunday. It was arranged that the Wavorley, Patea and Hawera Clubs were to meet them here, but the Southern cyclists did not turn up. The weather is intensely hot, and the supply Of tank water is running short. Eaiu is badly needed. To-day bush fires are to be seen all round the country.