CHAMPAGNE LUNCHEONS. TO THE EDITOR.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 3366, 19 November 1872, Page 3

CHAMPAGNE LUNCHEONS. TO THE EDITOR.

Sir—ln reading your telegram inforn.ation in this morning's paper—which, of course, must be presumed correct —Mr Gillies is reported to say, in allusion to Mr Vogel, "He kept his parly in hand by a series of chamSagne luncheons, propagated canards," &c. Tow, Sir, I consider it only just and fair to five this statement a moat unqualified denial. t ia simply not true. The meetings at Mr Vogel's house were called by myself as acting for the party. It was the most convenient place of meeting to members, although I should think not for Mr Vogel's family. There never was a champagne luncheon, not even a biscuit or glass of wine. The meetings were called for businesa, and i* was only business that was transacted. I may state that I had the pleasure of enjoying Mr Vogel's hospitality upon one evening, on which occasion I had the pleasure of meeting there not only Mr Gillies, but also Mr Stafford. The statement is so very ungenerous and so contrary to fact, that I am compelled to •notice it.

Upon a fitting opportunity J shall take notice of equally unjust statements in the telegram.—l am, &c., Ed. M'Guwha-v. TWe are in no wise responsible for Mr Gilliea's statement*,—En. O.D.T.]