MR. CHAMEBRLAIN'S RELPY.

Colonist, Volume XLVIII, Issue 11555, 16 February 1906, Page 2

MR. CHAMEBRLAIN'S RELPY.

Received February 15, 10.15 p.m. London, February 15. Mr Chamberlain replied that he cordially weclomed the letter. He said :— I entirly agree with the description and objects we both have in view, and I gladly accept the policy indicated as wise and desirable for the party to adopt in endeavoring to give effect to this policy and defending all Unionist principles. Any services I can render are entirely at your disposal. Earlier in the day Mr Balfour issued an election address, stating that he had no misgivings as to the party's future. They must not forget, in pursuing the duties of an Opposition, to prepare the way for those fiscal reforms which the country would ultimately require at their hands. The City Conservative Association has adopted Mr Balfour's candidature with enthusiasm. Mr Balfour, in responding, said the only thing needful was cheerful unanimity to enable the minority to earn the right to be again in the majority. By Showing some perspective, some power of balancing great matters wherein they agreed against small ones wherein they might differ he anticipated a certain kind of en- ■ joyment in the struggle wherein they would gradually convert the thinking part of the community to their views. Received February 16, 12. U a.m. London, February 15. The newspapers commenting . on the correspondence between Mr Ballour and Mr Chamberlain recognise the important step of merging the two policies, and Mr Balfour's skilful opportunism — in the better sense of the word — as a means for the immediate unity of the bulk of the party and for a gradual constructive policy. The Liberal organs emphasise his reservations. The "Morning Post" says that Mr Balfour has crossed the bridge and will retain the leadership. Mr Chamberlain inspires the party's policy, and the free-fooders are left on the other side of the gulf. "The Times" says the correspondence leaves no excuse for misunderstandings within the party or for persistence in an attempt to divide its allegiance. The impres-

£ — •- "- 1 sion produced on the rank and file of the party will be marked and salutory. „ „, _ , The "Daily News" say3 Mr Balfnur has paid the full price of leadei - ship. He accepts Mr Chamberlain's mandate. The "Daily Graphic" remarks that Mr Bnlfour's change is dramatic but is disjigreeable; it produces a distinct impression of a journey to Uanossa as a condition of confirmation of leadership. If the policy is adhered to it will be years before the Conservatives can* return to power; ... , Tbb now Liberal ne^fipaper "Tribune" says' that apart from frfcetrade, the Stalwart Unionists are definitely committed to protection.