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Taranaki Herald, Volume XL, Issue 9056, 14 April 1891, Page 2

If the present Ministry can keep its party together during the next session it will be safe for the full terra of Parliament. With a majority of eleven there is not much chance of a Ministry, being ousted by an Opposition split up as the Atkinson party has become since the last election. The Wellington papers we notice are already discussing the question as to who shall take the lead of the party opposed to the N Government. The Press says: — "Mr Bryce was looked to as the man who had the greatest experience and the greatest prestige. He, however, absolutely refused to be appointed to the Committee except on the distinct understanding that in the event of the Government being ousted he should not be pledged to assume the responsibility of forming a Ministry. His friends have since strongly urged him to take the lead, but we understand that he has definitely declined. The next man in order of preference was -either Captain Russell or Mr Rolleston. Neither of them is at all anxious for the onerous though honourable position, and both have, as far as we can ascertain, but one object in view — the 'success' of the principles for which tthe party, as a party, contend. The question, then, as to the choice of a leader is difficult simply from what the French style au embfirras de richesses. Without pretending'to decide as to who would be the - best man to take command, we cannot overlook the fact that Captain Russell* has numerous strong qualifications for the post." With Captain Russell as leader of the Opposition the Government will meet with nothing but fair play. He is a Liberal and economist in every sense of the word, and although we hardly think he will collect around him during the present Parliament a strong enough party to oust the Ministry now in power, we may expect to hear of Cap : tain Russell being sent for by the Governor to form a Minittry before many years have past.