POLITICAL GOSSIP.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6069, 27 October 1887, Page 4

POLITICAL GOSSIP.

— * [By Telkgraph.J [from a cobekspondent.]; WELLINGTON, Oct. 26. The hißtory of the Atkinson Ministry's formation, arid the events immediately preceding it, has not yet been made public, but some of it oozes out from time to time. There seems no doubt now that the Ministerialists who devoted so much time, and woatedso much indignation in denouncing" an imaginary proposal for a coalition between Sir Julius Yogel and Major Atkinson, supposed to have emanated from the late Treasurer, were very much on the wrong track. A proposal for a coalition was made, but not between the Major and Sir Julius. The alliance offered came from the present Premier, and was an offer to Sir R. Stout. Major Atkinson, I understand, proposed to call Sir Robert to the Upper House, and entrust him with the portfolio of Attorney-General. Sir Eobert, however, expressed his inability to entertain the proposal under any circumstances, or with any modifications, so the suggested coalition fell through. According to the account given me there would seem to have been no. ill-feeling caused either by the making of the offer, or by its refusal. Undoubtedly Sir Eobert took the proper course in declining such an offer, but Major Atkinson was perfectly justified in seeking to form a strong coalition Ministry, after the confusion into which the late elections had thrown the old political parties. Sir Eobert Stout is engaged to argue a case at thd coming Bitting of the Court of Appeal, and will therefore be in Weilington ne*t week during the discussion of the forthcoming Financial Statement. Tjfo doubt his opinion will bo asked on the matter by many old f rienda.