The Blue Ribbon.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 5272, 31 May 1895, Page 1

The Blue Ribbon.

(Lyiielton Times.')

The second success of the English Premier in the Epsom Derby is a notable event in many ways. The sporting world, which is always superstitious, will regard it as the forerunner of a greater triumph for Lord Eosebery at the next general election; but thousands of good people who look upon racing as one of the cardinal sins, will see in Sir Visto's victory a death-blow to the Liberal administration. Probably both views are extravagant. It is true that nothing succeeda like success; but it is doubtful if the applause Lord Eosebery earned at Epsom on Wednesday will count for many votes when he refers the policy of his party to the country. The average elector can discriminate between the sportsman and the politician, and no statesman can expect to secure much solid support by the achievements of his stable. In the same way the custodians of the "Nonconformist conscience," who demanded the immediate resignation of Lord Eosebery when Ladas won the classic race a year ago, are not at all likely to persuade the Liberal Party that a return to Conservatism would be better than the retention of a sporting Premier. If the electors approve of Lord Eosebery 's policy, they will not seriously trouble themselves about the manner in which his Lordship takes his pleasures. At the same time we confess to having some sympathy with those critics who hold that a leaderof thepeople should avoid a pastime which gives offence to a considerable section of the community. Racing, while perfectly unobjectionable in itself, is not necessary to the existence of the English Premier, and the evils by which it is Burrounded must always reflect- more' or less reproach upon its active patrons.