✨ Continuation of Inquiry Report
THE NEW ZEALAND GAZETTE. 819
of this curious feature of the case, I would direct attention to a circular which was produced in
evidence by Mr. John Lundon, and will be found in his evidence. This circular unmistakably
advises the packing of the electoral roll for a special purpose in as gross a manner as regards
the qualifications as ever was attempted by Mr. Lundon. Yet it has come to my knowledge that
it has been accepted without demur, and acted on with avidity, by gentlemen of the anti-Lundon
faction, who are loud in their condemnation of the tactics pursued by their opponent. It has
produced a singular effect on my mind to see that these gentlemen have a high sense of their
own honor, and would feel greatly pained to find it impugned. Yet it is evident that in their
minds the packing of the roll may be right or wrong accordingly as it serves or obstructs a
special purpose or party prejudice. If, however, the peculiar circumstances of the district are
considered—the sparse European population, the isolated communities, and the preponderance
of the Native people—there is perhaps little cause for surprise; for in such a district, where
Press criticism must be unfelt, and public opinion without existence, arbitrary exercise of power
and immoral political manœuvres can have no sufficient check.
In some of the petitions into which I have been directed to inquire, the subject is raised of
the Maori dual vote. This is a political question upon which I hold decided opinions, but I can
scarcely think that it was intended that I should express them here, and accordingly I have
scrupulously kept them in the background not only in this report, but throughout the inquiry.
Still, I think I am justified in remarking, by way of conclusion, that the evidence which I have
taken, and which I herewith submit to your Excellency, will be found to be highly instructive
even on that point.
Wanganui, 12th April, 1879.
I have, &c.,
JOHN BRYCE.
Printed under authority of the New Zealand Government, by GEORGE DIDSBURY, Government Printer, Wellington.
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NZ Gazette 1879, No 66
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Continuation of Inquiry into Electoral Roll Objections
(continued from previous page)
🏛️ Governance & Central Administration12 April 1879
Electoral roll, inquiry report, Maori vote, Wanganui, political tactics
- John Lundon (Mister), Mentioned regarding electoral roll evidence
- John Bryce