MR. T. E. TAYLOR.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2643, 27 October 1909, Page 4

MR. T. E. TAYLOR.

A SURPRISING RUMOR, (Special to “Times.”) WELLINGTON,' Oct, 26. There is a rumor in the lobbies that Mr. T. E. Taylor is likely to be elevated to Cabinet rank. No one kno\vs ■how the rumor originated, but it is there. The only grounds for it that I can see are (1) that Mr. Taylor sits on a rail as did Mr. Tlios. Mackenzie, being neither a supporter of the Opposition nor a member of the Liberal party. The old railer Tom Avas rewarded for falling off the rail on the smooth side of the political lawn, and the younger Tom may also be induced to alight on the softer turf; (2) that Mr. Taylor has approved the Hon. G. FoAvlds’ attitude in subjugating his private convictions on the land question for party purposes, and that therefore he migiit.be induced to alter his vieAA-s; and (3) That Mr. Taylor has of late been unusually subdued during Parliamentary discussions. There is one other reason suggested—Mr. Taylor is the political head of the Prohibitionist party, and it might be considered advisable on the part of the Government to placate that formidable and groAving section of the electors by including him in the' Ministry. Mr. Taylor, moreover, is a keen critic and an" able debater who can, when he chooses, make the AA*orse appeajr the better reason. As against aff this, however, Mr. Taylor has in the past been a violent critic of the Government and its administrative conduct, and. the many supporters of the Government avlio are eagerly looking forward to promotion Avould be likely to kick over the traces if lie Avere offered Cabinet rank. There is dissatisfaction enough at the promotion of the other Tom, who had never earned ■ his reward in the ordinary course by slavish adherence to the ooAvers that be. It is hard to say what may or may not be done by the v present. Government, but I should not suppose Mr. ; Taylor to have much chance of elevation in the circumstances.