SOLID AND LOYAL

Gisborne Times, Volume XXX, Issue 3462, 29 February 1912, Page 5

SOLID AND LOYAL

THE REFORM PARTY. SUPPORTING MR. MASSEY. Attempts have been made to discredit the Reform party, in the opinion of the public by the circulation of rumors of disintegration and disloyaltv. There is substantial evidence *of solidarity, of its forces and of the unqualified allegiance of its members to Mr Massey. The views of the party were expressed this evening by a group of Oppositionists who are intimately acquainted with .the opinions of all the members of the party. They ridiculed the suggestion that the tactics of their leader had been questioned in any way, and in support of this statement described the heartiness with which the members of the

party had met Mr Massey at the conclusion of the Debate on tlio previous evening. The greatest goodwill was displayed towards him and the toast of his health was honored with expressions of appi'eciation of the valuable services rendered by him to the party accompanied by testimonies of the unanimous desire .of the party that Mr Massey should long be spared to guide its destinies. A caucus meeting of the party was held this evening and was attended by all but two members who had been called away from Wellington on private business. The meeting was marked by the unabated confidence and a feeling tliat tlie defeat of the party was only temporary. The idea that any Reform member was looking for a party with higher principles was ridiculed. It is evident from the character of the party meetings that have been held since the general election that never before in its history lias the Opposition been more solid or loyal than it is at the present time. A rumor has been industriously circulated to-day that two members of the party propose to transfer their support to the “Liberal” party. There is not a shadow of foundation for the statement.