NO. I.

To-day, the first pollings of the General Election take place, and

the electors will be called upon to decide one of the most momentous

issues that have ever been submitted to the judgment of the country.

For ourselves, we cannot doubt for a moment as to what the verdict

will be. It is impossible that a policy of empty promises, backed

by mere misrepresentation, should prevail against a glorious record

of administrative, legislative, and financial success. Careful

calculations have convinced us that those who now hold the reins of

office will return to power with a largely increased majority, to

continue their beneficent work. The country recognises by this time

that anything short of that would mean disaster to the commonwealth.

Even with a small majority, the forces of disorder would be able to

work untold mischief. Such a result, however, is not within the bounds

of possibility, seeing that the Election will be fought purely and

simply on the Irish question, which has been placed fully before the

electorate in all its bearings. Our organisation is perfect, and our

triumph assured.

Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 103, July 23, 1892 · 第 7 / 33 题