I hasten to inform you that I have been induced to offer myself
as a Candidate for the Northern Division of my own County,
both the representatives of which are about to retire from
Parliament. This circumstance will lead to the termination of
my connection with your Borough, a connection to which I shall
always look back with pleasure, and with a sincere feeling of
gratitude for the uniform kindness I have received at the hands
both of my political supporters and my opponents among you.
Should it ever be in my power at any future time to render any
service to my late constituents, they may freely command me.
I remain, Gentlemen,
Your faithful and obliged Servant,
STAFFORD H. NORTHCOTE.
_Pynes, Exeter, March 12th, 1857._
This announcement caused a deputation to start off at once to induce
Sir Stafford to withdraw his determination, but it returned with the
unpleasant news that "the die was cast," and that our honourable member
would not withdraw his resignation, nor sit any longer under a local
dictatorship.
Swift and decisive was the action of all the political elements in the
Borough at this momentous period. The old Tory party, with Mr. Isaac
Badger at their head, was highly enraged at the Castle influence over
our esteemed member. The Radical party was equally furious at this
wanton interference in high quarters; and the more sober thinking
electors began to feel that it was absolutely necessary, now at this
juncture, and for ever, to break the neck of that galling dictation
which had so long existed in the Borough. The strife began at once in
earnest, and bitter indeed was that contest which shook the political
House of Himley to its base, and sent the Castle Nominee back to his
friends.