[TO THE EDITOR Or THE "SPECTATOR." J SIR, —If it be
true that demand creates supply, it surely cannot be long before a " Central " Party gets itself together. When Mr. Chamberlain turned his coat on the subject of the exchange of commodities, and when, as at this hour, the Liberal Party is working towards Protection through old-age pensions, and the Conservative Party by more direct methods, there were, and there are, thousands of men anxious to maintain their old-time principles if only they knew exactly where to put themselves. The first thing is to get a habitation and a name. As to the latter, the " Central " Party is a correct description at the moment, but may not always be so. I suggest as an improved title the "Free Conservative" Party. These two words include and express the main prin. ciples of most moderate men, and they convey an idea which might attract many Conservatives and moderate Liberals. We need not at present worry about being represented in Parliament. We have first to solidify and organise a body of opinion which undoubtedly exists throughout the country. When we have done that, we shall not have to seek for candidates ; they will come to us,—a much healthier condition. I venture to differ from you in regard to waiting for an opportunity. I say that the opportunity is here and now.
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