The Barnsley election appears conclusive, so far as the par-
ticular locality goes, in showing that the exposure of the forged letters has had little effect one way or the other on the Irish Question. The Liberal majority in 1885 was 3,983. In 1886, the Gladstonian majority was only 2,508 on a poll of 8,342. On Tuesday, it was only 2,451 on a poll of 10,013. In other words, the upshot of the Pigott forgeries was either nil so far as the electorate was concerned, or it was neutralised by some counteracting cause. Lord Compton, the Gladstonian candidate, was, of course, elected, but was not replaced in the triumphant position occupied by Mr. Kenny in 1883; indeed, he lost ground instead of gaining it. The poll of the Kenning- ton election, which will test the feeling of London, must have been known.last night ; but it was impossible for us, writing yesterday, to say what the result would be. Mr. Beaufoy, the Gladstonian candidate, has great influence, and in spite of his interest in selling intoxicating liquors, Sir Wilfrid Lawson has made a speech for him. Moreover, Mr. Gent-Davis, the last Member, has not done much to endear Conservatism to the electors of Kennington. All this is unfavourable to Mr. Beresford-Hope's chances, and the Conservative majority of 1886 left but little margin. Whichever party wins, the elec- tion is likely to be a close one. We sincerely hope that the Unionists will retain the seat, but whether they keep it or lose it, Mr. Bereaford-Hope will certainly have obtained for himself a high place among the Unionist candidates of the Metropolis.
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