LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.
[Letters of the length of one of our leading paragraphs are often more read, and therefore more effective, than those which fill treble the space.] . _—
THE SALE OF HONOURS.
[TO THE EDITOR Or rue " SPECTATOR:]
SPH,—It ie meal, to be regretted that Lord Curzon did not fully accept Lord Selhorne's proposals, with any modifications or addi- tions which would make them more effectual. Every one of us is convinced that this abuse exists, reflects great discredit on all concerned, and does Mita° harm to vital interests of the nation. Party funds are a grave evil, and should he abolished, or so restricted that this special mischief will be extirpated for ever. In my own opinion, party funds not only have the special dangers discussed on the motion, but create a power behiud the across which destroys the real independence of constituencies, by trans- ferring.choice of candidates to party managers, and increases the demoralization of rich men practically buying and selling seals in Parliament, and being tempted to wholesale, if disguised. corruption of electors. The main remedies are plain—absolute publicity of accounts, and wholesale cutting down of election expenses. These would nearly remove the chief dangers. But it may well be considered whether the present powers of the Executive in recommending persoas for distinctions should not be got rid of, or so restricted or conditioned, as to remove temptation or opportunity to do harm. All this hardly needs stating. Lord Selborne's proposals gave the right lead in the right direction.—
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