We omitted last week, by a strange oversight, to record
the result of the Bradford election. Mr. Shaw-Lefevre, a convinced Home-ruler, was returned by a majority of 780, less, it is reported, than the total of Irish votes. Mr. J. A. Watson, Chairman of the Liberal Two Hundred of the Central Division, has, however, resigned, stating that he and hundreds of other Liberals found " a vast and complicated question" suddenly sprung upon them, and that they therefore abstained from voting. It was quite natural for Mr. Watson at a bye-election of no im- portance to take that course ; but he will have to make up his mind more completely before the General Election. The Unionists have to face a most formidable force, led by the only leader who can evoke enthusiasm in it ; and if they cannot resolve to support any candidate who is a Unionist, be his other opinions what they may, they will be beaten as they were at Bradford. A majority of Members can pass the Bill, even if they were returned by majorities of only five votes apiece.
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