The immense quantity of handbills circulated during a con- tested
election, affords some idea of the heavy taxes imposed upon candidates. Mr. BABBAGE, the late 'candidate for Finsbury, dis-
tiibated during his canyaSsne less a quantity than printed addresses, eircularS, &O.: This fact goes to negative the sugges- tiani hinted at in our last Number, that parsimony contributed to his defeat; and it becomes an iiimortant subject for the considera- tion of 'electors, whether any, much less a large outlay, by those Who are willing' to undertake the onerous duties of an honest Member-of 'Parliament, is consistent With the idea of political in-. dependency in their representatives? 'Until a radical change takes place' in the nature of mankind,'those -who gratify their ambition by purchase (for such is the-sacrifice of even one thousand pounds td' sit in the 'House' of Commons) will, when the novelty of -the hOnour haa worn off, repay themselves in some way : and whether this be done by obtaining an appointment for themselves or any member, of their families, or by consulting their own convenience in' attending the -House and Committees, the effect is nearly the same to the public, Wheee-interests are invariably neglected. We like in a mercaitile-einntry: the nature of Englishnen is essen- tially commercial ; and' • that fai Which they pay, always has been, is,-and.ever will-be, in their eyes an-object of barter or sale. Who, unless -extremely rich and unusually charitable, gives a'few hun- dred potmds to a hospital:even, without the hope ota-perthanent return'.? .
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