25 AUGUST 1894, Page 14

[To THE EDITOR OF VIE " SPECTLTOR.."]

Sen,—In my short letter in the Spectator of August 18th, I fear I let brevity lapse into obscurity. By saying that the ballot had ceased to exist, I merely meant that, at least among the so-called educated people, the secrecy of the ballot no longer exists. Among a man's friends, neighbours, and party, any change in his political opinions must be soon known although his vote is given without a witness. And therefore, though the ballot may still protect the artisan or agricul- tural labourer from the wrath of his employer, it no longer protects Brown, Jones, or Robinson from the ridicule", that is so hard to bear, when he is obliged to confess that he finds himself on the wrong side.—I am, Sir, &c., A. A.