5 DECEMBER 1885, Page 2

It is, perhaps, as well that a representative of the

Crofter movement, which has obtained great influence in the Highlands, should be returned to Parliament. Mr. Macdonald, whom the cottagers have made Member for Ross and Cromarty by a sweeping majority, will get his extreme ideas modified by dis- cussion, and perhaps persuade the House to make some reform in the interest of those he represents. We regret to see, how- ever, that his return has been purchased by the sacrifice of Mr. Munro-Ferguson, a very promising young Member, who might have developed into a statesman. He had a real sympathy with the people ; but the Crofters could not persuade themselves to trust one of the landlord class.