The Times' commissioner sent to inquire on the spot into
Irish tenure has fairly commenced his work, and as yet betrays no bias. He is in Tipperary, and describes the labourers there as fairly well off ; but the fkrmers are almost all tenants-at-will, while at the same time, with some modern exceptions, " all that has been done for the improvement of the land has been the work of the occupiers, not of the owners." Instances of injustice are not numerous, but are sufficient to spread a fear of possible wrong and oppression among the whole class, who consequently combine to defend themselves. The commissioner does not doubt that it would be very dangerous to make evictions, except for non- payment of rent. We do hope he will give us some clear infor- mation upon this point, upon which no two Irishmen ever agree. Does the Irish tenant consider eviction for failure to pay rent just? To ascertain that clearly must be the first step in any reform.
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