THE ASSIMILATION OF COUNTY AND BOROUGH FRANCHISE.
[To THE EDITOR OF THE "SPECTATOR."]
Stn,—As this question is now engaging much public attention, and seems likely to take precedence upon the meeting of Parlia- ment, I think that many of your readers will be glad to have their attention called to a pamphlet published by Messrs. Simpkin, Marshall, and Co., under the above title, and which, after careful perusal, cannot fail to commend itself to those desiring a concise and clear examination of this important and interesting subject.
It is written by Mr. Havelock Fisher, a gentleman who for some years has devoted himself to the study of political and Parliamentary subjects, and seems an excellent paper,—the most compendious yet offered to the public. The literary ability dis- played is above the average, and the pamphlet is written in a philosophic spirit, rather than from a party view. The question is treated with a discernment and an impartiality that will go far to temper existing prejudices, and allay the exaggerated alarms of those politicians whose apprehensions have been aroused by the proposed further development of popular power.
The arguments are terse and forcible, and supported by well- ordered statistics. The views expressed are apparently sound and constitutional; and inasmuch as it has already passed through two editions (a third being called for), and furthermore has been dedicated by permission to the Chief Secretary for Ireland, and commended by him and by several leading Mem- bers of Parliament, you will perhaps feel that I am justified in asking you to give it, by publicity in your columns, that fair
consideration I believe it merits.—I am, Sir, &c., TRURO.
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