It is with the deepest regret that We note that
when Mr. Austen Chamberlain speaks at Canterbury (we Write on Friday before the meeting) Mr. H. H. Marks is to occupy a place on the platform, and is also to address the meeting. The Rev. Herbert Bull and Mr. J. W. Weigel', who have played so honourable a part in the effort to cleanse the Thanet division from the disgrace of Mr. Mars's Membership, Wrote to Mr. Austen Chamberlain protesting against the endorsement of Mr. Marks's representation inVolved in their presence on the same platform. Mr. Austen Chamberlain, however, unfortu- nately, did not see his way to Make the absence of Mr. Marks from the platform the condition of his presence, alleging that the selehtion oi other speaker behinged to the local Committee, and that it was not a matter in which he could concern 1th:itself. With all icapect to Mr. Austen Chamberlain, this is exactly a matter with ivhiCh ,a Man of his high character and sound political record . should thneern himself. His 1)11'6'de:its is to set a good example, and • not to follow a bad. One. What 'hakes the whole matter more deplorable is that the Tariff Reform League, through Lord Ridley, with the consent of Mr. Joseph Chamberlain, played so straightforward and fear- less a part in regard to Mr. Marks's candidature last winter. We wonder whether Mr. Austen Chamberlain is aware that a letter appeared in our columns, signed by Mr. McCormick- Goodhart, only a few months ago, speaking of Mr. Marks in terms which, employed about any other man of standing, must have involved the writer in a demand for an instant apology or an action for libel. Mr. Marks made no sign whatever. Mr. Austen Cis m')erlain, in our opinion, has lost a great opportunity of showing the public how dear he holds the honour and probity of our public life.
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