5 SEPTEMBER 1903, Page 3

The figures for the Argyllshire election were published last Saturday.

To the great surprise of local managers, the Liberal candidate, Mr. J. S. Ainsworth, was returned by a majority of 1,586, involving a turnover of 2,186 votes on a poll slightly exceeding 7,000. It is believed that the principal cause of this revulsion of feeling is Mr. Chamberlain's pro-

sal to tax food, which is said to be unpopular all through Scotland. It may be that the revelations of the War Commission also helped, but indignation at them takes time to filter down to the majority, who, more. over, have for such errors an invincible inclination towards forgiveness. If every Minister who neglected his duty were sure of punishment, duty would not so often be neglected.