The Sydney newspapers contain reports of an interview with Mr.
Barton, the Federal delegate from New South Wales, in which he gives his impressions of the leading British politicians. He expresses the opinion that Lord Salisbury is "still possibly England's most forceful states- man," while Mr. Chamberlain struck him as the strongest Parliamentarian. Of the latter Mr. Barton writes : "He is a man of great force of character, very able, very adroit, and, in my opinion, perfectly honest." He was also much impressed by the "delicate distinction of mind and refine- ment of character" of Mr. Arthur Balfour and Mr. John Morley. At one dinner he was placed between Mr. Balfour and Lord Halebury. The contrast between "the genial sim. plicity of the one and the stateliness of the other was most marked. "At dinner one prefers simplicity." Mr. Barton's extensive experience of public dinners during his visit to England entitles his opinion to the respect due to an expert.
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