PETERSFIELD, Saturday, Nov. 14.
THE ELECTION. — The Conservative candidate was on Wednesday evening introduced to the electors of this borough, and met with a very cordial reception. Many of the leading gentlemen of the town and neighbourhood formed themselves into a committee to secure the return of their champion with a zeal and resolution that promises complete success. After a few words from Dr. Leachman, Mr. Du Pre Thornton, the new candidate, in a very fluent manner, expressed himself desirous of giving to the inhabitants of Petersfield the opportunity of voting for the principles that for many years had been upheld by their representative. If they did not heartily desire to have a Conservative as their member, he was not the man to force himself upon them, but if, as he felt convinced, they scorned the idea of being handed over to the Liberals without being consulted, he was ready to fight the battle for them—the winning battle. (Loud cheers.) Very shortly he proposed meeting the inhabitants of Petersfield at the Townhall, there to explain his views on the leading question of the day, and he at that meeting would be rejoiced to answer any questions that the electros might think fit to put to him. But, in passing, he would say that he was prepared to contend that there was no inconsistency on the part of the Conservatives in passing the late Reform Bill. Their desire had always been that every class should be fairly represented. He was opposed—strongly opposed—to the disestablishment of the Irish Church. Protestantism should not be weakened, nor a foreign Power—the Church of Rome—allowed supremacy in our land. He was satisfied that, looking at the present condition of the country, no place on earth could compare with it, either for freedom of speech, liberty of action, and a sense of security no other possessed. After a few other remarks of local interest, Mr. Du Pre Thornton exhorted them to work earnestly together, and then, though late in the field, he for one felt confident that the electors would place him at the head of the poll, and re-establish the prestige of the borough. Mr. Du Pre Thornton's speech was received with marked approval by the electors. Dr. Leachman proposed and the Rev. W. Adams seconded that Mr. Thornton was a fit and proper person to represent Petersfield in Parliament.(Loud applause.) Very much enthusiasm is felt by the Petersfield electors at the opposition, it being quite apparent that they have no idea of being thrust over body and soul to the Liberals without choice in the matter.