The Southampton Election Committee, in commencing the actual in- quiry,
yesterday, decided on admitting " strangers ;" so there are reports of its proceedings. Mr. Baker appeared as agent for the petitions by the " electors " and "inhabitants" of Southampton. The first witness whom he called was John Wren ; who related several circumstances similar to those mentioned in his petition. He said that he had lost custom in his business as a dyer by the persecution of the Tories ; and the Whig party had done nothing to compensate him. He put the charge against Mr. Abraham, the Returning-officer, very distinctly-
" When Lord Bruce went to Southampton, I attended the Committee at the Dolphin. Mr. Abraham then told me I should be remunerated for my ser- vices. He presented use with ten sovereigns, for which I gave a receipt. I had not been canvassed at that time. Lord Bruce and Mr. Martin solicited my vote about two hours afterwards. I know Edward Hunt. He took an active part in the election. I know John Coulson, an innkeeper. Hunt wished me to see Charles Coombe Callen, who was going to France by the steam-boat. I saw Callen ; who said that he wanted to in two bills for 97/. Its. 7d. discounted. I was anxious to screen Abraham In my former evi- dence. I told Abraham how much Callen required. Abraham said there would be no difficulty about getting the money, provided there were two re- sponsible names on the bills. He then suggested that I should lend Callen 101., and that the bills should be arranged afterwards. After the conversation with Abraham, I saw Mr. Mackay at the Dolphin ; when he gave me a 10/. note,which I handed to Callen's wife, and for which Callen himself gave me an IOU, which I subsequently gave to Mr. Mackay. I showed the 101. to Henry Pike, who is an active Conservative, and was engaged at the last election."
The proceedings were interrupted by the announcement that the Speaker was at prayers.
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