1890-91.] NOTE ON ELECTORAL REPRESENTATION. 315- 



Ottawa, January ist, 1892. 

 Alan Macdougall, Esq., 



Corresponding Secretary Canadian Institute, Toronto. 



Sir. — I am desirous of bringing to the attention of the Canadian 

 Institute a subject of more than ordinary importance, and to my 

 mind, especially so at this period in our history. I beg leave to 

 refer to the accompanying " Note " by which it may be seen that the 

 design in view is the removal of certain evils which unfortunately beset 

 us as a people. 



1 cannot resist the impression that the examination of the facts presents 

 a scientific problem, in no way unworthy the consideration of the 

 Institute ; and if a solution of the difficulties presented be possible, it can 

 best be obtained by bringing the subject to the attention of properly 

 Qualified minds. It is the duty of us all to seek the best means of 

 serving our country, and on this ground I appeal to the Institute to 

 extend its consideration to the matter which I respectfully ask per- 

 mission to lay before its members. The Institute, from its recognized 

 character as a scientific and literary body, holds a peculiarly favourable 

 position to entertain the consideration of the subject. It may be briefly 

 described as an inquiry into the possibility of rectifying our electoral and 

 parliamentary system, with the view of averting many evils now attend- 

 ing it, and of promoting the common happiness by terminating party 

 conflict, and assuring political peace and freedom, by the removal of the 

 painful and depressing influences from which we suffer. 



I feel therefore warranted in appealing to the Institute, as a body non- 

 political in its corporate character, but which, nevertheless, is representa- 

 tive through its members of all shades of opinion, to give the weight of 

 its name in directing public attention to the subject. 



I trust I am not too sanguine in expressing the hope, that by the 

 weight and influence of the Institute, so great and so general an interest 

 in the subject may be awakened, as to lead to important and beneficial 

 results. Should a practical solution to the problem be obtained, it will 

 be attended with the happiest consequences, and the Institute will have 

 conferred a lasting benefit on the Dominion. 



Along with the accompanying "Note" I enclose a list of waitings 



bearing on the subject of this communication, some of which are of 



deep interest. 



I have the honor to be. Sir, 



Your obedient servant, 

 (Signed) Sandford FLEMING. 



