December 27, 1867

STEVENSON TO BE SPEAKER

When the Legislative Assembly of Ontario meets later today to choose a Speaker, all reliable reports point to John Stevenson (Conservative, Lennox) as being the man who will fill the role.

The Globe, which had suggested that a Reformer would be put into the Chair, has claimed Stevenson as such, though he has, at every turn since the campaign, placed himself beneath the banner of the Conservatives, including supporting the Conservative candidate for the Lennox House of Commons seat, Richard Cartwright.

Nonetheless, the Globe showing an uncharacteristic charity towards a coalitionist, writes that “no Reformer can object” to the choice of Stevenson, who is a man of “good sense and judgment and…sufficient dignity for the post”. It helps perhaps, that the Globe believes Conservatives to be disappointed at the choice owing to Stevenson’s lack of legislative experience.

MEETING OF THE QUEBEC LEGISLATURE

The Québec Legislature will also hold its first meeting today. His Honour, Sir Narcisse-Fortunat Belleau, will be escorted from his residence to the Parliament Buildings by a troop of the Canadian Hussars. The Québec Volunteer Force will line the streets. The 30th Regiment will form a guard of honour and the Royal Artillery will fire the salute. Sir Belleau will then attend the Legislative Council Chamber where he will request the attendance of the members of the Legislative Assembly and direct them to elect a Speaker. The Québec Gazette reports that Col. Joseph-Godric Blanchet (Conservative, Lévis) will be chosen for the position.

His Honour will return to the Council Chamber tomorrow to deliver the Speech from the Throne after which it is believed the Québec Legislature will adjourn until January 10.