April 16th.—Both parties expressed themselves confident of success, but it was supposed that Gorleston would turn the scale; the voters there were described as “dangerous men.” The barque “Athelstan” (Captain John Bracey) was to be launched from Fellows’ yard on the 19th. April 20th.—The Liberal electors “and their wives” had met at the Corn Exchange, while the Conservatives had held a meeting at the Victoria Gardens. April 23rd.—Contains the following report as to “THE ELECTION.” The greatest activity prevails on both sides, and as the decisive day approaches, the feelings of partizanship are becoming greatly intensified. The printers have had a lively time of it, and turn out a great quantity of matter, an opinion appearing to be prevalent that quality is a secondary consideration. During the last few days, songs, parodies upon songs, speeches, and gross personal abuse have been issued by the supporters of Mr. Watkin, (for it must be admitted that Mr. Young holds himself aloof from this scurrility) with the object, we suppose, of doing that gentleman some good. In our opinion they will have a contrary effect, as we have heard many respectable Liberal electors express themselves disgusted with such unnecessary vulgarity. It may be very true, that in addressing the people, it is necessary to call a spade a spade, but it cannot be at all requisite that the minds of the people should be attempted to be influenced by strong specimens of the Billingsgate vocabulary. Where wit is lacking, silence is preferable to blackguardism. On the Conservative side there has also been a fair number of coloured bills and printed addresses issued; but the writers in this interest have abstained from attempting to be funny. In printed abuse, however, they endeavour to rival their opponents. Betting, if that may be considered a piece of electioneering business, is decidedly in favour of the Conservative candidates. Each party attributes motives of the most improper kind to the other, and it will be seen that Mr. Watkin fears that his opponents may indulge in “corruption.” On the other hand, Sir E. Lacon says voters had told him they dare not support him, as they should be inclined to do, in consequence of persons on the Liberal side having put the “screw” upon them. Tradesmen generally will be glad when the contest is over, as it is daily creating much personal animosity. The “Athelstan” had been launched; she was of 500 tons burden, and was to take out Bishop Hills’ effects to British Columbia. The “Haddiscoe Swamp” had caused a great difficulty on the East Suffolk line, which was consequently still not open for traffic. William Howlett, “Red” bill-poster, and Robert Crisp, “Blue” bill-poster, had been before the Magistrates owing to a dispute arising out of the election placards.