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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 53

Statement of Method

Statement of Method.

It is convenient to give here a formal statement of the method which it is proposed should be used when incomplete papers are presented.

Each elector is furnished with a list of the candidates in alphabetical order, upon which he indicates his preference amongst the candidates by placing the figure one opposite the name of the candidate of his first choice, the figure two opposite the name of the next in order of preference, the page 38 figure three opposite the next, and so on, to as many names as he pleases.

It is, of course, unnecessary to mark all the names; it is sufficient to mark all but one. In what follows, if all the names be marked, it is unnecessary to pay any attention to the name marked lowest in order of preference.

The mode of dealing with the papers is as follows:—For the lowest candidate marked on any paper count one vote, for the next lowest two votes, for the next three votes, and so on, till the highest is reached, who is to receive as many votes as there are names marked on the paper. The total number of votes for each candidate is then to be ascertained; and thence the average number polled. All candidates who have not polled above the average are then to be excluded. If more than one candidate be above the average, then another scrutiny must be held as between all such candidates.

In counting up the votes for the second, or any subsequent scrutiny, no attention must be paid to the names of any candidates who have been excluded.

As many scrutinies as may be necessary must be held, so that finally all the candidates but one are excluded, and the last remaining candidate is elected.