Some of them were under the delusion that they were Conservatives: similarly, others imagined themselves to be Liberals.

As a matter of fact, most of them were nothing.

They knew as much about the public affairs of their own country as they did of the condition of affairs in the planet of Jupiter.
Easton began to regret that he had broached so objectionable a subject, when, looking up from his paper, Owen said: 'Does the fact that you never "trouble your heads about politics" prevent you from voting at election times ?' No one answered, and there ensued a brief silence.

Easton however, in spite of the snub he had received, could not refrain from talking.
'Well, I don't go in for politics much, either, but if what's in this 'ere paper is true, it seems to me as we oughter take some interest in it, when the country is being ruined by foreigners.' 'If you're going to believe all that's in that bloody rag you'll want some salt,' said Harlow.
The Obscurer was a Tory paper and Harlow was a member of the local Liberal club.

Harlow's remark roused Crass.
'Wot's the use of talkin' like that ?' he said; 'you know very well that the country IS being ruined by foreigners.