In glancing over the Division list, Ayes, 219, Noes, 210, I was glad to notice BIRMINGHAM’S indefatigable and respected Representative, WILLIAM SCHOLEFIELD, ESQ., among the Ayes; but where was the staid and “eminent” member, John Bright, on this particular night? What! THE TRIBUNE of the People to slope away on a field night like this! Not even to pair! Why ASSUME there would be no fight on the _third_ reading? Had the vote been as decisive as on the second reading, Lord Derby, with all his ill-concealed jealousy of the rising influence of Mr. GLADSTONE, and his antipathy to a cheap Press, would not have ventured on so desperate a game as the backer of the Limerick game cock. The Rupert of Debate was far too wily a tactician to overlook this narrow Party victory, this dwindling of the Ayes from 53 (245 against 192) to 9, this narrow squeak, this, in effect, desertion to the enemy. There is not the shadow of a doubt the wretched NINE encouraged the wily strategist in his dangerous game of USURPING the privileges of the Commons, and reviving the ominous cry of 1832, “WHAT USE IS THE HOUSE OF LORDS?”
Observe, far be it from me to comment with severity on the sayings and doings of the brilliant Quaker. Far be it from me to notice affronts which I set down to exuberance of arrogance, often seen in men who have raised themselves from an obscure position to a front rank. I would much rather dwell on Mr. Bright’s eminent services in the People’s cause. Who was the chief Orator at the great League Meetings, 1843–45? Who so captivated by his earnest style? Fifteen years have elapsed, and again I have listened to Mr. Bright’s persuasive words. His speech at St. Martin’s Hall, May 15th, 1860, was a master-piece, and, despite a cold, a most animated, yet almost solemn appeal. I will quote a sentence, which, who that loves his country will gainsay?
“You boast of your love of freedom, your newspapers fill columns every day with the details of what men are doing in other parts of the world—some in overthrowing, some in building up noble fabrics of human liberty. Let me beseech you that, whilst you are observing what is being done ABROAD with an intense and increasing interest, never for a single moment forget what is being done, and what it is your duty to do, AT HOME.”