Great occasions, Mr. SPEAKER, are not always true sons of great and
mighty resolutions, nor, I may add, do the boldest attempts bring
forth events still equal to their worth. That may be the case with
us; but at least we shall carry to our homes the consciousness that we
have diligently striven to do our duty to our QUEEN and our country."
General cheering at this little speech, and scarcely dry eye on
Treasury Bench.
_Business done_.--Compensation Bill in fresh difficulties.
_Thursday_.--Sitting remarkable for two speeches from ordinarily
silent Members. Began and ended proceedings. First was by WHARTON, on
presenting petition signed by over half a million persons in favour of
Compensation Clauses of Licensing Bill. Petition brought down in three
cases by PICKFORD'S van. Conveniently disposed on floor of House;
occupied the whole space. Perturbation on Treasury Bench at the report
that there was Royal Commission going forward in other House. Time
of the Session when these are frequent. Black Rod arrives; requests
attendance of Members to hear Commission read. Advances towards table,
bowing to chair; retires backward; SPEAKER follows him. How would it
be to-day, with floor blocked with towering cases? Black Rod an old
sailor, might haul himself up hand-over-hand, and skip across tops
of cases; but never do for the SPEAKER so to scramble out.
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