which it might have done, and which was due to me. (Hear, hear.) Still, the matter itself was so extraordinary, and so incapable of bearing the interpretation which many on that side of the House put upon it, that I did not see how I could return to it. I take the present statement, however, as a full and entire disavowal of the imputation made by the right hon. baronet, and I am glad it has been made, since it gives me the opportunity—quite as pleasant to my feelings as to those of the right hon, baronet; of expressing my regret that whilst the remembrance of what had passed in this House was rankling in my mind, I have alluded to the right hon. gentleman in forms which I lament having adopted. After the explanation that has been given, I hope no one will feel justified in ever alluding to the matter."
The free traders in the Commons, while they gave their cordial support to the minister in his arduous struggle against a selfish and an unreasoning obstruction, held firmly to the principle of immediate repeal. On Monday, March 1st, when the House went into committee, Mr. Villiers moved, by way of amendment on the first resolution, " That all duties on imported corn do now cease and determine." He supported his motion in a speech of brief duration, but full of unanswerable argument, urged with great force. Sir John Tyrrell and Colonel Sibthorp first amused and then tired the House with their objurgations. Mr. Goring revived the old "whine" about incumbrances, which led to a reply from Mr. Bright, that the agriculturists thought their complaints were more pitiable than the appcal in Dickens' to "vote for Scroggins and eleven small children." Mr. Gibson made a spirited speech, showing the absurdity of delay. Sir R. Peel defended his measure mainly on the ground that it would allow importation at a reasonable duty. Lord John Russell wished the settlement of the question to be then, instead of being delayed for three years. After much clamour, the debate was adjourned It was resumed next evening, when Mr. Cobden warned the obstructives against a protracted resistance, which would compel the Anti-Corn-Law League to maintain its agitation, and concentrate its energies. The House then divided, and the numbers were:—
