The Government are making great efforts to " rush "
the Home-rule Bill through its second reading before the Easter holidays They are not anxious for much discussion of the measure in the electoral districts, and, besides, want to have clear space after Easter for the discussion in Committee. They are, however, hampered by the necessity of getting votes in Supply, and as the Unionists are opposed to this rushing, and are too numerous to be afraid of all-night sittings, success will be very difficult to achieve. The talk of incessant closure only rouses temper. Mr. Gladstone, however, is very anxious, and on Thursday, when stating that the "Irish Government Bill," which was fixed for the 13th inst., could not come on before the 16th, he informed the House that he might have to ask Members to "make a sacrifice of their convenience either by sitting on Saturdays, or by ourtailing.the Easter holidays." This is, of course, a distinct menace, if Members will discuss Army and Navy votes, to make them uncomfortable. Mr. Balfour promised to resist the seizure of the Saturdays, and so much irritation was exhibited among the rank-and-file that it is probable the rushing project will break down. We are deadly foes to obstruction at all times, but to hurry debate on a radical change of the Constitution and the cession of a province to a new governing power, is to abandon even the form of government by deliberation.
