2 MAY 1868, Page 2

There is evidently a very serious idea of asking Parliament

for an Irish establishment for the Prince of Wales. It is asserted, we believe with truth, that his residence in the island for a few months in every year is much desired by Irishmen, and the Times points out with force one direct benefit it would secure to the country. Ireland would be as fashionable for tourists, sports- men, and money-spenders generally as Scotland now is. We do not suppose that either party in the State would strongly resist a project acceptable to Ireland, and the money is of little con- sequence ; but it is a pity that the affair should have any colour of a bargain. It is a curious proof of the way we have treated Ireland for centuries, that there is not, and never has been, a palace there.