Parnell, but seeing in this the promise of a lively and unpleasant
attack on the Bill, cheered lustily, and speeded Mr. Redmond on his way
on the full tide of a splendid reception. But as time went on, their
faces gradually grew longer, and when Mr. Redmond resumed his seat they
had come to the conclusion that one of the strongest foundations on
which they had built their hopes for wrecking the Bill had entirely
gone. Summed up, what Mr. Redmond had to say came to this: that he saw
many grave defects in the Bill; that he was especially dissatisfied with
the financial arrangements; that he didn't approve of the retention of
the Irish members in the Imperial Parliament; but that, nevertheless, it
was a Bill to which he could give a general support. This speech was
received with great though silent satisfaction on all the Irish benches;
but the poor Tories were brought to a condition well nigh of despair.
And thus, cheered heartily by both Irish sections and enthusiastically
greeted by the Liberals, weakly fought, feebly criticised by the
Opposition the Bill started splendidly on its perilous way.
CHAPTER III.
A SOBER AND SUBDUED OPPOSITION.
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