The Tories, doubtless,
see none of this; but even they cannot help falling into the mood of the
hour, and under the fascination of the speaker. Now and then they
interrupt, but, as a rule, they sit in respectful and awed silence.
Whenever they do venture on interruption, the old lion shows that he is
still in possession of all that power for a sudden and deadly spring,
which lies concealed under the easy and tranquil strength of the hour.
He happens to mention the case of Norway and Sweden as one of the cases
which confirm his contention that autonomy produces friendly relations.
He has to confess, that in this case some difficulties have arisen;
there is a faint Tory cheer. At once--but with gentle good humour--with
an indulgent smile--Mr. Gladstone remarks that he doesn't wonder that
the Tories clutch at the smallest straw that helps them to eke out a
case against autonomy, and then he proceeds to show that even the case
of Norway and Sweden doesn't help them a bit.
[Sidenote: A vivid gesture.]
There is another little touch which will bring out the perfection and
beauty of the speech. One of the things which tell the experienced
observer that Mr.
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