This tremendous speech--in its variety, in its
power--in its alternation of scathing scorn, copious analysis, playful
and gentle wit--was perhaps the most remarkable example in our times of
the sway which an orator has over the House of Commons.
[Sidenote: Mr. Carson.]
Mr. Carson was unfortunate in every sense in having to follow an oration
of such extraordinary power, and in having to follow it at that dread
hour when every member of the House of Commons is thinking of his
long-postponed dinner. The audience of "the Sleuth Hound of
Coercion"--as Mr. Carson is usually called--if it was select, was at the
same time, enthusiastic and appreciative. The little band of Unionists,
who get very cold comfort, as a rule, during these hard times, sate
steadily in their seats and eagerly welcomed and warmly cheered Mr.
Carson. Behind him, too, was a pretty strong band of Tories, and Mr.
Balfour sate throughout his entire speech listening to it with the
keenest and most evident appreciation. I have already described the
appearance of Mr. Carson and the impression he makes upon me; curiously
enough, this impression was confirmed by an experience that afternoon.
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