(_BY AN M.P. OF A RETIRING NATURE._)
The Whip, he writes to me to-day,
Not, as his wont, in tones pacific,
But in the very strongest way,
And using language quite terrific.
He hopes to see me in my place,
And woe betide the sad seceder,
Whose absence helps to throw disgrace
Both on his Party and his Leader.
I throw my hat up to the sky.
At taunts of treason or defection
I flip my fingers. What care I?
_For I do NOT seek re-election!_
* * * * *
"THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH."--According to the _Times_ of Friday last,
February 5, Cardinal MANNING died practically a pauper. He had given
everything away in charity. He was a "Prince of the Church," and his
gifts to others were, indeed, princely. In the wills and deeds of how
many of our Very Reverend and Right Reverend Lordships shall we find
nothing gathered up and bequeathed of the loaves and fishes which have
fallen to their share? Such a testament as the Cardinal's would be in
quite a New Testamentary spirit.
* * * * *
FOREIGN AND HOME NEWS.--"The Prussian Education Bill," remarked an
elderly bachelor to. Mr. PETER FAMILIAS, "is a very important matter;
because you see--"
"Hang the Prussian Education Bill!" interrupted PETER F., testily.
"You should see the English Education Bill I've had for my boy's
schooling last half!"
* * * * *