The miners' representatives made an unselfish protest against the
increase in the price of coal. Although it would justify them in
demanding a further increase in their present inadequate wage they did
not believe it was necessary or, at any rate, urgent. Sir ROBERT HORNE
assured them that it was, and that the present moment--the season in
happier days of "Lowest Summer Prices"--had been selected as the least
inconvenient to the public.
_Thursday, May 13th._--Ireland maintains its pre-eminence as the land
of paradox. Among the hunger-strikers recently released from Mountjoy
prison were (by an accident) several men who had actually been
convicted. The House learned to its surprise that these men cannot be
re-arrested, but are out for good (their own, though possibly not the
community's); whereas the untried (and possibly innocent) suspects may
be re-arrested at any moment.
The new Profiteering Bill, which, to judge by the criticisms levelled
against its exceptions and safeguards, will be about as effective as
its predecessor, was read a third time. So was the Health Insurance
Bill, but not until a few Independent Liberals, led by Captain
WEDGWOOD BENN, had been rebuked for their obstructive tactics by Mr.
MYERS and Mr. NEIL MACLEAN of the Labour Party. As the small hours
grew larger this split in the Progressive ranks developed into a
yawning chasm, and the Government got a third Bill passed before the
weary House adjourned at six o'clock.
* * * * *
[Illustration: _Sergeant._ "'OLD YER 'EADS UP! ALL THE FAG ENDS WAS
PICKED UP LONG AFORE YOU---- 'ERE, WHAT THE----?"
_Old Soldier (who has produced a small note-book)._ "ALL RIGHT,
SERGEANT, I'M ONLY KEEPING A RECORD OF THE 'FAG END' JOKE. I'VE NOW
HEARD IT TWO THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED AND SEVENTEEN TIMES."]
* * * * *
"It has been arranged that the Speaker shall make the
presentation of plate [to Miss BONAR LAW], and Mr. Lloyd
George and Mr. Asquith will take part."--_Daily Chronicle._
It is hoped that they will leave a substantial portion for the bride.
* * * * *