(EXTRACTED FROM THE DIARY OF TOBY, M.P.)
_House of Commons, Wednesday, 11th November._--Both Houses met for what
will be last Session of ever-memorable Parliament. Usual ceremony at
State Opening by KING, but atmosphere distinctly different from that
familiar on such occasions. No crowd talking and gesticulating in Lobby
before SPEAKER takes the Chair. That done, Benches seemed strangely
empty. In Commons, as in Lords, most men wore mourning, the gloom a
little lightened here and there by khaki uniform. Whilst LEADER OF
OPPOSITION and PRIME MINISTER spoke Members sat silently attentive. Only
now and then subdued cheer indicated approval of a statement or a
sentiment. There was sign neither of depression nor elation. The
country, fitly represented within these four walls, has undertaken a
great task, its performance making heavy demand of blood and money. At
whatever cost mean to see it through. Meanwhile are grimly silent.
In course of brief proceedings curious instance forthcoming of
prevalence of martial spirit even in unexpected quarters. Did not
witness it myself, being at the moment engaged in showing a constituent
the House of Lords at historic moment when, in absence of LEADER OF
CONSERVATIVE PARTY, GEORGE CURZON rose temporarily to assume functions
he will surely inherit. Story told me by the MEMBER FOR SARK, whom I
find a (more or less) trustworthy recorder.
Seems that two new Members were in attendance prepared to take oath and
their seat. In accordance with custom they were ranged at the Bar
awaiting SPEAKER'S summons. Observing one of them between his
introducers, SPEAKER stiffly drew himself up to full height, and called
out in ringing tones--
"'Ten-_shun_! Form _Fours_!"
House stared in amazement. Nothing disconcerts Mr. LOWTHER. Recognizing
slip, he quietly ignored it; made fresh start.
"Order! Order! Members desiring to take their seats will please come to
the Table."
Thereupon PRESIDENT OF BOARD OF AGRICULTURE, assisted by Mr. BURT, the
revered Father of the House, affably conducted towards the Table his
parent, Sir WALTER RUNCIMAN, newly elected Member for Hartlepool. Having
seen him duly sign roll of Parliament he stood him tea on the Terrace,
made him free of the smoking-room, and invited him to partake to-morrow
night of famous House shilling dinner.
These filial amenities pleasantly vary the austerity of Parliamentary
life.
_Business done._--Parliament reassembled. Address in reply to Speech
from the Throne moved in both Houses.
_House of Lords, Thursday._--A new-comer to Ministerial Bench. It is
LORD FISHER OF KILVERSTONE, commonly and affectionately known as "Jack."
Three years ago, fatal age limit being reached, Admiralty regretfully
but compulsorily dropped the Pilot. Now, three years older as the
almanack counts, actually as young as ever, the Pilot is picked up
again. His appearance at the helm greeted with hearty cheer resounding
from shore to shore.
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