[Illustration: Cap'n Birkbeck.]
The House, having listened intently to this artless conversation,
proceeded to business of the day, which happily included the adoption
of a Resolution engaging the Government to connect with the mainland,
by telephone or telegraph, the lighthouses and lightships that
twinkle round our stormy coasts. It was Cap'n BIRKBECK who moved
this Resolution, seconded from other side in admirable speech by
MARJORIBANKS.
Business done.--Excellent.
Wednesday.--Much surprised, strolling down to House this afternoon,
to find place in sort of state of siege. Policemen, policemen
everywhere, and, as one sadly observed, "not a drop to drink." Haven't
seen anything like it since KENEALY used to shake the dewdrops
from his mane as he walked through Palace Yard, passing through
enthusiastic crowd into House of Commons, perspiring after his efforts
in Old Westminster Courts. Later, when BRADLAUGH used to-give dear old
GOSSET waltzing lessons, pirouetting between Bar and Table, scene was
somewhat similar.
"What's the matter. HORSLEY?" I asked, coming across our able and
indefatigable Superintendent striding about the Corridor, as NAPOLEON
visited the outposts on the eve of Austerlitz.
"It's them Women, Sir," he said. "Perhaps you've heard of them at
St. James's Hall last night? Platform stormed; Chairman driven off at
point of bodkin; Reporters' table crumpled up; party of the name of
BURROWS seized by the throat and laid on the flat of his back.
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