“Jan. 7th. Wednesday. Mr. Lowe, 4 p.m. Very cordial and courteous. Would certainly bring in a Bill if his colleagues allowed him,—very doubtful if they would,—if not, would help Wedderburn all he could, ‘and I can do a great deal.’
Thought Enabling Bill more hopeful than compelling Medical Boards to examine.”
“Jan. 10th. Saturday. In morning at Museum, looking up Charters of Colleges, etc.
2 p.m. Sir J. Lubbock. Pleasant and friendly,—non-committal rather. Would talk with Wedderburn,—‘generally agreed with him.’
At 4 p.m. Stansfeld. Friendly as ever. Thought Selborne’s opinion most important.”
After a few days spent with Mrs. Jex-Blake at Brighton the tale proceeds:
“Tuesday, 20th. At 1 p.m. saw Lord Aberdare,—quite friendly,—‘should heartily support Bill.’ Was quite willing that Bill should come from his office, by Forster.
2 p.m. Grant Duff, friendly but not encouraging as to his power to help with Cabinet.
Wednesday 21st. Saw Thos. Hughes, 10 a.m. Very friendly. Would speak to Forster, etc....
Thursday 22nd. Breakfasted with the Russell Gurneys. Very friendly. He quite ready to put his name on back of Wedderburn’s Bill. On the whole encouraged to get special Exam. and practise in spite of Act, if no legislation to be got.[[119]]