frances trebell. But supposing Mallaby and the Nonconformists hadn't been able to force the Liberals' hand?
mrs. farrant. [Speaking as of inferior beings.] Why, they were glad of any cry going to the Country!
frances trebell. [As she considers this.] Yes . . and Lord Charles would still have had as good a chance of forcing Lord Horsham's. It has been clever tactics.
lucy davenport. [Who has been listening, sharp-eyed.] Contrariwise, he wouldn't have liked a Radical Bill though, would he?
walter kent. [With aplomb.] He knew he was safe from that. The government must have dissolved before Christmas anyway . . and the swing of the pendulum's a sure thing.
mrs. farrant. [With her smile.] It's never a sure thing.
walter kent. Oh, Mrs. Farrant, look how unpopular the Liberals are.
frances trebell. What made them bring in Resolutions?
walter kent. [Overflowing with knowledge of the subject.] I was told Mallaby insisted on their showing they meant business. I thought he was being too clever . . and it turns out he was. Tommy Luxmore told me there was a fearful row in the Cabinet about it. But on their last legs, you know, it didn't seem to matter, I suppose. Even then, if Prothero had mustered up an ounce of tact . . I believe they could have pulled them through . .
frances trebell. Not the Spoliation one.