"Finished."
Uneasy feeling prevalent consequent on announcement made early in sitting that charwoman employed in service of House has died of cholera. This regarded as being exceedingly inconsiderate. Questions usually every day about cholera at Grimsby and Hull. That all very well; an incident possible to regard with philosophical mind. But cholera in our own kitchen quite another sort of microbe.
"I'm a family man," said Cobb. "It's no use denying it, and I will not attempt it. Was thinking of staying to see this out; begin to think the Session unduly prolonged. In short, if I may quote an old proverb adapted to the occasion, I would say, When cholera comes in by the window Cobb goes out by the door." Business done.—Third night Home-Rule debate in Lords. Supply in Commons.
Saturday, 1 A.M.—All up with Little Bill-ee. His worst fears are realised. Whilst Captain Willyum: has been having a quiet, restful time among the heather, Guzzling Bob and Gorging Harty have worked their wicked will on the Innocent. Snickersees have been drawn; blows have been dealt; the hunger of Ulster has been satisfied; Little Bill-ee has been killed and eaten.
"Just so," said the Lord Chancellor from behind his wig; "a meal eagerly partaken of. Now we've nothing to do but to wait awhile, and see how it agrees with them. You remember, Toby, the letters engraved on the tomb of her late husband by the sorrowing widow in Ohio?
S. Y. L.
'See you later,' she explained to inquiring friends, was its portent. S. Y. L., Little Bill-ee, S. Y. L.!"
Business done.—Lords throw out Home-Rule Bill by 419 Votes against 41.