Ten minutes later, more than half the force were observed to come out of the House, look furtively round, and dash off in various directions, some to smoking-room, some to reading-room, and some clear off the premises. But they had done their appointed work, and Howard Vincent, an old campaigner, had secured opportunity for delivering his speech on hostile tariffs and bounties.
Grave doubt at morning sitting whether House could be made for the alluring joy. Vincent took up position in lobby much as recruiting-sergeant shows himself near Trafalgar Square. Accosted all Members passing by. Offered them free rations and front seats for the lecture if they would stay. Soon picked up enough men to reduce chances of count out. Dinner, I am told, a little exciting, especially towards the end. Several Members discovered straying towards the door. But the ex-captain, of the Royal Berks Militia not to be trifled with. Kept them together past the cheese; delivered every man in the House one minute and thirty seconds before the Speaker took the Chair. If any skulked out when the Colonel was once embarked on his lecture he, of course, couldn't interfere. But they mustn't suppose their departure wasn't marked. No more free rations for them.
Business done.—By reason of Cawmell-Bannerman's great persuasiveness men and money for Army voted at morning sitting.
Seaside Mem.—The Society recently started to abolish Tide-houses will not include Bathing Machines within the scope of its operations.