Mr. Birrell. But have we made an offer? I said we had, but have we?
Mr. McKenna. (acutely). We might await a reply to our tentative offer of an offer.
Mr. Asquith. Good, McKenna, very good. I appreciate the delicate distinction.
Lord Haldane (aside to Lord Morley). Had McKenna been caught young and forcibly educated, he would have made a metaphysician.
Mr. Asquith. We have not yet considered whether anything can be done to remedy the temporary unpopularity of the Government.
Colonel Seeley. Suppose Hobhouse resigned. (A hum of approval.)
Mr. Asquith. Say, rather, accepted a lofty Imperial post.
Mr. Hobhouse. And made room for Lloyd George's Man Friday! It would mean a by-election in Bethnal Green, where he comes from. (Consternation.)
Mr. Burns. I——
Mr. Asquith (suddenly). I accept your resignation with great regret, Burns.