Business done.—In Committee of Supply.
Friday.—In Lords to-night, Irish Land Purchase Bill read Second Time, after series of essays delivered by half dozen Peers. Point of honour not to take less than one hour in delivery. DERBY brought down his contribution nicely written out on quarter sheets. Whilst ASHBOURNE declaiming, DERBY seized opportunity to read his speech over to himself. This all very well if he had strictly carried out intention, but, when he grew so interested in it as to mumble passages in an audible voice, situation grew embarrassing. At last KIMBERLEY, who sat near, gently nudged him. "One at a time, my dear DERBY," he whispered. "We know you're accustomed to dual action. DARBY and JOAN, you know; but won't do here."
DERBY blushed, and thrust manuscript in pocket till his turn came, when he had the pleasure of reading it aloud.
Business done.—Irish Land Bill through Lords; Public Health Bill in Commons.
MISS NOMER.
Now why was The Dancing Girl ever called The Dancing Girl at all? As a matter of fact she never did dance, and from last week's advertisements we find that she has been "running" ever since her first appearance. Now she's off for another run in the provinces, and then back again. Quite a theatrical illustration of the sporting term "running in and out." And when Mr. BEERBOHM TREE is in the provinces he is to appear as the Prince of Denmark.