I shut no door to a settlement by consent, but ...

we will not be intimidated or bullied into a betrayal' of our trust." It was noted at that time that he had said nothing to rule out Sir Edward Grey's proposal, which would have left the local majority predominant in Ulster's own affairs; and on December 4th Sir Edward Grey spoke again, showing a firmness that was the more impressive because of his habitual moderation of tone.

One thing, he said, was worse than carrying Home Rule by force, and that would be the abandonment of Home Rule.

Two suggestions had been made--a proposal for the temporary exclusion of Ulster and a plan for giving to Ulster administrative autonomy.

Neither had been received by Ulster "in a spirit which seemed likely to lead to a settlement....