There is to-day, I venture to say, a feeling of friendliness to this country, and a desire to join hands in supporting the interests of this country such as were never to be found in the past; and I do say with all respect, that it would be not only a folly, but a crime, if that opportunity were in any degree marred or wasted by any action which this country might take.

I ask this House--and I ask all sections of the House--to take such a course as will enable me to go back to Ireland to translate into vigorous action the spirit of the words I used here a few days ago." An angry scene followed.

Mr.Balfour asked whether "it was possible decently to introduce subjects of acute discussion in present circumstances"-- in other words, whether all mention of Home Rule must not be postponed till after the war.

This provoked hot debate, checked only by a strong appeal from the Prime Minister.

But the general effect was not reassuring to Ireland.