In that case, also, the way would be open; but he had no written assurance of such an understanding, though I gathered that he was urging the Government to give it.

We were, however, told on good authority in these days that if the Southern Unionists' proposal was accepted by the Nationalists and other elements outside of Ulster, the Prime Minister would use his whole influence with his colleagues to secure acceptance of the compact and immediate legislation upon it.

This would mean, we were also assured, that the whole thing would be done before Easter.
On January 2nd the resumed debate for the first time brought the Convention face to face with concrete proposals for a settlement.

In tone and in substance it would have done credit to any Parliament that ever sat.

I shall not try to summarize the arguments, but simply to note certain outstanding facts.
Lord Midleton modified his original proposal that collection of customs should be an Imperial service throughout.