The explanation of the mystery soon came.

After he sat down, ghastly pale, almost painfully panting after this tremendous effort, Mr.Gladstone tarried a little to recover himself--to say a few words to Mr.John Morley--to scribble a note.

At last he rose, and then came the moment for which those silent Irish Benches had been waiting.

With one accord, with one quick and simultaneous spring, the Irish members were on their feet--hats and handkerchiefs were waved; there was the suggestion of tears under the swelling cheers.

Nor were the Irish left alone.