CHAPTER XII.
RENEWAL OF THE FIGHT.
[Sidenote: A fresh start.] Nothing of memorable importance occurred during the week before the Whitsuntide holidays, but with Tuesday, May 30th, came the renewal of the great battle over Home Rule.

The Old Man was first to be observed.
He looked very fresh and sunny, but, at the same time, had that slightly deepened pallor which he always has on the first day of a Session--the result of the long day's journey which he has gone through in coming from his country house.

Mr.Balfour was also in his place, looking as though the open rivalry of Lord Randolph Churchill had not much affected his spirits.

Mr.Chamberlain nearly always looks the same.

He has himself informed the world that he does not take exercise in any shape or form whatsoever, and there is never therefore, on his cheek that look of deep-drunk sunshine which marks the cheeks of more active men.