Can it be possible that Ministerialists themselves are not certain what are the fixed principles of the new policy?
Everything about it is indefinite, vague, uncertain.

Who can say with assurance what Gladstonians understand by Imperial supremacy?
Is there or is there not any idea of excluding Ulster from the operation of the Bill?
Is it or is it not a principle that members from Ireland shall be summoned to Westminster?
Are the Irish members, if summoned, to vote on all matters, or on some only?
To each of these questions the only answer that can be given is--nobody knows.

But in this state of ignorance it is natural and excusable that apologists should confine themselves to general lines of defence.

No politician who respects himself would willingly risk a vigorous apology for the special provisions of a particular measure, when, for aught he knows, the provision which he thinks essential turns out to be an unimportant detail, and is liable to sudden variation.
FOOTNOTES: [108] 'I have told you candidly my sentiments.

I think they are not likely to alter yours....