Mr. Gully, having thanked the proposer and seconder for the
kind terms in which they had spoken of him, said that to his mind the impartiality attributed to him was not only the first duty of a Speaker, but his easiest duty also. ." But to appear impartial at all moments, or to all sections of the House, is something which is, I fear, beyond the powers of any Speaker." Occasions would necessarily arise, especially in exerting the new power entrusted to him, of refusing or sanctioning the motion for the closure of debate, when sections of the House must necessarily be dissatisfied with the decision of the Chair. In such cases he hoped to be able to bear the manifestation of such feelings with equanimity, and to wait for his vindication for the ultimate verdict of the House on his general conduct in the Chair. Mr. Gully was then conducted to the Chair, and having thanked the House for his election, was congratulated in happy terms by Mr. Balfour and Sir William Harcourt. On tke following day (Tuesday) the Queen's approval of his election was announced in the House of Lords. So happily terminates a crisis which at one time threatened a premature storm. The great majority of the new House of Commons have illus- trated in this election that magnanimity and moderation which are the greatest distinctions of undisputed and indis- putable strength.
