The Bradlaugh meeting in Trafalgar Square, which many people regarded
as most formidable, went off quite quietly. The attendance of delegates was considerable, and the roughs gathered at one o'clock in such numbers that the square was completely filled. The meeting, however, was orderly, Mr. Bradlaugh expressly deprecating riot, and no intention was manifested of forming a procession. The Member for North- ampton was the only speaker, and he informed the crowd that he considered Mr. Mundella's and Mr. Firth's speeches as proof positive that the Government intended to bring in an Affirma- tion Bill, and it was therefore his duty to wait and see whether that Bill was accepted, or not. If it was rejected, he should claim his seat as Member for Northampton. He then went away in a cab, and the assemblage disperse3. The sympathy -with Mr. Bradlaugh is, in London, very slight, though there is general. impression that he is entitled to his seat, and a general approval of the Affirmation Bill. As Sir Stafford Northcote has repeatedly advised that Bill, in the hope that ite may quote it as proof that the Government sympathises with Atheists, it ought to pass easily, but it probably will not. The Tories are aware that the " Bradlaugh " cry might help them at an election, and will, if they can, keep the dispute open until the dissolution, a policy they may find reason to repent.
