On Tuesday, the chief speech of interest was that made
by Mr. Chamberlain, the promoters of the Bill remaining silent in order to save time. Mr. Chamberlain twitted them on their reticence in argument. "Apparently, with the new Unionism and new Radicalism a new form of discussion has sprung up, and gentlemen who promote a Bill, having ascertained beforehand in the lobby whether they have a majority, remain obstinately silent, move the Closare from time to time, and test the patience of the chairman, and in that way endeavour to rem their measures down the throats of their opponents, without taking the trouble to explain them." After a speech from Sir Charles Dilke, singularly wanting in argu- ment, the Closure was carried by 22 votes. On the division on the main question being taken, the local-option amend- ment was carried by 5 (112 to 107). The result caused great excitement, and Mr. Roby, the chief promoter of the Bill, at once announced its withdrawal.
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