19 NOVEMBER 1887, Page 2

We regret to notice that, all rumours to the contrary

notwith. standing, Sir Michael Hicks-Beach is not able to accept any substantive office. He made a long and strong speech at Bristol on Monday, during which he incidentally deprecated any large Irish Purchase measure ; but on the following day he told another audience that his health was not really repaired. Although his political vision was strong, his physical vision was weak, and he could not undertake the amount of reading which was absolutely necessary in any of the more arduous departments of Govern- ment. The rumour, therefore, that Sir Michael would replace Mr. Matthews disappears, as will, we imagine, many similar rumours which will be in circulation during the winter.