28 MARCH 1868, Page 1

Of course, all manner of rumours are afloat, most of

them indicating a popular belief that Mr. Disraeli will discover some " dodge" or other to save himself from otherwise inevitable defeat. He may, it is said, avail himself of the forms of the House, and resist the going into Committee which must precede discussion on the Resolutions ; but after his promise to Mr. Gladstone, this is unlikely. Or he may support a motion for the "previous question" sure to be moved, and thus enable faint-hearted Liberals to bolt, on the ground that the resolutions are premature, violent, and so on. It is nearly certain, however, that he will let the debate proceed, and fight on Lord Stanley's amendment, that although serious changes may be required in the Irish Church, the question ought to be left entirely to a House elected by the new constituencies. Mr. Laing, moreover, we perceive, is preparing to cover Mr. Disraeli's retreat by moving, in the event of the resolutions being carried, that as the question cannot be settled without an appeal to the new constituencies, it will be the duty of Government so to arrange public business as to enable this appeal to be made at the earliest opportunity. That means, Mr. Disraeli to stay in till next March.