The General Election and the change of Government have been
succeeded by a remarkable lull in politics. Both parties are tired out; and while the Unionists see no use in speeches till the course of affairs becomes more clear, the Gladstonians abstain from them till Mr. Gladstone has pronounced himself more clearly. Even Irish speakers are comparatively quiet, and the little discussion going on is raised by extreme Radicals, secretly or openly discontented with the moderate look of the Ministry. The long delay which must elapse before Parliament meets has a great effect on the fanatics, and only the Welsh opponents of Establishment are making themselves clearly audible. The most notable signs, perhaps, are the absence of temper among Unionists, and the continued presence of temper among Gladatonians. The Unionists ought to be discomfited, and the Gladstonians exultant ; but the former are fairly placid, while the latter seem to feel some inner anxiety. Both would, perhaps, be wiser if they remembered that the unexpected usually happens, and that calculations as to the temper in which Parliament will meet are as useless as calculations as to the weather by which its meeting will be greeted.
