10 MARCH 1917, Page 3

Taking Mr. Churchill's speech as a whole, and making due

allow- ance for his extraordinary cleverness and oratorical power, we can only say what Lord Melbourne said when Lord Brougham, greatest of mieeNef-makers, having resigned office in a huff, was

trying to pin-prick his way back into power. Lord Melbourne replied to Lord Broughain in these words : " After the speech 'Odell has fallen front the noble Lord, I. will only remind the House how many and great must be the reasons which have prevented the present Administration, and would prevent any Administration, from availing themselves of such talents."