The resignation of the Prime Minister was formally announced in
both Houses of Parliament on Monday. Lord Ripon alluded to the singular influence which Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman had obtained over the House of Commons. It was not based on commanding eloquence and vast experience of public affairs as in the case of Mr. Glad- stone, whose power was mingled with a certain sense of awe, but was of a tenderer kind, resting on perfect temper, earnest sympathy with the feelings and principles of his party, and unfailing courtesy to opponents. His
colleagues were bound to him by yet closer ties of gratitude and affection. Lord Lansdowne, on behalf of the Opposition, expressed regret that the Prime Minister should have found it necessary to resign a post which he had earned by many years of honourable exertion and without any adventitious aids. Lord Lansdowne concluded by observing that it was the universal hope of the House that Sir Henry Campbell. Bannermanmight be spared to enjoy a well-earned repose during the declining years of his life.
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