SIB,—I have no doubt that many Liberals who, like myself,
cherish hopes of.special reforms are exercised in their minds as to their active co-operation with others, who may not have the same convictions, in the crisis aroused by this fiscal con- troversy. To gain strong and active co-operation it is certain we must each "give and take." Cannot we agree unitedly to combat any scheme of Protection, and waive, say for the next General Election, questions not likely to be brought before Parliament as Government measures by whatever party holds office P It seems to me that a public discussion as to this co-operation may be most useful now in showing how nearly for working purposes Liberals, Liberal Unionists, and Free- trade Conservatives can be united to oppose Protection and its advocates. Though myself a believer in Home-rule for nearly half-a-century (and we have already forced the con- cession of a large part of Home-rule), I admit that no Liberals' Bill for Home-Rule can be brought forward at present with any practical hope that the House of Lords will pass it; and, indeed, some of my Roman Catholic countrymen are not making the prospect in Ireland more attractive by suggesting in the " Handbook of the Catholic Association " some revival of "religious preferences." Therefore I shall " bide my time " for this, and work with, and vote at the next Election for, any Free-trader and against any Protectionist of whatever party.
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