• Mr. Chamberlain, on Tuesday, addressed the National Federal Association
at Ashton, in a speech of considerable length and importance. We have dwelt on the portion which referred to Egypt elsewhere, but Mr. Chamberlain also touched on general politico, expressing the warmest confid- ence in Mr. Gladstone, who, he said, "stood head and shoulders above all his compeers," intimating a keen wish for permanent friendship with France, and repudiating weari- ness in well-doing in Ireland. He believed the Crimes Preven- tion Act necessary, to teach Ireland that no party in England would tolerate outrage, but dreaded the impatience of the English people, who say, "The Irish are never satisfied." He thought Ireland had still reason for discontent, did not believe that due attention to Ireland need interfere with English legislation, and desired above all things to see in that country institutions for local government worthy of the name. He maintained that "Irish education is still stunted" and. "Irish prejudices ignored," and urged that the existing truce should be utilised for reforms conceived in the largest possible spirit. Obviously, Mr. Chamberlain is not under the impression that our work in Ireland is done.
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