It is believed that Mr. Disraeli has settled with his
Conserva- tive supporters, assembled in private caucus, to pass the Agricul- tural Holdings BilL They hate it, and the array of amendments is endless, but the Premier is firm. Indeed, as he has withdrawn the Merchant Shipping Bill for its sake, he may be said to be faithful to his pet Bill "even unto slaying." The fight this week has been most bitter on an amendment suggested by Sir G. Jenkinson, who proposed on Tuesday that the Bill should not extend to any holding in respect of which a written agreement is in existence between a landlord and his tenant at the date of the commencement of the Act. This proposal would exempt all holdings under writings of any kind from the operation of the Bill, and make its effect almost inap- preciable. It was therefore received with favour by both sides of the House, and although the amendment was withdrawn, it seems certain that one of a nearly similar character will be carried before the Bill passes out of Committee. Mr. Henley's statement that what the majority of English landlords and tenants wanted was to be let alone was received with warm cheers, and a motion by Mr. Waddy that Clause 5, settling the tenant's title' to com- pensation, should be postponed, so irritated Mr. Disraeli, that he declared he should hold it fatal to the Bill. As the majority of Liberals are opposed to the Bill, it is still probable that it may be talked out.
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