The Times on Thursday published a scheme—in certain respects not
a new one-- for the solution of the Irish difficulty. So far as we have examined it, we cannot pretend to be sanguine of its prospects. At the same time we naturally desire to give every consideration to an attempt at a solution which is evidently sincere and has been carefully thought out. The plan is quite rational in that it really tries to meet the diffi- culties. In fact it is so rational in its effort to stop all the gape that it is extremely complicated, and it would be impossible for us to discuss it on Thursday when we go to press, and have no space at our disposal. We must leave discussion for anotlur occasion if the scheme should enjoy serious support. The objec- tions of North-East Ulster to a Dublin Parliament are frankly recognized, and it is suggested that there should be two Provin- cial Assemblies, one representing the whole Province of Ulster, and one representing the rest of Ireland. There would also Le an all-Ireland Parliament. But would Sinn Fein accept that solution, even if Ulster did ? We fear that Sinn Fein would not look at it. Of course the trouble is that the Sinn Feiners want to rule North-East Ulster but not to win her acquiescence. How the Sinn Feiners might win the heart of Ulster if they really wanted to do it we have explained in our first leading article.
