There was quite a 'scene' in the House of Commons
on Friday week, in a discussion about permitting seamen to receive Advance Notes, the proceeds of which the sailors very often drink. The Government, on the suggestion of the Royal Commission, had inserted a clause in the Merchant Shipping Bill prohibiting these advance notes, but the shipowners, who depend on these notes for hold over their men, were furious in opposition. Sir C. Adderley thereupon amended the clause, and allowed advance notes up to the extent of one month ; but the shipowners did not like even this, and despite a strong speech from Sir Stafford Northcote, the Tories objected that it was opposed to their pet idea of freedom of contract. It seemed possible that Government might be defeated, whereupon Mr. Disraeli arose, and flung Sir C. Adderley's head to the wolves. He believed freedom of contract to be necessary ; he thought the amendment an "attenuated and diminished form" of the Commission's proposal, and he should omit the clause. Sir C. Adderley's feelings do not signify to anybody except the senior Member for North Staffordshire, but it is lueky for this most united Cabinet that Sir S. Northcote has a. good temper.
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