Nevertheless it was, from the point of view both of
Ireland and Great Britain, of high importance that the new system in Ireland should not start upon the basis of civil strife. It was equally important that the decision come to should be regarded by both sides and in all quarters, if possible, as a settlement. He had no reason to complain of the spirit in which his invita- tion for a free and unprejudiced interchange of views had been received by the responsible leaders of the Opposition. Suggestions had already come forward from many quarters, but he would be deceiving his audience and deceiving him- self if he were to say that he saw at this moment a prospect of agreement. There was not a shadow of foundation for the statements that the Cabinet were divided. They were not going to make any surrender of principle. They meant to see this thing through.
