Lord Malmesbury made the Ministerial statement in the Upper House,
which consisted chiefly in the remark that he did not say last week that Mr. Disraeli would form a new Administration " if possible," but "as soon as possible." To this important announce- ment Lord Malrnesbury added the devout faith of the new Ministry in Lord Derby's favour and protection. The new Ministers have
always believed in Lord Derby, do still believe in Lord Derby, will always strive to believe in Lord Derby, and to earn his approving smile,—a truly interesting, if somewhat idolatrous creed. "Up to this very moment," said Lord Malmesbury, in the warmth and fervour of his devout trust, "up to this very moment, our policy, which will soon be developed in the House of Commons and to your Lordships, meets with his entire approbation." This is very like the style of a timorous and rather irritated young lady shield- ing herself under the full approbation of "my papa" from the satirical smiles of a taunting companion. The new Ministry won't do much if they rest all their hope on the chance of thus borrowing the shield of Achilles,—or even of occasionally enticing him from his tent to lead their charge and scatter their foes.
