Boroughs to the L10 Householder Franchise....

"We should by such an arrangement increase the number of
bribeable Electors, and overpower intelligence and property by
ignorance and poverty.

"I have told Aberdeen that I am persuaded that the Measure as
proposed by John Russell and Graham will not pass through the
two Houses of Parliament without material modifications, and
that I do not choose to be a party to a contest between the
two Houses or to an Appeal to the Country for a Measure of
which I decidedly disapprove; and that I cannot enter into a
career which would lead me to such a position, that, in
short, I do not choose to be dragged through the dirt by John
Russell. I reminded Aberdeen that on accepting his offer of
Office, I had expressed apprehension both to him and to you,
that I might find myself differing from my Colleagues on the
question of Parliamentary Reform.

"I have thought a good deal on this matter. I should be very
sorry to give up my present Office at this moment: I have
taken a great interest in it, and I have matters in hand which
I should much wish to bring to a conclusion. Moreover, I
think that the presence in the Cabinet of a person holding the
opinions which I entertain as to the principles on which our
Foreign Affairs ought to be conducted, is useful in modifying
the contrary system of Policy, which, as I think, injuriously
to the interests and dignity of the Country, there is a
disposition in other quarters to pursue; but notwithstanding
all this. I cannot consent to stand forward as one of the
Authors and Supporters of John Russell's sweeping alterations.
Yours sincerely,

PALMERSTON."]

[Pageheading: LORD PALMERSTON'S POSITION]

_The Prince Albert to the Earl of Aberdeen._

OSBORNE, _9th December 1853._

MY DEAR LORD ABERDEEN,--The Queen has consulted with Lord John
Russell upon the Reform plan, and on the question of Lord Palmerston's
position with regard to it; and he will doubtless give you an account
of what passed. She wishes me, however, to tell you likewise what
strikes her with respect to Lord Palmerston. It appears to the Queen
clear that the Reform Bill will have no chance of success unless
prepared and introduced in Parliament by a _united_ Cabinet; that,
if Lord Palmerston has made up his mind to oppose it and to leave the
Government, ther