ng of the House, it was decided
that Lord Palmerston should follow Lord John, in order to prevent the
appearance of a division in the Cabinet between the Whig and Peelite
Members. As Lord Palmerston was to act as Leader of the House, the
substitution of Mr Gladstone would have appeared strange. But the
decision was unfortunate, for by all accounts the speech of Lord
Palmerston was singularly unsuccessful.

In the debate which followed, the impression in the House was strongly
against the War Department; and the indications which occasionally
appeared of the possibility of Lord Palmerston filling that office
were received with great cordiality. Sir George Grey made an excellent
speech, and his censure must have been deeply felt by Lord John.

Lord Aberdeen has waited until the Cabinet had met to-day before he
had the honour of writing to your Majesty, in order that he might
learn the impressions and opinions of the Members, especially of those
who are in the House of Commons. All agree that if the division had
taken place last night, Mr Roebuck's Motion would have been carried by
a large majority. This still seems to be the prevailing opinion, but
there is considerable difference. The Motion is so objectionable and
so unconstitutional that delay is likely to be favourable to those who
oppose it. A little reflection must produce considerable effect. Lord
Aberdeen sees that Mr Gladstone is preparing for a great effort, and
he will do whatever can be effected by reason and eloquence.

It is said that Lord Derby shows some reluctance to accept the
responsibility of overthrowing the Government; but the part taken last
night by Mr Walpole, and the notice of a Motion in the House of Lords
by Lord Lyndhurst, would appear to denote a different policy. The
result of the Division on Monday will depend on the course adopted by
his friends, _as a party_. It is said that Mr Disraeli has signified a
difference of opinion from Mr Walpole.

[Pageheading: DEFEAT OF THE MINISTRY]

_Viscount Palmerston to Queen Victoria._

144 PICCADILLY, _30th January 1855._

(2 A.M.)

Viscount Palmerston presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and
begs to state that Mr Roebuck's Motion has been carried by 305 to 148,
being a majority of 157 against the Government, a great number of the
Liberal party voting in the majority.

The debate was begun by Mr Stafford,[11] who gave a very interesting
but painful account of the mismanagement wh