e chance of prevailing. It was this controversy
that opened the door for immediate dissolution, though the general grounds
for dissolution at some near time were only too abundant. Here is his note
of the position,--in a minute addressed to Mr. Cardwell and Mr. Goschen:--

_Jan. 22, 1874._--We arrived yesterday at the conclusion that,
apart from this or that shade of view as to exact figure of the
estimates, the measure now proposed stood well on its own general
grounds. This being so, after consulting Lord Granville, and
indeed at his suggestion, I have in a preparatory letter to the
Queen founded myself entirely on general grounds. This being so, I
would propose to consider the point raised between us as one
adjourned, though with a perfect knowledge in each of our minds as
to the views of the others. My statement to the cabinet must be on
the same basis as my statement to the Queen. The actual decision
of the estimates would stand over from to-morrow's cabinet, until
we saw our way as to their position and as to the time for their
production. I am sure I might reckon on your keeping the future as
far as possible open, and unprejudiced by contracts for works or
for building or construction. Any reference to economy which I
make to-morrow will be in general terms such as I propose to use
in an address. If I have made myself clear and you approve, please
to signify it on this paper, or to speak to me as you may prefer.
I am reluctant to go out, with my chest still tender, in the fog.

Cardwell, in the few words of his minute in reply makes no objection. Mr.
Goschen says: "I quite take the same view as you do. Indeed, I had
proposed myself to ask you whether what had passed between us had not
better remain entirely confidential for the present, as it is best not to
state differences where the statement of them is not indispensable."

The diary for these important days is interesting:--

_Jan.17, '74._--The prospects of agreement with the two departments
on estimates are for the present bad. 18.--This day I thought of
dissolution. Told Bright of it. In evening at dinner told
Granville and Wolverton. All seemed to approve. My first thought
of it was as an escape from a difficulty. I soon saw on reflection
that it was the best thing in itself. 19.--Confined all day in bed
with tightness on the chest. Much physicki