se, arise except from the fault of the leader. For
the leader and the follower, if we consider the matter rightly, are
alike bound to common allegiance: some principle must have been laid
down as terms of their compact, which both are sworn to observe; and the
violation of this principle on either side is a true annulment of the
contract. No mercy is shown to the follower when he deserts or
repudiates the common ground of action;--is the leader, who is presumed
to have the maturer mind, and more prophetic eye, entitled to a larger
indulgence?

Whilst perusing the late debates, we have repeatedly thought of a
pregnant passage in Schiller. It is that scene in "The Piccolomini,"
where Wallenstein, after compromising himself privately with the enemy,
attempts to win over the ardent and enthusiastic Max, the nursling of
his house, to the revolt. It is so apposite to the present situation of
affairs, that we cannot forbear from quoting it.

WALLENSTEIN.

Yes, Max! _I have delay'd to open it to thee,
Even till the hour of acting 'gins to strike_.
Youth's fortunate feeling doth seize easily
The absolute right; yea, and a joy it is
To exercise the single apprehension
Where the sums square in proof;--
But where it happens, that _of two sure evils
One must be taken_, where the heart not wholly
Brings itself back from out the strife of duties,
_There 'tis a blessing to have no election,
And blank necessity is grace and favour._
--This is now present: do not look behind thee,--
It can no more avail thee. Look thou forwards!
_Think not! judge not! prepare thyself to act!
The Court--it hath determined on my ruin,
Therefore will I to be beforehand with them._
We'll join THE SWEDES--right gallant fellows are they,
And our good friends.

For "the Swedes" substitute "the League," and there is not one word of
the foregoing passage that might not have been uttered by Sir Robert
Peel. For, most assuredly, until "the hour of acting" struck, was the
important communication delayed; and no higher or more comprehensive
argument was given to the unfortunate follower than this, "that of two
sure evils one must be taken." But is it, therefor, such a blessing "to
have no election," and is "blank necessity," therefore, such a special
"grace and favour?"--say, _is_ it necessity, when a clear, and
consistent, and honourable course remains open? The evil on one side is
clear: it is the loss of self-respect