a disciple. Mr. Clarkson was a philanthropist and
a Christian, but neither a political economist nor a politician. The
Bishop of Oxford proposed an amendment, on the second reading, which
would have virtually destroyed the bill; but the original motion was
carried, and the remaining stages were unobstructed.

This was a most important measure to the comfort of the people and the
commerce of the country. The government was logically and politically
right; and the Whigs left the impression upon the country, by the bill
itself, and the arguments by which they conducted it through the
house, that they had been of late successful students in the important
department of economics. A considerable stir among the wealthy and
influential body of English citizens, the Society of Friends, was
created, by the support which Mr. Bright, Mr. Crewdson, and others of
the Quakers of the north of England, gave to the sugar bill. The body
at large considered that support inconsistent with their professed
principles. Mr. Bright, and those who took his views, eloquently
defended themselves against the criticisms of the Friends, and Mr.
George Thompson, the celebrated anti-slavery lecturer, espoused their
cause with great ardour. Mr. Bright and his fellow-labourers of the
Quaker persuasion were in a minority. The great body of the Friends
disapproved of his conduct, and the old anti-slavery party throughout
the country joined in the disapprobation. Mr. Bright was not a man to
be deterred by friends or foes from pursuing a course which he thought
right, and he persisted in giving to the government a very hearty and
efficient support. The Manchester school accepted the bill with great
favour, and upheld the ministry in carrying it. Large assemblages were
convened in Manchester and the manufacturing districts, but especially
in South Lancashire, Cheshire and Staffordshire, on behalf of
the measure, and the various chambers of commerce and commercial
associations passed resolutions or sent petitions in its favour. It was
a good beginning for Lord John as premier, and conduced to the tenure of
office which he was enabled to maintain.

THE CONDITION OF IRELAND.--DISTURBED STATE OF THE COUNTRY.--DISAFFECTION
OF THE POPULACE.--FAILURE OF THE POTATOE CROP.--DISTRESS.--AGITATION BY
THE YOUNG IRELANDERS.--DECLINE OF O'CONNELL.

Some notice has been taken of the condition of Ireland as leading to the
dissolution of the Peel ministry. It is appropr