494

LIFE OF GOBDEN. {oms?

1848. «I used to think that the Protestant Chnrch was the
xr 44. crying evil in Ireland ; and so it would be, if the Catholics of
that country were Englishmen or Scots. But as an econo”
mical evil, it can hardly be said to affect the material C02”
dition of the people, secing that the titheowners live in the
parish, and are in many cases almost the only proprietors
who do spend their income creditably at home ; and as 1b 18
not felt apparently as a moral grievance, I do not think that
the agitation against the Church Establishment would be
likely to contribute to the contentment of the people. I 0%
fess that the apatby of the Irish Catholics upon the subject
of the Protestant Church FEstablishent in that country
excites my surprise, if not my contempt.”
“ Dec. 28. (To Mr. Edward Baines.)—I donbt the utility of
your recurring to the Education question. My views have
undergone no chenge for twenty years on the subject, €X°
copbing that they are infinitely strengthened, and I 8%
convinced that I am as little likely to convert you as yOU
me. Practically no good could come out of the controversys
for we must both admit that the principle of State Educa
tion is virtually settled, both here and in all civilized countries:
It is not an infallible test I admit, but I don’t think there 81°
two men in the House of Commons who are opposed to the
principle of National Education.
“J did not intend to touch upon a matter so delicat®’
but yet, upon second thoughts, it is best to be candid. My
experience in public matters has long ago convinced me the?
to form a party, or act with a party, it is absolutely
necessary to avoid seeking for points of collision, and O%
the contrary, to endeavour to be silent, as far as 08°
can be so conscientiously, upon the differences one may 5¢°
between his own opinions and those of his political allies:
Applying this to your observstions® upon my budget: I

2 In tha Leeds Mercia.