It was expected by many that Ireland would do the work for them.

Failing that, they had still the last stab to deliver.

But we counted upon one thing: that Mr.Lloyd George, if not Mr.Asquith, would feel himself committed to see the deal through--and that his resignation would have to be faced as a part of the consequences if attempts were made to go back on the bargain.
Parliament reassembled and still nothing was said and nothing done: but the Press was full of rumours.

On July 19th Redmond asked that a date should be fixed for the introduction of the proposed Bill, and next day he renewed his demand, urging that the constant delays and postponements were "seriously jeopardizing the chance of settlement." This was only too true.

A furious agitation against the proposal of even temporary partition was raging through Ireland.