It was remarkable for one utterance from Mr.Healy, concerning Redmond: "I wish to say at the outset that in my opinion this Empire owes him a debt of gratitude which it can never repay, and I wish also to say of him as an opponent that in my opinion, if his advice had been taken by the War Office, it is absolutely true, as he contends, that you would have marshalled in Ireland from two hundred thousand to three hundred thousand men, from whom large drafts could have been drawn; and I will further say I believe if his advice had been taken the elements of rebellion would have been appeased." It was plain that matters could not stay at this point; but our breach with the Government was complete for the moment.

Redmond's demand was for a full and definite statement of policy, which should be made in the House of Commons and there discussed.

On May 15th Mr.Bonar Law announced that the Prime Minister would make a communication to the leaders of Irish parties.

It was explained that this method of outlining the proposals would be only preliminary to discussion.
On that evening a great banquet to General Smuts was given in the House of Lords by Parliament.

Strong pressure was used with Redmond to attend it, and he consented unwillingly.