The latter rule was that under which Mr.Mellor acted.

Mr.Sexton demanded that he should be treated under the other rule, believing that if a division had taken place the majority of the House, or at least a very big minority, would have refused to sanction the action of the Chairman.
This would have meant that Mr.Mellor would have been censured, and thereby compelled to resign the Chairmanship.
Mr.Gladstone, I say, saved the situation.

In language of touching delicacy and grace, he appealed to Mr.Sexton to obey the chair.

Mr.
Sexton at first would not yield; but when the appeal was renewed--when it was backed by all the resources of that thrilling and vibratory voice of Mr.Gladstone, his stubborn resolve gave way.

He rose from his seat--several Liberal members got up and waved their hats; the Irishmen followed their example.