One of the things which tell the experienced observer that Mr.Gladstone is in his best form, is the exuberance and freedom of his gesture.

Whenever he feels a thorough grip of himself and of the House, he lets himself go in a way upon which he does not venture in quieter moods.

He was dealing with the question of our colonies and of the difference which had been made in them by the concession of Home Rule.

It was while thus engaged that he made one of those eloquent little asides, which bring home to the mind the vastness and extent of this great career.

Nearly sixty years ago--just think of it, nearly sixty years ago--he had been associated with the Government of the Colonies--referring to the time when Lord Aberdeen was his chief, and he held office for the first time as an Under-Secretary.