Barkly was not unfavourable to Federation.

But he perceived that it could not be forced upon a self-governing Colony, and that he himself would be powerless unless he acted in harmony with his constitutional advisers.

He, as well as Molteno, refused to attend the dinner at which Froude on his arrival was entertained in Cape Town.

Molteno advised Froude not to go, or if he went, not to speak.

Froude, however, both went and spoke, claiming as an Englishman the right of free speech in a British Colony.