Mr.Davitt, I dare say, when he sentimentalises in the House of Commons about his affection for the English democracy, is nearly, though not quite, as sincere as when he used to express passionate hatred of England.[99] But acquiescence is one thing, satisfaction is another.

There is every reason why the Irish members should acquiesce in the new constitution.

They obtain much, and they gain the means of getting more.

Quite possibly they feel grateful.
But their gratitude is not the gratitude of Ireland, and gratitude is hardly a sentiment possible, or indeed becoming, to a nation.
England saved Portugal and Spain from the domination of France.

Do we find that Portuguese and Spaniards gladly subordinate their interests to the welfare of England?
France delivered Italy from thraldom to Austria; French blood paid the price of Italian freedom.