To-night we expect the great struggle, and I fear that, much against my inclination, I must bear a part in it.

My resignation is in Lord Althorp's hands.

He assures me that he will do his utmost to obtain for me liberty to act as I like on this question; but Lord Grey and Stanley are to be consulted, and I think it very improbable that they will consent to allow me so extraordinary a privilege.

I know that, if I were Minister, I would not allow such latitude to any man in office; and so I told Lord Althorp.

He answered in the kindest and most flattering manner; told me that in office I had surpassed their expectations, and that, much as they wished to bring me in last year, they wished much more to keep me in now.