78 LIFE OF SIR JOHN LUBBOCK oh. 



would be desirable, if possible, to refuse to pro- 

 ceed with an inquiry which, unless very carefully 

 handled, will probably reawaken jealousies, sus- 

 picions and antipathies that had almost lapsed 

 into oblivion. Sir J. Lubbock points out that 

 within the past few months the origin and inci- 

 dents of the Jameson raid have been fully investi- 

 gated by a Committee of the Cape Parliament, 

 while the principal participators in the affair have 

 been brought to trial and have suffered punish- 

 ment in this country. The circumstances of the 

 case as practically affecting our national obliga- 

 tions have been materially changed, it must be 

 acknowledged, since Mr. Chamberlain promised 

 an inquiry early in last session. All this is true 

 and pertinent enough, but the fact remains that 

 the promise was given by Ministers and was 

 accepted by Parliament after due consideration 

 and without any reserve." ^ 



The above is worthy of notice not only for its 

 analysis of the measure to which it refers, but also 

 for its estimate of the perhaps unique position 

 which Sir John held in the House of Commons. 

 There is little doubt that it was this peculiar 

 position which enabled him to be so very success- 

 ful in passing his Bills through the House. Apart 

 from his exceptional knowledge and ability, the 

 members on both sides were always sure that his 

 proposals were inspired by what he believed to be 

 the public good and not by any considerations of 

 a " party " character. 



The statement often made, having lately been 

 repeated in rather emphatic form, that the Bank 



> Times, January 22, 1897. 



