Chairs at 11. We spoke of the Charter. They rather dislike the notion of using the King's name, and I fear Mr. Elphinstone and all the Indians will give their evidence against the change. I may be outvoted, but I shall not be convinced. [Footnote: This change was effected in 1858.] _May 17._ Nothing political, except a grand dinner at the Duke of Norfolk's, given to the Duke of Wellington, which was very fine and very dull. The Duke told me he had read the Persian papers. The Russians had brought it on themselves. _May 19._ In the House of Commons last night O'Connell was heard at the bar. The debate seems to have been temperate. It was decided on a discussion, 190 to 116, that he must take the Oath of Supremacy. At the office had some conversation with Mr. Leach as to the plan of governing India in the King's name--the Directors being made ex officio Commissioners for the affairs of India. He seems to have some prejudices against the plan, but he adduced no real objections. I have begged him to put on paper all the objections which occurred to him. Wrote a long letter to Lord W. Bentinck on all subjects connected with the renewal of the Charter, and the general government of India. Dined at the Freemasons' Hall with the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. There were present 200 persons. I thought they would be very hostile to a Minister. However, when my name was mentioned by the Bishop of Durham, as a steward, there was much cheering. The Bishop of London, who was in the chair, begged me to return thanks for the stewards, which I did. I spoke of course of the wish entertained by the Ministers that a Society might prosper the interests of which were so much connected with those of the Established Church--of their determination in their several departments to further its objects. It was the duty of us all as Christians, but more peculiarly that of the Ministers, to advance objects intimately connected with the individual happiness of the people and with the stability of the State. I said something too of the intrinsic strength of the Protestant Church--of its rising in proportion to the difficulties which might surround it, to the dangers--if dangers there were (the Primate had spoken of them)--of its security in the zeal and ability of its ministers, and in the purity of its doctrines. On the whole I did well. I was loudly cheered--indeed, so much interrupted as to be enabled to think what I should say next. Indian business in the morning--Coal Committee. _May 20._