AMPTHILL above these evidences of human weakness. LANSDOWNE in characteristically chivalrous manner suggested that motion for Committee should be withdrawn, affording opportunity to Noble Lords to consider MURRAY'S statement and the best course to be taken upon it. AMPTHILL not allured by such considerations. As he shrewdly remarked, if he consented to withdraw his motion it could not be revived. All he would consent to was not to insist upon proceeding with business at to-day's sitting. Stipulated that his opportunity should not be hampered by "unavoidable delay." On this understanding House adjourned, hoarse plumes in side galleries forlornly nodding themselves out. _Business done._--LLOYD GEORGE at bay in the Commons. His famous Budget attacked afresh on motion of Amendment to Address. ANANIAS and SAPPHIRA personally mentioned in course of debate. Amendment negatived by 301 votes against 213. _Thursday._--Upon inquiry and reflection LANSDOWNE discovered that in matter of proposed Marconi Committee AMPTHILL is in fuller accord with opinion of majority on his side of House than himself. Accordingly, adopts AMPTHILL'S motion and moves it. CREWE offering no opposition, Committee appointed without division. In Commons, just after 11 o'clock, news came of defeat of MASTERMAN in Bethnal Green. Turns out there was more in WORTHINGTON EVANS'S assumption of "the inky cloak, good mother" than on Monday met the eye. Boisterous scene of exultation in Unionist camp, jubilant cries of "Resign, Resign." "Resign!" growled SARK. "Why should WILSON resign a seat just won? It is true it was in a three-cornered fight, and by a majority of twenty-four he represents minority of electors. But the seat is his, and of course he'll keep it." Curious how obtuse SARK can be upon occasion. _Business done._--Debate on Address agreed to in Commons. Forthwith set to on Estimates. Work cut out till 31st March. After that Home Rule and the Deluge. * * * * * [Illustration: THE MAN FROM BOGOTA. Lord MURRAY OF ELIBANK (talking); Lord MOBLEY OF BLACKBURN (thinking).] * * * * * "ON SHROVE TUESDAY, FEB. 24, COOK'S FAST DAY EXCURSIONS TO BIRMINGHAM" _Midland Railway Leaflet._ The rest of us take our first "fast day," as usual, on Ash Wednesday. * * * * * THE CANAL. [_An attempt to express in futuristic "verse" the emotions aroused by a futuristic painting bearing the above title._]