But, as a matter of fact, through the mere necessity of filling so much space his control becomes rarefied to an invisible vapour; he ends by becoming nothing in any part. With its ultimate principle reduced to the status of a _Dieu faineant_ political Pantheism is transformed into political Atheism. Responsible government is perceived not to exist in Ireland. Mr Barry O'Brien in his admirable book, "Dublin Castle and the Irish People," confesses himself unable to find a better characterisation of the whole system than is contained in a well-known passage from "The Mikado." I make no apology for conveying it from him. "One cannot help recalling the memory of Pooh-Bah, 'Lord High-Everything-Else' of the Mikado of Japan. Who forgets the memorable scene between him and Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner, on an occasion of supreme importance? _Ko-Ko_. Pooh-Bah, it seems that the festivities in connection with my approaching marriage must last a week. I should like to do it handsomely, and I want to consult you as to the amount I ought to spend upon them. _Pooh-Bah_. Certainly. In which of my capacities? As First Lord of the Treasury, Lord Chamberlain, Attorney-General, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Privy Purse, or Private Secretary? _Ko-Ko_. Suppose we say as Private Secretary. _Pooh-Bah_. Speaking as your Private Secretary, I should say that as the city will have to pay for it, don't stint yourself; do it well. _Ko-Ko_. Exactly--as the city will have to pay for it. That is your advice? _Pooh-Bah_. As Private Secretary. Of course you will understand that, as Chancellor of the Exchequer, I am bound to see that due economy is observed. _Ko-Ko_. Oh, but you said just now, 'Don't stint yourself; do it well.' _Pooh-Bah_. As Private Secretary. _Ko-Ko_. And now you say that due economy must be observed. _Pooh-Bah_. As Chancellor of the Exchequer. _Ko-Ko_. I see. Come over here where the Chancellor can't hear us. _(They cross stage.)_ Now, as my Solicitor, how do you advise me to deal with this difficulty? _Pooh-Bah_. Oh, as your Solicitor, I should have no hesitation in saying chance it. _Ko-Ko_. Thank you _(shaking his head)_; I will. _Pooh-Bah_. If it were not that, as Lord Chief Justice, I am bound to see that the law isn't violated. _Ko-Ko_. I see. Come over here where the Chief Justice can't hear us. (_They cross the stage_.) Now, then, as First Lord of the Treasury?