contingencies. As a philosopher, Prince ARTHUR was familiar with the
vagaries of the average mind. He could not prevent the SAGE, in his
large leisure, untrammelled by no other consideration than that of
doing the greatest amount of good to the largest number, indulging
in speculations. But for Her Majesty's Ministers, the contingency
referred to was so remote and uncertain, that they had not even
contemplated taking any steps to meet it.

Then might the SAGE assume that, if the contingency arose, the
Government would act in the manner he had suggested?

No; on the whole, Prince ARTHUR, thinking the matter over in full view
of the House, concluded the SAGE might hardly draw that deduction from
what he had said.

[Illustration: Cap'n Birkbeck.]

The House, having listened intently to this artless conversation,
proceeded to business of the day, which happily included the adoption
of a Resolution engaging the Government to connect with the mainland,
by telephone or telegraph, the lighthouses and lightships that
twinkle round our stormy coasts. It was Cap'n BIRKBECK who moved
this Resolution, seconded from other side in admirable speech by
MARJORIBANKS.

Business done.--Excellent.

Wednesday.--Much surprised, strolling down to House this afternoon,
to find place in sort of state of siege. Policemen, policemen
everywhere, and, as one sadly observed, "not a drop to drink." Haven't