Campbell-Bannerman, were to be offered the Speakership--in that order.
It was known that Herschell would refuse, it was thought that Goschen
would refuse on the ground of sight, and Peel on the ground of health,
and it was intended that Campbell-Bannerman should have it. Herschell
did refuse, but Goschen accepted, and had to be shown by his doctor that
he could not see members across the House, that he would be capable of
confusing Healy with Parnell.... Peel accepted, and in spite of his bad
health took it, and has kept it till this day (1891).'

There was also continuous discussion behind the scenes as to the two
important measures of local government reform--for London and for the
country.

'By November 8th, 1883, I had succeeded in bringing Harcourt round
on the London police matter ... to let the City keep their police,
and then went to Mr. Gladstone.... After twelve o'clock at night
Harcourt joined us, and it was agreed to put both London and local
government in the Queen's Speech for 1884.'

Dilke spent much work upon the London Government Bill with Harcourt in
January of that year; but the Bill, having passed its second reading,
was not further proceeded with, owing to House of Commons difficulties.
Sir Charles gives the true reason in a letter to his agent:

'One unfortunate thing about the London Bill is that no one in the
House cares about it except Dilke, Firth, and the Prime Minister,
and no one outside the House except the Liberal electors of Chelsea.
This is the private hidden opinion of Harcourt and of the
Metropolitan Liberal members except Firth. I am personally so strong
for the Bill that I have not at any time admitted this to Harcourt,