Ffeil 968. - Written at National Liberal Club, Whitehall Place, S.W. Regrets he cannot attend his aunt's funeral: 'No man is such a ...,

Written at National Liberal Club, Whitehall Place, S.W. Regrets he cannot attend his aunt's funeral: 'No man is such a slave as he who serves the public. I felt there were some disagreeable things that needed saying last night & so I listened to speaker after speaker on our side I felt they would be unsaid unless I got up. There was a terrible scene but I held my ground the opposition backed me through & through. Burns got up to say the same thing. He showed me his notes. Bryn also got up for same purpose. ... Bannerman also backed me up splendidly & went for Balfour in fine style'. Has faced 'the most painful struggle between my duty here & my inclination. The Liberals begged me to remain'.