CHAPTER XXI

1890-1891

THE PARNELL COMMISSION

The Pigott letter--Action of the Government--Lord Randolph’s warning--The forgery exposed--Report of the Special Commission--Mr. Jennings’ amendment--Lord Randolph’s speech--Mr. Chamberlain replies--Mr. Jennings offended--Wrath of the Conservative party--Estrangement from Mr. Jennings--Tendency of Lord Randolph Churchill’s later views--Ministerial discredit--Lord Randolph on the turf--At home and abroad--Barren years--Loyalty to the Conservative party--Expedition to Mashonaland--Lion-hunting--Mr. Balfour becomes Leader of the House of Commons.....405