CHAPTER XV.

Opening of the Session--Prevailing Distress--Lord John reconciled--Ministerial Speculations--Contemplated Transfer of India to the Crown--Military Position in India--Conversation with Mr. Disraeli--Bill for the Dissolution of the East India Company--Difficulties of Parliamentary Reform--The Relief of Lucknow--Lord Normanby's 'Year of Revolution'--Brougham's Jealousy of Lord Cockburn--Refutation of Lord Normanby's Book--The Crown Jewels of Hanover--Labour in the French Colonies--The Death of General Havelock--Gloomy Prospects in India--Inadequate Measures for the Relief of India--Lord John Russell hostile to Government--Death of the Duke of Devonshire--Mr. Disraeli suggests a Fusion of Parties--Marriage of the Princess Royal--Weakness of the Government--Excitement in France against this Country--Petition of the East India Company--Drowsiness of Ministers--Decline of Lord Palmerston's Popularity--Effect of the Orsini Attempt on the Emperor Napoleon--Opposition to the Conspiracy Bill--Review of the Crisis--Lord Derby sent for by the Queen--Refusal of the Peelites--The Catastrophe unexpected--The Defeat might have been avoided--Mismanagement of the Affair--Ministers determined to resign _page_ 139