28Apr1866, Speeches on the Reform Bill

LONDON, April 28th, 1866.
—Fred came to bed at ¼ to 5 in the morning, announcing a majority of 5 for the 2nd reading. One didn't expect more. It is impossible, I suppose, for the poor Bill to survive Committee and pass the Lords. Dizzy spoke for near 3 hours, and was dull, they say, wishing to exhaust the House ! as he well might, the atmosphere being frightful in the heat of the weather. Uncle W. got up at one, and spoke for 2 hours, magnificently, so as to poke up great enthusiasm even at that time of night, and after the endless debates. He was dead tired all day. F. had tea at No. 11, and said he seemed strung up and excited, and indignant with Dizzy, who had sent Uncle W. word he meant to speak 1 hour and then spoke 3. Uncle W. said (N.B. not in the House !) that Dizzy had generosity and temper, but was hopelessly false.