§ THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURYasked the noble Earl opposite (Earl Granville), When the second reading of the Arrears of Rent (Ireland) Bill would be taken after its passage through the House of Commons? The Bill had recently been very largely altered, and, therefore, it would be inconvenient if the second reading were fixed for an early day. He hoped the noble Earl opposite would name Thursday as the day on which the Motion that the Bill be read a second time would be made.
§ EARL GRANVILLEThe Government desire to pass this Bill on as early a day as possible. If the Bill arrives in the House this evening, or to-morrow, we propose to read it a first time and a second time on Tuesday. If, however, the noble Earl insists upon its postponement until Thursday, Her Majesty's 1206 Government would yield, but not without a strong protest against the delay.
§ THE MARQUESS OF SALISBURYI may assume, then, that the second reading of the Bill will be fixed for Thursday. We cannot wait till midnight merely on the chance of receiving the Bill. Besides, we shall want some time in which to consider it; and I think the second reading ought not to be taken before Thursday.
§ EARL GRANVILLEconsented to take the second reading on Thursday next.