COLONEL WHITEsaid, he desired to alter the Question he had placed upon the Paper by the use of the word "deliberating, for "discussing the matter;" for although discussion might be considered as against the spirit of the Queen's Regulations, deliberating as to the future course to be adopted by Officers in the event of the right hon. Gentleman adhering to his official declaration, that he must ignore the official declaration, could not be objectionable. He would therefore ask the Secretary of State for War. Whether he will consent to postpone all discussion upon the question of "Over Regulation Purchase-money in the Army" until those most deeply interested—namely, the Officers in Purchase Regiments—can have an opportunity of meeting and deliberating; and, whether such meeting may be considered to have the sanction and permission of the Commander in Chief and of Her Majesty's Government?
§ MR. CARDWELLSir, I am not aware that I have ever used any expression implying that I am ignorant of the fact that over-regulation prices are paid, though I have said I have no official knowledge on the subject. I have already said that on Monday I will state the course which Her Majesty's Government will pursue, and nothing will be done in the interval to prejudice the case. I have promised to give every attention in my power to the objections which have been raised to my proposal, and to any suggestions that may be made; but any meeting to the prejudice of good order and military discipline will be contrary to the rules of the service, and I must rely on the sense of subordination of my hon. and gallant Friend not to countenance any proceeding of that kind.