HC Deb 22 March 1877 vol 233 c335
THE O'CONOR DON

I rise, Sir, for the purpose of offering a personal explanation. An expression fell from me yesterday in the course of the debate on the Irish Land Bill which I have reason to believe has given offence to some hon. Members of the House. I feel, Sir, that I was wrong in making use of the expression I refer to. It fell from me in the heat of debate; it was wholly unpremeditated; and I can assure the House I never intended it to give any offence whatever. I believe that I was wrong in making use of the expression I did, and now feel it my duty most unequivocally to withdraw it.