§ SIR WALTER B. BARTTELOTI wish to ask the Chancellor of the Ex- 15 chequer, Whether he is able to make any statement with regard to the accuracy of certain reports in the newspapers this morning that the garrison of Kassala is in a fair way of being relieved? I am sure if such a statement can be made it will relieve the country of a very great anxiety which has prevailed with regard to the fate of that garrison.
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUERIf I could have had Notice of the Question, perhaps I might have been able to answer it more satisfactorily. There are, I think, some hopes that the relief of the garrison of Kassala will be effected; but beyond that I do not think I am justified in saying anything.