§ MR. GIBSONasked the First Lord of the Treasury, Whether Her Majesty's Government intend to recommend the 928 grant of any special pension or allowance to any members of the family of the late lamented General Gordon?
MR. GLADSTONESir, the subject to which the right hon. and learned Gentleman has called my attention in this Question has received the careful consideration of Her Majesty's Government. I may say at once, frankly and without reserve, that an offer of some pecuniary provision or acknowledgment, were it likely to be acceptable, would undoubtedly be very readily and freely made by Her Majesty's Government. I am not certain that that is the case; but I am looking carefully into the whole matter. I think that is probably the best answer I can give at present.
§ MR. BOURKEsaid, he had not been able to gather, from any answers that had been made by the Government, whether the despatches containing General Gordon's messages would be in the hands of Members to-morrow?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICEreplied, that he could only confirm what he had stated yesterday, that the Papers in question would certainly be in the hands of hon. Members on Monday, and he was in great hopes that they might be ready by to-morrow.