phen's, on the Terceira business, and he is to give notice
to-night. He has been with Palmella and Frederick Lamb, who are
both to assist in getting up his case, and he expects to be
supported by some of the Whigs and by the Huskissonians, which
latter are evidently anxious to do anything they can to embarrass
the Government. I know nothing of the case, which, _prima facie_,
appears much against Government; but the moment is so ill-chosen,
in the midst of this great pending affair, that I think they will
make nothing of it. Palmella is a great fool for his pains, for
in clamouring against the Duke he is only kicking against the
pricks. As to Duncombe, he is egged on by Lambton and instructed
by Henry de Ros, who cares nothing about the matter, and only
does it for the fun of the thing. I have no idea but that
Duncombe must cut a sorry figure when he steps out of the line of
personal abuse and impertinence.

[Page Head: CATHOLIC RELIEF BILL.]

February 11th, 1829 {p.172}

Nothing is thought of or talked of but the Catholic question;
what Peers and bishops will vote for it? who voted before against
it? There is hardly any other feeling than that of satisfaction,
except on the part of the ultra-Tories, who do not attempt to
conceal their rage and vexation; the moderate Tories, who are
mortified at not having been told of what was going on; and
Huskisson's party, who would have been glad to have a share in
the business, and who now see themselves in all probability
excluded for ever. O'Connell arrived yesterday; it is supposed he
will not take his seat, but he does not seem inclined to
co-operate with Government in keeping things quiet. However, his
real disposition is not yet known, and probably he has not made
up his mind what to do, but waits for events. Notwithstanding the
declaration of the bishops, I do not believe they will vote
against Government. Peel spoke very well last night, and severely
trimmed old Bankes, which gives me great pleasure, so much do I
hate that old worn-out set. How this change of measures changes
one's whole way of thinking; though I have nothing to do with
politics, I cannot help being influenced to an extraordinary
degree by what has passed, and can understand from my own
feelings how those who are deeply engaged may be biassed by the
prejudices and attachments of party without any imputation
against their sincerity or judgment. When we see men pursuing a
course of which we greatly di