cal Atheism. Responsible
government is perceived not to exist in Ireland. Mr Barry O'Brien in his
admirable book, "Dublin Castle and the Irish People," confesses himself
unable to find a better characterisation of the whole system than is
contained in a well-known passage from "The Mikado." I make no apology
for conveying it from him.

"One cannot help recalling the memory of Pooh-Bah, 'Lord
High-Everything-Else' of the Mikado of Japan. Who forgets the
memorable scene between him and Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner,
on an occasion of supreme importance?

_Ko-Ko_. Pooh-Bah, it seems that the festivities in connection with
my approaching marriage must last a week. I should like to do it
handsomely, and I want to consult you as to the amount I ought to
spend upon them.

_Pooh-Bah_. Certainly. In which of my capacities? As First Lord of
the Treasury, Lord Chamberlain, Attorney-General, Chancellor of the
Exchequer, Privy Purse, or Private Secretary?

_Ko-Ko_. Suppose we say as Private Secretary.

_Pooh-Bah_. Speaking as your Private Secretary, I should say that
as the city will have to pay for it, don't stint yourself; do it
well.

_Ko-Ko_. Exactly--as the city will have to pay for it. That is your
advice?

_Pooh-Bah_. As Private Secretary. Of course you will understand
that, as Chancellor of the Exchequer, I am bound to see that due
economy is observed.

_Ko-Ko_. Oh, but you said just now, 'Don't stint yourself; do it
well.'

_Pooh-Bah_. As Private Secretary.

_Ko-Ko_. And now you say that due economy must be observed.

_Pooh-Bah_. As Chancellor of the Exchequer.

_Ko-Ko_. I see. Come over here where the Chancellor can't hear us.
_(They cross stage.)_ Now, as my Solicitor, how do you advise me to
deal with this difficulty?

_Pooh-Bah_. Oh, as your Solicitor, I should have no hesitation in
saying chance it.

_Ko-Ko_. Thank you _(shaking his head)_; I will.

_Pooh-Bah_. If it were not that, as Lord Chief Justice, I am bound
to see that the law isn't violated.

_Ko-Ko_. I see. Come over here where the Chief Justice can't hear
us. (_They cross the stage_.) Now, then, as First Lord of the
Treasury?

_Pooh-Bah_. Of course, as First Lord of the Treasury, I could
propose a special vote that would cover all expenses if it