wing the need of keeping the debts of the two islands distinct,
he explained that an examination of the Customs and Excise duties
warranted the inference that the contribution of Ireland towards
Imperial expenses should be two fifteenths of that of Great Britain. He
claimed that this plan would press less heavily on Ireland than the
present duty of contributing L1,000,000 to the British armaments in time
of war and half that amount in peace. Further, the Union would tend to
assuage religious jealousies and to consolidate the strength of the
Empire. Early on the next morning the House divided--158 for and 115
against Government. This result did not wholly please Dublin Castle.
Cooke wrote on the morrow to Auckland: "The activity and intimidation of
Opposition, together with their subscription purse, does sad mischief.
They scruple not to give from 3,000 to 4,000 guineas for a vote."
Government therefore had to mourn over seven deserters.[569]
Nevertheless, this division was decisive. Castlereagh rounded up his
flock, and by the display of fat pasture called in some of the
wanderers. Is it possible that the Opposition purse was merely the
device of a skilful auctioneer, who sends in a friend to raise the bids?

The triumph of Government at Dublin had its effects at Westminster. On
21st April 1800 Pitt explained the Resolutions as recently accepted by
the Irish Parliament. He spoke very briefly, probably owing to ill
health, which beset him through many weeks of that year.[570] He soon
met a challenger. Thomas Jones dared him to combat by accusing Ministers
of seeking to disfranchise Ireland by corrupt means. Foiled in argument,
they now acted on the principle

Flectere si nequeo superos, Acheronta movebo.

After a further display of classical knowledge, Jones declared that the
introduction of 100 Irish members into that House must destroy the
British constitution, which, like Damocles, would for ever be threatened
with the sword of Dionysius suspended over it by a single hair.

Disregarding rhetoric and classical allusions, Pitt plunged into
business. In none of his speeches is there a simpler statement of a
case. He declared the Union to be absolutely necessary as a means of
thwarting the machinations of an enemy ever intent on separating the two
kingdoms. It would further allay the religious animosities rife in
Ireland, and would conduce to her freedom and happiness. He then uttered
these words: "It may be proper