The Sun.
London, England, 1865-05-26 00:00:00

HIGH WATER AT LONDON BRIDGE.

THIS DAL—Morning, 2h. 47m.—Afternoon, 3h. 12m.
To-Monnow.-Morning, 3h. 30m.—Afternoon, 3h. 55m.

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LONDON, FRIDAY, MAY 26, 1865.

It must be a satisfaction to every one concerned
in the matter that the Union Chargeability Bill
has been read a third time and passed, for during
its discussion there has been nothing but angry
feelings aroused, and useless discussions have taken
place, that have tended still further to embitter and
irritate the disputants. A great deal of prejudice
has been entertained respecting this measure by
those who see its inconveniences, but cannot be
persuaded to recognise its advantages. On the
other hand, it would have been much better if those
on the Ministerial benches had shown more mode-
ration in bringing in the measure—a little concilia-
tion often goes a great way in expediting an
arduous undertaking, and in smoothing the
rugged road over which an unpopular measure
must pass. Mr. VILLIERS has scorned the
aid of these allies, and preferred to force on his bill
nolens rolens. This course of proceeding has ren-
dered the task more difficult, and will, no doubt,
increase the obstacles that are sure to oppose them-
selves to the work of an unperfected measure. There
was no need for the hesitation and mystery that have
been mixed up in this affair, and one very unwise
instance of this was mentioned last night by Mr.
BRIGHT, when he alluded to the delay which had
taken place in printing the return, so that it might
be seen what amount the boroughs would save by
the working of the bill. Doubtless, as Mr. HENLEY
said, there has been great exaggeration in the de-
scriptions given of the demolition of cottages, and
such like proceedings ; but the right hon. gentleman
did not improve his case by being so strong in his
opposition to the measure, because in the eyes of
many his strictures will be taken as a part of his
diatribes against the measure, and not as mere
arguments in themselves. Mr. HENLEY stated very
truly that if Mr. VILLIERS had agreed to his amend-
ment being passed there would have been very
beneficial results to the poor, but as it was they
would have to bear the evils of the " removability',
system that pressed so heavily upon them. It
would have been much better if the President of
the Poor Law Board had bees more frank in his
explanations and taken more pains to show that
there would be a change in the boundaries of
parishes. It is not enough to make a change in
some respects if the will and power be wanting tocarry it out to a successful end, and thus afford
ad-
vantages to those who so much require protection.
A great responsibility will rest upon those who have
introduced this measure ; and it is sincerely to be
trusted that the results of its working will conduce
to the benefit of those concerned, and realise
expectations and fulfil the prophecies of the sup.
porters of the Bill. It will not satisfy the public if
a ..mere temporary advantage be taken of the pro-
visions of the measure to gain points and obtain
votes at elections, and no real efforts made to fur-
tha interests and promote the welfare of th 01,3
Claws Which N maintly require aid and aiaistance4