The Morning Post, Thursday, 28 June 1866

REFORM OR REBELLION?

Two days ago, the Whigs’ proposed amendments to the Reform Bill were voted down, causing Earl Russell’s government to fall. We make no secret of our objections to the Bill, which would have extended the franchise well beyond those who, in our humble opinion, are best placed to exercise it. Members of the Reform League do not agree with our stance, however, and, we are reliably informed, intend to organise a number of protests in the Capital this summer.

Has this spirit of rebellion sprung up in certain members of the weaker sex, we wonder? Could the Duke of B——, a loyal Tory and staunch opponent of Reform, have been nurturing a rebel in his own household? The long-anticipated alliance between His Grace’s second daughter, Lady M—— and a certain Scottish earl appears to have foundered. The Earl of K——, who had been paying diligent attention to the lady, has been conspicuous by his absence from her side at social gatherings of late. We have it on the best of authority that, while the gentleman and the duke were of one accord, unfortunately the lady demurred. We recommend that you oppose reform closer to home, Your Grace, and set an example to all in these turbulent times. Long-established tradition and authority must be upheld.