at the bar, when the respective attainments of these eminent persons
were such, that if Brougham had been placed before him, Scarlett would
have had just ground of complaint; and the bar would have unanimously
decried the appointment. Now, however, by one of those cross accidents
which will occur in the most fortunate lives, Scarlett was, with
strict justice and universal acquiescence, placed below his former
competitor, and in direct opposition to all the early friends with
whom he commenced his political career. It was matter of necessity
and of course that he should go out when his employers were obliged to
surrender office; and no man could complain that Brougham should then
be elevated to a distinction, which in other circumstances Scarlett
might have thought his own by indisputable right * * *. The Speaker of
the House of Commons was then announced. Brougham and he met as warm
friends, though certainly men having little in kindred. In point of
talent there is no ground of comparison; yet it may be doubted whether
they are not nearly as great in their own way. I have no notion of
the place which the Speaker held in parliament before he was elected
to the chair, and I know few situations which require more tact and
management. In these qualifications the present Speaker is signally
gifted. He brings a degree of good nature to the office, which no
event, however untoward, can ruffle;--his calmness never forsakes him:
he is the same easy, dignified chairman at all times. The Commons are
a truly turbulent body, but they are not impatient of his sway. In all
emergencies he is vigorously supported: in his hands, the authority
of his office, though rarely exercised, has lost none of its force.
Brougham himself was one of the most fiery spirits in this hot region;
but a word from the Speaker would calm him in an instant. Among
other qualifications for command, he is possessed of a fine mellow,
deep-toned voice, which, while it powerfully enunciates the "Order,"
frees the command from all harshness or severity. As the first