MINERVA, armed _College-cap-à-pie_, is, as _Dominie Sampson_ would
have said, "Pro-di-gi-ous!"

* * * * *

ESSENCE OF PARLIAMENT.

EXTRACTED FROM THE DIARY OF TOBY, M.P.

[Illustration: "Francis George."]

_House of Commons, Monday, June_ 13.--House filled up in marvellous
style to-night. Through all last week Benches nearly empty; the few
Members present sunk in depths of depression. To-night, scene changed;
Benches crowded; buzz of conversation testified to ill-repressed
excitement. Mr. G., amongst others, back in his place. "And looking
uncommonly fit too," says FRANCIS GEORGE, Viscount BARING; "not at all
sure he won't, after all, outlive Our JOE. At any rate, he's in fine
condition for the little mill that's coming off."

[Illustration: "Scenting the Battle from afar."]

What everyone gathered to hear was Prince ARTHUR's views as to date
of Dissolution. He has, up to now, successfully maintained attitude
of absolute ignorance that Dissolution is even pending. Up to to-night
the blessed word on everyone's tongue has not passed his lips. When,
a fortnight ago, Mr. G. diplomatically approached topic, the Prince,
with charmingly puzzled look, talked of something else. Nearest
approach he can bring himself to make to topic, is to refer to
arrangements of public business. This afternoon, when he stood at