The Life of Sir Rowland Hill and the

1849] SUPPORT FROM THE PREMIER. I2/
interests ; but expectations of the kind have been so frequently
raised only to be disappointed, that such intimations produce little
effect on my mind."
Lord John Russell, in the main, confirmed my view
as to the employment of volunteers exclusively.
The
Postmaster-General informed me that he had spoken
seriously to Mr. Bokenham, and hoped for good
results. I pointed out to the Postmaster-General
that, though
his order for the execution of the
plan was peremptory, yet, considering the ample
field given for obtaining volunteers, it could not
possibly enjoin compulsion ; with which conclusion
he agreed.
Meantime the work of agitation did not relax :
" October 22nd. Inflammatory appeals to the public, representing
us as resorting to compulsion, are placarded, among other places, on
the boards for official notices at some of the churches."
Still, whatever the present pain, I was confident of
succeeding in the end, provided
there was no flinch-
ing ; but it was of the first importance to have a
complete and definite understanding as to the mode
of action. Vacillation must be brought to an end, if
possible, and, fortunately, it was decided the next day
that I should undertake the duty, with authority to
raise volunteers in and out of the office. I conse-
quently began at once to make needful arrangements,
when Mr. BokenTiam, informing me that for certain
reasons it would be easier for him to obtain volunteers
than he had supposed, expressed a desire to try again.
The next day he undertook in writing to discharge the
duty by the aid of volunteers alone. This offer, with
a minute of my own, I despatched to the Postmaster-
General, again at Brighton, who wrote me word next