Sunbury American And Shamokin Journal

British Parliament Mist.

A fight, one of the most spirited of the season, took place in the House of Commons on the 27th. The principal combatants were Lord John Russell, Sir Robert Peel, Lords Palmerston, and Stanley. The attack was commenced by Lord John, in a bitter and sarcastic strain, who reviewed the difficulties of Ministers and their position, sneered at the measures they had been obliged to abandon, in consequence of the hostility out of doors, and in despite of the power of majority at their back; spoke of their financial embarrassments, as contrasted with the superior tact for which they gave themselves credit in such matters when in opposition; dwelt pointedly upon their difficulties in Ireland, and counselled them to better and wiser proceedings. Sir Robert Peel's reply, like every thing that falls from him, was able, but it wanted the freshness and vigor of his more successful efforts; he did not parry the thrusts of his assailants with the pointed dexterity with which they were made, and he seemed oppressed with his position. In all the requisites of a mere party speech, the happiest efforts of the evening was Lord Palmerston's. He spoke contemptuously of Ministers and their policy, in its domestic, foreign, and commercial phases, and predicted their early downfall. Lord Stanley, in a vigorous reply, terminated the interest of the discussion. The debate, confined as it was to the four ablest men in the House, as well as the most accomplished and powerful speakers, has necessarily excited much interest, and the partisans of both parties are loud in praise of the efforts of their respective favorites. The debate presents the case of the ins and outs of two years. Its perusal will remind many of the Scotch member's declaration—'I have heard many speeches,' said he, 'which changed my opinion but never one which changed my vote.'