1-150-504 - The Cartoon Collector/Heritage-Images

'Declined With Thanks; Or The Rival Touts', 1867. This cartoon depicts Lord Russell walking past Potter and Beales's Diningrooms, and rejecting the invitations of both men to step inside. Mr Beales and Mr Potter were leaders of the Reform Party amongst working men. The London Working Men's Association, who were organising a Reform banquet at Crystal Palace, had invited Lord Russell and Mr Gladstone to attend. Lord Russell had declined the invitation, saying that he was 'too uncertain what effect Lord Derby's 'leap in the dark' may produce to a fit and enthusiastic companion for those who wish to celebrate the passing of the Reform Bill of 1867. Other measures unconnected with the Reform of Parliament seem to me to be needed if the future of the country is to be assured'. T From Punch, or the London Charivari, September 28, 1867.