1-150-538 - The Cartoon Collector/Heritage-Images

'Steering Under Difficulties', 1868. At the end of April 1868, Gladstone won his Resolution for the disestablishment of the Irish Church. Disraeli's government lost by 65 votes. After this defeat, Disraeli asked the Queen for permission to dissolve Parliament and it was agreed that this should take place in the Autumn. Mr Gladstone, for the Liberals, said that the government should have resigned properly, and that in the meantime, he would proceed with his Bill to suspend Irish Church Appointments. This cartoon therefore depicts the Ship's Captain, Disraeli, steering his ship of government through stormy waters but preparing to repel boarders. With his leg over the side of the ship is Pirate Gladstone, Suspensory Bill in hand. Coming up behind him in support is his Liberal colleague, John Bright. From Punch, or the London Charivari, May 23, 1868.