1-150-571 - The Cartoon Collector/Heritage-Images

'A Change for The Better', 1869. After his success in the 1868 General Election, Mr Gladstone became the new Prime Minister. One of his first acts was to introduce the Irish Bill and, in July 1869, after debate, discussion, amendments and compromise, the Bill was passed by the House of Lords. In this cartoon, the ghost of Queen Elizabeth appears at Queen Victoria's elbow, approving this 'change for the better'. Mr Gladstone, in the Commons, wished the Church of Ireland God-speed on her new career. From Punch, or the London Charivari, July 31, 1869.