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Ireland and Emily Davison Ireland was still a problem for the King and for Asquith. The first suggestion that the Ulster Protestant Counties could be divided from the rest of the country was muted. The suffragettes were becoming more and more violent but Asquith had no intention of giving them the vote. Meanwhile Austria-Hungary was threatening war in the Balkans.
"Although I have not spoken to you before on the subject I have been for some time very anxious about the Irish Home Rule Bill, and especially with regard to Ulster. The speeches of not only of people like Sir Edward Carson, but of the Unionist leaders, and of the ex-Cabinet Ministers; the stated intention of setting up a provisional Government in Ulster directly The Home Rule Bill is passed; the reports of Military preparations, Army drilling etc.; of assistance from England, Scotland and the Colonies; of the intended resignation of their Commissions of Army officers; all point towards rebellion, if not Civil War, and, if so, to certain bloodshed. "Meanwhile there are rumours of probable agitation in the country; of monster petitions; Addresses from the House of Lords; from Privy Councillors; urging me to use my influence to avert the catastrophe which threatens Ireland. "Such vigorous action taken, or likely to be taken, will place me in a very embarrassing position in the centre of the conflicting parties backed by their respective Press. "Whatever I do I shall offend half of the population. "One alternative would certainly result in alienating the Ulster Protestants from me, and whatever happens the result must be detrimental to me personally and the Crown in general. "No Sovereign has ever been in such a position, and this pressure is sure to increase during the next few months. "In this period I have the right to expect the greatest confidence and support from my Ministers, and above all, from my Prime Minister. "I cannot help feeling that the Government is drifting and taking me with it. Before the gravity of the situation increases I should like to know how you view the present state of affairs, and what you imagine will be the outcome of it . . ."
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