Ireland was on the verge of starvation and revolt; everywhere in Europe the rebellions which culminated in 1848 were beginning to stir, seeming then more formidable than they really were in their immediate consequences; in England the chartist movement was thought to threaten Crown and Constitution; and, in addition, the country had taken alarm at the weakness of its military defences.
"Lady-John-Russell"
MacCarthy, Desmond
The astonishment was great, and the fear increased that the chartist movement and Irish troubles would lead to revolution at home.
"Lady-John-Russell"
MacCarthy, Desmond
He was, however, courteously requested to withdraw from France, since the law banishing the Napoleon family had not yet been repealed, a circumstance which enabled him to return to England in time to enrol himself in the cause of law and order as a special constable at the chartist meeting.
"Lady-John-Russell"
MacCarthy, Desmond