February 4, 2015

Lord Randolph’s reelection as Chairman of the Council of the National Union of the Conservative Party forced the realization on the Party’s parliamentary leadership that they must now compromise with him. But it was not without some trepidation. Northcote wrote Salisbury that “Randolph is going in boldly and will ride Tory Democracy pretty hard.”

To patch up the quarrel, Lord Randolph agreed to work harmoniously with Lord Salisbury who, in turn, would treat the supporters of Churchill with the fullest confidence; the Central Committee of the Party was to be abolished; Lord Randolph was to relinquish the Chairmanship of the National Union; the Primrose League was to be officially recognized; and Lord Salisbury agreed to give a dinner to celebrate the reunification of the Tory Party. Clearly, Lord Randolph would be offered and would accept a post in the expected Tory government after the next election.

Meanwhile, Winston was improving somewhat at school. History and Geography were, as always, very good and his language subjects were showing improvement. His diligence and general conduct were improved a little but he was still occasionally causing a great deal of trouble. His headmaster, noting that he would be promoted, hoped that he would make a good start in the new division: “He might always do well if he choses.” This hope would never be fulfilled at that school. Lord and Lady Randolph removed their son from St. George’s School, Ascot, at the end of the Summer Term.