The Daily Dispatch: August 22, 1861., [Electronic resource]

The reason why.

‘ The post of attorney-general was offered to the learned gentleman in the most handsome manner, and as handsomely declined by him, on the ground that he would not consent to have his own claims considered before those of the solicitor-general, Sir Wm Atherton. It was, however, absolutely necessary to secure Mr. Palmer, not only because his adhesion conciliated the clerical strength Lord Shaftesbury's support so often offends, but because a great civic lawyer had become a vital necessity to the administration. The bankruptcy bill can wait, and for law reform the Chancellor is all sufficient; but the Premier needs in the Commons an assistant competent to advise and explain his action on the complicated questions which are likely to arise between our Government and that of the United States.

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