A bomb-shell with a lighted fuse beneath a column inscribed "legislative union" is surrounded by prominent Tory ministers who debate how best to deal with the danger, as Daniel O'Connell steals off. Coloured lithograph by H.B. (John Doyle), 1843.

During the summer of 1843, there was renewed repeal agitation in Ireland. Sir Robert Peel, leaning against the column, was generally opposed to coercive measures and suggests the bomb will burn itself out, the Duke of Wellington's response is that it may burn them at the same time. Lord Stanley strides forward stating he will extinguish it, but is cautioned by Sir James Graham behind. Lord Eliot, the Secretary for Ireland, holds an extinguisher inscribed "arms bill". The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Lord De Grey, consults a "page of the constitution" while the Chancellor for Ireland, Sir Edward Sugden, attempts to smother the bomb with a sheet inscribed "supersedeas"