History is to blame

Haines' guilt about the Irish history that Stephen experiences as a nightmare, and that his own nightmare perhaps has something to do with, comes out of his mouth reeking of British imperial euphemism (“We feel in England that we have treated you rather unfairly”) and evasion of responsibility (“It seems history is to blame”). But at least he does feel guilt.

John Hunt 2011

William Ewart Gladstone, leader of the Liberals in the late 19th century and four-time Prime Minister. Source: www.britannica.com.