Adullamites

Adullamites. The attempt to extend the franchise made in 1866 by the government of Earl Russell and Mr Gladstone, led many of the Whigs to secede from the Liberal leaders, and vote with the Conservatives. The designation of Adullamites was fastened on the new party, in consequence of Mr Bright having likened them to the political outlaws who took refuge with David in the cave of Adullam (1 Sam. xxii.).