blushing somewhat and turning her own grey gogglers up to heaven,
received all his words for gospel, and sat fancying herself to be
the best, most meritorious, and most beautiful creature in the three
kingdoms.

"You men are terrible flatterers," continued she; "but you say
right: for myself I value not these empty distinctions. I am
growing old, Mr. Crampton,--yes, indeed, I am, although you smile so
incredulously,--and let me add, that MY thoughts are fixed upon
HIGHER things than earthly crowns. But tell me, you who are all in
all with Lord Bagwig, are we never to have our peerage? His
Majesty, I know, is not averse; the services of dear Sir George to a
member of His Majesty's august family, I know, have been appreciated
in the highest quarter. Ever since the peace we have had a promise.
Four hundred pounds has Sir George spent at the Heralds' Office (I
myself am of one of the most ancient families in the kingdom, Mr.
Crampton), and the poor dear man's health is really ruined by the
anxious sickening feeling of hope so long delayed."

Mr. Crampton now assumed an air of much solemnity.

"My dear Lady Gorgon," said he, "will you let me be frank with you,
and will you promise solemnly that what I am going to tell you shall
never be repeated to a single soul?"

Lady Gorgon promised.

"Well, then, since the truth you must know, you yourselves have been
in part the cause of the delay of which you complain. You gave us
two votes five years ago; you now only give us one. If Sir George