"She might yet rally round the throne a body of men"--

"Then we will go to the ladies," said the earl, abruptly
disturbing his guest.




Book 2 Chapter 2



There was music as they re-entered the drawing-room. Sir
Vavasour attached himself to Egremont.

"It is a great pleasure for me to see you again, Mr Egremont;"
said the worthy baronet. "Your father was my earliest and
kindest friend. I remember you at Firebrace, a very little
boy. Happy to see you again, Sir, in so eminent a position; a
legislator--one of our legislators. It gave me a sincere
satisfaction to observe your return."

"You are very kind, Sir Vavasour."

"But it is a responsible position," continued the baronet.
"Think you they'll stand? A majority. I suppose, they have;
but, I conclude, in time; Sir Robert will have it in time? We
must not be in a hurry; 'the more haste'--you know the rest.
The country is decidedly conservative. All that we want now
is a strong government, that will put all things to rights.