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diff --git a/old/7412-h.htm.2017-09-30 b/old/7412-h.htm.2017-09-30 new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7318eb5 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/7412-h.htm.2017-09-30 @@ -0,0 +1,21143 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Coningsby, by Benjamin Disraeli + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: right; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; margin-left: 0.8em; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Coningsby, by Benjamin Disraeli + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Coningsby + +Author: Benjamin Disraeli + + +Release Date: February, 2005 [EBook #7412] +This file was first posted on April 25, 2003 +Last Updated: September 30, 2017 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CONINGSBY *** + + + + +Text file produced by Anne Soulard, Tiffany Vergon, and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + CONINGSBY + </h1> + <h3> + OR THE NEW GENERATION + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Benjamin Disraeli + </h2> + <h4> + Earl Of Beaconsfield + </h4> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> PUBLISHERS’ NOTE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> TO HENRY HOPE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> <b>CONINGSBY</b> </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> <b>BOOK I.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0017"> <b>BOOK II.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0025"> <b>BOOK III.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0031"> BOOK IV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER XV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0048"> <b>BOOK V.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0040"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0041"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0042"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0043"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0044"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0045"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0046"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0047"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0057"> <b>BOOK VI.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0048"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0049"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0050"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0051"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0052"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0053"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0054"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0055"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0066"> <b>BOOK VII.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0056"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0057"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0058"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0059"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0060"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0061"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0062"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0063"> CHAPTER VIII </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0075"> <b>BOOK VIII.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0064"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0065"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0066"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0067"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0068"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0069"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0070"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0083"> <b>BOOK IX.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0071"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0072"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0073"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0074"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0075"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0076"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0077"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PUBLISHERS’ NOTE + </h2> + <p> + As a novelist, Benjamin Disraeli belongs to the early part of the + nineteenth century. “Vivian Grey” (1826-27) and “Sybil” (1845) mark the + beginning and the end of his truly creative period; for the two + productions of his latest years, “Lothair” (1870) and “Endymion” (1880), + add nothing to the characteristics of his earlier volumes except the + changes of feeling and power which accompany old age. His period, thus, is + that of Bulwer, Dickens, and Thackeray, and of the later years of Sir + Walter Scott—a fact which his prominence as a statesman during the + last decade of his life, as well as the vogue of “Lothair” and “Endymion,” + has tended to obscure. His style, his material, and his views of English + character and life all date from that earlier time. He was born in 1804 + and died in 1881. + </p> + <p> + “Coningsby; or, The New Generation,” published in 1844, is the best of his + novels, not as a story, but as a study of men, manners, and principles. + The plot is slight—little better than a device for stringing + together sketches of character and statements of political and economic + opinions; but these are always interesting and often brilliant. The motive + which underlies the book is political. It is, in brief, an attempt to show + that the political salvation of England was to be sought in its + aristocracy, but that this aristocracy was morally weak and socially + ineffective, and that it must mend its ways before its duty to the state + could be fulfilled. Interest in this aspect of the book has, of course, to + a large extent passed away with the political conditions which it + reflected. As a picture of aristocratic life in England in the first part + of the nineteenth century it has, however, enduring significance and + charm. Disraeli does not rank with the great writers of English realistic + fiction, but in this special field none of them has surpassed him. From + this point of view, accordingly, “Coningsby” is appropriately included in + this series. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + TO HENRY HOPE + </h2> + <p> + It is not because this work was conceived and partly executed amid the + glades and galleries of the DEEPDENE that I have inscribed it with your + name. Nor merely because I was desirous to avail myself of the most + graceful privilege of an author, and dedicate my work to the friend whose + talents I have always appreciated, and whose virtues I have ever admired. + </p> + <p> + But because in these pages I have endeavoured to picture something of that + development of the new and, as I believe, better mind of England, that has + often been the subject of our converse and speculation. + </p> + <p> + In this volume you will find many a thought illustrated and many a + principle attempted to be established that we have often together + partially discussed and canvassed. + </p> + <p> + Doubtless you may encounter some opinions with which you may not agree, + and some conclusions the accuracy of which you may find cause to question. + But if I have generally succeeded in my object, to scatter some + suggestions that may tend to elevate the tone of public life, ascertain + the true character of political parties, and induce us for the future more + carefully to distinguish between facts and phrases, realities and + phantoms, I believe that I shall gain your sympathy, for I shall find a + reflex to their efforts in your own generous spirit and enlightened mind. + </p> + <p> + GROSVENOR GATE: May Day 1844. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE + </h2> + <p> + ‘CONINGSBY’ was published in the year 1844. The main purpose of its writer + was to vindicate the just claims of the Tory party to be the popular + political confederation of the country; a purpose which he had, more or + less, pursued from a very early period of life. The occasion was + favourable to the attempt. The youthful mind of England had just recovered + from the inebriation of the great Conservative triumph of 1841, and was + beginning to inquire what, after all, they had conquered to preserve. It + was opportune, therefore, to show that Toryism was not a phrase, but a + fact; and that our political institutions were the embodiment of our + popular necessities. This the writer endeavoured to do without prejudice, + and to treat of events and characters of which he had some personal + experience, not altogether without the impartiality of the future. + </p> + <p> + It was not originally the intention of the writer to adopt the form of + fiction as the instrument to scatter his suggestions, but, after + reflection, he resolved to avail himself of a method which, in the temper + of the times, offered the best chance of influencing opinion. + </p> + <p> + In considering the Tory scheme, the author recognised in the CHURCH the + most powerful agent in the previous development of England, and the most + efficient means of that renovation of the national spirit at which he + aimed. The Church is a sacred corporation for the promulgation and + maintenance in Europe of certain Asian principles, which, although local + in their birth, are of divine origin, and of universal and eternal + application. + </p> + <p> + In asserting the paramount character of the ecclesiastical polity and the + majesty of the theocratic principle, it became necessary to ascend to the + origin of the Christian Church, and to meet in a spirit worthy of a + critical and comparatively enlightened age, the position of the + descendants of that race who were the founders of Christianity. The modern + Jews had long laboured under the odium and stigma of mediaeval + malevolence. In the dark ages, when history was unknown, the passions of + societies, undisturbed by traditionary experience, were strong, and their + convictions, unmitigated by criticism, were necessarily fanatical. The + Jews were looked upon in the middle ages as an accursed race, the enemies + of God and man, the especial foes of Christianity. No one in those days + paused to reflect that Christianity was founded by the Jews; that its + Divine Author, in his human capacity, was a descendant of King David; that + his doctrines avowedly were the completion, not the change, of Judaism; + that the Apostles and the Evangelists, whose names men daily invoked, and + whose volumes they embraced with reverence, were all Jews; that the + infallible throne of Rome itself was established by a Jew; and that a Jew + was the founder of the Christian Churches of Asia. + </p> + <p> + The European nations, relatively speaking, were then only recently + converted to a belief in Moses and in Christ; and, as it were, still + ashamed of the wild deities whom they had deserted, they thought they + atoned for their past idolatry by wreaking their vengeance on a race to + whom, and to whom alone, they were indebted for the Gospel they adored. + </p> + <p> + In vindicating the sovereign right of the Church of Christ to be the + perpetual regenerator of man, the writer thought the time had arrived when + some attempt should be made to do justice to the race which had founded + Christianity. + </p> + <p> + The writer has developed in another work (‘Tancred’) the views respecting + the great house of Israel which he first intimated in ‘Coningsby.’ No one + has attempted to refute them, nor is refutation possible; since all he has + done is to examine certain facts in the truth of which all agree, and to + draw from them irresistible conclusions which prejudice for a moment may + shrink from, but which reason cannot refuse to admit. + </p> + <h3> + D. + </h3> + <p> + GROSVENOR GATE: May 1894. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CONINGSBY + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK I. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + It was a bright May morning some twelve years ago, when a youth of still + tender age, for he had certainly not entered his teens by more than two + years, was ushered into the waiting-room of a house in the vicinity of St. + James’s Square, which, though with the general appearance of a private + residence, and that too of no very ambitious character, exhibited at this + period symptoms of being occupied for some public purpose. + </p> + <p> + The house-door was constantly open, and frequent guests even at this early + hour crossed the threshold. The hall-table was covered with sealed + letters; and the hall-porter inscribed in a book the name of every + individual who entered. + </p> + <p> + The young gentleman we have mentioned found himself in a room which + offered few resources for his amusement. A large table amply covered with + writing materials, and a few chairs, were its sole furniture, except the + grey drugget that covered the floor, and a muddy mezzotinto of the Duke of + Wellington that adorned its cold walls. There was not even a newspaper; + and the only books were the Court Guide and the London Directory. For some + time he remained with patient endurance planted against the wall, with his + feet resting on the rail of his chair; but at length in his shifting + posture he gave evidence of his restlessness, rose from his seat, looked + out of the window into a small side court of the house surrounded with + dead walls, paced the room, took up the Court Guide, changed it for the + London Directory, then wrote his name over several sheets of foolscap + paper, drew various landscapes and faces of his friends; and then, + splitting up a pen or two, delivered himself of a yawn which seemed the + climax of his weariness. + </p> + <p> + And yet the youth’s appearance did not betoken a character that, if the + opportunity had offered, could not have found amusement and even + instruction. His countenance, radiant with health and the lustre of + innocence, was at the same time thoughtful and resolute. The expression of + his deep blue eyes was serious. Without extreme regularity of features, + the face was one that would never have passed unobserved. His short upper + lip indicated a good breed; and his chestnut curls clustered over his open + brow, while his shirt-collar thrown over his shoulders was unrestrained by + handkerchief or ribbon. Add to this, a limber and graceful figure, which + the jacket of his boyish dress exhibited to great advantage. + </p> + <p> + Just as the youth, mounted on a chair, was adjusting the portrait of the + Duke, which he had observed to be awry, the gentleman for whom he had been + all this time waiting entered the room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Floreat Etona!’ hastily exclaimed the gentleman, in a sharp voice; ‘you + are setting the Duke to rights. I have left you a long time a prisoner; + but I found them so busy here, that I made my escape with some + difficulty.’ + </p> + <p> + He who uttered these words was a man of middle size and age, originally in + all probability of a spare habit, but now a little inclined to corpulency. + Baldness, perhaps, contributed to the spiritual expression of a brow, + which was, however, essentially intellectual, and gave some character of + openness to a countenance which, though not ill-favoured, was unhappily + stamped by a sinister cast that was not to be mistaken. His manner was + easy, but rather audacious than well-bred. Indeed, while a visage which + might otherwise be described as handsome was spoilt by a dishonest glance, + so a demeanour that was by no means deficient in self-possession and + facility, was tainted by an innate vulgarity, which in the long run, + though seldom, yet surely developed itself. + </p> + <p> + The youth had jumped off his chair on the entrance of the gentleman, and + then taking up his hat, said: + </p> + <p> + ‘Shall we go to grandpapa now, sir?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By all means, my dear boy,’ said the gentleman, putting his arm within + that of the youth; and they were just on the point of leaving the + waiting-room, when the door was suddenly thrown open, and two individuals, + in a state of great excitement, rushed into the apartment. + </p> + <p> + ‘Rigby! Rigby!’ they both exclaimed at the same moment. ‘By G—— + they’re out!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who told you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The best authority; one of themselves.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who? who?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Paul Evelyn; I met him as I passed Brookes’, and he told me that Lord + Grey had resigned, and the King had accepted his resignation.’ + </p> + <p> + But Mr. Rigby, who, though very fond of news, and much interested in the + present, was extremely jealous of any one giving him information, was + sceptical. He declared that Paul Evelyn was always wrong; that it was + morally impossible that Paul Evelyn ever could be right; that he knew, + from the highest authority, that Lord Grey had been twice yesterday with + the King; that on the last visit nothing was settled; that if he had been + at the palace again to-day, he could not have been there before twelve + o’clock; that it was only now a quarter to one; that Lord Grey would have + called his colleagues together on his return; that at least an hour must + have elapsed before anything could possibly have transpired. Then he + compared and criticised the dates of every rumoured incident of the last + twenty-four hours, and nobody was stronger in dates than Mr. Rigby; + counted even the number of stairs which the minister had to ascend and + descend in his visit to the palace, and the time their mountings and + dismountings must have consumed, detail was Mr. Rigby’s forte; and + finally, what with his dates, his private information, his knowledge of + palace localities, his contempt for Paul Evelyn, and his confidence in + himself, he succeeded in persuading his downcast and disheartened friends + that their comfortable intelligence had not the slightest foundation. + </p> + <p> + They all left the room together; they were in the hall; the gentlemen who + brought the news looked somewhat depressed, but Mr. Rigby gay, even amid + the prostration of his party, from the consciousness that he had most + critically demolished a piece of political gossip and conveyed a certain + degree of mortification to a couple of his companions; when a travelling + carriage and four with a ducal coronet drove up to the house. The door was + thrown open, the steps dashed down, and a youthful noble sprang from his + chariot into the hall. + </p> + <p> + ‘Good morning, Rigby,’ said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘I see your Grace well, I am sure,’ said Mr. Rigby, with a softened + manner. + </p> + <p> + ‘You have heard the news, gentlemen?’ the Duke continued. + </p> + <p> + ‘What news? Yes; no; that is to say, Mr. Rigby thinks—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You know, of course, that Lord Lyndhurst is with the King?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is impossible,’ said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t think I can be mistaken,’ said the Duke, smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘I will show your Grace that it is impossible,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘Lord + Lyndhurst slept at Wimbledon. Lord Grey could not have seen the King until + twelve o’clock; it is now five minutes to one. It is impossible, + therefore, that any message from the King could have reached Lord + Lyndhurst in time for his Lordship to be at the palace at this moment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But my authority is a high one,’ said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘Authority is a phrase,’ said Mr. Rigby; ‘we must look to time and place, + dates and localities, to discover the truth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your Grace was saying that your authority—’ ventured to observe Mr. + Tadpole, emboldened by the presence of a duke, his patron, to struggle + against the despotism of a Rigby, his tyrant. + </p> + <p> + ‘Was the highest,’ rejoined the Duke, smiling, ‘for it was Lord Lyndhurst + himself. I came up from Nuneham this morning, passed his Lordship’s house + in Hyde Park Place as he was getting into his carriage in full dress, + stopped my own, and learned in a breath that the Whigs were out, and that + the King had sent for the Chief Baron. So I came on here at once.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I always thought the country was sound at bottom,’ exclaimed Mr. Taper, + who, under the old system, had sneaked into the Treasury Board. + </p> + <p> + Tadpole and Taper were great friends. Neither of them ever despaired of + the Commonwealth. Even if the Reform Bill were passed, Taper was convinced + that the Whigs would never prove men of business; and when his friends + confessed among themselves that a Tory Government was for the future + impossible, Taper would remark, in a confidential whisper, that for his + part he believed before the year was over the Whigs would be turned out by + the clerks. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is no doubt that there is considerable reaction,’ said Mr. Tadpole. + The infamous conduct of the Whigs in the Amersham case has opened the + public mind more than anything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Aldborough was worse,’ said Mr. Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘Terrible,’ said Tadpole. ‘They said there was no use discussing the + Reform Bill in our House. I believe Rigby’s great speech on Aldborough has + done more towards the reaction than all the violence of the Political + Unions put together.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us hope for the best,’ said the Duke, mildly. ‘’Tis a bold step on + the part of the Sovereign, and I am free to say I could have wished it + postponed; but we must support the King like men. What say you, Rigby? You + are silent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am thinking how very unfortunate it was that I did not breakfast with + Lyndhurst this morning, as I was nearly doing, instead of going down to + Eton.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To Eton! and why to Eton?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘For the sake of my young friend here, Lord Monmouth’s grandson. By the + bye, you are kinsmen. Let me present to your Grace, MR. CONINGSBY.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + The political agitation which for a year and a half had shaken England to + its centre, received, if possible, an increase to its intensity and + virulence, when it was known, in the early part of the month of May, 1832, + that the Prime Minister had tendered his resignation to the King, which + resignation had been graciously accepted. + </p> + <p> + The amendment carried by the Opposition in the House of Lords on the + evening of the 7th of May, that the enfranchising clauses of the Reform + Bill should be considered before entering into the question of + disfranchisement, was the immediate cause of this startling event. The + Lords had previously consented to the second reading of the Bill with the + view of preventing that large increase of their numbers with which they + had been long menaced; rather, indeed, by mysterious rumours than by any + official declaration; but, nevertheless, in a manner which had carried + conviction to no inconsiderable portion of the Opposition that the threat + was not without foundation. + </p> + <p> + During the progress of the Bill through the Lower House, the journals + which were looked upon as the organs of the ministry had announced with + unhesitating confidence, that Lord Grey was armed with what was then + called a ‘carte blanche’ to create any number of peers necessary to insure + its success. But public journalists who were under the control of the + ministry, and whose statements were never contradicted, were not the sole + authorities for this prevailing belief. Members of the House of Commons, + who were strong supporters of the cabinet, though not connected with it by + any official tie, had unequivocally stated in their places that the + Sovereign had not resisted the advice of his counsellors to create peers, + if such creation were required to carry into effect what was then styled + ‘the great national measure.’ In more than one instance, ministers had + been warned, that if they did not exercise that power with prompt energy, + they might deserve impeachment. And these intimations and announcements + had been made in the presence of leading members of the Government, and + had received from them, at least, the sanction of their silence. + </p> + <p> + It did not subsequently appear that the Reform ministers had been invested + with any such power; but a conviction of the reverse, fostered by these + circumstances, had successfully acted upon the nervous temperament, or the + statesman-like prudence, of a certain section of the peers, who + consequently hesitated in their course; were known as being no longer + inclined to pursue their policy of the preceding session; had thus + obtained a title at that moment in everybody’s mouth, the title of ‘THE + WAVERERS.’ + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding, therefore, the opposition of the Duke of Wellington and + of Lord Lyndhurst, the Waverers carried the second reading of the Reform + Bill; and then, scared at the consequences of their own headstrong + timidity, they went in a fright to the Duke and his able adviser to + extricate them from the inevitable result of their own conduct. The + ultimate device of these distracted counsels, where daring and + poltroonery, principle and expediency, public spirit and private intrigue, + each threw an ingredient into the turbulent spell, was the celebrated and + successful amendment to which we have referred. + </p> + <p> + But the Whig ministers, who, whatever may have been their faults, were at + least men of intellect and courage, were not to be beaten by ‘the + Waverers.’ They might have made terms with an audacious foe; they trampled + on a hesitating opponent. Lord Grey hastened to the palace. + </p> + <p> + Before the result of this appeal to the Sovereign was known, for its + effects were not immediate, on the second morning after the vote in the + House of Lords, Mr. Rigby had made that visit to Eton which had summoned + very unexpectedly the youthful Coningsby to London. He was the orphan + child of the youngest of the two sons of the Marquess of Monmouth. It was + a family famous for its hatreds. The eldest son hated his father; and, it + was said, in spite had married a lady to whom that father was attached, + and with whom Lord Monmouth then meditated a second alliance. This eldest + son lived at Naples, and had several children, but maintained no + connection either with his parent or his native country. On the other + hand, Lord Monmouth hated his younger son, who had married, against his + consent, a woman to whom that son was devoted. A system of domestic + persecution, sustained by the hand of a master, had eventually broken up + the health of its victim, who died of a fever in a foreign country, where + he had sought some refuge from his creditors. + </p> + <p> + His widow returned to England with her child; and, not having a relation, + and scarcely an acquaintance in the world, made an appeal to her husband’s + father, the wealthiest noble in England and a man who was often prodigal, + and occasionally generous. After some time, and more trouble, after urgent + and repeated, and what would have seemed heart-rending, solicitations, the + attorney of Lord Monmouth called upon the widow of his client’s son, and + informed her of his Lordship’s decision. Provided she gave up her child, + and permanently resided in one of the remotest counties, he was authorised + to make her, in four quarterly payments, the yearly allowance of three + hundred pounds, that being the income that Lord Monmouth, who was the + shrewdest accountant in the country, had calculated a lone woman might + very decently exist upon in a small market town in the county of + Westmoreland. + </p> + <p> + Desperate necessity, the sense of her own forlornness, the utter + impossibility to struggle with an omnipotent foe, who, her husband had + taught her, was above all scruples, prejudices, and fears, and who, though + he respected law, despised opinion, made the victim yield. But her + sufferings were not long; the separation from her child, the bleak clime, + the strange faces around her, sharp memory, and the dull routine of an + unimpassioned life, all combined to wear out a constitution originally + frail, and since shattered by many sorrows. Mrs. Coningsby died the same + day that her father-in-law was made a Marquess. He deserved his honours. + The four votes he had inherited in the House of Commons had been + increased, by his intense volition and unsparing means, to ten; and the + very day he was raised to his Marquisate, he commenced sapping fresh + corporations, and was working for the strawberry leaf. His honours were + proclaimed in the London Gazette, and her decease was not even noticed in + the County Chronicle; but the altars of Nemesis are beneath every outraged + roof, and the death of this unhappy lady, apparently without an earthly + friend or an earthly hope, desolate and deserted, and dying in obscure + poverty, was not forgotten. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby was not more than nine years of age when he lost his last + parent; and he had then been separated from her for nearly three years. + But he remembered the sweetness of his nursery days. His mother, too, had + written to him frequently since he quitted her, and her fond expressions + had cherished the tenderness of his heart. He wept bitterly when his + schoolmaster broke to him the news of his mother’s death. True it was they + had been long parted, and their prospect of again meeting was vague and + dim; but his mother seemed to him his only link to human society. It was + something to have a mother, even if he never saw her. Other boys went to + see their mothers! he, at least, could talk of his. Now he was alone. His + grandfather was to him only a name. Lord Monmouth resided almost + constantly abroad, and during his rare visits to England had found no time + or inclination to see the orphan, with whom he felt no sympathy. Even the + death of the boy’s mother, and the consequent arrangements, were notified + to his master by a stranger. The letter which brought the sad intelligence + was from Mr. Rigby. It was the first time that name had been known to + Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby was member for one of Lord Monmouth’s boroughs. He was the + manager of Lord Monmouth’s parliamentary influence, and the auditor of his + vast estates. He was more; he was Lord Monmouth’s companion when in + England, his correspondent when abroad; hardly his counsellor, for Lord + Monmouth never required advice; but Mr. Rigby could instruct him in + matters of detail, which Mr. Rigby made amusing. Rigby was not a + professional man; indeed, his origin, education, early pursuits, and + studies, were equally obscure; but he had contrived in good time to + squeeze himself into parliament, by means which no one could ever + comprehend, and then set up to be a perfect man of business. The world + took him at his word, for he was bold, acute, and voluble; with no + thought, but a good deal of desultory information; and though destitute of + all imagination and noble sentiment, was blessed with a vigorous, + mendacious fancy, fruitful in small expedients, and never happier than + when devising shifts for great men’s scrapes. + </p> + <p> + They say that all of us have one chance in this life, and so it was with + Rigby. After a struggle of many years, after a long series of the usual + alternatives of small successes and small failures, after a few cleverish + speeches and a good many cleverish pamphlets, with a considerable + reputation, indeed, for pasquinades, most of which he never wrote, and + articles in reviews to which it was whispered he had contributed, Rigby, + who had already intrigued himself into a subordinate office, met with Lord + Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + He was just the animal that Lord Monmouth wanted, for Lord Monmouth always + looked upon human nature with the callous eye of a jockey. He surveyed + Rigby; and he determined to buy him. He bought him; with his clear head, + his indefatigable industry, his audacious tongue, and his ready and + unscrupulous pen; with all his dates, all his lampoons; all his private + memoirs, and all his political intrigues. It was a good purchase. Rigby + became a great personage, and Lord Monmouth’s man. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby, who liked to be doing a great many things at the same time, and + to astonish the Tadpoles and Tapers with his energetic versatility, + determined to superintend the education of Coningsby. It was a relation + which identified him with the noble house of his pupil, or, properly + speaking, his charge: for Mr. Rigby affected rather the graceful dignity + of the governor than the duties of a tutor. The boy was recalled from his + homely, rural school, where he had been well grounded by a hard-working + curate, and affectionately tended by the curate’s unsophisticated wife. He + was sent to a fashionable school preparatory to Eton, where he found about + two hundred youths of noble families and connections, lodged in a + magnificent villa, that had once been the retreat of a minister, + superintended by a sycophantic Doctor of Divinity, already well beneficed, + and not despairing of a bishopric by favouring the children of the great + nobles. The doctor’s lady, clothed in cashmeres, sometimes inquired after + their health, and occasionally received a report as to their linen. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby had a classical retreat, not distant from this establishment, + which he esteemed a Tusculum. There, surrounded by his busts and books, he + wrote his lampoons and articles; massacred a she liberal (it was thought + that no one could lash a woman like Rigby), cut up a rising genius whose + politics were different from his own, or scarified some unhappy wretch who + had brought his claims before parliament, proving, by garbled extracts + from official correspondence that no one could refer to, that the + malcontent instead of being a victim, was, on the contrary, a defaulter. + Tadpole and Taper would back Rigby for a ‘slashing reply’ against the + field. Here, too, at the end of a busy week, he found it occasionally + convenient to entertain a clever friend or two of equivocal reputation, + with whom he had become acquainted in former days of equal brotherhood. No + one was more faithful to his early friends than Mr. Rigby, particularly if + they could write a squib. + </p> + <p> + It was in this refined retirement that Mr. Rigby found time enough, + snatched from the toils of official life and parliamentary struggles, to + compose a letter on the study of History, addressed to Coningsby. The + style was as much like that of Lord Bolingbroke as if it had been written + by the authors of the ‘Rejected Addresses,’ and it began, ‘My dear young + friend.’ This polished composition, so full of good feeling and + comprehensive views, and all in the best taste, was not published. It was + only privately printed, and a few thousand copies were distributed among + select personages as an especial favour and mark of high consideration. + Each copy given away seemed to Rigby like a certificate of character; a + property which, like all men of dubious repute, he thoroughly appreciated. + Rigby intrigued very much that the headmaster of Eton should adopt his + discourse as a class-book. For this purpose he dined with the Doctor, told + him several anecdotes of the King, which intimated personal influence at + Windsor; but the headmaster was inflexible, and so Mr. Rigby was obliged + to be content with having his Letter on History canonized as a classic in + the Preparatory Seminary, where the individual to whom it was addressed + was a scholar. + </p> + <p> + This change in the life of Coningsby contributed to his happiness. The + various characters which a large school exhibited interested a young mind + whose active energies were beginning to stir. His previous acquirements + made his studies light; and he was fond of sports, in which he was + qualified to excel. He did not particularly like Mr. Rigby. There was + something jarring and grating in that gentleman’s voice and modes, from + which the chords of the young heart shrank. He was not tender, though + perhaps he wished to be; scarcely kind: but he was good-natured, at least + to children. However, this connection was, on the whole, an agreeable one + for Coningsby. He seemed suddenly to have friends: he never passed his + holydays again at school. Mr. Rigby was so clever that he contrived always + to quarter Coningsby on the father of one of his school-fellows, for Mr. + Rigby knew all his school-fellows and all their fathers. Mr. Rigby also + called to see him, not unfrequently would give him a dinner at the Star + and Garter, or even have him up to town for a week to Whitehall. Compared + with his former forlorn existence, these were happy days, when he was + placed under the gallery as a member’s son, or went to the play with the + butler! + </p> + <p> + When Coningsby had attained his twelfth year, an order was received from + Lord Monmouth, who was at Rome, that he should go at once to Eton. This + was the first great epoch of his life. There never was a youth who entered + into that wonderful little world with more eager zest than Coningsby. Nor + was it marvellous. + </p> + <p> + That delicious plain, studded with every creation of graceful culture; + hamlet and hall and grange; garden and grove and park; that castle-palace, + grey with glorious ages; those antique spires, hoar with faith and wisdom, + the chapel and the college; that river winding through the shady meads; + the sunny glade and the solemn avenue; the room in the Dame’s house where + we first order our own breakfast and first feel we are free; the stirring + multitude, the energetic groups, the individual mind that leads, conquers, + controls; the emulation and the affection; the noble strife and the tender + sentiment; the daring exploit and the dashing scrape; the passion that + pervades our life, and breathes in everything, from the aspiring study to + the inspiring sport: oh! what hereafter can spur the brain and touch the + heart like this; can give us a world so deeply and variously interesting; + a life so full of quick and bright excitement, passed in a scene so fair? + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + Lord Monmouth, who detested popular tumults as much as he despised public + opinion, had remained during the agitating year of 1831 in his luxurious + retirement in Italy, contenting himself with opposing the Reform Bill by + proxy. But when his correspondent, Mr. Rigby, had informed him, in the + early part of the spring of 1832, of the probability of a change in the + tactics of the Tory party, and that an opinion was becoming prevalent + among their friends, that the great scheme must be defeated in detail + rather than again withstood on principle, his Lordship, who was never + wanting in energy when his own interests were concerned, immediately + crossed the Alps, and travelled rapidly to England. He indulged a hope + that the weight of his presence and the influence of his strong character, + which was at once shrewd and courageous, might induce his friends to + relinquish their half measure, a course to which his nature was repugnant. + At all events, if they persisted in their intention, and the Bill went + into committee, his presence was indispensable, for in that stage of a + parliamentary proceeding proxies become ineffective. + </p> + <p> + The counsels of Lord Monmouth, though they coincided with those of the + Duke of Wellington, did not prevail with the Waverers. Several of these + high-minded personages had had their windows broken, and they were of + opinion that a man who lived at Naples was not a competent judge of the + state of public feeling in England. Besides, the days are gone by for + senates to have their beards plucked in the forum. We live in an age of + prudence. The leaders of the people, now, generally follow. The truth is, + the peers were in a fright. ‘Twas a pity; there is scarcely a less + dignified entity than a patrician in a panic. + </p> + <p> + Among the most intimate companions of Coningsby at Eton, was Lord Henry + Sydney, his kinsman. Coningsby had frequently passed his holydays of late + at Beaumanoir, the seat of the Duke, Lord Henry’s father. The Duke sat + next to Lord Monmouth during the debate on the enfranchising question, and + to while away the time, and from kindness of disposition, spoke, and spoke + with warmth and favour, of his grandson. The polished Lord Monmouth bowed + as if he were much gratified by this notice of one so dear to him. He had + too much tact to admit that he had never yet seen his grandchild; but he + asked some questions as to his progress and pursuits, his tastes and + habits, which intimated the interest of an affectionate relative. + </p> + <p> + Nothing, however, was ever lost upon Lord Monmouth. No one had a more + retentive memory, or a more observant mind. And the next day, when he + received Mr. Rigby at his morning levee, Lord Monmouth performed this + ceremony in the high style of the old court, and welcomed his visitors in + bed, he said with imperturbable calmness, and as if he had been talking of + trying a new horse, ‘Rigby, I should like to see the boy at Eton.’ + </p> + <p> + There might be some objection to grant leave to Coningsby at this moment; + but it was a rule with Mr. Rigby never to make difficulties, or at least + to persuade his patron that he, and he only, could remove them. He + immediately undertook that the boy should be forthcoming, and + notwithstanding the excitement of the moment, he went off next morning to + fetch him. + </p> + <p> + They arrived in town rather early; and Rigby, wishing to know how affairs + were going on, ordered the servant to drive immediately to the + head-quarters of the party; where a permanent committee watched every + phasis of the impending revolution; and where every member of the + Opposition, of note and trust, was instantly admitted to receive or to + impart intelligence. + </p> + <p> + It was certainly not without emotion that Coningsby contemplated his first + interview with his grandfather. All his experience of the ties of + relationship, however limited, was full of tenderness and rapture. His + memory often dwelt on his mother’s sweet embrace; and ever and anon a + fitful phantom of some past passage of domestic love haunted his gushing + heart. The image of his father was less fresh in his mind; but still it + was associated with a vague sentiment of kindness and joy; and the + allusions to her husband in his mother’s letters had cherished these + impressions. To notice lesser sources of influence in his estimate of the + domestic tie, he had witnessed under the roof of Beaumanoir the existence + of a family bound together by the most beautiful affections. He could not + forget how Henry Sydney was embraced by his sisters when he returned home; + what frank and fraternal love existed between his kinsman and his elder + brother; how affectionately the kind Duke had welcomed his son once more + to the house where they had both been born; and the dim eyes, and saddened + brows, and tones of tenderness, which rather looked than said farewell, + when they went back to Eton. + </p> + <p> + And these rapturous meetings and these mournful adieus were occasioned + only by a separation at the most of a few months, softened by constant + correspondence and the communication of mutual sympathy. But Coningsby was + to meet a relation, his near, almost his only, relation, for the first + time; the relation, too, to whom he owed maintenance, education; it might + be said, existence. It was a great incident for a great drama; something + tragical in the depth and stir of its emotions. Even the imagination of + the boy could not be insensible to its materials; and Coningsby was + picturing to himself a beneficent and venerable gentleman pressing to his + breast an agitated youth, when his reverie was broken by the carriage + stopping before the gates of Monmouth House. + </p> + <p> + The gates were opened by a gigantic Swiss, and the carriage rolled into a + huge court-yard. At its end Coningsby beheld a Palladian palace, with + wings and colonnades encircling the court. + </p> + <p> + A double flight of steps led into a circular and marble hall, adorned with + colossal busts of the Caesars; the staircase in fresco by Sir James + Thornhill, breathed with the loves and wars of gods and heroes. It led + into a vestibule, painted in arabesques, hung with Venetian girandoles, + and looking into gardens. Opening a door in this chamber, and proceeding + some little way down a corridor, Mr. Rigby and his companion arrived at + the base of a private staircase. Ascending a few steps, they reached a + landing-place hung with tapestry. Drawing this aside, Mr. Rigby opened a + door, and ushered Coningsby through an ante-chamber into a small saloon, + of beautiful proportions, and furnished in a brilliant and delicate taste. + </p> + <p> + ‘You will find more to amuse you here than where you were before,’ said + Mr. Rigby, ‘and I shall not be nearly so long absent.’ So saying, he + entered into an inner apartment. + </p> + <p> + The walls of the saloon, which were covered with light blue satin, held, + in silver panels, portraits of beautiful women, painted by Boucher. + Couches and easy chairs of every shape invited in every quarter to + luxurious repose; while amusement was afforded by tables covered with + caricatures, French novels, and endless miniatures of foreign dancers, + princesses, and sovereigns. + </p> + <p> + But Coningsby was so impressed with the impending interview with his + grandfather, that he neither sought nor required diversion. Now that the + crisis was at hand, he felt agitated and nervous, and wished that he was + again at Eton. The suspense was sickening, yet he dreaded still more the + summons. He was not long alone; the door opened; he started, grew pale; he + thought it was his grandfather; it was not even Mr. Rigby. It was Lord + Monmouth’s valet. + </p> + <p> + ‘Monsieur Konigby?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My name is Coningsby,’ said the boy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Milor is ready to receive you,’ said the valet. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby sprang forward with that desperation which the scaffold + requires. His face was pale; his hand was moist; his heart beat with + tumult. He had occasionally been summoned by Dr. Keate; that, too, was + awful work, but compared with the present, a morning visit. Music, + artillery, the roar of cannon, and the blare of trumpets, may urge a man + on to a forlorn hope; ambition, one’s constituents, the hell of previous + failure, may prevail on us to do a more desperate thing; speak in the + House of Commons; but there are some situations in life, such, for + instance, as entering the room of a dentist, in which the prostration of + the nervous system is absolute. + </p> + <p> + The moment had at length arrived when the desolate was to find a + benefactor, the forlorn a friend, the orphan a parent; when the youth, + after a childhood of adversity, was to be formally received into the bosom + of the noble house from which he had been so long estranged, and at length + to assume that social position to which his lineage entitled him. + Manliness might support, affection might soothe, the happy anguish of such + a meeting; but it was undoubtedly one of those situations which stir up + the deep fountains of our nature, and before which the conventional + proprieties of our ordinary manners instantaneously vanish. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby with an uncertain step followed his guide through a bed-chamber, + the sumptuousness of which he could not notice, into the dressing-room of + Lord Monmouth. Mr. Rigby, facing Coningsby as he entered, was leaning over + the back of a large chair, from which as Coningsby was announced by the + valet, the Lord of the house slowly rose, for he was suffering slightly + from the gout, his left hand resting on an ivory stick. Lord Monmouth was + in height above the middle size, but somewhat portly and corpulent. His + countenance was strongly marked; sagacity on the brow, sensuality in the + mouth and jaw. His head was bald, but there were remains of the rich brown + locks on which he once prided himself. His large deep blue eye, madid and + yet piercing, showed that the secretions of his brain were apportioned, + half to voluptuousness, half to common sense. But his general mien was + truly grand; full of a natural nobility, of which no one was more sensible + than himself. Lord Monmouth was not in dishabille; on the contrary, his + costume was exact, and even careful. Rising as we have mentioned when his + grandson entered, and leaning with his left hand on his ivory cane, he + made Coningsby such a bow as Louis Quatorze might have bestowed on the + ambassador of the United Provinces. Then extending his right hand, which + the boy tremblingly touched, Lord Monmouth said: + </p> + <p> + ‘How do you like Eton?’ + </p> + <p> + This contrast to the reception which he had imagined, hoped, feared, + paralysed the reviving energies of young Coningsby. He felt stupefied; he + looked almost aghast. In the chaotic tumult of his mind, his memory + suddenly seemed to receive some miraculous inspiration. Mysterious phrases + heard in his earliest boyhood, unnoticed then, long since forgotten, rose + to his ear. Who was this grandfather, seen not before, seen now for the + first time? Where was the intervening link of blood between him and this + superb and icy being? The boy sank into the chair which had been placed + for him, and leaning on the table burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + Here was a business! If there were one thing which would have made Lord + Monmouth travel from London to Naples at four-and-twenty hours’ notice, it + was to avoid a scene. He hated scenes. He hated feelings. He saw instantly + the mistake he had made in sending for his grandchild. He was afraid that + Coningsby was tender-hearted like his father. Another tender-hearted + Coningsby! Unfortunate family! Degenerate race! He decided in his mind + that Coningsby must be provided for in the Church, and looked at Mr. + Rigby, whose principal business it always was to disembarrass his patron + from the disagreeable. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby instantly came forward and adroitly led the boy into the + adjoining apartment, Lord Monmouth’s bedchamber, closing the door of the + dressing-room behind him. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear young friend,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘what is all this?’ + </p> + <p> + A sob the only answer. + </p> + <p> + ‘What can be the matter?’ said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I was thinking,’ said Coningsby, ‘of poor mamma!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hush!’ said Mr. Rigby; ‘Lord Monmouth never likes to hear of people who + are dead; so you must take care never to mention your mother or your + father.’ + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Lord Monmouth had decided on the fate of Coningsby. The + Marquis thought he could read characters by a glance, and in general he + was successful, for his natural sagacity had been nurtured by great + experience. His grandson was not to his taste; amiable no doubt, but + spooney. + </p> + <p> + We are too apt to believe that the character of a boy is easily read. ‘Tis + a mystery the most profound. Mark what blunders parents constantly make as + to the nature of their own offspring, bred, too, under their eyes, and + displaying every hour their characteristics. How often in the nursery does + the genius count as a dunce because he is pensive; while a rattling urchin + is invested with almost supernatural qualities because his animal spirits + make him impudent and flippant! The school-boy, above all others, is not + the simple being the world imagines. In that young bosom are often + stirring passions as strong as our own, desires not less violent, a + volition not less supreme. In that young bosom what burning love, what + intense ambition, what avarice, what lust of power; envy that fiends might + emulate, hate that man might fear! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + ‘Come,’ said Mr. Rigby, when Coningsby was somewhat composed, ‘come with + me and we will see the house.’ + </p> + <p> + So they descended once more the private staircase, and again entered the + vestibule. + </p> + <p> + ‘If you had seen these gardens when they were illuminated for a fête to + George IV.,’ said Rigby, as crossing the chamber he ushered his charge + into the state apartments. The splendour and variety of the surrounding + objects soon distracted the attention of the boy, for the first time in + the palace of his fathers. He traversed saloon after saloon hung with rare + tapestry and the gorgeous products of foreign looms; filled with choice + pictures and creations of curious art; cabinets that sovereigns might + envy, and colossal vases of malachite presented by emperors. Coningsby + alternately gazed up to ceilings glowing with color and with gold, and + down upon carpets bright with the fancies and vivid with the tints of + Aubusson and of Axminster. + </p> + <p> + ‘This grandfather of mine is a great prince,’ thought Coningsby, as musing + he stood before a portrait in which he recognised the features of the + being from whom he had so recently and so strangely parted. There he + stood, Philip Augustus, Marquess of Monmouth, in his robes of state, with + his new coronet on a table near him, a despatch lying at hand that + indicated the special mission of high ceremony of which he had been the + illustrious envoy, and the garter beneath his knee. + </p> + <p> + ‘You will have plenty of opportunities to look at the pictures,’ said + Rigby, observing that the boy had now quite recovered himself. ‘Some + luncheon will do you no harm after our drive;’ and he opened the door of + another apartment. + </p> + <p> + It was a pretty room adorned with a fine picture of the chase; at a round + table in the centre sat two ladies interested in the meal to which Rigby + had alluded. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, Mr. Rigby!’ said the eldest, yet young and beautiful, and speaking, + though with fluency, in a foreign accent, ‘come and tell me some news. + Have you seen Milor?’ and then she threw a scrutinizing glance from a dark + flashing eye at his companion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let me present to your Highness,’ said Rigby, with an air of some + ceremony, ‘Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear young friend,’ said the lady, extending her white hand with an + air of joyous welcome, ‘this is Lucretia, my daughter. We love you + already. Lord Monmouth will be so charmed to see you. What beautiful eyes + he has, Mr. Rigby. Quite like Milor.’ + </p> + <p> + The young lady, who was really more youthful than Coningsby, but of a form + and stature so developed that she appeared almost a woman, bowed to the + guest with some ceremony, and a faint sullen smile, and then proceeded + with her Perigord pie. + </p> + <p> + ‘You must be so hungry after your drive,’ said the elder lady, placing + Coningsby at her side, and herself filling his plate. + </p> + <p> + This was true enough; and while Mr. Rigby and the lady talked an infinite + deal about things which he did not understand, and persons of whom he had + never heard, our little hero made his first meal in his paternal house + with no ordinary zest; and renovated by the pasty and a glass of sherry, + felt altogether a different being from what he was, when he had undergone + the terrible interview in which he began to reflect he had considerably + exposed himself. His courage revived, his senses rallied, he replied to + the interrogations of the lady with calmness, but with promptness and + propriety. It was evident that he had made a favourable impression on her + Highness, for ever and anon she put a truffle or some delicacy in his + plate, and insisted upon his taking some particular confectionery, because + it was a favourite of her own. When she rose, she said,— + </p> + <p> + ‘In ten minutes the carriage will be at the door; and if you like, my dear + young friend, you shall be our beau.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is nothing I should like so much,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ said the lady, with the sweetest smile, ‘he is frank.’ + </p> + <p> + The ladies bowed and retired; Mr. Rigby returned to the Marquess, and the + groom of the chambers led Coningsby to his room. + </p> + <p> + This lady, so courteous to Coningsby, was the Princess Colonna, a Roman + dame, the second wife of Prince Paul Colonna. The prince had first married + when a boy, and into a family not inferior to his own. Of this union, in + every respect unhappy, the Princess Lucretia was the sole offspring. He + was a man dissolute and devoted to play; and cared for nothing much but + his pleasures and billiards, in which latter he was esteemed unrivalled. + According to some, in a freak of passion, according to others, to cancel a + gambling debt, he had united himself to his present wife, whose origin was + obscure; but with whom he contrived to live on terms of apparent + cordiality, for she was much admired, and made the society of her husband + sought by those who contributed to his enjoyment. Among these especially + figured the Marquess of Monmouth, between whom and Prince Colonna the + world recognised as existing the most intimate and entire friendship, so + that his Highness and his family were frequent guests under the roof of + the English nobleman, and now accompanied him on a visit to England. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + In the meantime, while ladies are luncheoning on Perigord pie, or coursing + in whirling britskas, performing all the singular ceremonies of a London + morning in the heart of the season; making visits where nobody is seen, + and making purchases which are not wanted; the world is in agitation and + uproar. At present the world and the confusion are limited to St. James’s + Street and Pall Mall; but soon the boundaries and the tumult will be + extended to the intended metropolitan boroughs; to-morrow they will spread + over the manufacturing districts. It is perfectly evident, that before + eight-and-forty hours have passed, the country will be in a state of + fearful crisis. And how can it be otherwise? Is it not a truth that the + subtle Chief Baron has been closeted one whole hour with the King; that + shortly after, with thoughtful brow and compressed lip, he was marked in + his daring chariot entering the courtyard of Apsley House? Great was the + panic at Brookes’, wild the hopes of Carlton Terrace; all the gentlemen + who expected to have been made peers perceived that the country was going + to be given over to a rapacious oligarchy. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Tadpole and Taper, who had never quitted for an instant + the mysterious head-quarters of the late Opposition, were full of hopes + and fears, and asked many questions, which they chiefly answered + themselves. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder what Lord Lyndhurst will say to the king,’ said Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘He has plenty of pluck,’ said Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘I almost wish now that Rigby had breakfasted with him this morning,’ said + Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘If the King be firm, and the country sound,’ said Tadpole, ‘and Lord + Monmouth keep his boroughs, I should not wonder to see Rigby made a privy + councillor.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is no precedent for an under-secretary being a privy councillor,’ + said Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘But we live in revolutionary times,’ said Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gentlemen,’ said the groom of the chambers, in a loud voice, entering the + room, ‘I am desired to state that the Duke of Wellington is with the + King.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There <i>is</i> a Providence!’ exclaimed an agitated gentleman, the + patent of whose intended peerage had not been signed the day that the Duke + had quited office in 1830. + </p> + <p> + ‘I always thought the King would be firm,’ said Mr. Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder who will have the India Board,’ said Taper. + </p> + <p> + At this moment three or four gentlemen entered the room in a state of + great bustle and excitement; they were immediately surrounded. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is it true?’ ‘Quite true; not the slightest doubt. Saw him myself. Not at + all hissed; certainly not hooted. Perhaps a little hissed. One fellow + really cheered him. Saw him myself. Say what they like, there is + reaction.’ ‘But Constitution Hill, they say?’ ‘Well, there was a sort of + inclination to a row on Constitution Hill; but the Duke quite firm; + pistols, and carriage doors bolted.’ + </p> + <p> + Such may give a faint idea of the anxious inquiries and the satisfactory + replies that were occasioned by the entrance of this group. + </p> + <p> + ‘Up, guards, and at them!’ exclaimed Tadpole, rubbing his hands in a fit + of patriotic enthusiasm. + </p> + <p> + Later in the afternoon, about five o’clock, the high change of political + gossip, when the room was crowded, and every one had his rumour, Mr. Rigby + looked in again to throw his eye over the evening papers, and catch in + various chit-chat the tone of public or party feeling on the ‘crisis.’ + Then it was known that the Duke had returned from the King, having + accepted the charge of forming an administration. An administration to do + what? Portentous question! Were concessions to be made? And if so, what? + Was it altogether impossible, and too late, ‘stare super vias antiquas?’ + Questions altogether above your Tadpoles and your Tapers, whose idea of + the necessities of the age was that they themselves should be in office. + </p> + <p> + Lord Eskdale came up to Mr. Rigby. This peer was a noble Croesus, + acquainted with all the gradations of life; a voluptuary who could be a + Spartan; clear-sighted, unprejudiced, sagacious; the best judge in the + world of a horse or a man; he was the universal referee; a quarrel about a + bet or a mistress was solved by him in a moment, and in a manner which + satisfied both parties. He patronised and appreciated the fine arts, + though a jockey; respected literary men, though he only read French + novels; and without any affectation of tastes which he did not possess, + was looked upon by every singer and dancer in Europe as their natural + champion. The secret of his strong character and great influence was his + self-composure, which an earthquake or a Reform Bill could not disturb, + and which in him was the result of temperament and experience. He was an + intimate acquaintance of Lord Monmouth, for they had many tastes in + common; were both men of considerable, and in some degree similar + abilities; and were the two greatest proprietors of close boroughs in the + country. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you dine at Monmouth House to-day?’ inquired Lord Eskdale of Mr. + Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where I hope to meet your lordship. The Whig papers are very subdued,’ + continued Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! they have not the cue yet,’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what do you think of affairs?’ inquired his companion. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think the hounds are too hot to hark off now,’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is one combination,’ said Rigby, who seemed meditating an attack on + Lord Eskdale’s button. + </p> + <p> + ‘Give it us at dinner,’ said Lord Eskdale, who knew his man, and made an + adroit movement forwards, as if he were very anxious to see the <i>Globe</i> + newspaper. + </p> + <p> + In the course of two or three hours these gentlemen met again in the green + drawing-room of Monmouth House. Mr. Rigby was sitting on a sofa by Lord + Monmouth, detailing in whispers all his gossip of the morn: Lord Eskdale + murmuring quaint inquiries into the ear of the Princess Lucretia. + </p> + <p> + Madame Colonna made remarks alternately to two gentlemen, who paid her + assiduous court. One of these was Mr. Ormsby; the school, the college, and + the club crony of Lord Monmouth, who had been his shadow through life; + travelled with him in early days, won money with him at play, had been his + colleague in the House of Commons; and was still one of his nominees. Mr. + Ormsby was a millionaire, which Lord Monmouth liked. He liked his + companions to be very rich or very poor; be his equals, able to play with + him at high stakes, or join him in a great speculation; or to be his + tools, and to amuse and serve him. There was nothing which he despised and + disliked so much as a moderate fortune. + </p> + <p> + The other gentleman was of a different class and character. Nature had + intended Lucian Gay for a scholar and a wit; necessity had made him a + scribbler and a buffoon. He had distinguished himself at the University; + but he had no patrimony, nor those powers of perseverance which success in + any learned profession requires. He was good-looking, had great animal + spirits, and a keen sense of enjoyment, and could not drudge. Moreover he + had a fine voice, and sang his own songs with considerable taste; + accomplishments which made his fortune in society and completed his ruin. + In due time he extricated himself from the bench and merged into + journalism, by means of which he chanced to become acquainted with Mr. + Rigby. That worthy individual was not slow in detecting the treasure he + had lighted on; a wit, a ready and happy writer, a joyous and tractable + being, with the education, and still the feelings and manners, of a + gentleman. Frequent were the Sunday dinners which found Gay a guest at Mr. + Rigby’s villa; numerous the airy pasquinades which he left behind, and + which made the fortune of his patron. Flattered by the familiar + acquaintance of a man of station, and sanguine that he had found the link + which would sooner or later restore him to the polished world that he had + forfeited, Gay laboured in his vocation with enthusiasm and success. + Willingly would Rigby have kept his treasure to himself; and truly he + hoarded it for a long time, but it oozed out. Rigby loved the reputation + of possessing the complete art of society. His dinners were celebrated at + least for their guests. Great intellectual illustrations were found there + blended with rank and high station. Rigby loved to patronise; to play the + minister unbending and seeking relief from the cares of council in the + society of authors, artists, and men of science. He liked dukes to dine + with him and hear him scatter his audacious criticisms to Sir Thomas or + Sir Humphry. They went away astounded by the powers of their host, who, + had he not fortunately devoted those powers to their party, must + apparently have rivalled Vandyke, or discovered the safety-lamp. + </p> + <p> + Now in these dinners, Lucian Gay, who had brilliant conversational powers, + and who possessed all the resources of boon companionship, would be an + invaluable ally. He was therefore admitted, and inspired both by the + present enjoyment, and the future to which it might lead, his exertions + were untiring, various, most successful. Rigby’s dinners became still, + more celebrated. It, however, necessarily followed that the guests who + were charmed by Gay, wished Gay also to be their guest. Rigby was very + jealous of this, but it was inevitable; still by constant manoeuvre, by + intimations of some exercise, some day or other, of substantial patronage + in his behalf, by a thousand little arts by which he carved out work for + Gay which often prevented him accepting invitations to great houses in the + country, by judicious loans of small sums on Lucian’s notes of hand and + other analogous devices, Rigby contrived to keep the wit in a fair state + of bondage and dependence. + </p> + <p> + One thing Rigby was resolved on: Gay should never get into Monmouth House. + That was an empyrean too high for his wing to soar in. Rigby kept that + social monopoly distinctively to mark the relation that subsisted between + them as patron and client. It was something to swagger about when they + were together after their second bottle of claret. Rigby kept his + resolution for some years, which the frequent and prolonged absence of the + Marquess rendered not very difficult. But we are the creatures of + circumstances; at least the Rigby race particularly. Lord Monmouth + returned to England one year, and wanted to be amused. He wanted a jester: + a man about him who would make him, not laugh, for that was impossible, + but smile more frequently, tell good stories, say good things, and sing + now and then, especially French songs. Early in life Rigby would have + attempted all this, though he had neither fun, voice, nor ear. But his + hold on Lord Monmouth no longer depended on the mere exercise of agreeable + qualities, he had become indispensable to his lordship, by more serious if + not higher considerations. And what with auditing his accounts, guarding + his boroughs, writing him, when absent, gossip by every post and when in + England deciding on every question and arranging every matter which might + otherwise have ruffled the sublime repose of his patron’s existence, Rigby + might be excused if he shrank a little from the minor part of table wit, + particularly when we remember all his subterranean journalism, his acid + squibs, and his malicious paragraphs, and, what Tadpole called, his + ‘slashing articles.’ + </p> + <p> + These ‘slashing articles’ were, indeed, things which, had they appeared as + anonymous pamphlets, would have obtained the contemptuous reception which + in an intellectual view no compositions more surely deserved; but + whispered as the productions of one behind the scenes, and appearing in + the pages of a party review, they were passed off as genuine coin, and + took in great numbers of the lieges, especially in the country. They were + written in a style apparently modelled on the briefs of those sharp + attorneys who weary advocates with their clever commonplace; teasing with + obvious comment, and torturing with inevitable inference. The affectation + of order in the statement of facts had all the lucid method of an adroit + pettifogger. They dealt much in extracts from newspapers, quotations from + the <i>Annual Register</i>, parallel passages in forgotten speeches, + arranged with a formidable array of dates rarely accurate. When the writer + was of opinion he had made a point, you may be sure the hit was in + italics, that last resource of the Forcible Feebles. He handled a + particular in chronology as if he were proving an alibi at the Criminal + Court. The censure was coarse without being strong, and vindictive when it + would have been sarcastic. Now and then there was a passage which aimed at + a higher flight, and nothing can be conceived more unlike genuine feeling, + or more offensive to pure taste. And yet, perhaps, the most ludicrous + characteristic of these facetious gallimaufreys was an occasional + assumption of the high moral and admonitory tone, which when we recurred + to the general spirit of the discourse, and were apt to recall the + character of its writer, irresistibly reminded one of Mrs. Cole and her + prayer-book. + </p> + <p> + To return to Lucian Gay. It was a rule with Rigby that no one, if + possible, should do anything for Lord Monmouth but himself; and as a + jester must be found, he was determined that his Lordship should have the + best in the market, and that he should have the credit of furnishing the + article. As a reward, therefore, for many past services, and a fresh claim + to his future exertions, Rigby one day broke to Gay that the hour had at + length arrived when the highest object of reasonable ambition on his part, + and the fulfilment of one of Rigby’s long-cherished and dearest hopes, + were alike to be realised. Gay was to be presented to Lord Monmouth and + dine at Monmouth House. + </p> + <p> + The acquaintance was a successful one; very agreeable to both parties. Gay + became an habitual guest of Lord Monmouth when his patron was in England; + and in his absence received frequent and substantial marks of his kind + recollection, for Lord Monmouth was generous to those who amused him. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the hour of dinner is at hand. Coningsby, who had lost the + key of his carpet-bag, which he finally cut open with a penknife that he + found on his writing-table, and the blade of which he broke in the + operation, only reached the drawing-room as the figure of his grandfather, + leaning on his ivory cane, and following his guests, was just visible in + the distance. He was soon overtaken. Perceiving Coningsby, Lord Monmouth + made him a bow, not so formal a one as in the morning, but still a bow, + and said, ‘I hope you liked your drive.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + A little dinner, not more than the Muses, with all the guests clever, and + some pretty, offers human life and human nature under very favourable + circumstances. In the present instance, too, every one was anxious to + please, for the host was entirely well-bred, never selfish in little + things, and always contributed his quota to the general fund of polished + sociability. + </p> + <p> + Although there was really only one thought in every male mind present, + still, regard for the ladies, and some little apprehension of the + servants, banished politics from discourse during the greater part of the + dinner, with the occasional exception of some rapid and flying allusion + which the initiated understood, but which remained a mystery to the rest. + Nevertheless an old story now and then well told by Mr. Ormsby, a new joke + now and then well introduced by Mr. Gay, some dashing assertion by Mr. + Rigby, which, though wrong, was startling; this agreeable blending of + anecdote, jest, and paradox, kept everything fluent, and produced that + degree of mild excitation which is desirable. Lord Monmouth sometimes + summed up with an epigrammatic sentence, and turned the conversation by a + question, in case it dwelt too much on the same topic. Lord Eskdale + addressed himself principally to the ladies; inquired after their morning + drive and doings, spoke of new fashions, and quoted a letter from Paris. + Madame Colonna was not witty, but she had that sweet Roman frankness which + is so charming. The presence of a beautiful woman, natural and + good-tempered, even if she be not a L’Espinasse or a De Stael, is + animating. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, owing probably to the absorbing powers of the forbidden + subject, there were moments when it seemed that a pause was impending, and + Mr. Ormsby, an old hand, seized one of these critical instants to address + a good-natured question to Coningsby, whose acquaintance he had already + cultivated by taking wine with him. + </p> + <p> + ‘And how do you like Eton?’ asked Mr. Ormsby. + </p> + <p> + It was the identical question which had been presented to Coningsby in the + memorable interview of the morning, and which had received no reply; or + rather had produced on his part a sentimental ebullition that had + absolutely destined or doomed him to the Church. + </p> + <p> + ‘I should like to see the fellow who did not like Eton,’ said Coningsby, + briskly, determined this time to be very brave. + </p> + <p> + ‘Gad I must go down and see the old place,’ said Mr. Ormsby, touched by a + pensive reminiscence. ‘One can get a good bed and bottle of port at the + Christopher, still?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You had better come and try, sir,’ said Coningsby. ‘If you will come some + day and dine with me at the Christopher, I will give you such a bottle of + champagne as you never tasted yet.’ + </p> + <p> + The Marquess looked at him, but said nothing. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I liked a dinner at the Christopher,’ said Mr. Ormsby; ‘after mutton, + mutton, mutton, every day, it was not a bad thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We had venison for dinner every week last season,’ said Coningsby; + ‘Buckhurst had it sent up from his park. But I don’t care for dinner. + Breakfast is my lounge.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! those little rolls and pats of butter!’ said Mr. Ormsby. ‘Short + commons, though. What do you think we did in my time? We used to send over + the way to get a mutton-chop.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish you could see Buckhurst and me at breakfast,’ said Coningsby, + ‘with a pound of Castle’s sausages!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What Buckhurst is that, Harry?’ inquired Lord Monmouth, in a tone of some + interest, and for the first time calling him by his Christian name. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sir Charles Buckhurst, sir, a Berkshire man: Shirley Park is his place.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, that must be Charley’s son, Eskdale,’ said Lord Monmouth; ‘I had no + idea he could be so young.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He married late, you know, and had nothing but daughters for a long + time.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I hope there will be no Reform Bill for Eton,’ said Lord Monmouth, + musingly. + </p> + <p> + The servants had now retired. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think, Lord Monmouth,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘we must ask permission to drink + one toast to-day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, I will myself give it,’ he replied. ‘Madame Colonna, you will, I am + sure, join us when we drink, THE DUKE!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! what a man!’ exclaimed the Princess. ‘What a pity it is you have a + House of Commons here! England would be the greatest country in the world + if it were not for that House of Commons. It makes so much confusion!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t abuse our property,’ said Lord Eskdale; ‘Lord Monmouth and I have + still twenty votes of that same body between us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And there is a combination,’ said Rigby, ‘by which you may still keep + them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! now for Rigby’s combination,’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘The only thing that can save this country,’ said Rigby, ‘is a coalition + on a sliding scale.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You had better buy up the Birmingham Union and the other bodies,’ said + Lord Monmouth; ‘I believe it might all be done for two or three hundred + thousand pounds; and the newspapers too. Pitt would have settled this + business long ago.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, at any rate, we are in,’ said Rigby, ‘and we must do something.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should like to see Grey’s list of new peers,’ said Lord Eskdale. ‘They + say there are several members of our club in it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the claims to the honour are so opposite,’ said Lucian Gay; ‘one, on + account of his large estate; another, because he has none; one, because he + has a well-grown family to perpetuate the title; another, because he has + no heir, and no power of ever obtaining one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder how he will form his cabinet,’ said Lord Monmouth; ‘the old + story won’t do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hear that Baring is to be one of the new cards; they say it will please + the city,’ said Lord Eskdale. ‘I suppose they will pick out of hedge and + ditch everything that has ever had the semblance of liberalism.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Affairs in my time were never so complicated,’ said Mr. Ormsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, it appears to me to lie in a nutshell,’ said Lucian Gay; ‘one party + wishes to keep their old boroughs, and the other to get their new peers.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + The future historian of the country will be perplexed to ascertain what + was the distinct object which the Duke of Wellington proposed to himself + in the political manoeuvres of May, 1832. It was known that the passing of + the Reform Bill was a condition absolute with the King; it was + unquestionable, that the first general election under the new law must + ignominiously expel the Anti-Reform Ministry from power; who would then + resume their seats on the Opposition benches in both Houses with the loss + not only of their boroughs, but of that reputation for political + consistency, which might have been some compensation for the parliamentary + influence of which they had been deprived. It is difficult to recognise in + this premature effort of the Anti-Reform leader to thrust himself again + into the conduct of public affairs, any indications of the prescient + judgment which might have been expected from such a quarter. It savoured + rather of restlessness than of energy; and, while it proved in its + progress not only an ignorance on his part of the public mind, but of the + feelings of his own party, it terminated under circumstances which were + humiliating to the Crown, and painfully significant of the future position + of the House of Lords in the new constitutional scheme. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Wellington has ever been the votary of circumstances. He cares + little for causes. He watches events rather than seeks to produce them. It + is a characteristic of the military mind. Rapid combinations, the result + of quick, vigilant, and comprehensive glance, are generally triumphant in + the field: but in civil affairs, where results are not immediate; in + diplomacy and in the management of deliberative assemblies, where there is + much intervening time and many counteracting causes, this velocity of + decision, this fitful and precipitate action, are often productive of + considerable embarrassment, and sometimes of terrible discomfiture. It is + remarkable that men celebrated for military prudence are often found to be + headstrong statesmen. In civil life a great general is frequently and + strangely the creature of impulse; influenced in his political movements + by the last snatch of information; and often the creature of the last + aide-de-camp who has his ear. + </p> + <p> + We shall endeavour to trace in another chapter the reasons which on this + as on previous and subsequent occasions, induced Sir Robert Peel to stand + aloof, if possible, from official life, and made him reluctant to re-enter + the service of his Sovereign. In the present instance, even temporary + success could only have been secured by the utmost decision, promptness, + and energy. These were all wanting: some were afraid to follow the bold + example of their leader; many were disinclined. In eight-and-forty hours + it was known there was a ‘hitch.’ + </p> + <p> + The Reform party, who had been rather stupefied than appalled by the + accepted mission of the Duke of Wellington, collected their scattered + senses, and rallied their forces. The agitators harangued, the mobs + hooted. The City of London, as if the King had again tried to seize the + five members, appointed a permanent committee of the Common Council to + watch the fortunes of the ‘great national measure,’ and to report daily. + Brookes’, which was the only place that at first was really frightened and + talked of compromise, grew valiant again; while young Whig heroes jumped + upon club-room tables, and delivered fiery invectives. Emboldened by these + demonstrations, the House of Commons met in great force, and passed a vote + which struck, without disguise, at all rival powers in the State; + virtually announced its supremacy; revealed the forlorn position of the + House of Lords under the new arrangement; and seemed to lay for ever the + fluttering phantom of regal prerogative. + </p> + <p> + It was on the 9th of May that Lord Lyndhurst was with the King, and on the + 15th all was over. Nothing in parliamentary history so humiliating as the + funeral oration delivered that day by the Duke of Wellington over the old + constitution, that, modelled on the Venetian, had governed England since + the accession of the House of Hanover. He described his Sovereign, when + his Grace first repaired to his Majesty, as in a state of the greatest + ‘difficulty and distress,’ appealing to his never-failing loyalty to + extricate him from his trouble and vexation. The Duke of Wellington, + representing the House of Lords, sympathises with the King, and pledges + his utmost efforts for his Majesty’s relief. But after five days’ + exertion, this man of indomitable will and invincible fortunes, resigns + the task in discomfiture and despair, and alleges as the only and + sufficient reason for his utter and hopeless defeat, that the House of + Commons had come to a vote which ran counter to the contemplated exercise + of the prerogative. + </p> + <p> + From that moment power passed from the House of Lords to another assembly. + But if the peers have ceased to be magnificoes, may it not also happen + that the Sovereign may cease to be a Doge? It is not impossible that the + political movements of our time, which seem on the surface to have a + tendency to democracy, may have in reality a monarchical bias. + </p> + <p> + In less than a fortnight’s time the House of Lords, like James II., having + abdicated their functions by absence, the Reform Bill passed; the ardent + monarch, who a few months before had expressed his readiness to go down to + Parliament, in a hackney coach if necessary, to assist its progress, now + declining personally to give his assent to its provisions. + </p> + <p> + In the protracted discussions to which this celebrated measure gave rise, + nothing is more remarkable than the perplexities into which the speakers + of both sides are thrown, when they touch upon the nature of the + representative principle. On one hand it was maintained, that, under the + old system, the people were virtually represented; while on the other, it + was triumphantly urged, that if the principle be conceded, the people + should not be virtually, but actually, represented. But who are the + people? And where are you to draw a line? And why should there be any? It + was urged that a contribution to the taxes was the constitutional + qualification for the suffrage. But we have established a system of + taxation in this country of so remarkable a nature, that the beggar who + chews his quid as he sweeps a crossing, is contributing to the imposts! Is + he to have a vote? He is one of the people, and he yields his quota to the + public burthens. + </p> + <p> + Amid these conflicting statements, and these confounding conclusions, it + is singular that no member of either House should have recurred to the + original character of these popular assemblies, which have always + prevailed among the northern nations. We still retain in the antique + phraseology of our statutes the term which might have beneficially guided + a modern Reformer in his reconstructive labours. + </p> + <p> + When the crowned Northman consulted on the welfare of his kingdom, he + assembled the ESTATES of his realm. Now an estate is a class of the nation + invested with political rights. There appeared the estate of the clergy, + of the barons, of other classes. In the Scandinavian kingdoms to this day, + the estate of the peasants sends its representatives to the Diet. In + England, under the Normans, the Church and the Baronage were convoked, + together with the estate of the Community, a term which then probably + described the inferior holders of land, whose tenure was not immediate of + the Crown. This Third Estate was so numerous, that convenience suggested + its appearance by representation; while the others, more limited, + appeared, and still appear, personally. The Third Estate was reconstructed + as circumstances developed themselves. It was a Reform of Parliament when + the towns were summoned. + </p> + <p> + In treating the House of the Third Estate as the House of the People, and + not as the House of a privileged class, the Ministry and Parliament of + 1831 virtually conceded the principle of Universal Suffrage. In this point + of view the ten-pound franchise was an arbitrary, irrational, and + impolitic qualification. It had, indeed, the merit of simplicity, and so + had the constitutions of Abbé Siéyès. But its immediate and inevitable + result was Chartism. + </p> + <p> + But if the Ministry and Parliament of 1831 had announced that the time had + arrived when the Third Estate should be enlarged and reconstructed, they + would have occupied an intelligible position; and if, instead of + simplicity of elements in its reconstruction, they had sought, on the + contrary, various and varying materials which would have neutralised the + painful predominance of any particular interest in the new scheme, and + prevented those banded jealousies which have been its consequences, the + nation would have found itself in a secure condition. Another class not + less numerous than the existing one, and invested with privileges not less + important, would have been added to the public estates of the realm; and + the bewildering phrase ‘the People’ would have remained, what it really + is, a term of natural philosophy, and not of political science. + </p> + <p> + During this eventful week of May, 1832, when an important revolution was + effected in the most considerable of modern kingdoms, in a manner so + tranquil, that the victims themselves were scarcely conscious at the time + of the catastrophe, Coningsby passed his hours in unaccustomed pleasures, + and in novel excitement. Although he heard daily from the lips of Mr. + Rigby and his friends that England was for ever lost, the assembled guests + still contrived to do justice to his grandfather’s excellent dinners; nor + did the impending ruin that awaited them prevent the Princess Colonna from + going to the Opera, whither she very good-naturedly took Coningsby. Madame + Colonna, indeed, gave such gratifying accounts of her dear young friend, + that Coningsby became daily a greater favourite with Lord Monmouth, who + cherished the idea that his grandson had inherited not merely the colour + of his eyes, but something of his shrewd and fearless spirit. + </p> + <p> + With Lucretia, Coningsby did not much advance. She remained silent and + sullen. She was not beautiful; pallid, with a lowering brow, and an eye + that avoided meeting another’s. Madame Colonna, though good-natured, felt + for her something of the affection for which step-mothers are celebrated. + Lucretia, indeed, did not encourage her kindness, which irritated her + step-mother, who seemed seldom to address her but to rate and chide; + Lucretia never replied, but looked dogged. Her father, the Prince, did not + compensate for this treatment. The memory of her mother, whom he had + greatly disliked, did not soften his heart. He was a man still young; + slender, not tall; very handsome, but worn; a haggard Antinous; his + beautiful hair daily thinning; his dress rich and effeminate; many jewels, + much lace. He seldom spoke, but was polished, though moody. + </p> + <p> + At the end of the week, Coningsby returned to Eton. On the eve of his + departure, Lord Monmouth desired his grandson to meet him in his + apartments on the morrow, before quitting his roof. This farewell visit + was as kind and gracious as the first one had been repulsive. Lord + Monmouth gave Coningsby his blessing and ten pounds; desired that he would + order a dress, anything he liked, for the approaching Montem, which Lord + Monmouth meant to attend; and informed his grandson that he should order + that in future a proper supply of game and venison should be forwarded to + Eton for the use of himself and his friends. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + After eight o’clock school, the day following the return of Coningsby, + according to custom, he repaired to Buckhurst’s room, where Henry Sydney, + Lord Vere, and our hero held with him their breakfast mess. They were all + in the fifth form, and habitual companions, on the river or on the Fives’ + Wall, at cricket or at foot-ball. The return of Coningsby, their leader + alike in sport and study, inspired them to-day with unusual spirits, + which, to say the truth, were never particularly depressed. Where he had + been, what he had seen, what he had done, what sort of fellow his + grandfather was, whether the visit had been a success; here were materials + for almost endless inquiry. And, indeed, to do them justice, the last + question was not the least exciting to them; for the deep and cordial + interest which all felt in Coningsby’s welfare far outweighed the + curiosity which, under ordinary circumstances, they would have experienced + on the return of one of their companions from an unusual visit to London. + The report of their friend imparted to them unbounded satisfaction, when + they learned that his relative was a splendid fellow; that he had been + loaded with kindness and favours; that Monmouth House, the wonders of + which he rapidly sketched, was hereafter to be his home; that Lord + Monmouth was coming down to Montem; that Coningsby was to order any dress + he liked, build a new boat if he chose; and, finally, had been pouched in + a manner worthy of a Marquess and a grandfather. + </p> + <p> + ‘By the bye,’ said Buckhurst, when the hubbub had a little subsided, ‘I am + afraid you will not half like it, Coningsby; but, old fellow, I had no + idea you would be back this morning; I have asked Millbank to breakfast + here.’ + </p> + <p> + A cloud stole over the clear brow of Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was my fault,’ said the amiable Henry Sydney; ‘but I really wanted to + be civil to Millbank, and as you were not here, I put Buckhurst up to ask + him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Coningsby, as if sullenly resigned, ‘never mind; but why + should you ask an infernal manufacturer?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, the Duke always wished me to pay him some attention,’ said Lord + Henry, mildly. ‘His family were so civil to us when we were at + Manchester.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Manchester, indeed!’ said Coningsby; ‘if you knew what I do about + Manchester! A pretty state we have been in in London this week past with + your Manchesters and Birminghams!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Come, come, Coningsby,’ said Lord Vere, the son of a Whig minister; ‘I am + all for Manchester and Birmingham.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is all up with the country, I can tell you,’ said Coningsby, with the + air of one who was in the secret. + </p> + <p> + ‘My father says it will all go right now,’ rejoined Lord Vere. ‘I had a + letter from my sister yesterday.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They say we shall all lose our estates, though,’ said Buckhurst; ‘I know + I shall not give up mine without a fight. Shirley was besieged, you know, + in the civil wars; and the rebels got infernally licked.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think that all the people about Beaumanoir would stand by the Duke,’ + said Lord Henry, pensively. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, you may depend upon it you will have it very soon,’ said Coningsby. + ‘I know it from the best authority.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It depends on whether my father remains in,’ said Lord Vere. ‘He is the + only man who can govern the country now. All say that.’ + </p> + <p> + At this moment Millbank entered. He was a good looking boy, somewhat shy, + and yet with a sincere expression in his countenance. He was evidently not + extremely intimate with those who were now his companions. Buckhurst, and + Henry Sydney, and Vere, welcomed him cordially. He looked at Coningsby + with some constraint, and then said: + </p> + <p> + ‘You have been in London, Coningsby?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I have been there during all the row.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must have had a rare lark.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, if having your windows broken by a mob be a rare lark. They could + not break my grandfather’s, though. Monmouth House is in a court-yard. All + noblemen’s houses should be in court-yards.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I was glad to see it all ended very well,’ said Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘It has not begun yet,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘What?’ said Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, the revolution.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Reform Bill will prevent a revolution, my father says,’ said + Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘By Jove! here’s the goose,’ said Buckhurst. + </p> + <p> + At this moment there entered the room a little boy, the scion of a noble + house, bearing a roasted goose, which he had carried from the kitchen of + the opposite inn, the Christopher. The lower boy or fag, depositing his + burthen, asked his master whether he had further need of him; and + Buckhurst, after looking round the table, and ascertaining that he had + not, gave him permission to retire; but he had scarcely disappeared, when + his master singing out, ‘Lower boy, St. John!’ he immediately re-entered, + and demanded his master’s pleasure, which was, that he should pour some + water in the teapot. This being accomplished, St. John really made his + escape, and retired to a pupil-room, where the bullying of a tutor, + because he had no derivations, exceeded in all probability the bullying of + his master, had he contrived in his passage from the Christopher to have + upset the goose or dropped the sausages. + </p> + <p> + In their merry meal, the Reform Bill was forgotten. Their thoughts were + soon concentrated in their little world, though it must be owned that + visions of palaces and beautiful ladies did occasionally flit over the + brain of one of the company. But for him especially there was much of + interest and novelty. So much had happened in his absence! There was a + week’s arrears for him of Eton annals. They were recounted in so fresh a + spirit, and in such vivid colours, that Coningsby lost nothing by his + London visit. All the bold feats that had been done, and all the bright + things that had been said; all the triumphs, and all the failures, and all + the scrapes; how popular one master had made himself, and how ridiculous + another; all was detailed with a liveliness, a candour, and a picturesque + ingenuousness, which would have made the fortune of a Herodotus or a + Froissart. + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll tell you what,’ said Buckhurst, ‘I move that after twelve we five go + up to Maidenhead.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Agreed; agreed!’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> + <p> + Millbank was the son of one of the wealthiest manufacturers in Lancashire. + His father, whose opinions were of a very democratic bent, sent his son to + Eton, though he disapproved of the system of education pursued there, to + show that he had as much right to do so as any duke in the land. He had, + however, brought up his only boy with a due prejudice against every + sentiment or institution of an aristocratic character, and had especially + impressed upon him in his school career, to avoid the slightest semblance + of courting the affections or society of any member of the falsely-held + superior class. + </p> + <p> + The character of the son as much as the influence of the father, tended to + the fulfilment of these injunctions. Oswald Millbank was of a proud and + independent nature; reserved, a little stern. The early and + constantly-reiterated dogma of his father, that he belonged to a class + debarred from its just position in the social system, had aggravated the + grave and somewhat discontented humour of his blood. His talents were + considerable, though invested with no dazzling quality. He had not that + quick and brilliant apprehension, which, combined with a memory of rare + retentiveness, had already advanced Coningsby far beyond his age, and made + him already looked to as the future hero of the school. But Millbank + possessed one of those strong, industrious volitions whose perseverance + amounts almost to genius, and nearly attains its results. Though Coningsby + was by a year his junior, they were rivals. This circumstance had no + tendency to remove the prejudice which Coningsby entertained against him, + but its bias on the part of Millbank had a contrary effect. + </p> + <p> + The influence of the individual is nowhere so sensible as at school. There + the personal qualities strike without any intervening and counteracting + causes. A gracious presence, noble sentiments, or a happy talent, make + their way there at once, without preliminary inquiries as to what set they + are in, or what family they are of, how much they have a-year, or where + they live. Now, on no spirit had the influence of Coningsby, already the + favourite, and soon probably to become the idol, of the school, fallen + more effectually than on that of Millbank, though it was an influence that + no one could suspect except its votary or its victim. + </p> + <p> + At school, friendship is a passion. It entrances the being; it tears the + soul. All loves of after-life can never bring its rapture, or its + wretchedness; no bliss so absorbing, no pangs of jealousy or despair so + crushing and so keen! What tenderness and what devotion; what illimitable + confidence; infinite revelations of inmost thoughts; what ecstatic present + and romantic future; what bitter estrangements and what melting + reconciliations; what scenes of wild recrimination, agitating + explanations, passionate correspondence; what insane sensitiveness, and + what frantic sensibility; what earthquakes of the heart and whirlwinds of + the soul are confined in that simple phrase, a schoolboy’s friendship! Tis + some indefinite recollection of these mystic passages of their young + emotion that makes grey-haired men mourn over the memory of their + schoolboy days. It is a spell that can soften the acerbity of political + warfare, and with its witchery can call forth a sigh even amid the callous + bustle of fashionable saloons. + </p> + <p> + The secret of Millbank’s life was a passionate admiration and affection + for Coningsby. Pride, his natural reserve, and his father’s injunctions, + had, however, hitherto successfully combined to restrain the slightest + demonstration of these sentiments. Indeed, Coningsby and himself were + never companions, except in school, or in some public game. The demeanour + of Coningsby gave no encouragement to intimacy to one, who, under any + circumstances, would have required considerable invitation to open + himself. So Millbank fed in silence on a cherished idea. It was his + happiness to be in the same form, to join in the same sport, with + Coningsby; occasionally to be thrown in unusual contact with him, to + exchange slight and not unkind words. In their division they were rivals; + Millbank sometimes triumphed, but to be vanquished by Coningsby was for + him not without a degree of mild satisfaction. Not a gesture, not a phrase + from Coningsby, that he did not watch and ponder over and treasure up. + Coningsby was his model, alike in studies, in manners, or in pastimes; the + aptest scholar, the gayest wit, the most graceful associate, the most + accomplished playmate: his standard of excellent. Yet Millbank was the + very last boy in the school who would have had credit given him by his + companions for profound and ardent feeling. He was not indeed unpopular. + The favourite of the school like Coningsby, he could, under no + circumstances, ever have become; nor was he qualified to obtain that + general graciousness among the multitude, which the sweet disposition of + Henry Sydney, or the gay profusion of Buckhurst, acquired without any + effort. Millbank was not blessed with the charm of manner. He seemed close + and cold; but he was courageous, just, and inflexible; never bullied, and + to his utmost would prevent tyranny. The little boys looked up to him as a + stern protector; and his word, too, throughout the school was a proverb: + and truth ranks a great quality among boys. In a word, Millbank was + respected by those among whom he lived; and school-boys scan character + more nicely than men suppose. + </p> + <p> + A brother of Henry Sydney, quartered in Lancashire, had been wounded + recently in a riot, and had received great kindness from the Millbank + family, in whose immediate neighbourhood the disturbance had occurred. The + kind Duke had impressed on Henry Sydney to acknowledge with cordiality to + the younger Millbank at Eton, the sense which his family entertained of + these benefits; but though Henry lost neither time nor opportunity in + obeying an injunction, which was grateful to his own heart, he failed in + cherishing, or indeed creating, any intimacy with the object of his + solicitude. A companionship with one who was Coningsby’s relative and most + familiar friend, would at the first glance have appeared, independently of + all other considerations, a most desirable result for Millbank to + accomplish. But, perhaps, this very circumstance afforded additional + reasons for the absence of all encouragement with which he received the + overtures of Lord Henry. Millbank suspected that Coningsby was not + affected in his favour, and his pride recoiled from gaining, by any + indirect means, an intimacy which to have obtained in a plain and express + manner would have deeply gratified him. However, the urgent invitation of + Buckhurst and Henry Sydney, and the fear that a persistence in refusal + might be misinterpreted into churlishness, had at length brought Millbank + to their breakfast-mess, though, when he accepted their invitation, he did + not apprehend that Coningsby would have been present. + </p> + <p> + It was about an hour before sunset, the day of this very breakfast, and a + good number of boys, in lounging groups, were collected in the Long Walk. + The sports and matches of the day were over. Criticism had succeeded to + action in sculling and in cricket. They talked over the exploits of the + morning; canvassed the merits of the competitors, marked the fellow whose + play or whose stroke was improving; glanced at another, whose promise had + not been fulfilled; discussed the pretensions, and adjudged the palm. Thus + public opinion is formed. Some, too, might be seen with their books and + exercises, intent on the inevitable and impending tasks. Among these, some + unhappy wight in the remove, wandering about with his hat, after parochial + fashion, seeking relief in the shape of a verse. A hard lot this, to know + that you must be delivered of fourteen verses at least in the twenty-four + hours, and to be conscious that you are pregnant of none. The lesser boys, + urchins of tender years, clustered like flies round the baskets of certain + vendors of sugary delicacies that rested on the Long Walk wall. The pallid + countenance, the lacklustre eye, the hoarse voice clogged with accumulated + phlegm, indicated too surely the irreclaimable and hopeless votary of + lollypop, the opium-eater of schoolboys. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is settled, the match to-morrow shall be between Aquatics and + Drybobs,’ said a senior boy; who was arranging a future match at cricket. + </p> + <p> + ‘But what is to be done about Fielding major?’ inquired another. ‘He has + not paid his boating money, and I say he has no right to play among the + Aquatics before he has paid his money.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! but we must have Fielding major, he is such a devil of a swipe.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I declare he shall not play among the Aquatics if he does not pay his + boating money. It is an infernal shame.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us ask Buckhurst. Where is Buckhurst?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you got any toffy?’ inquired a dull looking little boy, in a hoarse + voice, of one of the vendors of scholastic confectionery. + </p> + <p> + ‘Tom Trot, sir.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; I want toffy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very nice Tom Trot, sir.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I want toffy; I have been eating Tom Trot all day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where is Buckhurst? We must settle about the Aquatics.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I for one will not play if Fielding major plays amongst the + Aquatics. That is settled.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! nonsense; he will pay his money if you ask him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall not ask him again. The captain duns us every day. It is an + infernal shame.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I say, Burnham, where can one get some toffy? This fellow never has any.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will tell you; at Barnes’ on the bridge. The best toffy in the world.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will go at once. I must have some toffy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Just help me with this verse, Collins,’ said one boy to another, in an + imploring tone, ‘that’s a good fellow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, give it us: first syllable in <i>fabri</i> is short; three false + quantities in the two first lines! You’re a pretty one. There, I have done + it for you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s a good fellow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Any fellow seen Buckhurst?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gone up the river with Coningsby and Henry Sydney.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But he must be back by this time. I want him to make the list for the + match to-morrow. Where the deuce can Buckhurst be?’ + </p> + <p> + And now, as rumours rise in society we know not how, so there was suddenly + a flying report in this multitude, the origin of which no one in his alarm + stopped to ascertain, that a boy was drowned. + </p> + <p> + Every heart was agitated. + </p> + <p> + What boy? When, where, how? Who was absent? Who had been on the river + to-day? Buckhurst. The report ran that Buckhurst was drowned. Great were + the trouble and consternation. Buckhurst was ever much liked; and now no + one remembered anything but his good qualities. + </p> + <p> + ‘Who heard it was Buckhurst?’ said Sedgwick, captain of the school, coming + forward. + </p> + <p> + ‘I heard Bradford tell Palmer it was Buckhurst,’ said a little boy. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where is Bradford?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you know about Buckhurst?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Wentworth told me that he was afraid Buckhurst was drowned. He heard it + at the Brocas; a bargeman told him about a quarter of an hour ago.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Here is Wentworth! Here is Wentworth!’ a hundred voices exclaimed, and + they formed a circle round him. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, what did you hear, Wentworth?’ asked Sedgwick. + </p> + <p> + ‘I was at the Brocas, and a bargee told me that an Eton fellow had been + drowned above Surley, and the only Eton boat above Surley to-day, as I can + learn, is Buckhurst’s four-oar. That is all.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a murmur of hope. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! come, come,’ said Sedgwick, ‘there is come chance. Who is with + Buckhurst; who knows?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I saw him walk down to the Brocas with Vere,’ said a boy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope it is not Vere,’ said a little boy, with a tearful eye; ‘he never + lets any fellow bully me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Here is Maltravers,’ halloed out a boy; ‘he knows something.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, what do you know, Maltravers?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I heard Boots at the Christopher say that an Eton fellow was drowned, and + that he had seen a person who was there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Bring Boots here,’ said Sedgwick. + </p> + <p> + Instantly a band of boys rushed over the way, and in a moment the witness + was produced. + </p> + <p> + ‘What have you heard, Sam, about this accident?’ said Sedgwick. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, sir, I heard a young gentleman was drowned above Monkey Island,’ + said Boots. + </p> + <p> + ‘And no name mentioned?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, sir, I believe it was Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + A general groan of horror. + </p> + <p> + ‘Coningsby, Coningsby! By Heavens I hope not,’ said Sedgwick. + </p> + <p> + ‘I very much fear so,’ said Boots; ‘as how the bargeman who told me saw + Mr. Coningsby in the Lock House laid out in flannels.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I had sooner any fellow had been drowned than Coningsby,’ whispered one + boy to another. + </p> + <p> + ‘I liked him, the best fellow at Eton,’ responded his companion, in a + smothered tone. + </p> + <p> + ‘What a clever fellow he was!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And so deuced generous!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He would have got the medal if he had lived.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And how came he to be drowned? for he was such a fine swimmer!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I heerd Mr. Coningsby was saving another’s life,’ continued Boots in his + evidence, ‘which makes it in a manner more sorrowful.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poor Coningsby!’ exclaimed a boy, bursting into tears: ‘I move the whole + school goes into mourning.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish we could get hold of this bargeman,’ said Sedgwick. ‘Now stop, + stop, don’t all run away in that mad manner; you frighten the people. + Charles Herbert and Palmer, you two go down to the Brocas and inquire.’ + </p> + <p> + But just at this moment, an increased stir and excitement were evident in + the Long Walk; the circle round Sedgwick opened, and there appeared Henry + Sydney and Buckhurst. + </p> + <p> + There was a dead silence. It was impossible that suspense could be + strained to a higher pitch. The air and countenance of Sydney and + Buckhurst were rather excited than mournful or alarmed. They needed no + inquiries, for before they had penetrated the circle they had become aware + of its cause. + </p> + <p> + Buckhurst, the most energetic of beings, was of course the first to speak. + Henry Sydney indeed looked pale and nervous; but his companion, flushed + and resolute, knew exactly how to hit a popular assembly, and at once came + to the point. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is all a false report, an infernal lie; Coningsby is quite safe, and + nobody is drowned.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a cheer that might have been heard at Windsor Castle. Then, + turning to Sedgwick, in an undertone Buckhurst added, + </p> + <p> + ‘It <i>is</i> all right, but, by Jove! we have had a shaver. I will tell + you all in a moment, but we want to keep the thing quiet, and so let the + fellows disperse, and we will talk afterwards.’ + </p> + <p> + In a few moments the Long Walk had resumed its usual character; but + Sedgwick, Herbert, and one or two others turned into the playing fields, + where, undisturbed and unnoticed by the multitude, they listened to the + promised communication of Buckhurst and Henry Sydney. + </p> + <p> + ‘You know we went up the river together,’ said Buckhurst. ‘Myself, Henry + Sydney, Coningsby, Vere, and Millbank. We had breakfasted together, and + after twelve agreed to go up to Maidenhead. Well, we went up much higher + than we had intended. About a quarter of a mile before we had got to the + Lock we pulled up; Coningsby was then steering. Well, we fastened the boat + to, and were all of us stretched out on the meadow, when Millbank and Vere + said they should go and bathe in the Lock Pool. The rest of us were + opposed; but after Millbank and Vere had gone about ten minutes, + Coningsby, who was very fresh, said he had changed his mind and should go + and bathe too. So he left us. He had scarcely got to the pool when he + heard a cry. There was a fellow drowning. He threw off his clothes and was + in in a moment. The fact is this, Millbank had plunged in the pool and + found himself in some eddies, caused by the meeting of two currents. He + called out to Vere not to come, and tried to swim off. But he was beat, + and seeing he was in danger, Vere jumped in. But the stream was so strong, + from the great fall of water from the lasher above, that Vere was + exhausted before he could reach Millbank, and nearly sank himself. Well, + he just saved himself; but Millbank sank as Coningsby jumped in. What do + you think of that?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By Jove!’ exclaimed Sedgwick, Herbert, and all. The favourite oath of + schoolboys perpetuates the divinity of Olympus. + </p> + <p> + ‘And now comes the worst. Coningsby caught Millbank when he rose, but he + found himself in the midst of the same strong current that had before + nearly swamped Vere. What a lucky thing that he had taken into his head + not to pull to-day! Fresher than Vere, he just managed to land Millbank + and himself. The shouts of Vere called us, and we arrived to find the + bodies of Millbank and Coningsby apparently lifeless, for Millbank was + quite gone, and Coningsby had swooned on landing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If Coningsby had been lost,’ said Henry Sydney, ‘I never would have shown + my face at Eton again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can you conceive a position more terrible?’ said Buckhurst. ‘I declare I + shall never forget it as long as I live. However, there was the Lock House + at hand; and we got blankets and brandy. Coningsby was soon all right; but + Millbank, I can tell you, gave us some trouble. I thought it was all up. + Didn’t you, Henry Sydney?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The most fishy thing I ever saw,’ said Henry Sydney. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, we were fairly frightened here,’ said Sedgwick. ‘The first report + was, that you had gone, but that seemed without foundation; but Coningsby + was quite given up. Where are they now?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They are both at their tutors’. I thought they had better keep quiet. + Vere is with Millbank, and we are going back to Coningsby directly; but we + thought it best to show, finding on our arrival that there were all sorts + of rumours about. I think it will be best to report at once to my tutor, + for he will be sure to hear something.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I would if I were you.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> + <p> + What wonderful things are events! The least are of greater importance than + the most sublime and comprehensive speculations! In what fanciful schemes + to obtain the friendship of Coningsby had Millbank in his reveries often + indulged! What combinations that were to extend over years and influence + their lives! But the moment that he entered the world of action, his pride + recoiled from the plans and hopes which his sympathy had inspired. His + sensibility and his inordinate self-respect were always at variance. And + he seldom exchanged a word with the being whose idea engrossed his + affection. + </p> + <p> + And now, suddenly, an event had occurred, like all events, unforeseen, + which in a few, brief, agitating, tumultuous moments had singularly and + utterly changed the relations that previously subsisted between him and + the former object of his concealed tenderness. Millbank now stood with + respect to Coningsby in the position of one who owes to another the + greatest conceivable obligation; a favour which time could permit him + neither to forget nor to repay. Pride was a sentiment that could no longer + subsist before the preserver of his life. Devotion to that being, open, + almost ostentatious, was now a duty, a paramount and absorbing tie. The + sense of past peril, the rapture of escape, a renewed relish for the life + so nearly forfeited, a deep sentiment of devout gratitude to the + providence that had guarded over him, for Millbank was an eminently + religious boy, a thought of home, and the anguish that might have + overwhelmed his hearth; all these were powerful and exciting emotions for + a young and fervent mind, in addition to the peculiar source of + sensibility on which we have already touched. Lord Vere, who lodged in the + same house as Millbank, and was sitting by his bedside, observed, as night + fell, that his mind wandered. + </p> + <p> + The illness of Millbank, the character of which soon transpired, and was + soon exaggerated, attracted the public attention with increased interest + to the circumstances out of which it had arisen, and from which the + parties principally concerned had wished to have diverted notice. The + sufferer, indeed, had transgressed the rules of the school by bathing at + an unlicensed spot, where there were no expert swimmers in attendance, as + is customary, to instruct the practice and to guard over the lives of the + young adventurers. But the circumstances with which this violation of + rules had been accompanied, and the assurance of several of the party that + they had not themselves infringed the regulations, combined with the high + character of Millbank, made the authorities not over anxious to visit with + penalties a breach of observance which, in the case of the only proved + offender, had been attended with such impressive consequences. The feat of + Coningsby was extolled by all as an act of high gallantry and skill. It + confirmed and increased the great reputation which he already enjoyed. + </p> + <p> + ‘Millbank is getting quite well,’ said Buckhurst to Coningsby a few days + after the accident. ‘Henry Sydney and I are going to see him. Will you + come?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think we shall be too many. I will go another day,’ replied Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + So they went without him. They found Millbank up and reading. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, old fellow,’ said Buckhurst, ‘how are you? We should have come up + before, but they would not let us. And you are quite right now, eh?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite. Has there been any row about it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All blown over,’ said Henry Sydney; ‘C*******y behaved like a trump.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have seen nobody yet,’ said Millbank; ‘they would not let me till + to-day. Vere looked in this morning and left me this book, but I was + asleep. I hope they will let me out in a day or two. I want to thank + Coningsby; I never shall rest till I have thanked Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, he will come to see you,’ said Henry Sydney; ‘I asked him just now to + come with us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes!’ said Millbank, eagerly; ‘and what did he say?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He thought we should be too many.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope I shall see him soon,’ said Millbank, ‘somehow or other.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will tell him to come,’ said Buckhurst. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! no, no, don’t tell him to come,’ said Millbank. ‘Don’t bore him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know he is going to play a match at fives this afternoon,’ said + Buckhurst, ‘for I am one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And who are the others?’ inquired Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘Herbert and Campbell.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Herbert is no match for Coningsby,’ said Millbank. + </p> + <p> + And then they talked over all that had happened since his absence; and + Buckhurst gave him a graphic report of the excitement on the afternoon of + the accident; at last they were obliged to leave him. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, good-bye, old fellow; we will come and see you every day. What can + we do for you? Any books, or anything?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If any fellow asks after me,’ said Millbank, ‘tell him I shall be glad to + see him. It is very dull being alone. But do not tell any fellow to come + if he does not ask after me.’ + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the kind suggestions of Buckhurst and Henry Sydney, + Coningsby could not easily bring himself to call on Millbank. He felt a + constraint. It seemed as if he went to receive thanks. He would rather + have met Millbank again in school, or in the playing fields. Without being + able then to analyse his feelings, he shrank unconsciously from that + ebullition of sentiment, which in more artificial circles is described as + a scene. Not that any dislike of Millbank prompted him to this reserve. On + the contrary, since he had conferred a great obligation on Millbank, his + prejudice against him had sensibly decreased. How it would have been had + Millbank saved Coningsby’s life, is quite another affair. Probably, as + Coningsby was by nature generous, his sense of justice might have + struggled successfully with his painful sense of the overwhelming + obligation. But in the present case there was no element to disturb his + fair self-satisfaction. He had greatly distinguished himself; he had + conferred on his rival an essential service; and the whole world rang with + his applause. He began rather to like Millbank; we will not say because + Millbank was the unintentional cause of his pleasurable sensations. Really + it was that the unusual circumstances had prompted him to a more impartial + judgment of his rival’s character. In this mood, the day after the visit + of Buckhurst and Henry Sydney, Coningsby called on Millbank, but finding + his medical attendant with him, Coningsby availed himself of that excuse + for going away without seeing him. + </p> + <p> + The next day he left Millbank a newspaper on his way to school, time not + permitting a visit. Two days after, going into his room, he found on his + table a letter addressed to ‘Harry Coningsby, Esq.’ + </p> + <p> + ETON, May—, 1832. + </p> + <p> + ‘DEAR CONINGSBY, I very much fear that you must think me a very ungrateful + fellow, because you have not heard from me before; but I was in hopes that + I might get out and say to you what I feel; but whether I speak or write, + it is quite impossible for me to make you understand the feelings of my + heart to you. Now, I will say at once, that I have always liked you better + than any fellow in the school, and always thought you the cleverest; + indeed, I always thought that there was no one like you; but I never would + say this or show this, because you never seemed to care for me, and + because I was afraid you would think I merely wanted to con with you, as + they used to say of some other fellows, whose names I will not mention, + because they always tried to do so with Henry Sydney and you. I do not + want this at all; but I want, though we may not speak to each other more + than before, that we may be friends; and that you will always know that + there is nothing I will not do for you, and that I like you better than + any fellow at Eton. And I do not mean that this shall be only at Eton, but + afterwards, wherever we may be, that you will always remember that there + is nothing I will not do for you. Not because you saved my life, though + that is a great thing, but because before that I would have done anything + for you; only, for the cause above mentioned, I would not show it. I do + not expect that we shall be more together than before; nor can I ever + suppose that you could like me as you like Henry Sydney and Buckhurst, or + even as you like Vere; but still I hope you will always think of me with + kindness now, and let me sign myself, if ever I do write to you, ‘Your + most attached, affectionate, and devoted friend, + </p> + <h3> + ‘OSWALD MILLBANK.’ + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> + <p> + About a fortnight after this nearly fatal adventure on the river, it was + Montem. One need hardly remind the reader that this celebrated ceremony, + of which the origin is lost in obscurity, and which now occurs + triennially, is the tenure by which Eton College holds some of its + domains. It consists in the waving of a flag by one of the scholars, on a + mount near the village of Salt Hill, which, without doubt, derives its + name from the circumstance that on this day every visitor to Eton, and + every traveller in its vicinity, from the monarch to the peasant, are + stopped on the road by youthful brigands in picturesque costume, and + summoned to contribute ‘salt,’ in the shape of coin of the realm, to the + purse collecting for the Captain of Eton, the senior scholar on the + Foundation, who is about to repair to King’s College, Cambridge. + </p> + <p> + On this day the Captain of Eton appears in a dress as martial as his + title: indeed, each sixth-form boy represents in his uniform, though not + perhaps according to the exact rules of the Horse Guards, an officer of + the army. One is a marshal, another an ensign. There is a lieutenant, too; + and the remainder are sergeants. Each of those who are intrusted with + these ephemeral commissions has one or more attendants, the number of + these varying according to his rank. These servitors are selected + according to the wishes of the several members of the sixth form, out of + the ranks of the lower boys, that is, those boys who are below the fifth + form; and all these attendants are arrayed in a variety of fancy dresses. + The Captain of the Oppidans and the senior Colleger next to the Captain of + the school, figure also in fancy costume, and are called ‘Saltbearers.’ It + is their business, together with the twelve senior Collegers of the fifth + form, who are called ‘Runners,’ and whose costume is also determined by + the taste of the wearers, to levy the contributions. And all the Oppidans + of the fifth form, among whom ranked Coningsby, class as ‘Corporals;’ and + are severally followed by one or more lower boys, who are denominated + ‘Polemen,’ but who appear in their ordinary dress. + </p> + <p> + It was a fine, bright morning; the bells of Eton and Windsor rang merrily; + everybody was astir, and every moment some gay equipage drove into the + town. Gaily clustering in the thronged precincts of the College, might be + observed many a glistening form: airy Greek or sumptuous Ottoman, heroes + of the Holy Sepulchre, Spanish Hidalgos who had fought at Pavia, Highland + Chiefs who had charged at Culloden, gay in the tartan of Prince Charlie. + The Long Walk was full of busy groups in scarlet coats or fanciful + uniforms; some in earnest conversation, some criticising the arriving + guests; others encircling some magnificent hero, who astounded them with + his slashed doublet or flowing plume. + </p> + <p> + A knot of boys, sitting on the Long Walk wall, with their feet swinging in + the air, watched the arriving guests of the Provost. + </p> + <p> + ‘I say, Townshend,’ said one, ‘there’s Grobbleton; he <i>was</i> a bully. + I wonder if that’s his wife? Who’s this? The Duke of Agincourt. He wasn’t + an Eton fellow? Yes, he was. He was called Poictiers then. Oh! ah! his + name is in the upper school, very large, under Charles Fox. I say, + Townshend, did you see Saville’s turban? What was it made of? He says his + mother brought it from Grand Cairo. Didn’t he just look like the Saracen’s + Head? Here are some Dons. That’s Hallam! We’ll give him a cheer. I say, + Townshend, look at this fellow. He doesn’t think small beer of himself. I + wonder who he is? The Duke of Wellington’s valet come to say his master is + engaged. Oh! by Jove, he heard you! I wonder if the Duke will come? Won’t + we give him a cheer!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By Jove! who is this?’ exclaimed Townshend, and he jumped from the wall, + and, followed by his companions, rushed towards the road. + </p> + <p> + Two britskas, each drawn by four grey horses of mettle, and each + accompanied by outriders as well mounted, were advancing at a rapid pace + along the road that leads from Slough to the College. But they were + destined to an irresistible check. About fifty yards before they had + reached the gate that leads into Weston’s Yard, a ruthless but splendid + Albanian, in crimson and gold embroidered jacket, and snowy camise, + started forward, and holding out his silver-sheathed yataghan commanded + the postilions to stop. A Peruvian Inca on the other side of the road gave + a simultaneous command, and would infallibly have transfixed the outriders + with an arrow from his unerring bow, had they for an instant hesitated. + The Albanian Chief then advanced to the door of the carriage, which he + opened, and in a tone of great courtesy, announced that he was under the + necessity of troubling its inmates for ‘salt.’ There was no delay. The + Lord of the equipage, with the amiable condescension of a ‘grand + monarque,’ expressed his hope that the collection would be an ample one, + and as an old Etonian, placed in the hands of the Albanian his + contribution, a magnificent purse, furnished for the occasion, and heavy + with gold. + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t be alarmed, ladies,’ said a very handsome young officer, laughing, + and taking off his cocked hat. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ exclaimed one of the ladies, turning at the voice, and starting a + little. ‘Ah! it is Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Eskdale paid the salt for the next carriage. ‘Do they come down + pretty stiff?’ he inquired, and then, pulling forth a roll of bank-notes + from the pocket of his pea-jacket, he wished them good morning. + </p> + <p> + The courtly Provost, then the benignant Goodall, a man who, though his + experience of life was confined to the colleges in which he had passed his + days, was naturally gifted with the rarest of all endowments, the talent + of reception; and whose happy bearing and gracious manner, a smile ever in + his eye and a lively word ever on his lip, must be recalled by all with + pleasant recollections, welcomed Lord Monmouth and his friends to an + assemblage of the noble, the beautiful, and the celebrated gathered + together in rooms not unworthy of them, as you looked upon their + interesting walls, breathing with the portraits of the heroes whom Eton + boasts, from Wotton to Wellesley. Music sounded in the quadrangle of the + College, in which the boys were already quickly assembling. The Duke of + Wellington had arrived, and the boys were cheering a hero, who was an Eton + field-marshal. From an oriel window in one of the Provost’s rooms, Lord + Monmouth, surrounded by every circumstance that could make life + delightful, watched with some intentness the scene in the quadrangle + beneath. + </p> + <p> + ‘I would give his fame,’ said Lord Monmouth, ‘if I had it, and my wealth, + to be sixteen.’ + </p> + <p> + Five hundred of the youth of England, sparkling with health, high spirits, + and fancy dresses, were now assembled in the quadrangle. They formed into + rank, and headed by a band of the Guards, thrice they marched round the + court. Then quitting the College, they commenced their progress ‘ad + Montem.’ It was a brilliant spectacle to see them defiling through the + playing fields, those bowery meads; the river sparkling in the sun, the + castled heights of Windsor, their glorious landscape; behind them, the + pinnacles of their College. + </p> + <p> + The road from Eton to Salt Hill was clogged with carriages; the broad + fields as far as eye could range were covered with human beings. Amid the + burst of martial music and the shouts of the multitude, the band of + heroes, as if they were marching from Athens, or Thebes, or Sparta, to + some heroic deed, encircled the mount; the ensign reaches its summit, and + then, amid a deafening cry of ‘Floreat Etona!’ he unfurls, and thrice + waves the consecrated standard. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lord Monmouth,’ said Mr. Rigby to Coningsby, ‘wishes that you should beg + your friends to dine with him. Of course you will ask Lord Henry and your + friend Sir Charles Buckhurst; and is there any one else that you would + like to invite?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, there is Vere,’ said Coningsby, hesitating, ‘and—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Vere! What Lord Vere?’ said Rigby. ‘Hum! He is one of your friends, is + he? His father has done a great deal of mischief, but still he is Lord + Vere. Well, of course, you can invite Vere.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is another fellow I should like to ask very much,’ said Coningsby, + ‘if Lord Monmouth would not think I was asking too many.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never fear that; he sent me particularly to tell you to invite as many as + you liked.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, then, I should like to ask Millbank.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Millbank!’ said Mr. Rigby, a little excited, and then he added, ‘Is that + a son of Lady Albinia Millbank?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; his mother is not a Lady Albinia, but he is a great friend of mine. + His father is a Lancashire manufacturer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By no means,’ exclaimed Mr. Rigby, quite agitated. ‘There is nothing in + the world that Lord Monmouth dislikes so much as Manchester manufacturers, + and particularly if they bear the name of Millbank. It must not be thought + of, my dear Harry. I hope you have not spoken to the young man on the + subject. I assure you it is out of the question. It would make Lord + Monmouth quite ill. It would spoil everything, quite upset him.’ + </p> + <p> + It was, of course, impossible for Coningsby to urge his wishes against + such representations. He was disappointed, rather amazed; but Madame + Colonna having sent for him to introduce her to some of the scenes and + details of Eton life, his vexation was soon absorbed in the pride of + acting in the face of his companions as the cavalier of a beautiful lady, + and becoming the cicerone of the most brilliant party that had attended + Montem. He presented his friends, too, to Lord Monmouth, who gave them a + cordial invitation to dine with him at his hotel at Windsor, which they + warmly accepted. Buckhurst delighted the Marquess by his reckless genius. + Even Lucretia deigned to appear amused; especially when, on visiting the + upper school, the name of CARDIFF, the title Lord Monmouth bore in his + youthful days, was pointed out to her by Coningsby, cut with his + grandfather’s own knife on the classic panels of that memorable wall in + which scarcely a name that has flourished in our history, since the + commencement of the eighteenth century, may not be observed with curious + admiration. + </p> + <p> + It was the humour of Lord Monmouth that the boys should be entertained + with the most various and delicious banquet that luxury could devise or + money could command. For some days beforehand orders had been given for + the preparation of this festival. Our friends did full justice to their + Lucullus; Buckhurst especially, who gave his opinion on the most refined + dishes with all the intrepidity of saucy ignorance, and occasionally shook + his head over a glass of Hermitage or Côte Rôtie with a dissatisfaction + which a satiated Sybarite could not have exceeded. Considering all things, + Coningsby and his friends exhibited a great deal of self-command; but they + were gay, even to the verge of frolic. But then the occasion justified it, + as much as their youth. All were in high spirits. Madame Colonna declared + that she had met nothing in England equal to Montem; that it was a + Protestant Carnival; and that its only fault was that it did not last + forty days. The Prince himself was all animation, and took wine with every + one of the Etonians several times. All went on flowingly until Mr. Rigby + contradicted Buckhurst on some point of Eton discipline, which Buckhurst + would not stand. He rallied Mr. Rigby roundly, and Coningsby, full of + champagne, and owing Rigby several years of contradiction, followed up the + assault. Lord Monmouth, who liked a butt, and had a weakness for + boisterous gaiety, slily encouraged the boys, till Rigby began to lose his + temper and get noisy. + </p> + <p> + The lads had the best of it; they said a great many funny things, and + delivered themselves of several sharp retorts; whereas there was something + ridiculous in Rigby putting forth his ‘slashing’ talents against such + younkers. However, he brought the infliction on himself by his strange + habit of deciding on subjects of which he knew nothing, and of always + contradicting persons on the very subjects of which they were necessarily + masters. + </p> + <p> + To see Rigby baited was more amusement to Lord Monmouth even than Montem. + Lucian Gay, however, when the affair was getting troublesome, came forward + as a diversion. He sang an extemporaneous song on the ceremony of the day, + and introduced the names of all the guests at the dinner, and of a great + many other persons besides. This was capital! The boys were in raptures, + but when the singer threw forth a verse about Dr. Keate, the applause + became uproarious. + </p> + <p> + ‘Good-bye, my dear Harry,’ said Lord Monmouth, when he bade his grandson + farewell. ‘I am going abroad again; I cannot remain in this Radical-ridden + country. Remember, though I am away, Monmouth House is your home, at least + so long as it belongs to me. I understand my tailor has turned Liberal, + and is going to stand for one of the metropolitan districts, a friend of + Lord Durham; perhaps I shall find him in it when I return. I fear there + are evil days for the NEW GENERATION!’ + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK I. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0017" id="link2H_4_0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK II. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + It was early in November, 1834, and a large shooting party was assembled + at Beaumanoir, the seat of that great nobleman, who was the father of + Henry Sydney. England is unrivalled for two things, sporting and politics. + They were combined at Beaumanoir; for the guests came not merely to + slaughter the Duke’s pheasants, but to hold council on the prospects of + the party, which it was supposed by the initiated, began at this time to + indicate some symptoms of brightening. + </p> + <p> + The success of the Reform Ministry on their first appeal to the new + constituency which they had created, had been fatally complete. But the + triumph was as destructive to the victors as to the vanquished. + </p> + <p> + ‘We are too strong,’ prophetically exclaimed one of the fortunate cabinet, + which found itself supported by an inconceivable majority of three + hundred. It is to be hoped that some future publisher of private memoirs + may have preserved some of the traits of that crude and short-lived + parliament, when old Cobbett insolently thrust Sir Robert from the + prescriptive seat of the chief of opposition, and treasury understrappers + sneered at the ‘queer lot’ that had arrived from Ireland, little + foreseeing what a high bidding that ‘queer lot’ would eventually command. + Gratitude to Lord Grey was the hustings-cry at the end of 1832, the + pretext that was to return to the new-modelled House of Commons none but + men devoted to the Whig cause. The successful simulation, like everything + that is false, carried within it the seeds of its own dissolution. + Ingratitude to Lord Grey was more the fashion at the commencement of 1834, + and before the close of that eventful year, the once popular Reform + Ministry was upset, and the eagerly-sought Reformed Parliament dissolved! + </p> + <p> + It can scarcely be alleged that the public was altogether unprepared for + this catastrophe. Many deemed it inevitable; few thought it imminent. The + career of the Ministry, and the existence of the Parliament, had indeed + from the first been turbulent and fitful. It was known, from authority, + that there were dissensions in the cabinet, while a House of Commons which + passed votes on subjects not less important than the repeal of a tax, or + the impeachment of a judge, on one night, and rescinded its resolutions on + the following, certainly established no increased claims to the confidence + of its constituents in its discretion. Nevertheless, there existed at this + period a prevalent conviction that the Whig party, by a great stroke of + state, similar in magnitude and effect to that which in the preceding + century had changed the dynasty, had secured to themselves the government + of this country for, at least, the lives of the present generation. And + even the well-informed in such matters were inclined to look upon the + perplexing circumstances to which we have alluded rather as symptoms of a + want of discipline in a new system of tactics, than as evidences of any + essential and deeply-rooted disorder. + </p> + <p> + The startling rapidity, however, of the strange incidents of 1834; the + indignant, soon to become vituperative, secession of a considerable + section of the cabinet, some of them esteemed too at that time among its + most efficient members; the piteous deprecation of ‘pressure from + without,’ from lips hitherto deemed too stately for entreaty, followed by + the Trades’ Union, thirty thousand strong, parading in procession to + Downing-street; the Irish negotiations of Lord Hatherton, strange blending + of complex intrigue and almost infantile ingenuousness; the still + inexplicable resignation of Lord Althorp, hurriedly followed by his still + more mysterious resumption of power, the only result of his precipitate + movements being the fall of Lord Grey himself, attended by circumstances + which even a friendly historian could scarcely describe as honourable to + his party or dignified to himself; latterly, the extemporaneous address of + King William to the Bishops; the vagrant and grotesque apocalypse of the + Lord Chancellor; and the fierce recrimination and memorable defiance of + the Edinburgh banquet, all these impressive instances of public affairs + and public conduct had combined to create a predominant opinion that, + whatever might be the consequences, the prolonged continuance of the + present party in power was a clear impossibility. + </p> + <p> + It is evident that the suicidal career of what was then styled the Liberal + party had been occasioned and stimulated by its unnatural excess of + strength. The apoplectic plethora of 1834 was not less fatal than the + paralytic tenuity of 1841. It was not feasible to gratify so many + ambitions, or to satisfy so many expectations. Every man had his double; + the heels of every placeman were dogged by friendly rivals ready to trip + them up. There were even two cabinets; the one that met in council, and + the one that met in cabal. The consequence of destroying the legitimate + Opposition of the country was, that a moiety of the supporters of + Government had to discharge the duties of Opposition. + </p> + <p> + Herein, then, we detect the real cause of all that irregular and unsettled + carriage of public men which so perplexed the nation after the passing of + the Reform Act. No government can be long secure without a formidable + Opposition. It reduces their supporters to that tractable number which can + be managed by the joint influences of fruition and of hope. It offers + vengeance to the discontented, and distinction to the ambitious; and + employs the energies of aspiring spirits, who otherwise may prove traitors + in a division or assassins in a debate. + </p> + <p> + The general election of 1832 abrogated the Parliamentary Opposition of + England, which had practically existed for more than a century and a half. + And what a series of equivocal transactions and mortifying adventures did + the withdrawal of this salutary restraint entail on the party which then + so loudly congratulated themselves and the country that they were at + length relieved from its odious repression! In the hurry of existence one + is apt too generally to pass over the political history of the times in + which we ourselves live. The two years that followed the Reform of the + House of Commons are full of instruction, on which a young man would do + well to ponder. It is hardly possible that he could rise from the study of + these annals without a confirmed disgust for political intrigue; a + dazzling practice, apt at first to fascinate youth, for it appeals at once + to our invention and our courage, but one which really should only be the + resource of the second-rate. Great minds must trust to great truths and + great talents for their rise, and nothing else. + </p> + <p> + While, however, as the autumn of 1834 advanced, the people of this country + became gradually sensible of the necessity of some change in the councils + of their Sovereign, no man felt capable of predicting by what means it was + to be accomplished, or from what quarry the new materials were to be + extracted. The Tory party, according to those perverted views of Toryism + unhappily too long prevalent in this country, was held to be literally + defunct, except by a few old battered crones of office, crouched round the + embers of faction which they were fanning, and muttering ‘reaction’ in + mystic whispers. It cannot be supposed indeed for a moment, that the + distinguished personage who had led that party in the House of Commons + previously to the passing of the act of 1832, ever despaired in + consequence of his own career. His then time of life, the perfection, + almost the prime, of manhood; his parliamentary practice, doubly estimable + in an inexperienced assembly; his political knowledge; his fair character + and reputable position; his talents and tone as a public speaker, which he + had always aimed to adapt to the habits and culture of that middle class + from which it was concluded the benches of the new Parliament were mainly + to be recruited, all these were qualities the possession of which must + have assured a mind not apt to be disturbed in its calculations by any + intemperate heats, that with time and patience the game was yet for him. + </p> + <p> + Unquestionably, whatever may have been insinuated, this distinguished + person had no inkling that his services in 1834 might be claimed by his + Sovereign. At the close of the session of that year he had quitted England + with his family, and had arrived at Rome, where it was his intention to + pass the winter. The party charges that have imputed to him a previous and + sinister knowledge of the intentions of the Court, appear to have been + made not only in ignorance of the personal character, but of the real + position, of the future minister. + </p> + <p> + It had been the misfortune of this eminent gentleman when he first entered + public life, to become identified with a political connection which, + having arrogated to itself the name of an illustrious historical party, + pursued a policy which was either founded on no principle whatever, or on + principles exactly contrary to those which had always guided the conduct + of the great Tory leaders. The chief members of this official confederacy + were men distinguished by none of the conspicuous qualities of statesmen. + They had none of the divine gifts that govern senates and guide councils. + They were not orators; they were not men of deep thought or happy + resource, or of penetrative and sagacious minds. Their political ken was + essentially dull and contracted. They expended some energy in obtaining a + defective, blundering acquaintance with foreign affairs; they knew as + little of the real state of their own country as savages of an approaching + eclipse. This factious league had shuffled themselves into power by + clinging to the skirts of a great minister, the last of Tory statesmen, + but who, in the unparalleled and confounding emergencies of his latter + years, had been forced, unfortunately for England, to relinquish Toryism. + His successors inherited all his errors without the latent genius, which + in him might have still rallied and extricated him from the consequences + of his disasters. His successors did not merely inherit his errors; they + exaggerated, they caricatured them. They rode into power on a springtide + of all the rampant prejudices and rancorous passions of their time. From + the King to the boor their policy was a mere pandering to public + ignorance. Impudently usurping the name of that party of which + nationality, and therefore universality, is the essence, these + pseudo-Tories made Exclusion the principle of their political + constitution, and Restriction the genius of their commercial code. + </p> + <p> + The blind goddess that plays with human fortunes has mixed up the memory + of these men with traditions of national glory. They conducted to a + prosperous conclusion the most renowned war in which England has ever been + engaged. Yet every military conception that emanated from their cabinet + was branded by their characteristic want of grandeur. Chance, however, + sent them a great military genius, whom they treated for a long time with + indifference, and whom they never heartily supported until his career had + made him their master. His transcendent exploits, and European events even + greater than his achievements, placed in the manikin grasp of the English + ministry, the settlement of Europe. + </p> + <p> + The act of the Congress of Vienna remains the eternal monument of their + diplomatic knowledge and political sagacity. Their capital feats were the + creation of two kingdoms, both of which are already erased from the map of + Europe. They made no single preparation for the inevitable, almost + impending, conjunctures of the East. All that remains of the pragmatic + arrangements of the mighty Congress of Vienna is the mediatisation of the + petty German princes. + </p> + <p> + But the settlement of Europe by the pseudo-Tories was the dictate of + inspiration compared with their settlement of England. The peace of Paris + found the government of this country in the hands of a body of men of whom + it is no exaggeration to say that they were ignorant of every principle of + every branch of political science. So long as our domestic administration + was confined merely to the raising of a revenue, they levied taxes with + gross facility from the industry of a country too busy to criticise or + complain. But when the excitement and distraction of war had ceased, and + they were forced to survey the social elements that surrounded them, they + seemed, for the first time, to have become conscious of their own + incapacity. These men, indeed, were the mere children of routine. They + prided themselves on being practical men. In the language of this defunct + school of statesmen, a practical man is a man who practises the blunders + of his predecessors. + </p> + <p> + Now commenced that Condition-of-England Question of which our generation + hears so much. During five-and-twenty years every influence that can + develop the energies and resources of a nation had been acting with + concentrated stimulation on the British Isles. National peril and national + glory; the perpetual menace of invasion, the continual triumph of + conquest; the most extensive foreign commerce that was ever conducted by a + single nation; an illimitable currency; an internal trade supported by + swarming millions whom manufacturers and inclosure-bills summoned into + existence; above all, the supreme control obtained by man over mechanic + power, these are some of the causes of that rapid advance of material + civilisation in England, to which the annals of the world can afford no + parallel. But there was no proportionate advance in our moral + civilisation. In the hurry-skurry of money-making, men-making, and + machine-making, we had altogether outgrown, not the spirit, but the + organisation, of our institutions. + </p> + <p> + The peace came; the stimulating influences suddenly ceased; the people, in + a novel and painful position, found themselves without guides. They went + to the ministry; they asked to be guided; they asked to be governed. + Commerce requested a code; trade required a currency; the unfranchised + subject solicited his equal privilege; suffering labour clamoured for its + rights; a new race demanded education. What did the ministry do? + </p> + <p> + They fell into a panic. Having fulfilled during their lives the duties of + administration, they were frightened because they were called upon, for + the first time, to perform the functions of government. Like all weak men, + they had recourse to what they called strong measures. They determined to + put down the multitude. They thought they were imitating Mr. Pitt, because + they mistook disorganisation for sedition. + </p> + <p> + Their projects of relief were as ridiculous as their system of coercion + was ruthless; both were alike founded in intense ignorance. When we recall + Mr. Vansittart with his currency resolutions; Lord Castlereagh with his + plans for the employment of labour; and Lord Sidmouth with his plots for + ensnaring the laborious; we are tempted to imagine that the present epoch + has been one of peculiar advances in political ability, and marvel how + England could have attained her present pitch under a series of such + governors. + </p> + <p> + We should, however, be labouring under a very erroneous impression. Run + over the statesmen that have figured in England since the accession of the + present family, and we may doubt whether there be one, with the exception + perhaps of the Duke of Newcastle, who would have been a worthy colleague + of the council of Mr. Perceval, or the early cabinet of Lord Liverpool. + Assuredly the genius of Bolingbroke and the sagacity of Walpole would have + alike recoiled from such men and such measures. And if we take the + individuals who were governing England immediately before the French + Revolution, one need only refer to the speeches of Mr. Pitt, and + especially to those of that profound statesman and most instructed man, + Lord Shelburne, to find that we can boast no remarkable superiority either + in political justice or in political economy. One must attribute this + degeneracy, therefore, to the long war and our insular position, acting + upon men naturally of inferior abilities, and unfortunately, in addition, + of illiterate habits. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, notwithstanding all the efforts of the political + Panglosses who, in evening Journals and Quarterly Reviews were continually + proving that this was the best of all possible governments, it was evident + to the ministry itself that the machine must stop. The class of Rigbys + indeed at this period, one eminently favourable to that fungous tribe, + greatly distinguished themselves. They demonstrated in a manner absolutely + convincing, that it was impossible for any person to possess any ability, + knowledge, or virtue, any capacity of reasoning, any ray of fancy or + faculty of imagination, who was not a supporter of the existing + administration. If any one impeached the management of a department, the + public was assured that the accuser had embezzled; if any one complained + of the conduct of a colonial governor, the complainant was announced as a + returned convict. An amelioration of the criminal code was discountenanced + because a search in the parish register of an obscure village proved that + the proposer had not been born in wedlock. A relaxation of the commercial + system was denounced because one of its principal advocates was a + Socinian. The inutility of Parliamentary Reform was ever obvious since Mr. + Rigby was a member of the House of Commons. + </p> + <p> + To us, with our <i>Times</i> newspaper every morning on our + breakfast-table, bringing, on every subject which can interest the public + mind, a degree of information and intelligence which must form a security + against any prolonged public misconception, it seems incredible that only + five-and-twenty years ago the English mind could have been so ridden and + hoodwinked, and that, too, by men of mean attainments and moderate + abilities. But the war had directed the energies of the English people + into channels by no means favourable to political education. Conquerors of + the world, with their ports filled with the shipping of every clime, and + their manufactories supplying the European continent, in the art of + self-government, that art in which their fathers excelled, they had become + literally children; and Rigby and his brother hirelings were the nurses + that frightened them with hideous fables and ugly words. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding, however, all this successful mystification, the + Arch-Mediocrity who presided, rather than ruled, over this Cabinet of + Mediocrities, became hourly more conscious that the inevitable transition + from fulfilling the duties of an administration to performing the + functions of a government could not be conducted without talents and + knowledge. The Arch-Mediocrity had himself some glimmering traditions of + political science. He was sprung from a laborious stock, had received some + training, and though not a statesman, might be classed among those whom + the Lord Keeper Williams used to call ‘statemongers.’ In a subordinate + position his meagre diligence and his frigid method might not have been + without value; but the qualities that he possessed were misplaced; nor can + any character be conceived less invested with the happy properties of a + leader. In the conduct of public affairs his disposition was exactly the + reverse of that which is the characteristic of great men. He was + peremptory in little questions, and great ones he left open. + </p> + <p> + In the natural course of events, in 1819 there ought to have been a change + of government, and another party in the state should have entered into + office; but the Whigs, though they counted in their ranks at that period + an unusual number of men of great ability, and formed, indeed, a compact + and spirited opposition, were unable to contend against the new adjustment + of borough influence which had occurred during the war, and under the + protracted administration by which that war had been conducted. New + families had arisen on the Tory side that almost rivalled old Newcastle + himself in their electioneering management; and it was evident that, + unless some reconstruction of the House of Commons could be effected, the + Whig party could never obtain a permanent hold of official power. Hence, + from that period, the Whigs became Parliamentary Reformers. + </p> + <p> + It was inevitable, therefore, that the country should be governed by the + same party; indispensable that the ministry should be renovated by new + brains and blood. Accordingly, a Mediocrity, not without repugnance, was + induced to withdraw, and the great name of Wellington supplied his place + in council. The talents of the Duke, as they were then understood, were + not exactly of the kind most required by the cabinet, and his colleagues + were careful that he should not occupy too prominent a post; but still it + was an impressive acquisition, and imparted to the ministry a semblance of + renown. + </p> + <p> + There was an individual who had not long entered public life, but who had + already filled considerable, though still subordinate offices. Having + acquired a certain experience of the duties of administration, and + distinction for his mode of fulfilling them, he had withdrawn from his + public charge; perhaps because he found it a barrier to the attainment of + that parliamentary reputation for which he had already shown both a desire + and a capacity; perhaps because, being young and independent, he was not + over-anxious irremediably to identify his career with a school of politics + of the infallibility of which his experience might have already made him a + little sceptical. But he possessed the talents that were absolutely + wanted, and the terms were at his own dictation. Another, and a very + distinguished Mediocrity, who would not resign, was thrust out, and Mr. + Peel became Secretary of State. + </p> + <p> + From this moment dates that intimate connection between the Duke of + Wellington and the present First Minister, which has exercised a + considerable influence over the career of individuals and the course of + affairs. It was the sympathetic result of superior minds placed among + inferior intelligences, and was, doubtless, assisted by a then mutual + conviction, that the difference of age, the circumstance of sitting in + different houses, and the general contrast of their previous pursuits and + accomplishments, rendered personal rivalry out of the question. From this + moment, too, the domestic government of the country assumed a new + character, and one universally admitted to have been distinguished by a + spirit of enlightened progress and comprehensive amelioration. + </p> + <p> + A short time after this, a third and most distinguished Mediocrity died; + and Canning, whom they had twice worried out of the cabinet, where they + had tolerated him some time in an obscure and ambiguous position, was + recalled just in time from his impending banishment, installed in the + first post in the Lower House, and intrusted with the seals of the Foreign + Office. The Duke of Wellington had coveted them, nor could Lord Liverpool + have been insensible to his Grace’s peculiar fitness for such duties; but + strength was required in the House of Commons, where they had only one + Secretary of State, a young man already distinguished, yet untried as a + leader, and surrounded by colleagues notoriously incapable to assist him + in debate. + </p> + <p> + The accession of Mr. Canning to the cabinet, in a position, too, of + surpassing influence, soon led to a further weeding of the Mediocrities, + and, among other introductions, to the memorable entrance of Mr. + Huskisson. In this wise did that cabinet, once notable only for the + absence of all those qualities which authorise the possession of power, + come to be generally esteemed as a body of men, who, for parliamentary + eloquence, official practice, political information, sagacity in council, + and a due understanding of their epoch, were inferior to none that had + directed the policy of the empire since the Revolution. + </p> + <p> + If we survey the tenor of the policy of the Liverpool Cabinet during the + latter moiety of its continuance, we shall find its characteristic to be a + partial recurrence to those frank principles of government which Mr. Pitt + had revived during the latter part of the last century from precedents + that had been set us, either in practice or in dogma, during its earlier + period, by statesmen who then not only bore the title, but professed the + opinions, of Tories. Exclusive principles in the constitution, and + restrictive principles in commerce, have grown up together; and have + really nothing in common with the ancient character of our political + settlement, or the manners and customs of the English people. Confidence + in the loyalty of the nation, testified by munificent grants of rights and + franchises, and favour to an expansive system of traffic, were distinctive + qualities of the English sovereignty, until the House of Commons usurped + the better portion of its prerogatives. A widening of our electoral + scheme, great facilities to commerce, and the rescue of our Roman Catholic + fellow-subjects from the Puritanic yoke, from fetters which have been + fastened on them by English Parliaments in spite of the protests and + exertions of English Sovereigns; these were the three great elements and + fundamental truths of the real Pitt system, a system founded on the + traditions of our monarchy, and caught from the writings, the speeches, + the councils of those who, for the sake of these and analogous benefits, + had ever been anxious that the Sovereign of England should never be + degraded into the position of a Venetian Doge. + </p> + <p> + It is in the plunder of the Church that we must seek for the primary cause + of our political exclusion, and our commercial restraint. That unhallowed + booty created a factitious aristocracy, ever fearful that they might be + called upon to regorge their sacrilegious spoil. To prevent this they took + refuge in political religionism, and paltering with the disturbed + consciences, or the pious fantasies, of a portion of the people, they + organised them into religious sects. These became the unconscious + Praetorians of their ill-gotten domains. At the head of these + religionists, they have continued ever since to govern, or powerfully to + influence this country. They have in that time pulled down thrones and + churches, changed dynasties, abrogated and remodelled parliaments; they + have disfranchised Scotland and confiscated Ireland. One may admire the + vigour and consistency of the Whig party, and recognise in their career + that unity of purpose that can only spring from a great principle; but the + Whigs introduced sectarian religion, sectarian religion led to political + exclusion, and political exclusion was soon accompanied by commercial + restraint. + </p> + <p> + It would be fanciful to assume that the Liverpool Cabinet, in their + ameliorating career, was directed by any desire to recur to the primordial + tenets of the Tory party. That was not an epoch when statesmen cared to + prosecute the investigation of principles. It was a period of happy and + enlightened practice. A profounder policy is the offspring of a time like + the present, when the original postulates of institutions are called in + question. The Liverpool Cabinet unconsciously approximated to these + opinions, because from careful experiment they were convinced of their + beneficial tendency, and they thus bore an unintentional and impartial + testimony to their truth. Like many men, who think they are inventors, + they were only reproducing ancient wisdom. + </p> + <p> + But one must ever deplore that this ministry, with all their talents and + generous ardour, did not advance to principles. It is always perilous to + adopt expediency as a guide; but the choice may be sometimes imperative. + These statesmen, however, took expediency for their director, when + principle would have given them all that expediency ensured, and much + more. + </p> + <p> + This ministry, strong in the confidence of the sovereign, the parliament, + and the people, might, by the courageous promulgation of great historical + truths, have gradually formed a public opinion, that would have permitted + them to organise the Tory party on a broad, a permanent, and national + basis. They might have nobly effected a complete settlement of Ireland, + which a shattered section of this very cabinet was forced a few years + after to do partially, and in an equivocating and equivocal manner. They + might have concluded a satisfactory reconstruction of the third estate, + without producing that convulsion with which, from its violent + fabrication, our social system still vibrates. Lastly, they might have + adjusted the rights and properties of our national industries in a manner + which would have prevented that fierce and fatal rivalry that is now + disturbing every hearth of the United Kingdom. + </p> + <p> + We may, therefore, visit on the <i>laches</i> of this ministry the + introduction of that new principle and power into our constitution which + ultimately may absorb all, AGITATION. This cabinet, then, with so much + brilliancy on its surface, is the real parent of the Roman Catholic + Association, the Political Unions, the Anti-Corn-Law League. + </p> + <p> + There is no influence at the same time so powerful and so singular as that + of individual character. It arises as often from the weakness of the + character as from its strength. The dispersion of this clever and showy + ministry is a fine illustration of this truth. One morning the + Arch-Mediocrity himself died. At the first blush, it would seem that + little difficulties could be experienced in finding his substitute. His + long occupation of the post proved, at any rate, that the qualification + was not excessive. But this cabinet, with its serene and blooming visage, + had been all this time charged with fierce and emulous ambitions. They + waited the signal, but they waited in grim repose. The death of the + nominal leader, whose formal superiority, wounding no vanity, and + offending no pride, secured in their councils equality among the able, was + the tocsin of their anarchy. There existed in this cabinet two men, who + were resolved immediately to be prime ministers; a third who was resolved + eventually to be prime minister, but would at any rate occupy no + ministerial post without the lead of a House of Parliament; and a fourth, + who felt himself capable of being prime minister, but despaired of the + revolution which could alone make him one; and who found an untimely end + when that revolution had arrived. + </p> + <p> + Had Mr. Secretary Canning remained leader of the House of Commons under + the Duke of Wellington, all that he would have gained by the death of Lord + Liverpool was a master. Had the Duke of Wellington become Secretary of + State under Mr. Canning he would have materially advanced his political + position, not only by holding the seals of a high department in which he + was calculated to excel, but by becoming leader of the House of Lords. But + his Grace was induced by certain court intriguers to believe that the King + would send for him, and he was also aware that Mr. Peel would no longer + serve under any ministry in the House of Commons. Under any circumstances + it would have been impossible to keep the Liverpool Cabinet together. The + struggle, therefore, between the Duke of Wellington and ‘my dear Mr. + Canning’ was internecine, and ended somewhat unexpectedly. + </p> + <p> + And here we must stop to do justice to our friend Mr. Rigby, whose conduct + on this occasion was distinguished by a bustling dexterity which was quite + charming. He had, as we have before intimated, on the credit of some + clever lampoons written during the Queen’s trial, which were, in fact, the + effusions of Lucian Gay, wriggled himself into a sort of occasional + unworthy favour at the palace, where he was half butt and half buffoon. + Here, during the interregnum occasioned by the death, or rather inevitable + retirement, of Lord Liverpool, Mr. Rigby contrived to scrape up a + conviction that the Duke was the winning horse, and in consequence there + appeared a series of leading articles in a notorious evening newspaper, in + which it was, as Tadpole and Taper declared, most ‘slashingly’ shown, that + the son of an actress could never be tolerated as a Prime Minister of + England. Not content with this, and never doubting for a moment the + authentic basis of his persuasion, Mr. Rigby poured forth his coarse + volubility on the subject at several of the new clubs which he was getting + up in order to revenge himself for having been black-balled at White’s. + </p> + <p> + What with arrangements about Lord Monmouth’s boroughs, and the lucky + bottling of some claret which the Duke had imported on Mr. Rigby’s + recommendation, this distinguished gentleman contrived to pay almost + hourly visits at Apsley House, and so bullied Tadpole and Taper that they + scarcely dared address him. About four-and-twenty hours before the result, + and when it was generally supposed that the Duke was in, Mr. Rigby, who + had gone down to Windsor to ask his Majesty the date of some obscure + historical incident, which Rigby, of course, very well knew, found that + audiences were impossible, that Majesty was agitated, and learned, from an + humble but secure authority, that in spite of all his slashing articles, + and Lucian Gay’s parodies of the Irish melodies, Canning was to be Prime + Minister. + </p> + <p> + This would seem something of a predicament! To common minds; there are no + such things as scrapes for gentlemen with Mr. Rigby’s talents for action. + He had indeed, in the world, the credit of being an adept in machinations, + and was supposed ever to be involved in profound and complicated + contrivances. This was quite a mistake. There was nothing profound about + Mr. Rigby; and his intellect was totally incapable of devising or + sustaining an intricate or continuous scheme. He was, in short, a man who + neither felt nor thought; but who possessed, in a very remarkable degree, + a restless instinct for adroit baseness. On the present occasion he got + into his carriage, and drove at the utmost speed from Windsor to the + Foreign Office. The Secretary of State was engaged when he arrived; but + Mr. Rigby would listen to no difficulties. He rushed upstairs, flung open + the door, and with agitated countenance, and eyes suffused with tears, + threw himself into the arms of the astonished Mr. Canning. + </p> + <p> + ‘All is right,’ exclaimed the devoted Rigby, in broken tones; ‘I have + convinced the King that the First Minister must be in the House of + Commons. No one knows it but myself; but it is certain.’ + </p> + <p> + We have seen that at an early period of his career, Mr. Peel withdrew from + official life. His course had been one of unbroken prosperity; the hero of + the University had become the favourite of the House of Commons. His + retreat, therefore, was not prompted by chagrin. Nor need it have been + suggested by a calculating ambition, for the ordinary course of events was + fast bearing to him all to which man could aspire. One might rather + suppose, that he had already gained sufficient experience, perhaps in his + Irish Secretaryship, to make him pause in that career of superficial + success which education and custom had hitherto chalked out for him, + rather than the creative energies of his own mind. A thoughtful intellect + may have already detected elements in our social system which required a + finer observation, and a more unbroken study, than the gyves and trammels + of office would permit. He may have discovered that the representation of + the University, looked upon in those days as the blue ribbon of the House + of Commons, was a sufficient fetter without unnecessarily adding to its + restraint. He may have wished to reserve himself for a happier occasion, + and a more progressive period. He may have felt the strong necessity of + arresting himself in his rapid career of felicitous routine, to survey his + position in calmness, and to comprehend the stirring age that was + approaching. + </p> + <p> + For that, he could not but be conscious that the education which he had + consummated, however ornate and refined, was not sufficient. That age of + economical statesmanship which Lord Shelburne had predicted in 1787, when + he demolished, in the House of Lords, Bishop Watson and the Balance of + Trade, which Mr. Pitt had comprehended; and for which he was preparing the + nation when the French Revolution diverted the public mind into a stronger + and more turbulent current, was again impending, while the intervening + history of the country had been prolific in events which had aggravated + the necessity of investigating the sources of the wealth of nations. The + time had arrived when parliamentary preeminence could no longer be + achieved or maintained by gorgeous abstractions borrowed from Burke, or + shallow systems purloined from De Lolme, adorned with Horatian points, or + varied with Virgilian passages. It was to be an age of abstruse + disquisition, that required a compact and sinewy intellect, nurtured in a + class of learning not yet honoured in colleges, and which might arrive at + conclusions conflicting with predominant prejudices. + </p> + <p> + Adopting this view of the position of Mr. Peel, strengthened as it is by + his early withdrawal for a while from the direction of public affairs, it + may not only be a charitable but a true estimate of the motives which + influenced him in his conduct towards Mr. Canning, to conclude that he was + not guided in that transaction by the disingenuous rivalry usually imputed + to him. His statement in Parliament of the determining circumstances of + his conduct, coupled with his subsequent and almost immediate policy, may + perhaps always leave this a painful and ambiguous passage in his career; + but in passing judgment on public men, it behoves us ever to take large + and extended views of their conduct; and previous incidents will often + satisfactorily explain subsequent events, which, without their + illustrating aid, are involved in misapprehension or mystery. + </p> + <p> + It would seem, therefore, that Sir Robert Peel, from an early period, + meditated his emancipation from the political confederacy in which he was + implicated, and that he has been continually baffled in this project. He + broke loose from Lord Liverpool; he retired from Mr. Canning. Forced again + into becoming the subordinate leader of the weakest government in + parliamentary annals, he believed he had at length achieved his + emancipation, when he declared to his late colleagues, after the overthrow + of 1830, that he would never again accept a secondary position in office. + But the Duke of Wellington was too old a tactician to lose so valuable an + ally. So his Grace declared after the Reform Bill was passed, as its + inevitable result, that thenceforth the Prime Minister must be a member of + the House of Commons; and this aphorism, cited as usual by the Duke’s + parasites as demonstration of his supreme sagacity, was a graceful mode of + resigning the preeminence which had been productive of such great party + disasters. It is remarkable that the party who devised and passed the + Reform Bill, and who, in consequence, governed the nation for ten years, + never once had their Prime Minister in the House of Commons: but that does + not signify; the Duke’s maxim is still quoted as an oracle almost equal in + prescience to his famous query, ‘How is the King’s government to be + carried on?’ a question to which his Grace by this time has contrived to + give a tolerably practical answer. + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Peel, who had escaped from Lord Liverpool, escaped from Mr. + Canning, escaped even from the Duke of Wellington in 1832, was at length + caught in 1834; the victim of ceaseless intriguers, who neither + comprehended his position, nor that of their country. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + Beaumanoir was one of those Palladian palaces, vast and ornate, such as + the genius of Kent and Campbell delighted in at the beginning of the + eighteenth century. Placed on a noble elevation, yet screened from the + northern blast, its sumptuous front, connected with its far-spreading + wings by Corinthian colonnades, was the boast and pride of the midland + counties. The surrounding gardens, equalling in extent the size of + ordinary parks, were crowded with temples dedicated to abstract virtues + and to departed friends. Occasionally a triumphal arch celebrated a + general whom the family still esteemed a hero; and sometimes a votive + column commemorated the great statesman who had advanced the family a step + in the peerage. Beyond the limits of this pleasance the hart and hind + wandered in a wilderness abounding in ferny coverts and green and stately + trees. + </p> + <p> + The noble proprietor of this demesne had many of the virtues of his class; + a few of their failings. He had that public spirit which became his + station. He was not one of those who avoided the exertions and the + sacrifices which should be inseparable from high position, by the hollow + pretext of a taste for privacy, and a devotion to domestic joys. He was + munificent, tender, and bounteous to the poor, and loved a flowing + hospitality. A keen sportsman, he was not untinctured by letters, and had + indeed a cultivated taste for the fine arts. Though an ardent politician, + he was tolerant to adverse opinions, and full of amenity to his opponents. + A firm supporter of the corn-laws, he never refused a lease. + Notwithstanding there ran through his whole demeanour and the habit of his + mind, a vein of native simplicity that was full of charm, his manner was + finished. He never offended any one’s self-love. His good breeding, + indeed, sprang from the only sure source of gentle manners, a kind heart. + To have pained others would have pained himself. Perhaps, too, this noble + sympathy may have been in some degree prompted by the ancient blood in his + veins, an accident of lineage rather rare with the English nobility. One + could hardly praise him for the strong affections that bound him to his + hearth, for fortune had given him the most pleasing family in the world; + but, above all, a peerless wife. + </p> + <p> + The Duchess was one of those women who are the delight of existence. She + was sprung from a house not inferior to that with which she had blended, + and was gifted with that rare beauty which time ever spares, so that she + seemed now only the elder sister of her own beautiful daughters. She, too, + was distinguished by that perfect good breeding which is the result of + nature and not of education: for it may be found in a cottage, and may be + missed in a palace. ‘Tis a genial regard for the feelings of others that + springs from an absence of selfishness. The Duchess, indeed, was in every + sense a fine lady; her manners were refined and full of dignity; but + nothing in the world could have induced her to appear bored when another + was addressing or attempting to amuse her. She was not one of those vulgar + fine ladies who meet you one day with a vacant stare, as if unconscious of + your existence, and address you on another in a tone of impertinent + familiarity. Her temper, perhaps, was somewhat quick, which made this + consideration for the feelings of others still more admirable, for it was + the result of a strict moral discipline acting on a good heart. Although + the best of wives and mothers, she had some charity for her neighbours. + Needing herself no indulgence, she could be indulgent; and would by no + means favour that strait-laced morality that would constrain the innocent + play of the social body. She was accomplished, well read, and had a lively + fancy. Add to this that sunbeam of a happy home, a gay and cheerful spirit + in its mistress, and one might form some faint idea of this gracious + personage. + </p> + <p> + The eldest son of this house was now on the continent; of his two younger + brothers, one was with his regiment and the other was Coningsby’s friend + at Eton, our Henry Sydney. The two eldest daughters had just married, on + the same day, and at the same altar; and the remaining one, Theresa, was + still a child. + </p> + <p> + The Duke had occupied a chief post in the Household under the late + administration, and his present guests chiefly consisted of his former + colleagues in office. There were several members of the late cabinet, + several members for his Grace’s late boroughs, looking very much like + martyrs, full of suffering and of hope. Mr. Tadpole and Mr. Taper were + also there; they too had lost their seats since 1832; but being men of + business, and accustomed from early life to look about them, they had + already commenced the combinations which on a future occasion were to bear + them back to the assembly where they were so missed. + </p> + <p> + Taper had his eye on a small constituency which had escaped the fatal + schedules, and where he had what they called a ‘connection;’ that is to + say, a section of the suffrages who had a lively remembrance of Treasury + favours once bestowed by Mr. Taper, and who had not been so liberally + dealt with by the existing powers. This connection of Taper was in time to + leaven the whole mass of the constituent body, and make it rise in full + rebellion against its present liberal representative, who being one of a + majority of three hundred, could get nothing when he called at Whitehall + or Downing Street. + </p> + <p> + Tadpole, on the contrary, who was of a larger grasp of mind than Taper, + with more of imagination and device but not so safe a man, was coquetting + with a manufacturing town and a large constituency, where he was to + succeed by the aid of the Wesleyans, of which pious body he had suddenly + become a fervent admirer. The great Mr. Rigby, too, was a guest out of + Parliament, nor caring to be in; but hearing that his friends had some + hopes, he thought he would just come down to dash them. + </p> + <p> + The political grapes were sour for Mr. Rigby; a prophet of evil, he + preached only mortification and repentance and despair to his late + colleagues. It was the only satisfaction left Mr. Rigby, except assuring + the Duke that the finest pictures in his gallery were copies, and + recommending him to pull down Beaumanoir, and rebuild it on a design with + which Mr. Rigby would furnish him. + </p> + <p> + The battue and the banquet were over; the ladies had withdrawn; and the + butler placed fresh claret on the table. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you really think you could give us a majority, Tadpole?’ said the + Duke. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Tadpole, with some ceremony, took a memorandum-book out of his pocket, + amid the smiles and the faint well-bred merriment of his friends. + </p> + <p> + ‘Tadpole is nothing without his book,’ whispered Lord Fitz-Booby. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is here,’ said Mr. Tadpole, emphatically patting his volume, ‘a clear + working majority of twenty-two.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Near sailing that!’ cried the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘A far better majority than the present Government have,’ said Mr. + Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is nothing like a good small majority,’ said Mr. Taper, ‘and a good + registration.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay! register, register, register!’ said the Duke. ‘Those were immortal + words.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can tell your Grace three far better ones,’ said Mr. Tadpole, with a + self-complacent air. ‘Object, object, object!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You may register, and you may object,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘but you will + never get rid of Schedule A and Schedule B.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But who could have supposed two years ago that affairs would be in their + present position?’ said Mr. Taper, deferentially. + </p> + <p> + ‘I foretold it,’ said Mr. Rigby. ‘Every one knows that no government now + can last twelve months.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We may make fresh boroughs,’ said Taper. ‘We have reduced Shabbyton at + the last registration under three hundred.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the Wesleyans!’ said Tadpole. ‘We never counted on the Wesleyans!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am told these Wesleyans are really a respectable body,’ said Lord + Fitz-Booby. ‘I believe there is no material difference between their + tenets and those of the Establishment. I never heard of them much till + lately. We have too long confounded them with the mass of Dissenters, but + their conduct at several of the later elections proves that they are far + from being unreasonable and disloyal individuals. When we come in, + something should be done for the Wesleyans, eh, Rigby?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All that your Lordship can do for the Wesleyans is what they will very + shortly do for themselves, appropriate a portion of the Church Revenues to + their own use.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, nay,’ said Mr. Tadpole with a chuckle, ‘I don’t think we shall find + the Church attacked again in a hurry. I only wish they would try! A good + Church cry before a registration,’ he continued, rubbing his hands; ‘eh, + my Lord, I think that would do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But how are we to turn them out?’ said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ said Mr. Taper, ‘that is a great question.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you think of a repeal of the Malt Tax?’ said Lord Fitz-Booby. + ‘They have been trying it on in ——shire, and I am told it goes + down very well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No repeal of any tax,’ said Taper, sincerely shocked, and shaking his + head; ‘and the Malt Tax of all others. I am all against that.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is a very good cry though, if there be no other,’ said Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am all for a religious cry,’ said Taper. ‘It means nothing, and, if + successful, does not interfere with business when we are in.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will have religious cries enough in a short time,’ said Mr. Rigby, + rather wearied of any one speaking but himself, and thereat he commenced a + discourse, which was, in fact, one of his ‘slashing’ articles in petto on + Church Reform, and which abounded in parallels between the present affairs + and those of the reign of Charles I. Tadpole, who did not pretend to know + anything but the state of the registration, and Taper, whose political + reading was confined to an intimate acquaintance with the Red Book and + Beatson’s Political Index, which he could repeat backwards, were silenced. + The Duke, who was well instructed and liked to be talked to, sipped his + claret, and was rather amused by Rigby’s lecture, particularly by one or + two statements characterised by Rigby’s happy audacity, but which the Duke + was too indolent to question. Lord Fitz-Booby listened with his mouth + open, but rather bored. At length, when there was a momentary pause, he + said: + </p> + <p> + ‘In my time, the regular thing was to move an amendment on the address.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite out of the question,’ exclaimed Tadpole, with a scoff. + </p> + <p> + ‘Entirely given up,’ said Taper, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + ‘If you will drink no more claret, we will go and hear some music,’ said + the Duke. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + A breakfast at Beaumanoir was a meal of some ceremony. Every guest was + expected to attend, and at a somewhat early hour. Their host and hostess + set them the example of punctuality. ‘Tis an old form rigidly adhered to + in some great houses, but, it must be confessed, does not contrast very + agreeably with the easier arrangements of establishments of less + pretension and of more modern order. + </p> + <p> + The morning after the dinner to which we have been recently introduced, + there was one individual absent from the breakfast-table whose + non-appearance could scarcely be passed over without notice; and several + inquired with some anxiety, whether their host were indisposed. + </p> + <p> + ‘The Duke has received some letters from London which detain him,’ replied + the Duchess. ‘He will join us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your Grace will be glad to hear that your son Henry is very well,’ said + Mr. Rigby; ‘I heard of him this morning. Harry Coningsby enclosed me a + letter for his grandfather, and tells me that he and Henry Sydney had just + had a capital run with the King’s hounds.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is three years since we have seen Mr. Coningsby,’ said the Duchess. + ‘Once he was often here. He was a great favourite of mine. I hardly ever + knew a more interesting boy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I have done a great deal for him,’ said Mr. Rigby. ‘Lord Monmouth is + fond of him, and wishes that he should make a figure; but how any one is + to distinguish himself now, I am really at a loss to comprehend.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But are affairs so very bad?’ said the Duchess, smiling. ‘I thought that + we were all regaining our good sense and good temper.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe all the good sense and all the good temper in England are + concentrated in your Grace,’ said Mr. Rigby, gallantly. + </p> + <p> + ‘I should be sorry to be such a monopolist. But Lord Fitz-Booby was giving + me last night quite a glowing report of Mr. Tadpole’s prospects for the + nation. We were all to have our own again; and Percy to carry the county.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Madam, before twelve months are past, there will not be a county + in England. Why should there be? If boroughs are to be disfranchised, why + should not counties be destroyed?’ + </p> + <p> + At this moment the Duke entered, apparently agitated. He bowed to his + guests, and apologised for his unusual absence. ‘The truth is,’ he + continued, ‘I have just received a very important despatch. An event has + occurred which may materially affect affairs. Lord Spencer is dead.’ + </p> + <p> + A thunderbolt in a summer sky, as Sir William Temple says, could not have + produced a greater sensation. The business of the repast ceased in a + moment. The knives and forks were suddenly silent. All was still. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is an immense event,’ said Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t see my way,’ said Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘When did he die?’ said Lord Fitz-Booby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t believe it,’ said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘They have got their man ready,’ said Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is impossible to say what will happen,’ said Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now is the time for an amendment on the address,’ said Fitz-Booby. + </p> + <p> + ‘There are two reasons which convince me that Lord Spencer is not dead,’ + said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I fear there is no doubt of it,’ said the Duke, shaking his head. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lord Althorp was the only man who could keep them together,’ said Lord + Fitz-Booby. + </p> + <p> + ‘On the contrary,’ said Tadpole. ‘If I be right in my man, and I have no + doubt of it, you will have a radical programme, and they will be stronger + than ever.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think they can get the steam up again?’ said Taper, musingly. + </p> + <p> + ‘They will bid high,’ replied Tadpole. ‘Nothing could be more unfortunate + than this death. Things were going on so well and so quietly! The + Wesleyans almost with us!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And Shabbyton too!’ mournfully exclaimed Taper. ‘Another registration and + quiet times, and I could have reduced the constituency to two hundred and + fifty.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If Lord Spencer had died on the 10th,’ said Rigby, ‘it must have been + known to Henry Rivers. And I have a letter from Henry Rivers by this post. + Now, Althorp is in Northamptonshire, mark that, and Northampton is a + county—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Rigby,’ said the Duke, ‘pardon me for interrupting you. + Unhappily, there is no doubt Lord Spencer is dead, for I am one of his + executors.’ + </p> + <p> + This announcement silenced even Mr. Rigby, and the conversation now + entirely merged in speculations on what would occur. Numerous were the + conjectures hazarded, but the prevailing impression was, that this + unforeseen event might embarrass those secret expectations of Court + succour in which a certain section of the party had for some time reason + to indulge. + </p> + <p> + From the moment, however, of the announcement of Lord Spencer’s death, a + change might be visibly observed in the tone of the party at Beaumanoir. + They became silent, moody, and restless. There seemed a general, though + not avowed, conviction that a crisis of some kind or other was at hand. + The post, too, brought letters every day from town teeming with fanciful + speculations, and occasionally mysterious hopes. + </p> + <p> + ‘I kept this cover for Peel,’ said the Duke pensively, as he loaded his + gun on the morning of the 14th. ‘Do you know, I was always against his + going to Rome.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is very odd,’ said Tadpole, ‘but I was thinking of the very same + thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It will be fifteen years before England will see a Tory Government,’ said + Mr. Rigby, drawing his ramrod, ‘and then it will only last five months.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Melbourne, Althorp, and Durham, all in the Lords,’ said Taper. ‘Three + leaders! They must quarrel.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If Durham come in, mark me, he will dissolve on Household Suffrage and + the Ballot,’ said Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not nearly so good a cry as Church,’ replied Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘With the Malt Tax,’ said Tadpole. ‘Church, without the Malt Tax, will not + do against Household Suffrage and Ballot.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Malt Tax is madness,’ said Taper. ‘A good farmer’s friend cry without + Malt Tax would work just as well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They will never dissolve,’ said the Duke. ‘They are so strong.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They cannot go on with three hundred majority,’ said Taper. ‘Forty is as + much as can be managed with open constituencies.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If he had only gone to Paris instead of Rome!’ said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘I could have written to him then by every post, + and undeceived him as to his position.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘After all he is the only man,’ said the Duke; ‘and I really believe the + country thinks so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray, what is the country?’ inquired Mr. Rigby. ‘The country is nothing; + it is the constituency you have to deal with.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And to manage them you must have a good cry,’ said Taper. ‘All now + depends upon a good cry.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So much for the science of politics,’ said the Duke, bringing down a + pheasant. ‘How Peel would have enjoyed this cover!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He will have plenty of time for sport during his life,’ said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the 15th of November, a despatch arrived at Beaumanoir, + informing his Grace that the King had dismissed the Whig Ministry, and + sent for the Duke of Wellington. Thus the first agitating suspense was + over; to be succeeded, however, by expectation still more anxious. It was + remarkable that every individual suddenly found that he had particular + business in London which could not be neglected. The Duke very properly + pleaded his executorial duties; but begged his guests on no account to be + disturbed by his inevitable absence. Lord Fitz-Booby had just received a + letter from his daughter, who was indisposed at Brighton, and he was most + anxious to reach her. Tadpole had to receive deputations from Wesleyans, + and well-registered boroughs anxious to receive well-principled + candidates. Taper was off to get the first job at the contingent Treasury, + in favour of the Borough of Shabbyton. Mr. Rigby alone was silent; but he + quietly ordered a post-chaise at daybreak, and long before his fellow + guests were roused from their slumbers, he was halfway to London, ready to + give advice, either at the pavilion or at Apsley House. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + Although it is far from improbable that, had Sir Robert Peel been in + England in the autumn of 1834, the Whig government would not have been + dismissed; nevertheless, whatever may now be the opinion of the policy of + that measure; whether it be looked on as a premature movement which + necessarily led to the compact reorganisation of the Liberal party, or as + a great stroke of State, which, by securing at all events a dissolution of + the Parliament of 1832, restored the healthy balance of parties in the + Legislature, questions into which we do not now wish to enter, it must be + generally admitted, that the conduct of every individual eminently + concerned in that great historical transaction was characterised by the + rarest and most admirable quality of public life, moral courage. The + Sovereign who dismissed a Ministry apparently supported by an overwhelming + majority in the Parliament and the nation, and called to his councils the + absent chief of a parliamentary section, scarcely numbering at that moment + one hundred and forty individuals, and of a party in the country supposed + to be utterly discomfited by a recent revolution; the two ministers who in + this absence provisionally administered the affairs of the kingdom in the + teeth of an enraged and unscrupulous Opposition, and perhaps themselves + not sustained by a profound conviction, that the arrival of their expected + leader would convert their provisional into a permanent position; above + all the statesman who accepted the great charge at a time and under + circumstances which marred probably the deep projects of his own prescient + sagacity and maturing ambition; were all men gifted with a high spirit of + enterprise, and animated by that active fortitude which is the soul of + free governments. + </p> + <p> + It was a lively season, that winter of 1834! What hopes, what fears, and + what bets! From the day on which Mr. Hudson was to arrive at Rome to the + election of the Speaker, not a contingency that was not the subject of a + wager! People sprang up like mushrooms; town suddenly became full. + Everybody who had been in office, and everybody who wished to be in + office; everybody who had ever had anything, and everybody who ever + expected to have anything, were alike visible. All of course by mere + accident; one might meet the same men regularly every day for a month, who + were only ‘passing through town.’ + </p> + <p> + Now was the time for men to come forward who had never despaired of their + country. True they had voted for the Reform Bill, but that was to prevent + a revolution. And now they were quite ready to vote against the Reform + Bill, but this was to prevent a dissolution. These are the true patriots, + whose confidence in the good sense of their countrymen and in their own + selfishness is about equal. In the meantime, the hundred and forty threw a + grim glance on the numerous waiters on Providence, and amiable trimmers, + who affectionately enquired every day when news might be expected of Sir + Robert. Though too weak to form a government, and having contributed in no + wise by their exertions to the fall of the late, the cohort of + Parliamentary Tories felt all the alarm of men who have accidentally + stumbled on some treasure-trove, at the suspicious sympathy of new allies. + But, after all, who were to form the government, and what was the + government to be? Was it to be a Tory government, or an + Enlightened-Spirit-of-the-Age Liberal-Moderate-Reform government; was it + to be a government of high philosophy or of low practice; of principle or + of expediency; of great measures or of little men? A government of + statesmen or of clerks? Of Humbug or of Humdrum? Great questions these, + but unfortunately there was nobody to answer them. They tried the Duke; + but nothing could be pumped out of him. All that he knew, which he told in + his curt, husky manner, was, that he had to carry on the King’s + government. As for his solitary colleague, he listened and smiled, and + then in his musical voice asked them questions in return, which is the + best possible mode of avoiding awkward inquiries. It was very unfair this; + for no one knew what tone to take; whether they should go down to their + public dinners and denounce the Reform Act or praise it; whether the + Church was to be re-modelled or only admonished; whether Ireland was to be + conquered or conciliated. + </p> + <p> + ‘This can’t go on much longer,’ said Taper to Tadpole, as they reviewed + together their electioneering correspondence on the 1st of December; ‘we + have no cry.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is half way by this time,’ said Tadpole; ‘send an extract from a + private letter to the <i>Standard</i>, dated Augsburg, and say he will be + here in four days.’ + </p> + <p> + At last he came; the great man in a great position, summoned from Rome to + govern England. The very day that he arrived he had his audience with the + King. + </p> + <p> + It was two days after this audience; the town, though November, in a state + of excitement; clubs crowded, not only morning rooms, but halls and + staircases swarming with members eager to give and to receive rumours + equally vain; streets lined with cabs and chariots, grooms and horses; it + was two days after this audience that Mr. Ormsby, celebrated for his + political dinners, gave one to a numerous party. Indeed his saloons + to-day, during the half-hour of gathering which precedes dinner, offered + in the various groups, the anxious countenances, the inquiring voices, and + the mysterious whispers, rather the character of an Exchange or Bourse + than the tone of a festive society. + </p> + <p> + Here might be marked a murmuring knot of greyheaded privy-councillors, who + had held fat offices under Perceval and Liverpool, and who looked back to + the Reform Act as to a hideous dream; there some middle-aged aspirants + might be observed who had lost their seats in the convulsion, but who + flattered themselves they had done something for the party in the + interval, by spending nothing except their breath in fighting hopeless + boroughs, and occasionally publishing a pamphlet, which really produced + less effect than chalking the walls. Light as air, and proud as a young + peacock, tripped on his toes a young Tory, who had contrived to keep his + seat in a Parliament where he had done nothing, but who thought an + Under-Secretaryship was now secure, particularly as he was the son of a + noble Lord who had also in a public capacity plundered and blundered in + the good old time. The true political adventurer, who with dull + desperation had stuck at nothing, had never neglected a treasury note, had + been present at every division, never spoke when he was asked to be + silent, and was always ready on any subject when they wanted him to open + his mouth; who had treated his leaders with servility even behind their + backs, and was happy for the day if a future Secretary of the Treasury + bowed to him; who had not only discountenanced discontent in the party, + but had regularly reported in strict confidence every instance of + insubordination which came to his knowledge; might there too be detected + under all the agonies of the crisis; just beginning to feel the dread + misgiving, whether being a slave and a sneak were sufficient + qualifications for office, without family or connection. Poor fellow! half + the industry he had wasted on his cheerless craft might have made his + fortune in some decent trade! + </p> + <p> + In dazzling contrast with these throes of low ambition, were some + brilliant personages who had just scampered up from Melton, thinking it + probable that Sir Robert might want some moral lords of the bed-chamber. + Whatever may have been their private fears or feelings, all however seemed + smiling and significant, as if they knew something if they chose to tell + it, and that something very much to their own satisfaction. The only grave + countenance that was occasionally ushered into the room belonged to some + individual whose destiny was not in doubt, and who was already practising + the official air that was in future to repress the familiarity of his + former fellow-stragglers. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you hear anything?’ said a great noble who wanted something in the + general scramble, but what he knew not; only he had a vague feeling he + ought to have something, having made such great sacrifices. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is a report that Clifford is to be Secretary to the Board of + Control,’ said Mr. Earwig, whose whole soul was in this subaltern + arrangement, of which the Minister of course had not even thought; ‘but I + cannot trace it to any authority.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder who will be their Master of the Horse,’ said the great noble, + loving gossip though he despised the gossiper. + </p> + <p> + ‘Clifford has done nothing for the party,’ said Mr. Earwig. + </p> + <p> + ‘I dare say Rambrooke will have the Buckhounds,’ said the great noble, + musingly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your Lordship has not heard Clifford’s name mentioned?’ continued Mr. + Earwig. + </p> + <p> + ‘I should think they had not come to that sort of thing,’ said the great + noble, with ill-disguised contempt.’ The first thing after the Cabinet is + formed is the Household: the things you talk of are done last;’ and he + turned upon his heel, and met the imperturbable countenance and clear + sarcastic eye of Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘You have not heard anything?’ asked the great noble of his brother + patrician. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, a great deal since I have been in this room; but unfortunately it is + all untrue.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is a report that Rambrooke is to have the Buck-hounds; but I cannot + trace it to any authority.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pooh!’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t see that Rambrooke should have the Buckhounds any more than + anybody else. What sacrifices has he made?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Past sacrifices are nothing,’ said Lord Eskdale. ‘Present sacrifices are + the thing we want: men who will sacrifice their principles and join us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have not heard Rambrooke’s name mentioned?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘When a Minister has no Cabinet, and only one hundred and forty supporters + in the House of Commons, he has something else to think of than places at + Court,’ said Lord Eskdale, as he slowly turned away to ask Lucian Gay + whether it were true that Jenny Colon was coming over. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after this, Henry Sydney’s father, who dined with Mr. Ornisby, + drew Lord Eskdale into a window, and said in an undertone: + </p> + <p> + ‘So there is to be a kind of programme: something is to be written.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, we want a cue,’ said Lord Eskdale. ‘I heard of this last night: + Rigby has written something.’ + </p> + <p> + The Duke shook his head. + </p> + <p> + ‘No; Peel means to do it himself.’ + </p> + <p> + But at this moment Mr. Ornisby begged his Grace to lead them to dinner. + </p> + <p> + ‘Something is to be written.’ It is curious to recall the vague terms in + which the first projection of documents, that are to exercise a vast + influence on the course of affairs or the minds of nations, is often + mentioned. This ‘something to be written’ was written; and speedily; and + has ever since been talked of. + </p> + <p> + We believe we may venture to assume that at no period during the movements + of 1834-5 did Sir Robert Peel ever believe in the success of his + administration. Its mere failure could occasion him little + dissatisfaction; he was compensated for it by the noble opportunity + afforded to him for the display of those great qualities, both moral and + intellectual, which the swaddling-clothes of a routine prosperity had long + repressed, but of which his opposition to the Reform Bill had given to the + nation a significant intimation. The brief administration elevated him in + public opinion, and even in the eye of Europe; and it is probable that a + much longer term of power would not have contributed more to his fame. + </p> + <p> + The probable effect of the premature effort of his party on his future + position as a Minister was, however, far from being so satisfactory. At + the lowest ebb of his political fortunes, it cannot be doubted that Sir + Robert Peel looked forward, perhaps through the vista of many years, to a + period when the national mind, arrived by reflection and experience at + certain conclusions, would seek in him a powerful expositor of its + convictions. His time of life permitted him to be tranquil in adversity, + and to profit by its salutary uses. He would then have acceded to power as + the representative of a Creed, instead of being the leader of a + Confederacy, and he would have been supported by earnest and enduring + enthusiasm, instead of by that churlish sufferance which is the result of + a supposed balance of advantages in his favour. This is the consequence of + the tactics of those short-sighted intriguers, who persisted in looking + upon a revolution as a mere party struggle, and would not permit the mind + of the nation to work through the inevitable phases that awaited it. In + 1834, England, though frightened at the reality of Reform, still adhered + to its phrases; it was inclined, as practical England, to maintain + existing institutions; but, as theoretical England, it was suspicious that + they were indefensible. + </p> + <p> + No one had arisen either in Parliament, the Universities, or the Press, to + lead the public mind to the investigation of principles; and not to + mistake, in their reformations, the corruption of practice for fundamental + ideas. It was this perplexed, ill-informed, jaded, shallow generation, + repeating cries which they did not comprehend, and wearied with the + endless ebullitions of their own barren conceit, that Sir Robert Peel was + summoned to govern. It was from such materials, ample in quantity, but in + all spiritual qualities most deficient; with great numbers, largely acred, + consoled up to their chins, but without knowledge, genius, thought, truth, + or faith, that Sir Robert Peel was to form a ‘great Conservative party on + a comprehensive basis.’ That he did this like a dexterous politician, who + can deny? Whether he realised those prescient views of a great statesman + in which he had doubtless indulged, and in which, though still clogged by + the leadership of 1834, he may yet find fame for himself and salvation for + his country, is altogether another question. His difficult attempt was + expressed in an address to his constituents, which now ranks among state + papers. We shall attempt briefly to consider it with the impartiality of + the future. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + The Tamworth Manifesto of 1834 was an attempt to construct a party without + principles; its basis therefore was necessarily Latitudinarianism; and its + inevitable consequence has been Political Infidelity. + </p> + <p> + At an epoch of political perplexity and social alarm, the confederation + was convenient, and was calculated by aggregation to encourage the timid + and confused. But when the perturbation was a little subsided, and men + began to inquire why they were banded together, the difficulty of defining + their purpose proved that the league, however respectable, was not a + party. The leaders indeed might profit by their eminent position to obtain + power for their individual gratification, but it was impossible to secure + their followers that which, after all, must be the great recompense of a + political party, the putting in practice of their opinions; for they had + none. + </p> + <p> + There was indeed a considerable shouting about what they called + Conservative principles; but the awkward question naturally arose, what + will you conserve? The prerogatives of the Crown, provided they are not + exercised; the independence of the House of Lords, provided it is not + asserted; the Ecclesiastical estate, provided it is regulated by a + commission of laymen. Everything, in short, that is established, as long + as it is a phrase and not a fact. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, while forms and phrases are religiously cherished in + order to make the semblance of a creed, the rule of practice is to bend to + the passion or combination of the hour. Conservatism assumes in theory + that everything established should be maintained; but adopts in practice + that everything that is established is indefensible. To reconcile this + theory and this practice, they produce what they call ‘the best bargain;’ + some arrangement which has no principle and no purpose, except to obtain a + temporary lull of agitation, until the mind of the Conservatives, without + a guide and without an aim, distracted, tempted, and bewildered, is + prepared for another arrangement, equally statesmanlike with the preceding + one. + </p> + <p> + Conservatism was an attempt to carry on affairs by substituting the + fulfilment of the duties of office for the performance of the functions of + government; and to maintain this negative system by the mere influence of + property, reputable private conduct, and what are called good connections. + Conservatism discards Prescription, shrinks from Principle, disavows + Progress; having rejected all respect for Antiquity, it offers no redress + for the Present, and makes no preparation for the Future. It is obvious + that for a time, under favourable circumstances, such a confederation + might succeed; but it is equally clear, that on the arrival of one of + those critical conjunctures that will periodically occur in all states, + and which such an unimpassioned system is even calculated ultimately to + create, all power of resistance will be wanting: the barren curse of + political infidelity will paralyse all action; and the Conservative + Constitution will be discovered to be a Caput Mortuum. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + In the meantime, after dinner, Tadpole and Taper, who were among the + guests of Mr. Ormsby, withdrew to a distant sofa, out of earshot, and + indulged in confidential talk. + </p> + <p> + ‘Such a strength in debate was never before found on a Treasury bench,’ + said Mr. Tadpole; ‘the other side will be dumbfounded.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what do you put our numbers at now?’ inquired Mr. Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘Would you take fifty-five for our majority?’ rejoined Mr. Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not so much the tail they have, as the excuse their junction will + be for the moderate, sensible men to come over,’ said Taper. ‘Our friend + Sir Everard for example, it would settle him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is a solemn impostor,’ rejoined Mr. Tadpole; ‘but he is a baronet and + a county member, and very much looked up to by the Wesleyans. The other + men, I know, have refused him a peerage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And we might hold out judicious hopes,’ said Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘No one can do that better than you,’ said Tadpole. ‘I am apt to say too + much about those things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I make it a rule never to open my mouth on such subjects,’ said Taper. ‘A + nod or a wink will speak volumes. An affectionate pressure of the hand + will sometimes do a great deal; and I have promised many a peerage without + committing myself, by an ingenious habit of deference which cannot be + mistaken by the future noble.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder what they will do with Rigby,’ said Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘He wants a good deal,’ said Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘I tell you what, Mr. Taper, the time is gone by when a Marquess of + Monmouth was Letter A, No. 1.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very true, Mr. Tadpole. A wise man would do well now to look to the great + middle class, as I said the other day to the electors of Shabbyton.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I had sooner be supported by the Wesleyans,’ said Mr. Tadpole, ‘than by + all the marquesses in the peerage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At the same time,’ said Mr. Taper, ‘Rigby is a considerable man. If we + want a slashing article—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Pooh!’ said Mr. Tadpole. ‘He is quite gone by. He takes three months for + his slashing articles. Give me the man who can write a leader. Rigby can’t + write a leader.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very few can,’ said Mr. Taper. ‘However, I don’t think much of the press. + Its power is gone by. They overdid it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is Tom Chudleigh,’ said Tadpole. ‘What is he to have?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing, I hope,’ said Taper. ‘I hate him. A coxcomb! Cracking his jokes + and laughing at us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has done a good deal for the party, though,’ said Tadpole. ‘That, to + be sure, is only an additional reason for throwing him over, as he is too + far committed to venture to oppose us. But I am afraid from something that + dropped to-day, that Sir Robert thinks he has claims.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We must stop them,’ said Taper, growing pale. ‘Fellows like Chudleigh, + when they once get in, are always in one’s way. I have no objection to + young noblemen being put forward, for they are preferred so rapidly, and + then their fathers die, that in the long run they do not practically + interfere with us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, his name was mentioned,’ said Tadpole. ‘There is no concealing + that.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will speak to Earwig,’ said Taper. ‘He shall just drop into Sir + Robert’s ear by chance, that Chudleigh used to quiz him in the + smoking-room. Those little bits of information do a great deal of good.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I leave him to you,’ said Tadpole. ‘I am heartily with you in + keeping out all fellows like Chudleigh. They are very well for opposition; + but in office we don’t want wits.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And when shall we have the answer from Knowsley?’ inquired Taper. ‘You + anticipate no possible difficulty?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I tell you it is “carte blanche,”’ replied Tadpole. ‘Four places in the + cabinet. Two secretaryships at the least. Do you happen to know any + gentleman of your acquaintance, Mr. Taper, who refuses Secretaryships of + State so easily, that you can for an instant doubt of the present + arrangement?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know none indeed,’ said Mr. Taper, with a grim smile. + </p> + <p> + ‘The thing is done,’ said Mr. Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + ‘And now for our cry,’ said Mr. Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not a Cabinet for a good cry,’ said Tadpole; ‘but then, on the + other hand, it is a Cabinet that will sow dissension in the opposite + ranks, and prevent them having a good cry.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ancient institutions and modern improvements, I suppose, Mr. Tadpole?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ameliorations is the better word, ameliorations. Nobody knows exactly + what it means.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We go strong on the Church?’ said Mr. Taper. + </p> + <p> + ‘And no repeal of the Malt Tax; you were right, Taper. It can’t be + listened to for a moment.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Something might be done with prerogative,’ said Mr. Taper; ‘the King’s + constitutional choice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not too much,’ replied Mr. Tadpole. ‘It is a raw time yet for + prerogative.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! Tadpole,’ said Mr. Taper, getting a little maudlin; ‘I often think, + if the time should ever come, when you and I should be joint Secretaries + of the Treasury!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We shall see, we shall see. All we have to do is to get into Parliament, + work well together, and keep other men down.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We will do our best,’ said Taper. ‘A dissolution you hold inevitable?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How are you and I to get into Parliament if there be not one? We must + make it inevitable. I tell you what, Taper, the lists must prove a + dissolution inevitable. You understand me? If the present Parliament goes + on, where shall we be? We shall have new men cropping up every session.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘True, terribly true,’ said Mr. Taper. ‘That we should ever live to see a + Tory government again! We have reason to be very thankful.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hush!’ said Mr. Tadpole. ‘The time has gone by for Tory governments; what + the country requires is a sound Conservative government.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A sound Conservative government,’ said Taper, musingly. ‘I understand: + Tory men and Whig measures.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + Amid the contentions of party, the fierce struggles of ambition, and the + intricacies of political intrigue, let us not forget our Eton friends. + During the period which elapsed from the failure of the Duke of Wellington + to form a government in 1832, to the failure of Sir Robert Peel to carry + on a government in 1835, the boys had entered, and advanced in youth. The + ties of friendship which then united several of them had only been + confirmed by continued companionship. Coningsby and Henry Sydney, and + Buckhurst and Vere, were still bound together by entire sympathy, and by + the affection of which sympathy is the only sure spring. But their + intimacies had been increased by another familiar friend. There had risen + up between Coningsby and Millbank mutual sentiments of deep, and even + ardent, regard. Acquaintance had developed the superior qualities of + Millbank. His thoughtful and inquiring mind, his inflexible integrity, his + stern independence, and yet the engaging union of extreme tenderness of + heart with all this strength of character, had won the goodwill, and often + excited the admiration, of Coningsby. Our hero, too, was gratified by the + affectionate deference that was often shown to him by one who condescended + to no other individual; he was proud of having saved the life of a member + of their community whom masters and boys alike considered; and he ended by + loving the being on whom he had conferred a great obligation. + </p> + <p> + The friends of Coningsby, the sweet-tempered and intelligent Henry Sydney, + the fiery and generous Buckhurst, and the calm and sagacious Vere, had + ever been favourably inclined to Millbank, and had they not been, the + example of Coningsby would soon have influenced them. He had obtained over + his intimates the ascendant power, which is the destiny of genius. Nor was + this submission of such spirits to be held cheap. Although they were + willing to take the colour of their minds from him, they were in intellect + and attainments, in personal accomplishments and general character, the + leaders of the school; an authority not to be won from five hundred + high-spirited boys without the possession of great virtues and great + talents. + </p> + <p> + As for the dominion of Coningsby himself, it was not limited to the + immediate circle of his friends. He had become the hero of Eton; the being + of whose existence everybody was proud, and in whose career every boy took + an interest. They talked of him, they quoted him, they imitated him. Fame + and power are the objects of all men. Even their partial fruition is + gained by very few; and that too at the expense of social pleasure, + health, conscience, life. Yet what power of manhood in passionate + intenseness, appealing at the same time to the subject and the votary, can + rival that which is exercised by the idolised chieftain of a great public + school? What fame of after days equals the rapture of celebrity that + thrills the youthful poet, as in tones of rare emotion he recites his + triumphant verses amid the devoted plaudits of the flower of England? + That’s fame, that’s power; real, unquestioned, undoubted, catholic. Alas! + the schoolboy, when he becomes a man, finds that power, even fame, like + everything else, is an affair of party. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby liked very much to talk politics with Millbank. He heard things + from Millbank which were new to him. Himself, as he supposed, a high Tory, + which he was according to the revelation of the Rigbys, he was also + sufficiently familiar with the hereditary tenets of his Whig friend, Lord + Vere. Politics had as yet appeared to him a struggle whether the country + was to be governed by Whig nobles or Tory nobles; and he thought it very + unfortunate that he should probably have to enter life with his friends + out of power, and his family boroughs destroyed. But in conversing with + Millbank, he heard for the first time of influential classes in the + country who were not noble, and were yet determined to acquire power. And + although Millbank’s views, which were of course merely caught up from his + father, without the intervention of his own intelligence, were doubtless + crude enough, and were often very acutely canvassed and satisfactorily + demolished by the clever prejudices of another school, which Coningsby had + at command, still they were, unconsciously to the recipient, materials for + thought, and insensibly provoked in his mind a spirit of inquiry into + political questions, for which he had a predisposition. + </p> + <p> + It may be said, indeed, that generally among the upper boys there might be + observed at this time, at Eton, a reigning inclination for political + discussion. The school truly had at all times been proud of its statesmen + and its parliamentary heroes, but this was merely a superficial feeling in + comparison with the sentiment which now first became prevalent. The great + public questions that were the consequence of the Reform of the House of + Commons, had also agitated their young hearts. And especially the + controversies that were now rife respecting the nature and character of + ecclesiastical establishments, wonderfully addressed themselves to their + excited intelligence. They read their newspapers with a keen relish, + canvassed debates, and criticised speeches; and although in their debating + society, which had been instituted more than a quarter of a century, + discussion on topics of the day was prohibited, still by fixing on periods + of our history when affairs were analogous to the present, many a youthful + orator contrived very effectively to reply to Lord John, or to refute the + fallacies of his rival. + </p> + <p> + As the political opinions predominant in the school were what in ordinary + parlance are styled Tory, and indeed were far better entitled to that + glorious epithet than the flimsy shifts which their fathers were + professing in Parliament and the country; the formation and the fall of + Sir Robert Peel’s government had been watched by Etonians with great + interest, and even excitement. The memorable efforts which the Minister + himself made, supported only by the silent votes of his numerous + adherents, and contending alone against the multiplied assaults of his + able and determined foes, with a spirit equal to the great occasion, and + with resources of parliamentary contest which seemed to increase with + every exigency; these great and unsupported struggles alone were + calculated to gain the sympathy of youthful and generous spirits. The + assault on the revenues of the Church; the subsequent crusade against the + House of Lords; the display of intellect and courage exhibited by Lord + Lyndhurst in that assembly, when all seemed cowed and faint-hearted; all + these were incidents or personal traits apt to stir the passions, and + create in breasts not yet schooled to repress emotion, a sentiment even of + enthusiasm. It is the personal that interests mankind, that fires their + imagination, and wins their hearts. A cause is a great abstraction, and + fit only for students; embodied in a party, it stirs men to action; but + place at the head of that party a leader who can inspire enthusiasm, he + commands the world. Divine faculty! Rare and incomparable privilege! A + parliamentary leader who possesses it, doubles his majority; and he who + has it not, may shroud himself in artificial reserve, and study with + undignified arrogance an awkward haughtiness, but he will nevertheless be + as far from controlling the spirit as from captivating the hearts of his + sullen followers. + </p> + <p> + However, notwithstanding this general feeling at Eton, in 1835, in favour + of ‘Conservative principles,’ which was, in fact, nothing more than a + confused and mingled sympathy with some great political truths, which were + at the bottom of every boy’s heart, but nowhere else; and with the + personal achievements and distinction of the chieftains of the party; when + all this hubbub had subsided, and retrospection, in the course of a year, + had exercised its moralising influence over the more thoughtful part of + the nation, inquiries, at first faint and unpretending, and confined + indeed for a long period to limited, though inquisitive, circles, began + gently to circulate, what Conservative principles were. + </p> + <p> + These inquiries, urged indeed with a sort of hesitating scepticism, early + reached Eton. They came, no doubt, from the Universities. They were of a + character, however, far too subtile and refined to exercise any immediate + influence over the minds of youth. To pursue them required previous + knowledge and habitual thought. They were not yet publicly prosecuted by + any school of politicians, or any section of the public press. They had + not a local habitation or a name. They were whispered in conversation by a + few. A tutor would speak of them in an esoteric vein to a favourite pupil, + in whose abilities he had confidence, and whose future position in life + would afford him the opportunity of influencing opinion. Among others, + they fell upon the ear of Coningsby. They were addressed to a mind which + was prepared for such researches. + </p> + <p> + There is a Library at Eton formed by the boys and governed by the boys; + one of those free institutions which are the just pride of that noble + school, which shows the capacity of the boys for self-government, and + which has sprung from the large freedom that has been wisely conceded + them, the prudence of which confidence has been proved by their rarely + abusing it. This Library has been formed by subscriptions of the present + and still more by the gifts of old Etonians. Among the honoured names of + these donors may be remarked those of the Grenvilles and Lord Wellesley; + nor should we forget George IV., who enriched the collection with a + magnificent copy of the Delphin Classics. The Institution is governed by + six directors, the three first Collegers and the three first Oppidans for + the time being; and the subscribers are limited to the one hundred senior + members of the school. + </p> + <p> + It is only to be regretted that the collection is not so extensive at it + is interesting and choice. Perhaps its existence is not so generally known + as it deserves to be. One would think that every Eton man would be as + proud of his name being registered as a donor in the Catalogue of this + Library, as a Venetian of his name being inscribed in the Golden Book. + Indeed an old Etonian, who still remembers with tenderness the sacred + scene of youth, could scarcely do better than build a Gothic apartment for + the reception of the collection. It cannot be doubted that the Provost and + fellows would be gratified in granting a piece of ground for the purpose. + </p> + <p> + Great were the obligations of Coningsby to this Eton Library. It + introduced him to that historic lore, that accumulation of facts and + incidents illustrative of political conduct, for which he had imbibed an + early relish. His study was especially directed to the annals of his own + country, in which youth, and not youth alone, is frequently so deficient. + This collection could afford him Clarendon and Burnet, and the authentic + volumes of Coxe: these were rich materials for one anxious to be versed in + the great parliamentary story of his country. During the last year of his + stay at Eton, when he had completed his eighteenth year, Coningsby led a + more retired life than previously; he read much, and pondered with all the + pride of acquisition over his increasing knowledge. + </p> + <p> + And now the hour has come when this youth is to be launched into a world + more vast than that in which he has hitherto sojourned, yet for which this + microcosm has been no ill preparation. He will become more wise; will he + remain as generous? His ambition may be as great; will it be as noble? + What, indeed, is to be the future of this existence that is now to be sent + forth into the great aggregate of entities? Is it an ordinary organisation + that will jostle among the crowd, and be jostled? Is it a finer + temperament, susceptible of receiving the impressions and imbibing the + inspirations of superior yet sympathising spirits? Or is it a primordial + and creative mind; one that will say to his fellows, ‘Behold, God has + given me thought; I have discovered truth, and you shall believe?’ + </p> + <p> + The night before Coningsby left Eton, alone in his room, before he retired + to rest, he opened the lattice and looked for the last time upon the + landscape before him; the stately keep of Windsor, the bowery meads of + Eton, soft in the summer moon and still in the summer night. He gazed upon + them; his countenance had none of the exultation, that under such + circumstances might have distinguished a more careless glance, eager for + fancied emancipation and passionate for a novel existence. Its expression + was serious, even sad; and he covered his brow with his hand. + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK II. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0025" id="link2H_4_0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK III. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + There are few things more full of delight and splendour, than to travel + during the heat of a refulgent summer in the green district of some + ancient forest. + </p> + <p> + In one of our midland counties there is a region of this character, to + which, during a season of peculiar lustre, we would introduce the reader. + </p> + <p> + It was a fragment of one of those vast sylvan tracts wherein Norman kings + once hunted, and Saxon outlaws plundered; and although the plough had for + centuries successfully invaded brake and bower, the relics retained all + their original character of wildness and seclusion. Sometimes the green + earth was thickly studded with groves of huge and vigorous oaks, + intersected with those smooth and sunny glades, that seem as if they must + be cut for dames and knights to saunter on. Then again the undulating + ground spread on all sides, far as the eye could range, covered with copse + and fern of immense growth. Anon you found yourself in a turfy wilderness, + girt in apparently by dark woods. And when you had wound your way a little + through this gloomy belt, the landscape still strictly sylvan, would + beautifully expand with every combination and variety of woodland; while + in its centre, the wildfowl covered the waters of a lake, and the deer + basked on the knolls that abounded on its banks. + </p> + <p> + It was in the month of August, some six or seven years ago, that a + traveller on foot, touched, as he emerged from the dark wood, by the + beauty of this scene, threw himself under the shade of a spreading tree, + and stretched his limbs on the turf for enjoyment rather than repose. The + sky was deep-coloured and without a cloud, save here and there a minute, + sultry, burnished vapour, almost as glossy as the heavens. Everything was + still as it was bright; all seemed brooding and basking; the bee upon its + wing was the only stirring sight, and its song the only sound. + </p> + <p> + The traveller fell into a reverie. He was young, and therefore his musings + were of the future. He had felt the pride of learning, so ennobling to + youth; he was not a stranger to the stirring impulses of a high ambition, + though the world to him was as yet only a world of books, and all that he + knew of the schemes of statesmen and the passions of the people, were to + be found in their annals. Often had his fitful fancy dwelt with + fascination on visions of personal distinction, of future celebrity, + perhaps even of enduring fame. But his dreams were of another colour now. + The surrounding scene, so fair, so still, and sweet; so abstracted from + all the tumult of the world, its strife, its passions, and its cares: had + fallen on his heart with its soft and subduing spirit; had fallen on a + heart still pure and innocent, the heart of one who, notwithstanding all + his high resolves and daring thoughts, was blessed with that tenderness of + soul which is sometimes linked with an ardent imagination and a strong + will. The traveller was an orphan, more than that, a solitary orphan. The + sweet sedulousness of a mother’s love, a sister’s mystical affection, had + not cultivated his early susceptibility. No soft pathos of expression had + appealed to his childish ear. He was alone, among strangers calmly and + coldly kind. It must indeed have been a truly gentle disposition that + could have withstood such hard neglect. All that he knew of the power of + the softer passions might be found in the fanciful and romantic annals of + schoolboy friendship. + </p> + <p> + And those friends too, so fond, so sympathising, so devoted, where were + they now? Already they were dispersed; the first great separation of life + had been experienced; the former schoolboy had planted his foot on the + threshold of manhood. True, many of them might meet again; many of them + the University must again unite, but never with the same feelings. The + space of time, passed in the world before they again met, would be an age + of sensation, passion, experience to all of them. They would meet again + with altered mien, with different manners, different voices. Their eyes + would not shine with the same light; they would not speak the same words. + The favourite phrases of their intimacy, the mystic sounds that spoke only + to their initiated ear, they would be ashamed to use them. Yes, they might + meet again, but the gushing and secret tenderness was gone for ever. + </p> + <p> + Nor could our pensive youth conceal it from himself that it was affection, + and mainly affection, that had bound him to these dear companions. They + could not be to him what he had been to them. His had been the inspiring + mind that had guided their opinions, formed their tastes, directed the + bent and tenor of their lives and thoughts. Often, indeed, had he needed, + sometimes he had even sighed for, the companionship of an equal or + superior mind; one who, by the comprehension of his thought, and the + richness of his knowledge, and the advantage of his experience, might + strengthen and illuminate and guide his obscure or hesitating or + unpractised intelligence. He had scarcely been fortunate in this respect, + and he deeply regretted it; for he was one of those who was not content + with excelling in his own circle, if he thought there was one superior to + it. Absolute, not relative distinction, was his noble aim. + </p> + <p> + Alone, in a lonely scene, he doubly felt the solitude of his life and + mind. His heart and his intellect seemed both to need a companion. Books, + and action, and deep thought, might in time supply the want of that + intellectual guide; but for the heart, where was he to find solace? + </p> + <p> + Ah! if she would but come forth from that shining lake like a beautiful + Ondine! Ah, if she would but step out from the green shade of that secret + grove like a Dryad of sylvan Greece! O mystery of mysteries, when youth + dreams his first dream over some imaginary heroine! + </p> + <p> + Suddenly the brooding wildfowl rose from the bosom of the lake, soared in + the air, and, uttering mournful shrieks, whirled in agitated tumult. The + deer started from their knolls, no longer sunny, stared around, and rushed + into the woods. Coningsby raised his eyes from the turf on which they had + been long fixed in abstraction, and he observed that the azure sky had + vanished, a thin white film had suddenly spread itself over the heavens, + and the wind moaned with a sad and fitful gust. + </p> + <p> + He had some reason to believe that on the other side of the opposite wood + the forest was intersected by a public road, and that there were some + habitations. Immediately rising, he descended at a rapid pace into the + valley, passed the lake, and then struck into the ascending wood on the + bank opposite to that on which he had mused away some precious time. + </p> + <p> + The wind howled, the branches of the forest stirred, and sent forth sounds + like an incantation. Soon might be distinguished the various voices of the + mighty trees, as they expressed their terror or their agony. The oak + roared, the beech shrieked, the elm sent forth its deep and long-drawn + groan; while ever and anon, amid a momentary pause, the passion of the ash + was heard in moans of thrilling anguish. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby hurried on, the forest became less close. All that he aspired to + was to gain more open country. Now he was in a rough flat land, covered + only here and there with dwarf underwood; the horizon bounded at no great + distance by a barren hill of moderate elevation. He gained its height with + ease. He looked over a vast open country like a wild common; in the + extreme distance hills covered with woods; the plain intersected by two + good roads: the sky entirely clouded, but in the distance black as ebony. + </p> + <p> + A place of refuge was at hand: screened from his first glance by some + elm-trees, the ascending smoke now betrayed a roof, which Coningsby + reached before the tempest broke. The forest-inn was also a farmhouse. + There was a comfortable-enough looking kitchen; but the ingle nook was + full of smokers, and Coningsby was glad to avail himself of the only + private room for the simple meal which they offered him, only eggs and + bacon; but very welcome to a pedestrian, and a hungry one. + </p> + <p> + As he stood at the window of his little apartment, watching the large + drops that were the heralds of a coming hurricane, and waiting for his + repast, a flash of lightning illumined the whole country, and a horseman + at full speed, followed by his groom, galloped up to the door. + </p> + <p> + The remarkable beauty of the animal so attracted Coningsby’s attention + that it prevented him catching even a glimpse of the rider, who rapidly + dismounted and entered the inn. The host shortly after came in and asked + Coningsby whether he had any objection to a gentleman, who was driven + there by the storm, sharing his room until it subsided. The consequence of + the immediate assent of Coningsby was, that the landlord retired and soon + returned, ushering in an individual, who, though perhaps ten years older + than Coningsby, was still, according to Hippocrates, in the period of + lusty youth. He was above the middle height, and of a distinguished air + and figure; pale, with an impressive brow, and dark eyes of great + intelligence. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am glad that we have both escaped the storm,’ said the stranger; ‘and I + am greatly indebted to you for your courtesy.’ He slightly and graciously + bowed, as he spoke in a voice of remarkable clearness; and his manner, + though easy, was touched with a degree of dignity that was engaging. + </p> + <p> + ‘The inn is a common home,’ replied Coningsby, returning his salute. + </p> + <p> + ‘And free from cares,’ added the stranger. Then, looking through the + window, he said, ‘A strange storm this. I was sauntering in the sunshine, + when suddenly I found I had to gallop for my life. ‘Tis more like a white + squall in the Mediterranean than anything else.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never was in the Mediterranean,’ said Coningsby. ‘There is nothing I + should like so much as to travel.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are travelling,’ rejoined his companion. ‘Every moment is travel, if + understood.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! but the Mediterranean!’ exclaimed Coningsby. ‘What would I not give + to see Athens!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have seen it,’ said the stranger, slightly shrugging his shoulders, + ‘and more wonderful things. Phantoms and spectres!’ +</p> + <p> +‘The Age of Ruins is + past. Have you seen Manchester?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have seen nothing,’ said Coningsby; ‘this is my first wandering. I am + about to visit a friend who lives in this county, and I have sent on my + baggage as I could. For myself, I determined to trust to a less + common-place conveyance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And seek adventures,’ said the stranger, smiling, ‘Well, according to + Cervantes, they should begin in an inn.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I fear that the age of adventures is past, as well as that of ruins,’ + replied Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Adventures are to the adventurous,’ said the stranger. + </p> + <p> + At this moment a pretty serving-maid entered the room. She laid the dapper + cloth and arranged the table with a self-possession quite admirable. She + seemed unconscious that any being was in the chamber except herself, or + that there were any other duties to perform in life beyond filling a + saltcellar or folding a napkin. + </p> + <p> + ‘She does not even look at us,’ said Coningsby, when she had quitted the + room; ‘and I dare say is only a prude.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She is calm,’ said the stranger, ‘because she is mistress of her subject; + ‘tis the secret of self-possession. She is here as a duchess at court.’ + </p> + <p> + They brought in Coningsby’s meal, and he invited the stranger to join him. + The invitation was accepted with cheerfulness. + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis but simple fare,’ said Coningsby, as the maiden uncovered the still + hissing bacon and the eggs, that looked like tufts of primroses. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, a national dish,’ said the stranger, glancing quickly at the table, + ‘whose fame is a proverb. And what more should we expect under a simple + roof! How much better than an omelette or a greasy olla, that they would + give us in a posada! ‘Tis a wonderful country this England! What a napkin! + How spotless! And so sweet; I declare ‘tis a perfume. There is not a + princess throughout the South of Europe served with the cleanliness that + meets us in this cottage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘An inheritance from our Saxon fathers?’ said Coningsby. ‘I apprehend the + northern nations have a greater sense of cleanliness, of propriety, of + what we call comfort?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By no means,’ said the stranger; ‘the East is the land of the Bath. Moses + and Mahomet made cleanliness religion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will let me help you?’ said Coningsby, offering him a plate which he + had filled. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thank you,’ said the stranger, ‘but it is one of my bread days. With + your permission this shall be my dish;’ and he cut from the large loaf a + supply of crusts. + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis but unsavoury fare after a gallop,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you are proud of your bacon and your eggs,’ said the stranger, + smiling, ‘but I love corn and wine. They are our chief and our oldest + luxuries. Time has brought us substitutes, but how inferior! Man has + deified corn and wine! but not even the Chinese or the Irish have raised + temples to tea and potatoes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But Ceres without Bacchus,’ said Coningsby, ‘how does that do? Think you, + under this roof, we could Invoke the god?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us swear by his body that we will try,’ said the stranger. + </p> + <p> + Alas! the landlord was not a priest to Bacchus. But then these inquiries + led to the finest perry in the world. The young men agreed they had seldom + tasted anything more delicious; they sent for another bottle. Coningsby, + who was much interested by his new companion, enjoyed himself amazingly. + </p> + <p> + A cheese, such as Derby alone can produce, could not induce the stranger + to be even partially inconstant to his crusts. But his talk was as + vivacious as if the talker had been stimulated by the juices of the finest + banquet. Coningsby had never met or read of any one like this chance + companion. His sentences were so short, his language so racy, his voice + rang so clear, his elocution was so complete. On all subjects his mind + seemed to be instructed, and his opinions formed. He flung out a result in + a few words; he solved with a phrase some deep problem that men muse over + for years. He said many things that were strange, yet they immediately + appeared to be true. Then, without the slightest air of pretension or + parade, he seemed to know everybody as well as everything. Monarchs, + statesmen, authors, adventurers, of all descriptions and of all climes, if + their names occurred in the conversation, he described them in an + epigrammatic sentence, or revealed their precise position, character, + calibre, by a curt dramatic trait. All this, too, without any excitement + of manner; on the contrary, with repose amounting almost to nonchalance. + If his address had any fault in it, it was rather a deficiency of + earnestness. A slight spirit of mockery played over his speech even when + you deemed him most serious; you were startled by his sudden transitions + from profound thought to poignant sarcasm. A very singular freedom from + passion and prejudice on every topic on which they treated, might be some + compensation for this want of earnestness, perhaps was its consequence. + Certainly it was difficult to ascertain his precise opinions on many + subjects, though his manner was frank even to abandonment. And yet + throughout his whole conversation, not a stroke of egotism, not a word, + not a circumstance escaped him, by which you could judge of his position + or purposes in life. As little did he seem to care to discover those of + his companion. He did not by any means monopolise the conversation. Far + from it; he continually asked questions, and while he received answers, or + had engaged his fellow-traveller in any exposition of his opinion or + feelings, he listened with a serious and fixed attention, looking + Coningsby in the face with a steadfast glance. + </p> + <p> + ‘I perceive,’ said Coningsby, pursuing a strain of thought which the other + had indicated, ‘that you have great confidence in the influence of + individual character. I also have some confused persuasions of that kind. + But it is not the Spirit of the Age.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The age does not believe in great men, because it does not possess any,’ + replied the stranger. ‘The Spirit of the Age is the very thing that a + great man changes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But does he not rather avail himself of it?’ inquired Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Parvenus do,’ rejoined his companion; ‘but not prophets, great + legislators, great conquerors. They destroy and they create.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But are these times for great legislators and great conquerors?’ urged + Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘When were they wanted more?’ asked the stranger. ‘From the throne to the + hovel all call for a guide. You give monarchs constitutions to teach them + sovereignty, and nations Sunday-schools to inspire them with faith.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But what is an individual,’ exclaimed Coningsby, ‘against a vast public + opinion?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Divine,’ said the stranger. ‘God made man in His own image; but the + Public is made by Newspapers, Members of Parliament, Excise Officers, Poor + Law Guardians. Would Philip have succeeded if Epaminondas had not been + slain? And if Philip had not succeeded? Would Prussia have existed had + Frederick not been born? And if Frederick had not been born? What would + have been the fate of the Stuarts if Prince Henry had not died, and + Charles I., as was intended, had been Archbishop of Canterbury?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But when men are young they want experience,’ said Coningsby; ‘and when + they have gained experience, they want energy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Great men never want experience,’ said the stranger. + </p> + <p> + ‘But everybody says that experience—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is the best thing in the world, a treasure for you, for me, for millions. + But for a creative mind, less than nothing. Almost everything that is + great has been done by youth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is at least a creed flattering to our years,’ said Coningsby, with a + smile. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay,’ said the stranger; ‘for life in general there is but one decree. + Youth is a blunder; Manhood a struggle; Old Age a regret. Do not suppose,’ + he added, smiling, ‘that I hold that youth is genius; all that I say is, + that genius, when young, is divine. Why, the greatest captains of ancient + and modern times both conquered Italy at five-and-twenty! Youth, extreme + youth, overthrew the Persian Empire. Don John of Austria won Lepanto at + twenty-five, the greatest battle of modern time; had it not been for the + jealousy of Philip, the next year he would have been Emperor of + Mauritania. Gaston de Foix was only twenty-two when he stood a victor on + the plain of Ravenna. Every one remembers Condé and Rocroy at the same + age. Gustavus Adolphus died at thirty-eight. Look at his captains: that + wonderful Duke of Weimar, only thirty-six when he died. Banier himself, + after all his miracles, died at forty-five. Cortes was little more than + thirty when he gazed upon the golden cupolas of Mexico. When Maurice of + Saxony died at thirty-two, all Europe acknowledged the loss of the + greatest captain and the profoundest statesman of the age. Then there is + Nelson, Clive; but these are warriors, and perhaps you may think there are + greater things than war. I do not: I worship the Lord of Hosts. But take + the most illustrious achievements of civil prudence. Innocent III., the + greatest of the Popes, was the despot of Christendom at thirty-seven. John + de Medici was a Cardinal at fifteen, and according to Guicciardini, + baffled with his statecraft Ferdinand of Arragon himself. He was Pope as + Leo X. at thirty-seven. Luther robbed even him of his richest province at + thirty-five. Take Ignatius Loyola and John Wesley, they worked with young + brains. Ignatius was only thirty when he made his pilgrimage and wrote the + “Spiritual Exercises.” Pascal wrote a great work at sixteen, and died at + thirty-seven, the greatest of Frenchmen. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! that fatal thirty-seven, which reminds me of Byron, greater even as a + man than a writer. Was it experience that guided the pencil of Raphael + when he painted the palaces of Rome? He, too, died at thirty-seven. + Richelieu was Secretary of State at thirty-one. Well then, there were + Bolingbroke and Pitt, both ministers before other men left off cricket. + Grotius was in great practice at seventeen, and Attorney-General at + twenty-four. And Acquaviva; Acquaviva was General of the Jesuits, ruled + every cabinet in Europe, and colonised America before he was thirty-seven. + What a career!’ exclaimed the stranger; rising from his chair and walking + up and down the room; ‘the secret sway of Europe! That was indeed a + position! But it is needless to multiply instances! The history of Heroes + is the history of Youth.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah!’ said Coningsby, ‘I should like to be a great man.’ + </p> + <p> + The stranger threw at him a scrutinising glance. His countenance was + serious. He said in a voice of almost solemn melody: + </p> + <p> + ‘Nurture your mind with great thoughts. To believe in the heroic makes + heroes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You seem to me a hero,’ said Coningsby, in a tone of real feeling, which, + half ashamed of his emotion, he tried to turn into playfulness. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am and must ever be,’ said the stranger, ‘but a dreamer of dreams.’ + Then going towards the window, and changing into a familiar tone as if to + divert the conversation, he added, ‘What a delicious afternoon! I look + forward to my ride with delight. You rest here?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; I go on to Nottingham, where I shall sleep.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I in the opposite direction.’ And he rang the bell, and ordered his + horse. + </p> + <p> + ‘I long to see your mare again,’ said Coningsby. ‘She seemed to me so + beautiful.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She is not only of pure race,’ said the stranger, ‘but of the highest and + rarest breed in Arabia. Her name is “the Daughter of the Star.” She is a + foal of that famous mare, which belonged to the Prince of the Wahabees; + and to possess which, I believe, was one of the principal causes of war + between that tribe and the Egyptians. The Pacha of Egypt gave her to me, + and I would not change her for her statue in pure gold, even carved by + Lysippus. Come round to the stable and see her.’ + </p> + <p> + They went out together. It was a soft sunny afternoon; the air fresh from + the rain, but mild and exhilarating. + </p> + <p> + The groom brought forth the mare. ‘The Daughter of the Star’ stood before + Coningsby with her sinewy shape of matchless symmetry; her burnished skin, + black mane, legs like those of an antelope, her little ears, dark speaking + eye, and tail worthy of a Pacha. And who was her master, and whither was + she about to take him? + </p> + <p> + Coningsby was so naturally well-bred, that we may be sure it was not + curiosity; no, it was a finer feeling that made him hesitate and think a + little, and then say: + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry to part.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I also,’ said the stranger. ‘But life is constant separation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope we may meet again,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘If our acquaintance be worth preserving,’ said the stranger, ‘you may be + sure it will not be lost.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But mine is not worth preserving,’ said Coningsby, earnestly. ‘It is + yours that is the treasure. You teach me things of which I have long + mused.’ + </p> + <p> + The stranger took the bridle of ‘the Daughter of the Star,’ and turning + round with a faint smile, extended his hand to his companion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your mind at least is nurtured with great thoughts,’ said Coningsby; + ‘your actions should be heroic.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Action is not for me,’ said the stranger; ‘I am of that faith that the + Apostles professed before they followed their master.’ + </p> + <p> + He vaulted into his saddle, ‘the Daughter of the Star’ bounded away as if + she scented the air of the Desert from which she and her rider had alike + sprung, and Coningsby remained in profound meditation. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + The day after his adventure at the Forest Inn, Coningsby arrived at + Beaumanoir. It was several years since he had visited the family of his + friend, who were indeed also his kin; and in his boyish days had often + proved that they were not unmindful of the affinity. This was a visit that + had been long counted on, long promised, and which a variety of + circumstances had hitherto prevented. It was to have been made by the + schoolboy; it was to be fulfilled by the man. For no less a character + could Coningsby under any circumstances now consent to claim, since he was + closely verging to the completion of his nineteenth year; and it appeared + manifest that if it were his destiny to do anything great, he had but few + years to wait before the full development of his power. Visions of Gastons + de Foix and Maurices of Saxony, statesmen giving up cricket to govern + nations, beardless Jesuits plunged in profound abstraction in omnipotent + cabinets, haunted his fancy from the moment he had separated from his + mysterious and deeply interesting companion. To nurture his mind with + great thoughts had ever been Coningsby’s inspiring habit. Was it also + destined that he should achieve the heroic? + </p> + <p> + There are some books, when we close them; one or two in the course of our + life, difficult as it may be to analyse or ascertain the cause; our minds + seem to have made a great leap. A thousand obscure things receive light; a + multitude of indefinite feelings are determined. Our intellect grasps and + grapples with all subjects with a capacity, a flexibility, and a vigour, + before unknown to us. It masters questions hitherto perplexing, which are + not even touched or referred to in the volume just closed. What is this + magic? It is the spirit of the supreme author, by a magentic influence + blending with our sympathising intelligence, that directs and inspires it. + By that mysterious sensibility we extend to questions which he has not + treated, the same intellectual force which he has exercised over those + which he has expounded. His genius for a time remains in us. ‘Tis the same + with human beings as with books. All of us encounter, at least once in our + life, some individual who utters words that make us think for ever. + </p> + <p> + There are men whose phrases are oracles; who condense in a sentence the + secrets of life; who blurt out an aphorism that forms a character or + illustrates an existence. A great thing is a great book; but greater than + all is the talk of a great man. + </p> + <p> + And what is a great man? Is it a Minister of State? Is it a victorious + General? A gentleman in the Windsor uniform? A Field Marshal covered with + stars? Is it a Prelate, or a Prince? A King, even an Emperor? It may be + all these; yet these, as we must all daily feel, are not necessarily great + men. A great man is one who affects the mind of his generation: whether he + be a monk in his cloister agitating Christendom, or a monarch crossing the + Granicus, and giving a new character to the Pagan World. + </p> + <p> + Our young Coningsby reached Beaumanoir in a state of meditation. He also + desired to be great. Not from the restless vanity that sometimes impels + youth to momentary exertion, by which they sometimes obtain a distinction + as evanescent as their energy. The ambition of our hero was altogether of + a different character. It was, indeed, at present not a little vague, + indefinite, hesitating, inquiring, sometimes desponding. What were his + powers? what should be his aim? were often to him, as to all young + aspirants, questions infinitely perplexing and full of pain. But, on the + whole, there ran through his character, notwithstanding his many dazzling + qualities and accomplishments, and his juvenile celebrity, which has + spoiled so much promise, a vein of grave simplicity that was the + consequence of an earnest temper, and of an intellect that would be + content with nothing short of the profound. + </p> + <p> + His was a mind that loved to pursue every question to the centre. But it + was not a spirit of scepticism that impelled this habit; on the contrary, + it was the spirit of faith. Coningsby found that he was born in an age of + infidelity in all things, and his heart assured him that a want of faith + was a want of nature. But his vigorous intellect could not take refuge in + that maudlin substitute for belief which consists in a patronage of + fantastic theories. He needed that deep and enduring conviction that the + heart and the intellect, feeling and reason united, can alone supply. He + asked himself why governments were hated, and religions despised? Why + loyalty was dead, and reverence only a galvanised corpse? + </p> + <p> + These were indeed questions that had as yet presented themselves to his + thought in a crude and imperfect form; but their very occurrence showed + the strong predisposition of his mind. It was because he had not found + guides among his elders, that his thoughts had been turned to the + generation that he himself represented. The sentiment of veneration was so + developed in his nature, that he was exactly the youth that would have + hung with enthusiastic humility on the accents of some sage of old in the + groves of Academus, or the porch of Zeno. But as yet he had found age only + perplexed and desponding; manhood only callous and desperate. Some thought + that systems would last their time; others, that something would turn up. + His deep and pious spirit recoiled with disgust and horror from such lax, + chance-medley maxims, that would, in their consequences, reduce man to the + level of the brutes. Notwithstanding a prejudice which had haunted him + from his childhood, he had, when the occasion offered, applied to Mr. + Rigby for instruction, as one distinguished in the republic of letters, as + well as the realm of politics; who assumed the guidance of the public + mind, and, as the phrase runs, was looked up to. Mr. Rigby listened at + first to the inquiries of Coningsby, urged, as they ever were, with a + modesty and deference which do not always characterise juvenile + investigations, as if Coningsby were speaking to him of the unknown + tongues. But Mr. Rigby was not a man who ever confessed himself at fault. + He caught up something of the subject as our young friend proceeded, and + was perfectly prepared, long before he had finished, to take the whole + conversation into his own hands. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby began by ascribing everything to the Reform Bill, and then + referred to several of his own speeches on Schedule A. Then he told + Coningsby that want of religious Faith was solely occasioned by want of + churches; and want of Loyalty, by George IV. having shut himself up too + much at the cottage in Windsor Park, entirely against the advice of Mr. + Rigby. He assured Coningsby that the Church Commission was operating + wonders, and that with private benevolence, he had himself subscribed + 1,000<i>l.</i>, for Lord Monmouth, we should soon have churches enough. + The great question now was their architecture. Had George IV. lived all + would have been right. They would have been built on the model of the + Budhist pagoda. As for Loyalty, if the present King went regularly to + Ascot races, he had no doubt all would go right. Finally, Mr. Rigby + impressed on Coningsby to read the Quarterly Review with great attention; + and to make himself master of Mr. Wordy’s History of the late War, in + twenty volumes, a capital work, which proves that Providence was on the + side of the Tories. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby did not reply to Mr. Rigby again; but worked on with his own + mind, coming often enough to sufficiently crude conclusions, and often + much perplexed and harassed. He tried occasionally his inferences on his + companions, who were intelligent and full of fervour. Millbank was more + than this. He was of a thoughtful mood; had also caught up from a new + school some principles, which were materials for discussion. One way or + other, however, before he quitted Eton there prevailed among this circle + of friends, the initial idea doubtless emanating from Coningsby, an + earnest, though a rather vague, conviction that the present state of + feeling in matters both civil and religious was not healthy; that there + must be substituted for this latitudinarianism something sound and deep, + fervent and well defined, and that the priests of this new faith must be + found among the New Generation; so that when the bright-minded rider of + ‘the Daughter of the Star’ descanted on the influence of individual + character, of great thoughts and heroic actions, and the divine power of + youth and genius, he touched a string that was the very heart-chord of his + companion, who listened with fascinated enthusiasm as he introduced him to + his gallery of inspiring models. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby arrived at Beaumanoir at a season when men can neither hunt nor + shoot. Great internal resources should be found in a country family under + such circumstances. The Duke and Duchess had returned from London only a + few days with their daughter, who had been presented this year. They were + all glad to find themselves again in the country, which they loved and + which loved them. One of their sons-in-law and his wife, and Henry Sydney, + completed the party. + </p> + <p> + There are few conjunctures in life of a more startling interest, than to + meet the pretty little girl that we have gambolled with in our boyhood, + and to find her changed in the lapse of a very few years, which in some + instances may not have brought a corresponding alteration in our own + appearance, into a beautiful woman. Something of this flitted over + Coningsby’s mind, as he bowed, a little agitated from his surprise, to + Lady Theresa Sydney. All that he remembered had prepared him for beauty; + but not for the degree or character of beauty that he met. It was a rich, + sweet face, with blue eyes and dark lashes, and a nose that we have no + epithet in English to describe, but which charmed in Roxalana. Her brown + hair fell over her white and well turned shoulders in long and luxuriant + tresses. One has met something as brilliant and dainty in a medallion of + old Sèvres, or amid the terraces and gardens of Watteau. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps Lady Theresa, too, might have welcomed him with more freedom had + his appearance also more accorded with the image which he had left behind. + Coningsby was a boy then, as we described him in our first chapter. Though + only nineteen now, he had attained his full stature, which was above the + middle height, and time had fulfilled that promise of symmetry in his + figure, and grace in his mien, then so largely intimated. Time, too, which + had not yet robbed his countenance of any of its physical beauty, had + strongly developed the intellectual charm by which it had ever been + distinguished. As he bowed lowly before the Duchess and her daughter, it + would have been difficult to imagine a youth of a mien more prepossessing + and a manner more finished. + </p> + <p> + A manner that was spontaneous; nature’s pure gift, the reflex of his + feeling. No artifice prompted that profound and polished homage. Not one + of those influences, the aggregate of whose sway produces, as they tell + us, the finished gentleman, had ever exercised its beneficent power on our + orphan, and not rarely forlorn, Coningsby. No clever and refined woman, + with her quick perception, and nice criticism that never offends our + self-love, had ever given him that education that is more precious than + Universities. The mild suggestions of a sister, the gentle raillery of + some laughing cousin, are also advantages not always appreciated at the + time, but which boys, when they have become men, often think over with + gratitude, and a little remorse at the ungracious spirit in which they + were received. Not even the dancing-master had afforded his mechanical aid + to Coningsby, who, like all Eton boys of his generation, viewed that + professor of accomplishments with frank repugnance. But even in the + boisterous life of school, Coningsby, though his style was free and + flowing, was always well-bred. His spirit recoiled from that gross + familiarity that is the characteristic of modern manners, and which would + destroy all forms and ceremonies merely because they curb and control + their own coarse convenience and ill-disguised selfishness. To women, + however, Coningsby instinctively bowed, as to beings set apart for + reverence and delicate treatment. Little as his experience was of them, + his spirit had been fed with chivalrous fancies, and he entertained for + them all the ideal devotion of a Surrey or a Sydney. Instructed, if not + learned, as books and thought had already made him in men, he could not + conceive that there were any other women in the world than fair Geraldines + and Countesses of Pembroke. + </p> + <p> + There was not a country-house in England that had so completely the air of + habitual residence as Beaumanoir. It is a charming trait, and very rare. + In many great mansions everything is as stiff, formal, and tedious, as if + your host were a Spanish grandee in the days of the Inquisition. No ease, + no resources; the passing life seems a solemn spectacle in which you play + a part. How delightful was the morning room at Beaumanoir; from which + gentlemen were not excluded with that assumed suspicion that they can + never enter it but for felonious purposes. Such a profusion of flowers! + Such a multitude of books! Such a various prodigality of writing + materials! So many easy chairs too, of so many shapes; each in itself a + comfortable home; yet nothing crowded. Woman alone can organise a + drawing-room; man succeeds sometimes in a library. And the ladies’ work! + How graceful they look bending over their embroidery frames, consulting + over the arrangement of a group, or the colour of a flower. The panniers + and fanciful baskets, overflowing with variegated worsted, are gay and + full of pleasure to the eye, and give an air of elegant business that is + vivifying. Even the sight of employment interests. + </p> + <p> + Then the morning costume of English women is itself a beautiful work of + art. At this period of the day they can find no rivals in other climes. + The brilliant complexions of the daughters of the north dazzle in + daylight; the illumined saloon levels all distinctions. One should see + them in their well-fashioned muslin dresses. What matrons, and what + maidens! Full of graceful dignity, fresher than the morn! And the married + beauty in her little lace cap. Ah, she is a coquette! A charming character + at all times; in a country-house an invaluable one. + </p> + <p> + A coquette is a being who wishes to please. Amiable being! If you do not + like her, you will have no difficulty in finding a female companion of a + different mood. Alas! coquettes are but too rare. ‘Tis a career that + requires great abilities, infinite pains, a gay and airy spirit. ‘Tis the + coquette that provides all amusement; suggests the riding party, plans the + picnic, gives and guesses charades, acts them. She is the stirring element + amid the heavy congeries of social atoms; the soul of the house, the salt + of the banquet. Let any one pass a very agreeable week, or it may be ten + days, under any roof, and analyse the cause of his satisfaction, and one + might safely make a gentle wager that his solution would present him with + the frolic phantom of a coquette. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is impossible that Mr. Coningsby can remember me!’ said a clear voice; + and he looked round, and was greeted by a pair of sparkling eyes and the + gayest smile in the world. + </p> + <p> + It was Lady Everingham, the Duke’s married daughter. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + ‘And you walked here!’ said Lady Everingham to Coningsby, when the stir of + arranging themselves at dinner had subsided. ‘Only think, papa, Mr. + Coningsby walked here! I also am a great walker.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I had heard much of the forest,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Which I am sure did not disappoint you,’ said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘But forests without adventures!’ said Lady Everingham, a little shrugging + her pretty shoulders. + </p> + <p> + ‘But I had an adventure,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! tell it us by all means!’ said the Lady, with great animation. + ‘Adventures are my weakness. I have had more adventures than any one. Have + I not had, Augustus?’ she added, addressing her husband. + </p> + <p> + ‘But you make everything out to be an adventure, Isabel,’ said Lord + Everingham. I dare say that Mr. Coningsby’s was more substantial.’ And + looking at our young friend, he invited him to inform them. + </p> + <p> + ‘I met a most extraordinary man,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘It should have been a heroine,’ exclaimed Lady Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you know anybody in this neighbourhood who rides the finest Arab in + the world?’ asked Coningsby. ‘She is called “the Daughter of the Star,” + and was given to her rider by the Pacha of Egypt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This is really an adventure,’ said Lady Everingham, interested. + </p> + <p> + ‘The Daughter of the Star!’ said Lady Theresa. ‘What a pretty name! Percy + has a horse called “Sunbeam.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A fine Arab, the finest in the world!’ said the Duke, who was fond of + horse. ‘Who can it be?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can you throw any light on this, Mr. Lyle?’ asked the Duchess of a young + man who sat next her. + </p> + <p> + He was a neighbour who had joined their dinner-party, Eustace Lyle, a + Roman Catholic, and the richest commoner in the county; for he had + succeeded to a great estate early in his minority, which had only this + year terminated. + </p> + <p> + ‘I certainly do not know the horse,’ said Mr. Lyle; ‘but if Mr. Coningsby + would describe the rider, perhaps—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is a man something under thirty,’ said Coningsby, ‘pale, with dark + hair. We met in a sort of forest-inn during a storm. A most singular man! + Indeed, I never met any one who seemed to me so clever, or to say such + remarkable things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He must have been the spirit of the storm,’ said Lady Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘Charles Verney has a great deal of dark hair,’ said Lady Theresa. ‘But + then he is anything but pale, and his eyes are blue.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And certainly he keeps his wonderful things for your ear, Theresa,’ said + her sister. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish that Mr. Coningsby would tell us some of the wonderful things he + said,’ said the Duchess, smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘Take a glass of wine first with my mother, Coningsby,’ said Henry Sydney, + who had just finished helping them all to fish. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had too much tact to be entrapped into a long story. He already + regretted that he had been betrayed into any allusion to the stranger. He + had a wild, fanciful notion, that their meeting ought to have been + preserved as a sacred secret. But he had been impelled to refer to it in + the first instance by the chance observation of Lady Everingham; and he + had pursued his remark from the hope that the conversation might have led + to the discovery of the unknown. When he found that his inquiry in this + respect was unsuccessful, he was willing to turn the conversation. In + reply to the Duchess, then, he generally described the talk of the + stranger as full of lively anecdote and epigrammatic views of life; and + gave them, for example, a saying of an illustrious foreign Prince, which + was quite new and pointed, and which Coningsby told well. This led to a + new train of discourse. The Duke also knew this illustrious foreign + Prince, and told another story of him; and Lord Everingham had played + whist with this illustrious foreign Prince often at the Travellers’, and + this led to a third story; none of them too long. Then Lady Everingham + came in again, and sparkled agreeably. She, indeed, sustained throughout + dinner the principal weight of the conversation; but, as she asked + questions of everybody, all seemed to contribute. Even the voice of Mr. + Lyle, who was rather bashful, was occasionally heard in reply. Coningsby, + who had at first unintentionally taken a more leading part than he aspired + to, would have retired into the background for the rest of the dinner, but + Lady Everingham continually signalled him out for her questions, and as + she sat opposite to him, he seemed the person to whom they were + principally addressed. + </p> + <p> + At length the ladies rose to retire. A very great personage in a foreign, + but not remote country, once mentioned to the writer of these pages, that + he ascribed the superiority of the English in political life, in their + conduct of public business and practical views of affairs, in a great + measure to ‘that little half-hour’ that separates, after dinner, the dark + from the fair sex. The writer humbly submitted, that if the period of + disjunction were strictly limited to a ‘little half-hour,’ its salutary + consequences for both sexes need not be disputed, but that in England the + ‘little half-hour’ was too apt to swell into a term of far more awful + character and duration. Lady Everingham was a disciple of the ‘very little + half-hour’ school; for, as she gaily followed her mother, she said to + Coningsby, whose gracious lot it was to usher them from the apartment: + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray do not be too long at the Board of Guardians to-day.’ + </p> + <p> + These were prophetic words; for no sooner were they all again seated, than + the Duke, filling his glass and pushing the claret to Coningsby, observed, + </p> + <p> + ‘I suppose Lord Monmouth does not trouble himself much about the New Poor + Law?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hardly,’ said Coningsby. ‘My grandfather’s frequent absence from England, + which his health, I believe, renders quite necessary, deprives him of the + advantage of personal observation on a subject, than which I can myself + conceive none more deeply interesting.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am glad to hear you say so,’ said the Duke, ‘and it does you great + credit, and Henry too, whose attention, I observe, is directed very much + to these subjects. In my time, the young men did not think so much of such + things, and we suffer consequently. By the bye, Everingham, you, who are a + Chairman of a Board of Guardians, can give me some information. Supposing + a case of out-door relief—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not suppose anything so absurd,’ said the son-in-law. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ rejoined the Duke, ‘I know your views on that subject, and it + certainly is a question on which there is a good deal to be said. But + would you under any circumstances give relief out of the Union, even if + the parish were to save a considerable sum?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish I knew the Union where such a system was followed,’ said Lord + Everingham; and his Grace seemed to tremble under his son-in-law’s glance. + </p> + <p> + The Duke had a good heart, and not a bad head. If he had not made in his + youth so many Latin and English verses, he might have acquired + considerable information, for he had a natural love of letters, though his + pack were the pride of England, his barrel seldom missed, and his fortune + on the turf, where he never betted, was a proverb. He was good, and he + wished to do good; but his views were confused from want of knowledge, and + his conduct often inconsistent because a sense of duty made him + immediately active; and he often acquired in the consequent experience a + conviction exactly contrary to that which had prompted his activity. + </p> + <p> + His Grace had been a great patron and a zealous administrator of the New + Poor Law. He had been persuaded that it would elevate the condition of the + labouring class. His son-in-law, Lord Everingham, who was a Whig, and a + clearheaded, cold-blooded man, looked upon the New Poor Law as another + Magna Charta. Lord Everingham was completely master of the subject. He was + himself the Chairman of one of the most considerable Unions of the + kingdom. The Duke, if he ever had a misgiving, had no chance in argument + with his son-in-law. Lord Everingham overwhelmed him with quotations from + Commissioners’ rules and Sub-commissioners’ reports, statistical tables, + and references to dietaries. Sometimes with a strong case, the Duke + struggled to make a fight; but Lord Everingham, when he was at fault for a + reply, which was very rare, upbraided his father-in-law with the abuses of + the old system, and frightened him with visions of rates exceeding + rentals. + </p> + <p> + Of late, however, a considerable change had taken place in the Duke’s + feelings on this great question. His son Henry entertained strong opinions + upon it, and had combated his father with all the fervour of a young + votary. A victory over his Grace, indeed, was not very difficult. His + natural impulse would have enlisted him on the side, if not of opposition + to the new system, at least of critical suspicion of its spirit and + provisions. It was only the statistics and sharp acuteness of his + son-in-law that had, indeed, ever kept him to his colours. Lord Henry + would not listen to statistics, dietary tables, Commissioners’ rides, + Sub-commissioners’ reports. He went far higher than his father; far deeper + than his brother-in-law. He represented to the Duke that the order of the + peasantry was as ancient, legal, and recognised an order as the order of + the nobility; that it had distinct rights and privileges, though for + centuries they had been invaded and violated, and permitted to fall into + desuetude. He impressed upon the Duke that the parochial constitution of + this country was more important than its political constitution; that it + was more ancient, more universal in its influence; and that this parochial + constitution had already been shaken to its centre by the New Poor Law. He + assured his father that it would never be well for England until this + order of the peasantry was restored to its pristine condition; not merely + in physical comfort, for that must vary according to the economical + circumstances of the time, like that of every class; but to its condition + in all those moral attributes which make a recognised rank in a nation; + and which, in a great degree, are independent of economics, manners, + customs, ceremonies, rights, and privileges. + </p> + <p> + ‘Henry thinks,’ said Lord Everingham, ‘that the people are to be fed by + dancing round a May-pole.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But will the people be more fed because they do not dance round a + May-pole?’ urged Lord Henry. + </p> + <p> + ‘Obsolete customs!’ said Lord Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘And why should dancing round a May-pole be more obsolete than holding a + Chapter of the Garter?’ asked Lord Henry. + </p> + <p> + The Duke, who was a blue ribbon, felt this a home thrust. ‘I must say,’ + said his Grace, ‘that I for one deeply regret that our popular customs + have been permitted to fall so into desuetude.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Spirit of the Age is against such things,’ said Lord Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what is the Spirit of the Age?’ asked Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘The Spirit of Utility,’ said Lord Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you think then that ceremony is not useful?’ urged Coningsby, mildly. + </p> + <p> + ‘It depends upon circumstances,’ said Lord Everingham. ‘There are some + ceremonies, no doubt, that are very proper, and of course very useful. But + the best thing we can do for the labouring classes is to provide them with + work.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But what do you mean by the labouring classes, Everingham?’ asked Lord + Henry. ‘Lawyers are a labouring class, for instance, and by the bye + sufficiently provided with work. But would you approve of Westminster Hall + being denuded of all its ceremonies?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And the long vacation being abolished?’ added Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Theresa brings me terrible accounts of the sufferings of the poor about + us,’ said the Duke, shaking his head. + </p> + <p> + ‘Women think everything to be suffering!’ said Lord Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘How do you find them about you, Mr. Lyle?’ continued the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have revived the monastic customs at St. Genevieve,’ said the young + man, blushing. ‘There is an almsgiving twice a-week.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure I wish I could see the labouring classes happy,’ said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! pray do not use, my dear father, that phrase, the labouring classes!’ + said Lord Henry. ‘What do you think, Coningsby, the other day we had a + meeting in this neighbourhood to vote an agricultural petition that was to + comprise all classes. I went with my father, and I was made chairman of + the committee to draw up the petition. Of course, I described it as the + petition of the nobility, clergy, gentry, yeomanry, and peasantry of the + county of ——; and, could you believe it, they struck out <i>peasantry</i> + as a word no longer used, and inserted <i>labourers</i>.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What can it signify,’ said Lord Everingham, ‘whether a man be called a + labourer or a peasant?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what can it signify,’ said his brother-in-law, ‘whether a man be + called Mr. Howard or Lord Everingham?’ + </p> + <p> + They were the most affectionate family under this roof of Beaumanoir, and + of all members of it, Lord Henry the sweetest tempered, and yet it was + astonishing what sharp skirmishes every day arose between him and his + brother-in-law, during that ‘little half-hour’ that forms so happily the + political character of the nation. The Duke, who from experience felt that + a guerilla movement was impending, asked his guests whether they would + take any more claret; and on their signifying their dissent, moved an + adjournment to the ladies. + </p> + <p> + They joined the ladies in the music-room. Coningsby, not experienced in + feminine society, and who found a little difficulty from want of practice + in maintaining conversation, though he was desirous of succeeding, was + delighted with Lady Everingham, who, instead of requiring to be amused, + amused him; and suggested so many subjects, and glanced at so many topics, + that there never was that cold, awkward pause, so common with sullen + spirits and barren brains. Lady Everingham thoroughly understood the art + of conversation, which, indeed, consists of the exercise of two fine + qualities. You must originate, and you must sympathise; you must possess + at the same time the habit of communicating and the habit of listening. + The union is rather rare, but irresistible. + </p> + <p> + Lady Everingham was not a celebrated beauty, but she was something + infinitely more delightful, a captivating woman. There were combined, in + her, qualities not commonly met together, great vivacity of mind with + great grace of manner. Her words sparkled and her movements charmed. There + was, indeed, in all she said and did, that congruity that indicates a + complete and harmonious organisation. It was the same just proportion + which characterised her form: a shape slight and undulating with grace; + the most beautifully shaped ear; a small, soft hand; a foot that would + have fitted the glass slipper; and which, by the bye, she lost no + opportunity of displaying; and she was right, for it was a model. + </p> + <p> + Then there was music. Lady Theresa sang like a seraph: a rich voice, a + grand style. And her sister could support her with grace and sweetness. + And they did not sing too much. The Duke took up a review, and looked at + Rigby’s last slashing article. The country seemed ruined, but it appeared + that the Whigs were still worse off than the Tories. The assassins had + committed suicide. This poetical justice is pleasing. Lord Everingham, + lounging in an easy chair, perused with great satisfaction his <i>Morning + Chronicle</i>, which contained a cutting reply to Mr. Rigby’s article, not + quite so ‘slashing’ as the Right Honourable scribe’s manifesto, but with + some searching mockery, that became the subject and the subject-monger. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lyle seated himself by the Duchess, and encouraged by her amenity, and + speaking in whispers, became animated and agreeable, occasionally patting + the lap-dog. Coningsby stood by the singers, or talked with them when the + music had ceased: and Henry Sydney looked over a volume of Strutt’s <i>Sports + and Pastimes</i>, occasionally, without taking his eyes off the volume, + calling the attention of his friends to his discoveries. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lyle rose to depart, for he had some miles to return; he came forward + with some hesitation, to hope that Coningsby would visit his bloodhounds, + which Lord Henry had told him Coningsby had expressed a wish to do. Lady + Everingham remarked that she had not been at St. Genevieve since she was a + girl, and it appeared Lady Theresa had never visited it. Lady Everingham + proposed that they should all ride over on the morrow, and she appealed to + her husband for his approbation, instantly given, for though she loved + admiration, and he apparently was an iceberg, they were really devoted to + each other. Then there was a consultation as to their arrangements. The + Duchess would drive over in her pony chair with Theresa. The Duke, as + usual, had affairs that would occupy him. The rest were to ride. It was a + happy suggestion, all anticipated pleasure; and the evening terminated + with the prospect of what Lady Everingham called an adventure. + </p> + <p> + The ladies themselves soon withdrew; the gentlemen lingered for a while; + the Duke took up his candle, and bid his guests good night; Lord + Everingham drank a glass of Seltzer water, nodded, and vanished. Lord + Henry and his friend sat up talking over the past. They were too young to + call them old times; and yet what a life seemed to have elapsed since they + had quitted Eton, dear old Eton! Their boyish feelings, and still latent + boyish character, developed with their reminiscences. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you remember Bucknall? Which Bucknall? The eldest: I saw him the other + day at Nottingham; he is in the Rifles. Do you remember that day at Sirly + Hall, that Paulet had that row with Dickinson? Did you like Dickinson? + Hum! Paulet was a good fellow. I tell you who was a good fellow, Paulet’s + little cousin. What! Augustus Le Grange? Oh! I liked Augustus Le Grange. I + wonder where Buckhurst is? I had a letter from him the other day. He has + gone with his uncle to Paris. We shall find him at Cambridge in October. I + suppose you know Millbank has gone to Oriel. Has he, though! I wonder who + will have our room at Cookesley’s? Cookesley was a good fellow! Oh, + capital! How well he behaved when there was that row about our going out + with the hounds? Do you remember Vere’s face? It makes me laugh now when I + think of it. I tell you who was a good fellow, Kangaroo Gray; I liked him. + I don’t know any fellow who sang a better song!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By the bye,’ said Coningsby, ‘what sort of fellow is Eustace Lyle? I + rather liked his look.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I will tell you all about him,’ said Lord Henry. ‘He is a great ally + of mine, and I think you will like him very much. It is a Roman Catholic + family, about the oldest we have in the county, and the wealthiest. You + see, Lyle’s father was the most violent ultra Whig, and so were all + Eustace’s guardians; but the moment he came of age, he announced that he + should not mix himself up with either of the parties in the county, and + that his tenantry might act exactly as they thought fit. My father thinks, + of course, that Lyle is a Conservative, and that he only waits the + occasion to come forward; but he is quite wrong. I know Lyle well, and he + speaks to me without disguise. You see ‘tis an old Cavalier family, and + Lyle has all the opinions and feelings of his race. He will not ally + himself with anti-monarchists, and democrats, and infidels, and + sectarians; at the same time, why should he support a party who pretend to + oppose these, but who never lose an opportunity of insulting his religion, + and would deprive him, if possible, of the advantages of the very + institutions which his family assisted in establishing?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, indeed? I am glad to have made his acquaintance,’ said Coningsby. + ‘Is he clever?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think so,’ said Lord Henry. ‘He is the most shy fellow, especially + among women, that I ever knew, but he is very popular in the county. He + does an amazing deal of good, and is one of the best riders we have. My + father says, the very best; bold, but so very certain.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is older than we are?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My senior by a year: he is just of age.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, ah! twenty-one. A year younger than Gaston de Foix when he won + Ravenna, and four years younger than John of Austria when he won Lepanto,’ + observed Coningsby, musingly. ‘I vote we go to bed, old fellow!’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + In a valley, not far from the margin of a beautiful river, raised on a + lofty and artificial terrace at the base of a range of wooded heights, was + a pile of modern building in the finest style of Christian architecture. + It was of great extent and richly decorated. Built of a white and + glittering stone, it sparkled with its pinnacles in the sunshine as it + rose in strong relief against its verdant background. The winding valley, + which was studded, but not too closely studded, with clumps of old trees, + formed for a great extent on either side of the mansion a grassy demesne, + which was called the Lower Park; but it was a region bearing the name of + the Upper Park, that was the peculiar and most picturesque feature of this + splendid residence. The wooded heights that formed the valley were not, as + they appeared, a range of hills. Their crest was only the abrupt + termination of a vast and enclosed tableland, abounding in all the + qualities of the ancient chase: turf and trees, a wilderness of underwood, + and a vast spread of gorse and fern. The deer, that abounded, lived here + in a world as savage as themselves: trooping down in the evening to the + river. Some of them, indeed, were ever in sight of those who were in the + valley, and you might often observe various groups clustered on the green + heights above the mansion, the effect of which was most inspiriting and + graceful. Sometimes in the twilight, a solitary form, magnified by the + illusive hour, might be seen standing on the brink of the steep, large and + black against the clear sky. + </p> + <p> + We have endeavoured slightly to sketch St. Geneviève as it appeared to our + friends from Beaumanoir, winding into the valley the day after Mr. Lyle + had dined with them. The valley opened for about half-a-mile opposite the + mansion, which gave to the dwellers in it a view over an extensive and + richly-cultivated country. It was through this district that the party + from Beaumanoir had pursued their way. The first glance at the building, + its striking situation, its beautiful form, its brilliant colour, its + great extent, a gathering as it seemed of galleries, halls, and chapels, + mullioned windows, portals of clustered columns, and groups of airy + pinnacles and fretwork spires, called forth a general cry of wonder and of + praise. + </p> + <p> + The ride from Beaumanoir had been delightful; the breath of summer in + every breeze, the light of summer on every tree. The gay laugh of Lady + Everingham rang frequently in the air; often were her sunny eyes directed + to Coningsby, as she called his attention to some fair object or some + pretty effect. She played the hostess of Nature, and introduced him to all + the beauties. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lyle had recognised them. He cantered forward with greetings on a fat + little fawn-coloured pony, with a long white mane and white flowing tail, + and the wickedest eye in the world. He rode by the side of the Duchess, + and indicated their gently-descending route. + </p> + <p> + They arrived, and the peacocks, who were sunning themselves on the + turrets, expanded their plumage to welcome them. + </p> + <p> + ‘I can remember the old house,’ said the Duchess, as she took Mr. Lyle’s + arm; ‘and I am happy to see the new one. The Duke had prepared me for much + beauty, but the reality exceeds his report.’ + </p> + <p> + They entered by a short corridor into a large hall. They would have + stopped to admire its rich roof, its gallery and screen; but their host + suggested that they should refresh themselves after their ride, and they + followed him through several apartments into a spacious chamber, its oaken + panels covered with a series of interesting pictures, representing the + siege of St. Geneviève by the Parliament forces in 1643: the various + assaults and sallies, and the final discomfiture of the rebels. In all + these figured a brave and graceful Sir Eustace Lyle, in cuirass and buff + jerkin, with gleaming sword and flowing plume. The sight of these pictures + was ever a source of great excitement to Henry Sydney, who always lamented + his ill-luck in not living in such days; nay, would insist that all others + must equally deplore their evil destiny. + </p> + <p> + ‘See, Coningsby, this battery on the Upper Park,’ said Lord Henry. ‘This + did the business: how it rakes up the valley; Sir Eustace works it + himself. Mother, what a pity Beaumanoir was not besieged!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It may be,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I always fancy a siege must be so interesting,’ said Lady Everingham. ‘It + must be so exciting.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope the next siege may be at Beaumanoir, instead of St. Geneviève,’ + said Lyle, laughing; ‘as Henry Sydney has such a military predisposition. + Duchess, you said the other day that you liked Malvoisie, and here is + some. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Now broach me a cask of Malvoisie, + Bring pasty from the doe;’ +</pre> + <p> + said the Duchess. ‘That has been my luncheon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A poetic repast,’ said Lady Theresa. + </p> + <p> + ‘Their breeds of sheep must have been very inferior in old days,’ said + Lord Everingham, ‘as they made such a noise about their venison. For my + part I consider it a thing as much gone by as tilts and tournaments.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry that they have gone by,’ said Lady Theresa. + </p> + <p> + ‘Everything has gone by that is beautiful,’ said Lord Henry. + </p> + <p> + ‘Life is much easier,’ said Lord Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘Life easy!’ said Lord Henry. ‘Life appears to me to be a fierce + struggle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Manners are easy,’ said Coningsby, ‘and life is hard.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I wish to see things exactly the reverse,’ said Lord Henry. ‘The + means and modes of subsistence less difficult; the conduct of life more + ceremonious.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Civilisation has no time for ceremony,’ said Lord Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘How very sententious you all are!’ said his wife. ‘I want to see the hall + and many other things.’ And they all rose. + </p> + <p> + There were indeed many other things to see: a long gallery, rich in + ancestral portraits, specimens of art and costume from Holbein to + Lawrence; courtiers of the Tudors, and cavaliers of the Stuarts, + terminating in red-coated squires fresh from the field, and gentlemen + buttoned up in black coats, and sitting in library chairs, with their + backs to a crimson curtain. Woman, however, is always charming; and the + present generation may view their mothers painted by Lawrence, as if they + were patronesses of Almack’s; or their grandmothers by Reynolds, as + Robinettas caressing birds, with as much delight as they gaze on the + dewy-eyed matrons of Lely, and the proud bearing of the heroines of + Vandyke. But what interested them more than the gallery, or the rich + saloons, or even the baronial hall, was the chapel, in which art had + exhausted all its invention, and wealth offered all its resources. The + walls and vaulted roofs entirely painted in encaustic by the first artists + of Germany, and representing the principal events of the second Testament, + the splendour of the mosaic pavement, the richness of the painted windows, + the sumptuousness of the altar, crowned by a masterpiece of Carlo Dolce + and surrounded by a silver rail, the tone of rich and solemn light that + pervaded all, and blended all the various sources of beauty into one + absorbing and harmonious whole: all combined to produce an effect which + stilled them into a silence that lasted for some minutes, until the ladies + breathed their feelings in an almost inarticulate murmur of reverence and + admiration; while a tear stole to the eye of the enthusiastic Henry + Sydney. + </p> + <p> + Leaving the chapel, they sauntered through the gardens, until, arriving at + their limit, they were met by the prettiest sight in the world; a group of + little pony chairs, each drawn by a little fat fawn-coloured pony, like + the one that Mr. Lyle had been riding. Lord Henry drove his mother; Lord + Everingham, Lady Theresa; Lady Everingham was attended by Coningsby. Their + host cantered by the Duchess’s side, and along winding roads of easy + ascent, leading through beautiful woods, and offering charming landscapes, + they reached in due time the Upper Park. + </p> + <p> + ‘One sees our host to great advantage in his own house,’ said Lady + Everingham. ‘He is scarcely the same person. I have not observed him once + blush. He speaks and moves with ease. It is a pity that he is not more + graceful. Above all things I like a graceful man.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That chapel,’ said Coningsby, ‘was a fine thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very!’ said Lady Everingham. ‘Did you observe the picture over the altar, + the Virgin with blue eyes? I never observed blue eyes before in such a + picture. What is your favourite colour for eyes?’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby felt embarrassed: he said something rather pointless about + admiring everything that was beautiful. + </p> + <p> + ‘But every one has a favourite style; I want to know yours. Regular + features, do you like regular features? Or is it expression that pleases + you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Expression; I think I like expression. Expression must be always + delightful.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you dance?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; I am no great dancer. I fear I have few accomplishments. I am fond of + fencing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t fence,’ said Lady Everingham, with a smile. ‘But I think you are + right not to dance. It is not in your way. You are ambitious, I believe?’ + she added. + </p> + <p> + ‘I was not aware of it; everybody is ambitious.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You see I know something of your character. Henry has spoken of you to me + a great deal; long before we met,—met again, I should say, for we + are old friends, remember. Do you know your career much interests me? I + like ambitious men.’ + </p> + <p> + There is something fascinating in the first idea that your career + interests a charming woman. Coningsby felt that he was perhaps driving a + Madame de Longueville. A woman who likes ambitious men must be no ordinary + character; clearly a sort of heroine. At this moment they reached the + Upper Park, and the novel landscape changed the current of their remarks. + </p> + <p> + Far as the eye could reach there spread before them a savage sylvan scene. + It wanted, perhaps, undulation of surface, but that deficiency was greatly + compensated for by the multitude and prodigious size of the trees; they + were the largest, indeed, that could well be met with in England; and + there is no part of Europe where the timber is so huge. The broad + interminable glades, the vast avenues, the quantity of deer browsing or + bounding in all directions, the thickets of yellow gorse and green fern, + and the breeze that even in the stillness of summer was ever playing over + this table-land, all produced an animated and renovating scene. It was + like suddenly visiting another country, living among other manners, and + breathing another air. They stopped for a few minutes at a pavilion built + for the purposes of the chase, and then returned, all gratified by this + visit to what appeared to be the higher regions of the earth. + </p> + <p> + As they approached the brow of the hill that hung over St. Geneviève, they + heard the great bell sound. + </p> + <p> + ‘What is that?’ asked the Duchess. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is almsgiving day,’ replied Mr. Lyle, looking a little embarrassed, + and for the first time blushing. ‘The people of the parishes with which I + am connected come to St. Geneviève twice a-week at this hour.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what is your system?’ inquired Lord Everingham, who had stopped, + interested by the scene. ‘What check have you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The rectors of the different parishes grant certificates to those who in + their belief merit bounty according to the rules which I have established. + These are again visited by my almoner, who countersigns the certificate, + and then they present it at the postern-gate. The certificate explains the + nature of their necessities, and my steward acts on his discretion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mamma, I see them!’ exclaimed Lady Theresa. + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps your Grace may think that they might be relieved without all this + ceremony,’ said Mr. Lyle, extremely confused. ‘But I agree with Henry and + Mr. Coningsby, that Ceremony is not, as too commonly supposed, an idle + form. I wish the people constantly and visibly to comprehend that Property + is their protector and their friend.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My reason is with you, Mr. Lyle,’ said the Duchess, ‘as well as my + heart.’ + </p> + <p> + They came along the valley, a procession of Nature, whose groups an artist + might have studied. The old man, who loved the pilgrimage too much to + avail himself of the privilege of a substitute accorded to his grey hairs, + came in person with his grandchild and his staff. There also came the + widow with her child at the breast, and others clinging to her form; some + sorrowful faces, and some pale; many a serious one, and now and then a + frolic glance; many a dame in her red cloak, and many a maiden with her + light basket; curly-headed urchins with demure looks, and sometimes a + stalwart form baffled for a time of the labour which he desired. But not a + heart there that did not bless the bell that sounded from the tower of St. + Geneviève! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + ‘My fathers perilled their blood and fortunes for the cause of the + Sovereignty and Church of England,’ said Lyle to Coningsby, as they were + lying stretched out on the sunny turf in the park of Beaumanoir,’ and I + inherit their passionate convictions. They were Catholics, as their + descendant. No doubt they would have been glad to see their ancient faith + predominant in their ancient land; but they bowed, as I bow, to an adverse + and apparently irrevocable decree. But if we could not have the Church of + our fathers, we honoured and respected the Church of their children. It + was at least a Church; a ‘Catholic and Apostolic Church,’ as it daily + declares itself. Besides, it was our friend. When we were persecuted by + Puritanic Parliaments, it was the Sovereign and the Church of England that + interposed, with the certainty of creating against themselves odium and + mistrust, to shield us from the dark and relentless bigotry of Calvinism.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe,’ said Coningsby, ‘that if Charles I. had hanged all the + Catholic priests that Parliament petitioned him to execute, he would never + have lost his crown.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You were mentioning my father,’ continued Lyle. ‘He certainly was a Whig. + Galled by political exclusion, he connected himself with that party in the + State which began to intimate emancipation. After all, they did not + emancipate us. It was the fall of the Papacy in England that founded the + Whig aristocracy; a fact that must always lie at the bottom of their + hearts, as, I assure you, it does of mine. + </p> + <p> + ‘I gathered at an early age,’ continued Lyle, ‘that I was expected to + inherit my father’s political connections with the family estates. Under + ordinary circumstances this would probably have occurred. In times that + did not force one to ponder, it is not likely I should have recoiled from + uniting myself with a party formed of the best families in England, and + ever famous for accomplished men and charming women. But I enter life in + the midst of a convulsion in which the very principles of our political + and social systems are called in question. I cannot unite myself with the + party of destruction. It is an operative cause alien to my being. What, + then, offers itself? The Duke talks to me of Conservative principles; but + he does not inform me what they are. I observe indeed a party in the State + whose rule it is to consent to no change, until it is clamorously called + for, and then instantly to yield; but those are Concessionary, not + Conservative principles. This party treats institutions as we do our + pheasants, they preserve only to destroy them. But is there a statesman + among these Conservatives who offers us a dogma for a guide, or defines + any great political truth which we should aspire to establish? It seems to + me a barren thing, this Conservatism, an unhappy cross-breed; the mule of + politics that engenders nothing. What do you think of all this, Coningsby? + I assure you I feel confused, perplexed, harassed. I know I have public + duties to perform; I am, in fact, every day of my life solicited by all + parties to throw the weight of my influence in one scale or another; but I + am paralysed. I often wish I had no position in the country. The sense of + its responsibility depresses me; makes me miserable. I speak to you + without reserve; with a frankness which our short acquaintance scarcely + authorises; but Henry Sydney has so often talked to me of you, and I have + so long wished to know you, that I open my heart without restraint.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear fellow,’ said Coningsby, ‘you have but described my feelings when + you depicted your own. My mind on these subjects has long been a chaos. I + float in a sea of troubles, and should long ago have been wrecked had I + not been sustained by a profound, however vague, conviction, that there + are still great truths, if we could but work them out; that Government, + for instance, should be loved and not hated, and that Religion should be a + faith and not a form.’ + </p> + <p> + The moral influence of residence furnishes some of the most interesting + traits of our national manners. The presence of this power was very + apparent throughout the district that surrounded Beaumanoir. The ladies of + that house were deeply sensible of the responsibility of their position; + thoroughly comprehending their duties, they fulfilled them without + affectation, with earnestness, and with that effect which springs from a + knowledge of the subject. The consequences were visible in the tone of the + peasantry being superior to that which we too often witness. The ancient + feudal feeling that lingers in these sequestered haunts is an instrument + which, when skilfully wielded, may be productive of vast social benefit. + The Duke understood this well; and his family had imbibed all his views, + and seconded them. Lady Everingham, once more in the scene of her past + life, resumed the exercise of gentle offices, as if she had never ceased + to be a daughter of the house, and as if another domain had not its claims + upon her solicitude. Coningsby was often the companion of herself and her + sister in their pilgrimages of charity and kindness. He admired the + graceful energy, and thorough acquaintance with details, with which Lady + Everingham superintended schools, organised societies of relief, and the + discrimination which she brought to bear upon individual cases of + suffering or misfortune. He was deeply interested as he watched the magic + of her manner, as she melted the obdurate, inspired the slothful, consoled + the afflicted, and animated with her smiles and ready phrase the energetic + and the dutiful. Nor on these occasions was Lady Theresa seen under less + favourable auspices. Without the vivacity of her sister, there was in her + demeanour a sweet seriousness of purpose that was most winning; and + sometimes a burst of energy, a trait of decision, which strikingly + contrasted with the somewhat over-controlled character of her life in + drawing-rooms. + </p> + <p> + In the society of these engaging companions, time for Coningsby glided + away in a course which he sometimes wished nothing might disturb. Apart + from them, he frequently felt himself pensive and vaguely disquieted. Even + the society of Henry Sydney or Eustace Lyle, much as under ordinary + circumstances they would have been adapted to his mood, did not compensate + for the absence of that indefinite, that novel, that strange, yet sweet + excitement, which he felt, he knew not exactly how or why, stealing over + his senses. Sometimes the countenance of Theresa Sydney flitted over his + musing vision; sometimes the merry voice of Lady Everingham haunted his + ear. But to be their companion in ride or ramble; to avoid any arrangement + which for many hours should deprive him of their presence; was every day + with Coningsby a principal object. + </p> + <p> + One day he had been out shooting rabbits with Lyle and Henry Sydney, and + returned with them late to Beaumanoir to dinner. He had not enjoyed his + sport, and he had not shot at all well. He had been dreamy, silent, had + deeply felt the want of Lady Everingham’s conversation, that was ever so + poignant and so interestingly personal to himself; one of the secrets of + her sway, though Coningsby was not then quite conscious of it. Talk to a + man about himself, and he is generally captivated. That is the real way to + win him. The only difference between men and women in this respect is, + that most women are vain, and some men are not. There are some men who + have no self-love; but if they have, female vanity is but a trifling and + airy passion compared with the vast voracity of appetite which in the + sterner sex can swallow anything, and always crave for more. + </p> + <p> + When Coningsby entered the drawing-room, there seemed a somewhat unusual + bustle in the room, but as the twilight had descended, it was at first + rather difficult to distinguish who was present. He soon perceived that + there were strangers. A gentleman of pleasing appearance was near a sofa + on which the Duchess and Lady Everingham were seated, and discoursing with + some volubility. His phrases seemed to command attention; his audience had + an animated glance, eyes sparkling with intelligence and interest; not a + word was disregarded. Coningsby did not advance as was his custom; he had + a sort of instinct, that the stranger was discoursing of matters of which + he knew nothing. He turned to a table, he took up a book, which he began + to read upside downwards. A hand was lightly placed on his shoulder. He + looked round, it was another stranger; who said, however, in a tone of + familiar friendliness, + </p> + <p> + ‘How do you do, Coningsby?’ + </p> + <p> + It was a young man about four-and-twenty years of age, tall, good-looking. + Old recollections, his intimate greeting, a strong family likeness, helped + Coningsby to conjecture correctly who was the person who addressed him. It + was, indeed, the eldest son of the Duke, the Marquis of Beaumanoir, who + had arrived at his father’s unexpectedly with his friend, Mr. Melton, on + their way to the north. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Melton was a gentleman of the highest fashion, and a great favourite + in society. He was about thirty, good-looking, with an air that commanded + attention, and manners, though facile, sufficiently finished. He was + communicative, though calm, and without being witty, had at his service a + turn of phrase, acquired by practice and success, which was, or which + always seemed to be, poignant. The ladies seemed especially to be + delighted at his arrival. He knew everything of everybody they cared + about; and Coningsby listened in silence to names which for the first time + reached his ears, but which seemed to excite great interest. Mr. Melton + frequently addressed his most lively observations and his most sparkling + anecdotes to Lady Everingham, who evidently relished all that he said, and + returned him in kind. + </p> + <p> + Throughout the dinner Lady Everingham and Mr. Melton maintained what + appeared a most entertaining conversation, principally about things and + persons which did not in any way interest our hero; who, however, had the + satisfaction of hearing Lady Everingham, in the drawing-room, say in a + careless tone to the Duchess. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am so glad, mamma, that Mr. Melton has come; we wanted some amusement.’ + </p> + <p> + What a confession! What a revelation to Coningsby of his infinite + insignificance! Coningsby entertained a great aversion for Mr. Melton, but + felt his spirit unequal to the social contest. The genius of the + untutored, inexperienced youth quailed before that of the long-practised, + skilful man of the world. What was the magic of this man? What was the + secret of this ease, that nothing could disturb, and yet was not deficient + in deference and good taste? And then his dress, it seemed fashioned by + some unearthly artist; yet it was impossible to detect the unobtrusive + causes of the general effect that was irresistible. Coningsby’s coat was + made by Stultz; almost every fellow in the sixth form had his coats made + by Stultz; yet Coningsby fancied that his own garment looked as if it had + been furnished by some rustic slopseller. He began to wonder where Mr. + Melton got his boots from, and glanced at his own, which, though made in + St. James’s Street, seemed to him to have a cloddish air. + </p> + <p> + Lady Everingham was determined that Mr. Melton should see Beaumanoir to + the greatest advantage. Mr. Melton had never been there before, except at + Christmas, with the house full of visitors and factitious gaiety. Now he + was to see the country. Accordingly, there were long rides every day, + which Lady Everingham called expeditions, and which generally produced + some slight incident which she styled an adventure. She was kind to + Coningsby, but had no time to indulge in the lengthened conversations + which he had previously found so magical. Mr. Melton was always on the + scene, the monopolising hero, it would seem, of every thought, and phrase, + and plan. Coningsby began to think that Beaumanoir was not so delightful a + place as he had imagined. He began to think that he had stayed there + perhaps too long. He had received a letter from Mr. Rigby, to inform him + that he was expected at Coningsby Castle at the beginning of September, to + meet Lord Monmouth, who had returned to England, and for grave and special + reasons was about to reside at his chief seat, which he had not visited + for many years. Coningsby had intended to have remained at Beaumanoir + until that time; but suddenly it occurred to him, that the Age of Ruins + was past, and that he ought to seize the opportunity of visiting + Manchester, which was in the same county as the castle of his grandfather. + So difficult is it to speculate upon events! Muse as we may, we are the + creatures of circumstances; and the unexpected arrival of a London dandy + at the country-seat of an English nobleman sent this representative of the + New Generation, fresh from Eton, nursed in prejudices, yet with a mind + predisposed to inquiry and prone to meditation, to a scene apt to + stimulate both intellectual processes; which demanded investigation and + induced thought, the great METROPOLIS OF LABOUR. + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK III. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0031" id="link2H_4_0031"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK IV + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + A great city, whose image dwells in the memory of man, is the type of some + great idea. Rome represents conquest; Faith hovers over the towers of + Jerusalem; and Athens embodies the pre-eminent quality of the antique + world, Art. + </p> + <p> + In modern ages, Commerce has created London; while Manners, in the most + comprehensive sense of the word, have long found a supreme capital in the + airy and bright-minded city of the Seine. + </p> + <p> + Art was to the ancient world, Science is to the modern: the distinctive + faculty. In the minds of men the useful has succeeded to the beautiful. + Instead of the city of the Violet Crown, a Lancashire village has expanded + into a mighty region of factories and warehouses. Yet, rightly understood, + Manchester is as great a human exploit as Athens. + </p> + <p> + The inhabitants, indeed, are not so impressed with their idiosyncrasy as + the countrymen of Pericles and Phidias. They do not fully comprehend the + position which they occupy. It is the philosopher alone who can conceive + the grandeur of Manchester, and the immensity of its future. There are yet + great truths to tell, if we had either the courage to announce or the + temper to receive them. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + A feeling of melancholy, even of uneasiness, attends our first entrance + into a great town, especially at night. Is it that the sense of all this + vast existence with which we have no connexion, where we are utterly + unknown, oppresses us with our insignificance? Is it that it is terrible + to feel friendless where all have friends? + </p> + <p> + Yet reverse the picture. Behold a community where you are unknown, but + where you will be known, perhaps honoured. A place where you have no + friends, but where, also, you have no enemies. A spot that has hitherto + been a blank in your thoughts, as you have been a cipher in its + sensations, and yet a spot, perhaps, pregnant with your destiny! + </p> + <p> + There is, perhaps, no act of memory so profoundly interesting as to recall + the careless mood and moment in which we have entered a town, a house, a + chamber, on the eve of an acquaintance or an event that has given colour + and an impulse to our future life. + </p> + <p> + What is this Fatality that men worship? Is it a Goddess? + </p> + <p> + Unquestionably it is a power that acts mainly by female agents. Women are + the Priestesses of Predestination. + </p> + <p> + Man conceives Fortune, but Woman conducts it. + </p> + <p> + It is the Spirit of Man that says, ‘I will be great;’ but it is the + Sympathy of Woman that usually makes him so. + </p> + <p> + It was not the comely and courteous hostess of the Adelphi Hotel, + Manchester, that gave occasion to these remarks, though she may deserve + them, and though she was most kind to our Coningsby as he came in late at + night very tired, and not in very good humour. + </p> + <p> + He had travelled the whole day through the great district of labour, his + mind excited by strange sights, and at length wearied by their + multiplication. He had passed over the plains where iron and coal + supersede turf and corn, dingy as the entrance of Hades, and flaming with + furnaces; and now he was among illumined factories with more windows than + Italian palaces, and smoking chimneys taller than Egyptian obelisks. Alone + in the great metropolis of machinery itself, sitting down in a solitary + coffee-room glaring with gas, with no appetite, a whirling head, and not a + plan or purpose for the morrow, why was he there? Because a being, whose + name even was unknown to him, had met him in a hedge alehouse during a + thunderstorm, and told him that the Age of Ruins was past. + </p> + <p> + Remarkable instance of the influence of an individual; some evidence of + the extreme susceptibility of our hero. + </p> + <p> + Even his bedroom was lit by gas. Wonderful city! That, however, could be + got rid of. He opened the window. The summer air was sweet, even in this + land of smoke and toil. He feels a sensation such as in Lisbon or Lima + precedes an earthquake. The house appears to quiver. It is a sympathetic + affection occasioned by a steam-engine in a neighbouring factory. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding, however, all these novel incidents, Coningsby slept the + deep sleep of youth and health, of a brain which, however occasionally + perplexed by thought, had never been harassed by anxiety. He rose early, + freshened, and in fine spirits. And by the time the deviled chicken and + the buttered toast, that mysterious and incomparable luxury, which can + only be obtained at an inn, had disappeared, he felt all the delightful + excitement of travel. + </p> + <p> + And now for action! Not a letter had Coningsby; not an individual in that + vast city was known to him. He went to consult his kind hostess, who + smiled confidence. He was to mention her name at one place, his own at + another. All would be right; she seemed to have reliance in the destiny of + such a nice young man. + </p> + <p> + He saw all; they were kind and hospitable to the young stranger, whose + thought, and earnestness, and gentle manners attracted them. One + recommended him to another; all tried to aid and assist him. He entered + chambers vaster than are told of in Arabian fable, and peopled with + habitants more wondrous than Afrite or Peri. For there he beheld, in + long-continued ranks, those mysterious forms full of existence without + life, that perform with facility, and in an instant, what man can fulfil + only with difficulty and in days. A machine is a slave that neither brings + nor bears degradation; it is a being endowed with the greatest degree of + energy, and acting under the greatest degree of excitement, yet free at + the same time from all passion and emotion. It is, therefore, not only a + slave, but a supernatural slave. And why should one say that the machine + does not live? It breathes, for its breath forms the atmosphere of some + towns. It moves with more regularity than man. And has it not a voice? + Does not the spindle sing like a merry girl at her work, and the + steam-engine roar in jolly chorus, like a strong artisan handling his + lusty tools, and gaining a fair day’s wages for a fair day’s toil? + </p> + <p> + Nor should the weaving-room be forgotten, where a thousand or fifteen + hundred girls may be observed in their coral necklaces, working like + Penelope in the daytime; some pretty, some pert, some graceful and jocund, + some absorbed in their occupation; a little serious some, few sad. And the + cotton you have observed in its rude state, that you have seen the silent + spinner change into thread, and the bustling weaver convert into cloth, + you may now watch as in a moment it is tinted with beautiful colours, or + printed with fanciful patterns. And yet the mystery of mysteries is to + view machines making machines; a spectacle that fills the mind with + curious, and even awful, speculation. + </p> + <p> + From early morn to the late twilight, our Coningsby for several days + devoted himself to the comprehension of Manchester. It was to him a new + world, pregnant with new ideas, and suggestive of new trains of thought + and feeling. In this unprecedented partnership between capital and + science, working on a spot which Nature had indicated as the fitting + theatre of their exploits, he beheld a great source of the wealth of + nations which had been reserved for these times, and he perceived that + this wealth was rapidly developing classes whose power was imperfectly + recognised in the constitutional scheme, and whose duties in the social + system seemed altogether omitted. Young as he was, the bent of his mind, + and the inquisitive spirit of the times, had sufficiently prepared him, + not indeed to grapple with these questions, but to be sensible of their + existence, and to ponder. + </p> + <p> + One evening, in the coffee-room of the hotel, having just finished his + well-earned dinner, and relaxing his mind for the moment in a fresh + research into the Manchester Guide, an individual, who had also been + dining in the same apartment, rose from his table, and, after lolling over + the empty fireplace, reading the framed announcements, looking at the + directions of several letters waiting there for their owners, picking his + teeth, turned round to Coningsby, and, with an air of uneasy familiarity, + said,— + </p> + <p> + ‘First visit to Manchester, sir?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My first.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Gentleman traveller, I presume?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am a traveller.’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Hem! From south?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘From the south.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And pray, sir, how did you find business as you came along? Brisk, I dare + say. And yet there is a something, a sort of a something; didn’t it strike + you, sir, there was a something? A deal of queer paper about, sir!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I fear you are speaking on a subject of which I know nothing,’ said + Coningsby, smiling; ‘I do not understand business at all; though I am not + surprised that, being at Manchester, you should suppose so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! not in business. Hem! Professional?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Coningsby, ‘I am nothing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! an independent gent; hem! and a very pleasant thing, too. Pleased + with Manchester, I dare say?’ continued the stranger. + </p> + <p> + ‘And astonished,’ said Coningsby; ‘I think, in the whole course of my + life, I never saw so much to admire.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Seen all the lions, have no doubt?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I have seen everything,’ said Coningsby, rather eager and with + some pride. + </p> + <p> + ‘Very well, very well,’ exclaimed the stranger, in a patronising tone. + ‘Seen Mr. Birley’s weaving-room, I dare say?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! isn’t it wonderful?’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘A great many people.’ said the stranger, with a rather supercilious + smile. + </p> + <p> + ‘But after all,’ said Coningsby, with animation, ‘it is the machinery + without any interposition of manual power that overwhelms me. It haunts me + in my dreams,’ continued Coningsby; ‘I see cities peopled with machines. + Certainly Manchester is the most wonderful city of modern times!’ + </p> + <p> + The stranger stared a little at the enthusiasm of his companion, and then + picked his teeth. + </p> + <p> + ‘Of all the remarkable things here,’ said Coningsby, ‘what on the whole, + sir, do you look upon as the most so?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In the way of machinery?’ asked the stranger. + </p> + <p> + ‘In the way of machinery.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, in the way of machinery, you know,’ said the stranger, very quietly, + ‘Manchester is a dead letter.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A dead letter!’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Dead and buried,’ said the stranger, accompanying his words with that + peculiar application of his thumb to his nose that signifies so eloquently + that all is up. + </p> + <p> + ‘You astonish me!’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘It’s a booked place though,’ said the stranger, ‘and no mistake. We have + all of us a very great respect for Manchester, of course; look upon her as + a sort of mother, and all that sort of thing. But she is behind the times, + sir, and that won’t do in this age. The long and short of it is, + Manchester is gone by.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought her only fault might be she was too much in advance of the rest + of the country,’ said Coningsby, innocently. + </p> + <p> + ‘If you want to see life,’ said the stranger, ‘go to Staleybridge or + Bolton. There’s high pressure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But the population of Manchester is increasing,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, yes; not a doubt. You see we have all of us a great respect for the + town. It is a sort of metropolis of this district, and there is a good + deal of capital in the place. And it has some firstrate institutions. + There’s the Manchester Bank. That’s a noble institution, full of + commercial enterprise; understands the age, sir; high-pressure to the + backbone. I came up to town to see the manager to-day. I am building a new + mill now myself at Staleybridge, and mean to open it by January, and when + I do, I’ll give you leave to pay another visit to Mr. Birley’s + weaving-room, with my compliments.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very sorry,’ said Coningsby, ‘that I have only another day left; but + pray tell me, what would you recommend me most to see within a reasonable + distance of Manchester?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My mill is not finished,’ said the stranger musingly, ‘and though there + is still a great deal worth seeing at Staleybridge, still you had better + wait to see my new mill. And Bolton, let me see; Bolton, there is nothing + at Bolton that can hold up its head for a moment against my new mill; but + then it is not finished. Well, well, let us see. What a pity this is not + the 1st of January, and then my new mill would be at work! I should like + to see Mr. Birley’s face, or even Mr. Ashworth’s, that day. And the Oxford + Road Works, where they are always making a little change, bit by bit + reform, eh! not a very particular fine appetite, I suspect, for dinner, at + the Oxford Road Works, the day they hear of my new mill being at work. But + you want to see something tip-top. Well, there’s Millbank; that’s regular + slap-up, quite a sight, regular lion; if I were you I would see Millbank.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Millbank!’ said Coningsby; ‘what Millbank?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Millbank of Millbank, made the place, made it himself. About three miles + from Bolton; train to-morrow morning at 7.25, get a fly at the station, + and you will be at Millbank by 8.40.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Unfortunately I am engaged to-morrow morning,’ said Coningsby, ‘and yet I + am most anxious, particularly anxious, to see Millbank.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, there’s a late train,’ said the stranger, ‘3.15; you will be there + by 4.30.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think I could manage that,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Do,’ said the stranger; ‘and if you ever find yourself at Staleybridge, I + shall be very happy to be of service. I must be off now. My train goes at + 9.15.’ And he presented Coningsby with his card as he wished him good + night. + </p> + <h3> + MR. G. O. A. HEAD, STALEYBRIDGE. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + In a green valley of Lancaster, contiguous to that district of factories + on which we have already touched, a clear and powerful stream flows + through a broad meadow land. Upon its margin, adorned, rather than + shadowed, by some old elm-trees, for they are too distant to serve except + for ornament, rises a vast deep red brick pile, which though formal and + monotonous in its general character, is not without a certain beauty of + proportion and an artist-like finish in its occasional masonry. The front, + which is of great extent, and covered with many tiers of small windows, is + flanked by two projecting wings in the same style, which form a large + court, completed by a dwarf wall crowned with a light, and rather elegant + railing; in the centre, the principal entrance, a lofty portal of bold and + beautiful design, surmounted by a statue of Commerce. + </p> + <p> + This building, not without a degree of dignity, is what is technically, + and not very felicitously, called a mill; always translated by the French + in their accounts of our manufacturing riots, ‘moulin;’ and which really + was the principal factory of Oswald Millbank, the father of that youth + whom, we trust, our readers have not quite forgotten. + </p> + <p> + At some little distance, and rather withdrawn from the principal stream, + were two other smaller structures of the same style. About a quarter of a + mile further on, appeared a village of not inconsiderable size, and + remarkable from the neatness and even picturesque character of its + architecture, and the gay gardens that surrounded it. On a sunny knoll in + the background rose a church, in the best style of Christian architecture, + and near it was a clerical residence and a school-house of similar design. + The village, too, could boast of another public building; an Institute + where there were a library and a lecture-room; and a reading-hall, which + any one might frequent at certain hours, and under reasonable regulations. + </p> + <p> + On the other side of the principal factory, but more remote, about + half-a-mile up the valley, surrounded by beautiful meadows, and built on + an agreeable and well-wooded elevation, was the mansion of the mill-owner; + apparently a commodious and not inconsiderable dwelling-house, built in + what is called a villa style, with a variety of gardens and + conservatories. The atmosphere of this somewhat striking settlement was + not disturbed and polluted by the dark vapour, which, to the shame of + Manchester, still infests that great town, for Mr. Millbank, who liked + nothing so much as an invention, unless it were an experiment, took care + to consume his own smoke. + </p> + <p> + The sun was declining when Coningsby arrived at Millbank, and the + gratification which he experienced on first beholding it, was not a little + diminished, when, on enquiring at the village, he was informed that the + hour was past for seeing the works. Determined not to relinquish his + purpose without a struggle, he repaired to the principal mill, and entered + the counting-house, which was situated in one of the wings of the + building. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your pleasure, sir?’ said one of three individuals sitting on high stools + behind a high desk. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish, if possible, to see the works.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite impossible, sir;’ and the clerk, withdrawing his glance, continued + his writing. ‘No admission without an order, and no admission with an + order after two o’clock.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very unfortunate,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sorry for it, sir. Give me ledger K. X., will you, Mr. Benson?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think Mr. Millbank would grant me permission,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Very likely, sir; to-morrow. Mr. Millbank is there, sir, but very much + engaged.’ He pointed to an inner counting-house, and the glass doors + permitted Coningsby to observe several individuals in close converse. + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps his son, Mr. Oswald Millbank, is here?’ inquired Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Oswald is in Belgium,’ said the clerk. + </p> + <p> + ‘Would you give a message to Mr. Millbank, and say a friend of his son’s + at Eton is here, and here only for a day, and wishes very much to see his + works?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Can’t possibly disturb Mr. Millbank now, sir; but, if you like to sit + down, you can wait and see him yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby was content to sit down, though he grew very impatient at the + end of a quarter of an hour. The ticking of the clock, the scratching of + the pens of the three silent clerks, irritated him. At length, voices were + heard, doors opened, and the clerk said, ‘Mr. Millbank is coming, sir,’ + but nobody came; voices became hushed, doors were shut; again nothing was + heard, save the ticking of the clock and the scratching of the pen. + </p> + <p> + At length there was a general stir, and they all did come forth, Mr. + Millbank among them, a well-proportioned, comely man, with a fair face + inclining to ruddiness, a quick, glancing, hazel eye, the whitest teeth, + and short, curly, chestnut hair, here and there slightly tinged with grey. + It was a visage of energy and decision. + </p> + <p> + He was about to pass through the counting-house with his companions, with + whom his affairs were not concluded, when he observed Coningsby, who had + risen. + </p> + <p> + ‘This gentleman wishes to see me?’ he inquired of his clerk, who bowed + assent. + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall be at your service, sir, the moment I have finished with these + gentlemen.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The gentleman wishes to see the works, sir,’ said the clerk. + </p> + <p> + ‘He can see the works at proper times,’ said Mr. Millbank, somewhat + pettishly; ‘tell him the regulations;’ and he was about to go. + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your pardon, sir,’ said Coningsby, coming forward, and with an air + of earnestness and grace that arrested the step of the manufacturer. ‘I am + aware of the regulations, but would beg to be permitted to infringe them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It cannot be, sir,’ said Mr. Millbank, moving. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought, sir, being here only for a day, and as a friend of your son—’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Millbank stopped and said, + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! a friend of Oswald’s, eh? What, at Eton?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, sir, at Eton; and I had hoped perhaps to have found him here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am very much engaged, sir, at this moment,’ said Mr. Millbank; ‘I am + sorry I cannot pay you any personal attention, but my clerk will show you + everything. Mr. Benson, let this gentleman see everything;’ and he + withdrew. + </p> + <p> + ‘Be pleased to write your name here, sir,’ said Mr. Benson, opening a + book, and our friend wrote his name and the date of his visit to Millbank: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘HARRY CONINGSBY, Sept. 2, 1836.’ +</pre> + <p> + Coningsby beheld in this great factory the last and the most refined + inventions of mechanical genius. The building had been fitted up by a + capitalist as anxious to raise a monument of the skill and power of his + order, as to obtain a return for the great investment. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is the glory of Lancashire!’ exclaimed the enthusiastic Mr. Benson. + </p> + <p> + The clerk spoke freely of his master, whom he evidently idolised, and his + great achievements, and Coningsby encouraged him. He detailed to Coningsby + the plans which Mr. Millbank had pursued, both for the moral and physical + well-being of his people; how he had built churches, and schools, and + institutes; houses and cottages on a new system of ventilation; how he had + allotted gardens; established singing classes. + </p> + <p> + ‘Here is Mr. Millbank,’ continued the clerk, as he and Coningsby, quitting + the factory, re-entered the court. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Millbank was approaching the factory, and the moment that he observed + them, he quickened his pace. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Coningsby?’ he said, when he reached them. His countenance was rather + disturbed, and his voice a little trembled, and he looked on our friend + with a glance scrutinising and serious. Coningsby bowed. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry that you should have been received at this place with so + little ceremony, sir,’ said Mr. Millbank; ‘but had your name been + mentioned, you would have found it cherished here.’ He nodded to the + clerk, who disappeared. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby began to talk about the wonders of the factory, but Mr. Millbank + recurred to other thoughts that were passing in his mind. He spoke of his + son: he expressed a kind reproach that Coningsby should have thought of + visiting this part of the world without giving them some notice of his + intention, that he might have been their guest, that Oswald might have + been there to receive him, that they might have made arrangements that he + should see everything, and in the best manner; in short, that they might + all have shown, however slightly, the deep sense of their obligations to + him. + </p> + <p> + ‘My visit to Manchester, which led to this, was quite accidental,’ said + Coningsby. ‘I am bound for the other division of the county, to pay a + visit to my grandfather, Lord Monmouth; but an irresistible desire came + over me during my journey to view this famous district of industry. It is + some days since I ought to have found myself at Coningsby, and this is the + reason why I am so pressed.’ + </p> + <p> + A cloud passed over the countenance of Millbank as the name of Lord + Monmouth was mentioned, but he said nothing. Turning towards Coningsby, + with an air of kindness: + </p> + <p> + ‘At least,’ said he, ‘let not Oswald hear that you did not taste our salt. + Pray dine with me to-day; there is yet an hour to dinner; and as you have + seen the factory, suppose we stroll together through the village.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + The village clock struck five as Mr. Millbank and his guest entered the + gardens of his mansion. Coningsby lingered a moment to admire the beauty + and gay profusion of the flowers. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your situation,’ said Coningsby, looking up the green and silent valley, + ‘is absolutely poetic.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I try sometimes to fancy,’ said Mr. Millbank, with a rather fierce smile, + ‘that I am in the New World.’ + </p> + <p> + They entered the house; a capacious and classic hall, at the end a + staircase in the Italian fashion. As they approached it, the sweetest and + the clearest voice exclaimed from above, ‘Papa! papa!’ and instantly a + young girl came bounding down the stairs, but suddenly seeing a stranger + with her father she stopped upon the landing-place, and was evidently on + the point of as rapidly retreating as she had advanced, when Mr. Millbank + waved his hand to her and begged her to descend. She came down slowly; as + she approached them her father said, ‘A friend you have often heard of, + Edith: this is Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + She started; blushed very much; and then, with a trembling and uncertain + gait, advanced, put forth her hand with a wild unstudied grace, and said + in a tone of sensibility, ‘How often have we all wished to see and to + thank you!’ + </p> + <p> + This daughter of his host was of tender years; apparently she could + scarcely have counted sixteen summers. She was delicate and fragile, but + as she raised her still blushing visage to her father’s guest, Coningsby + felt that he had never beheld a countenance of such striking and such + peculiar beauty. + </p> + <p> + ‘My only daughter, Mr. Coningsby, Edith; a Saxon name, for she is the + daughter of a Saxon.’ + </p> + <p> + But the beauty of the countenance was not the beauty of the Saxons. It was + a radiant face, one of those that seem to have been touched in their + cradle by a sunbeam, and to have retained all their brilliancy and + suffused and mantling lustre. One marks sometimes such faces, diaphanous + with delicate splendour, in the southern regions of France. Her eye, too, + was the rare eye of Aquitaine; soft and long, with lashes drooping over + the cheek, dark as her clustering ringlets. + </p> + <p> + They entered the drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Coningsby,’ said Millbank to his daughter, ‘is in this part of the + world only for a few hours, or I am sure he would become our guest. He + has, however, promised to stay with us now and dine.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If Miss Millbank will pardon this dress,’ said Coningsby, bowing an + apology for his inevitable frock and boots; the maiden raised her eyes and + bent her head. + </p> + <p> + The hour of dinner was at hand. Millbank offered to show Coningsby to his + dressing-room. He was absent but a few minutes. When he returned he found + Miss Millbank alone. He came somewhat suddenly into the room. She was + playing with her dog, but ceased the moment she observed Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby, who since his practice with Lady Everingham, flattered himself + that he had advanced in small talk, and was not sorry that he had now an + opportunity of proving his prowess, made some lively observations about + pets and the breeds of lapdogs, but he was not fortunate in extracting a + response or exciting a repartee. He began then on the beauty of Millbank, + which he would on no account have avoided seeing, and inquired when she + had last heard of her brother. The young lady, apparently much distressed, + was murmuring something about Antwerp, when the entrance of her father + relieved her from her embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + Dinner being announced, Coningsby offered his arm to his fair companion, + who took it with her eyes fixed on the ground. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are very fond, I see, of flowers,’ said Coningsby, as they moved + along; and the young lady said ‘Yes.’ + </p> + <p> + The dinner was plain, but perfect of its kind. The young hostess seemed to + perform her office with a certain degree of desperate determination. She + looked at a chicken and then at Coningsby, and murmured something which he + understood. Sometimes she informed herself of his tastes or necessities in + more detail, by the medium of her father, whom she treated as a sort of + dragoman; in this way: ‘Would not Mr. Coningsby, papa, take this or that, + or do so and so?’ Coningsby was always careful to reply in a direct + manner, without the agency of the interpreter; but he did not advance. + Even a petition for the great honour of taking a glass of sherry with her + only induced the beautiful face to bow. And yet when she had first seen + him, she had addressed him even with emotion. What could it be? He felt + less confidence in his increased power of conversation. Why, Theresa + Sydney was scarcely a year older than Miss Millbank, and though she did + not certainly originate like Lady Everingham, he got on with her perfectly + well. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Millbank did not seem to be conscious of his daughter’s silence: at + any rate, he attempted to compensate for it. He talked fluently and well; + on all subjects his opinions seemed to be decided, and his language was + precise. He was really interested in what Coningsby had seen, and what he + had felt; and this sympathy divested his manner of the disagreeable effect + that accompanies a tone inclined to be dictatorial. More than once + Coningsby observed the silent daughter listening with extreme attention to + the conversation of himself and her father. + </p> + <p> + The dessert was remarkable. Millbank was proud of his fruit. A bland + expression of self-complacency spread over his features as he surveyed his + grapes, his peaches, his figs. + </p> + <p> + ‘These grapes have gained a medal,’ he told Coningsby. ‘Those too are + prize peaches. I have not yet been so successful with my figs. These + however promise, and perhaps this year I may be more fortunate.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What would your brother and myself have given for such a dessert at + Eton!’ said Coningsby to Miss Millbank, wishing to say something, and + something too that might interest her. + </p> + <p> + She seemed infinitely distressed, and yet this time would speak. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let me give you some,’ He caught by chance her glance immediately + withdrawn; yet it was a glance not only of beauty, but of feeling and + thought. She added, in a hushed and hurried tone, dividing very nervously + some grapes, ‘I hardly know whether Oswald will be most pleased or grieved + when he hears that you have been here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And why grieved?’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘That he should not have been here to welcome you, and that your stay is + for so brief a time. It seems so strange that after having talked of you + for years, we should see you only for hours.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope I may return,’ said Coningsby, ‘and that Millbank may be here to + welcome me; but I hope I may be permitted to return even if he be not.’ + </p> + <p> + But there was no reply; and soon after, Mr. Millbank talking of the + American market, and Coningsby helping himself to a glass of claret, the + daughter of the Saxon, looking at her father, rose and left the room, so + suddenly and so quickly that Coningsby could scarcely gain the door. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Millbank, filling his glass, and pursuing some previous + observations, ‘all that we want in this country is to be masters of our + own industry; but Saxon industry and Norman manners never will agree; and + some day, Mr. Coningsby, you will find that out.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But what do you mean by Norman manners?’ inquired Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Did you ever hear of the Forest of Rossendale?’ said Millbank. ‘If you + were staying here, you should visit the district. It is an area of + twenty-four square miles. It was disforested in the early part of the + sixteenth century, possessing at that time eighty inhabitants. Its rental + in James the First’s time was 120<i>l.</i> When the woollen manufacture + was introduced into the north, the shuttle competed with the plough in + Rossendale, and about forty years ago we sent them the Jenny. The eighty + souls are now increased to upwards of eighty thousand, and the rental of + the forest, by the last county assessment, amounts to more than 50,000<i>l.</i>, + 41,000 per cent, on the value in the reign of James I. Now I call that an + instance of Saxon industry competing successfully with Norman manners.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly,’ said Coningsby, ‘but those manners are gone.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘From Rossendale,’ said Millbank, with a grim smile; ‘but not from + England.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where do you meet them?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Meet them! In every place, at every hour; and feel them, too, in every + transaction of life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know, sir, from your son,’ said Coningsby, inquiringly, ‘that you are + opposed to an aristocracy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I am not. I am for an aristocracy; but a real one, a natural one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But, sir, is not the aristocracy of England,’ said Coningsby, ‘a real + one? You do not confound our peerage, for example, with the degraded + patricians of the Continent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hum!’ said Millbank. ‘I do not understand how an aristocracy can exist, + unless it be distinguished by some quality which no other class of the + community possesses. Distinction is the basis of aristocracy. If you + permit only one class of the population, for example, to bear arms, they + are an aristocracy; not one much to my taste; but still a great fact. + That, however, is not the characteristic of the English peerage. I have + yet to learn they are richer than we are, better informed, wiser, or more + distinguished for public or private virtue. Is it not monstrous, then, + that a small number of men, several of whom take the titles of Duke and + Earl from towns in this very neighbourhood, towns which they never saw, + which never heard of them, which they did not form, or build, or + establish, I say, is it not monstrous, that individuals so circumstanced, + should be invested with the highest of conceivable privileges, the + privilege of making laws? Dukes and Earls indeed! I say there is nothing + in a masquerade more ridiculous.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But do you not argue from an exception, sir?’ said Coningsby. ‘The + question is, whether a preponderance of the aristocratic principle in a + political constitution be, as I believe, conducive to the stability and + permanent power of a State; and whether the peerage, as established in + England, generally tends to that end? We must not forget in such an + estimate the influence which, in this country, is exercised over opinion + by ancient lineage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ancient lineage!’ said Mr. Millbank; ‘I never heard of a peer with an + ancient lineage. The real old families of this country are to be found + among the peasantry; the gentry, too, may lay some claim to old blood. I + can point you out Saxon families in this county who can trace their + pedigrees beyond the Conquest; I know of some Norman gentlemen whose + fathers undoubtedly came over with the Conqueror. But a peer with an + ancient lineage is to me quite a novelty. No, no; the thirty years of the + wars of the Roses freed us from those gentlemen. I take it, after the + battle of Tewkesbury, a Norman baron was almost as rare a being in England + as a wolf is now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have always understood,’ said Coningsby, ‘that our peerage was the + finest in Europe.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘From themselves,’ said Millbank, ‘and the heralds they pay to paint their + carriages. But I go to facts. When Henry VII. called his first Parliament, + there were only twenty-nine temporal peers to be found, and even some of + them took their seats illegally, for they had been attainted. Of those + twenty-nine not five remain, and they, as the Howards for instance, are + not Norman nobility. We owe the English peerage to three sources: the + spoliation of the Church; the open and flagrant sale of its honours by the + elder Stuarts; and the boroughmongering of our own times. Those are the + three main sources of the existing peerage of England, and in my opinion + disgraceful ones. But I must apologise for my frankness in thus speaking + to an aristocrat.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, by no means, sir, I like discussion. Your son and myself at Eton have + had some encounters of this kind before. But if your view of the case be + correct,’ added Coningsby, smiling, ‘you cannot at any rate accuse our + present peers of Norman manners.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, I do: they adopted Norman manners while they usurped Norman titles. + They have neither the right of the Normans, nor do they fulfil the duty of + the Normans: they did not conquer the land, and they do not defend it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And where will you find your natural aristocracy?’ asked Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Among those men whom a nation recognises as the most eminent for virtue, + talents, and property, and, if you please, birth and standing in the land. + They guide opinion; and, therefore, they govern. I am no leveller; I look + upon an artificial equality as equally pernicious with a factitious + aristocracy; both depressing the energies, and checking the enterprise of + a nation. I like man to be free, really free: free in his industry as well + as his body. What is the use of Habeas Corpus, if a man may not use his + hands when he is out of prison?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But it appears to me you have, in a great measure, this natural + aristocracy in England.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah, to be sure! If we had not, where should we be? It is the + counteracting power that saves us, the disturbing cause in the + calculations of short-sighted selfishness. I say it now, and I have said + it a hundred times, the House of Commons is a more aristocratic body than + the House of Lords. The fact is, a great peer would be a greater man now + in the House of Commons than in the House of Lords. Nobody wants a second + chamber, except a few disreputable individuals. It is a valuable + institution for any member of it who has no distinction, neither + character, talents, nor estate. But a peer who possesses all or any of + these great qualifications, would find himself an immeasurably more + important personage in what, by way of jest, they call the Lower House.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is not the revising wisdom of a senate a salutary check on the + precipitation of a popular assembly?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why should a popular assembly, elected by the flower of a nation, be + precipitate? If precipitate, what senate could stay an assembly so chosen? + No, no, no! the thing has been tried over and over again; the idea of + restraining the powerful by the weak is an absurdity; the question is + settled. If we wanted a fresh illustration, we need only look to the + present state of our own House of Lords. It originates nothing; it has, in + fact, announced itself as a mere Court of Registration of the decrees of + your House of Commons; and if by any chance it ventures to alter some + miserable detail in a clause of a bill that excites public interest, what + a clatter through the country, at Conservative banquets got up by the + rural attorneys, about the power, authority, and independence of the House + of Lords; nine times nine, and one cheer more! No, sir, you may make + aristocracies by laws; you can only maintain them by manners. The manners + of England preserve it from its laws. And they have substituted for our + formal aristocracy an essential aristocracy; the government of those who + are distinguished by their fellow-citizens.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But then it would appear,’ said Coningsby, ‘that the remedial action of + our manners has removed all the political and social evils of which you + complain?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They have created a power that may remove them; a power that has the + capacity to remove them. But in a great measure they still exist, and must + exist yet, I fear, for a long time. The growth of our civilisation has + ever been as slow as our oaks; but this tardy development is preferable to + the temporary expansion of the gourd.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The future seems to me sometimes a dark cloud.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not to me,’ said Mr. Millbank. ‘I am sanguine; I am the Disciple of + Progress. But I have cause for my faith. I have witnessed advance. My + father has often told me that in his early days the displeasure of a peer + of England was like a sentence of death to a man. Why it was esteemed a + great concession to public opinion, so late as the reign of George II., + that Lord Ferrars should be executed for murder. The king of a new + dynasty, who wished to be popular with the people, insisted on it, and + even then he was hanged with a silken cord. At any rate we may defend + ourselves now,’ continued Mr. Millbank, ‘and, perhaps, do something more. + I defy any peer to crush me, though there is one who would be very glad to + do it. No more of that; I am very happy to see you at Millbank, very happy + to make your acquaintance,’ he continued, with some emotion, ‘and not + merely because you are my son’s friend and more than friend.’ + </p> + <p> + The walls of the dining-room were covered with pictures of great merit, + all of the modern English school. Mr. Millbank understood no other, he was + wont to say! and he found that many of his friends who did, bought a great + many pleasing pictures that were copies, and many originals that were very + displeasing. He loved a fine free landscape by Lee, that gave him the + broad plains, the green lanes, and running streams of his own land; a + group of animals by Landseer, as full of speech and sentiment as if they + were designed by Aesop; above all, he delighted in the household humour + and homely pathos of Wilkie. And if a higher tone of imagination pleased + him, he could gratify it without difficulty among his favourite masters. + He possessed some specimens of Etty worthy of Venice when it was alive; he + could muse amid the twilight ruins of ancient cities raised by the magic + pencil of Danby, or accompany a group of fair Neapolitans to a festival by + the genial aid of Uwins. + </p> + <p> + Opposite Coningsby was a portrait, which had greatly attracted his + attention during the whole dinner. It represented a woman, young and of a + rare beauty. The costume was of that classical character prevalent in this + country before the general peace; a blue ribbon bound together as a fillet + her clustering chestnut curls. The face was looking out of the canvas, and + Coningsby never raised his eyes without catching its glance of blended + vivacity and tenderness. + </p> + <p> + There are moments when our sensibility is affected by circumstances of a + trivial character. It seems a fantastic emotion, but the gaze of this + picture disturbed the serenity of Coningsby. He endeavoured sometimes to + avoid looking at it, but it irresistibly attracted him. More than once + during dinner he longed to inquire whom it represented; but it is a + delicate subject to ask questions about portraits, and he refrained. + Still, when he was rising to leave the room, the impulse was irresistible. + He said to Mr. Millbank, ‘By whom is that portrait, sir?’ + </p> + <p> + The countenance of Millbank became disturbed; it was not an expression of + tender reminiscence that fell upon his features. On the contrary, the + expression was agitated, almost angry. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! that is by a country artist,’ he said,’ of whom you never heard,’ and + moved away. + </p> + <p> + They found Miss Millbank in the drawing-room; she was sitting at a round + table covered with working materials, apparently dressing a doll. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay,’ thought Coningsby, ‘she must be too old for that.’ + </p> + <p> + He addressed her, and seated himself by her side. There were several dolls + on the table, but he discovered, on examination, that they were + pincushions; and elicited, with some difficulty, that they were making for + a fancy fair about to be held in aid of that excellent institution, the + Manchester Athenaeum. Then the father came up and said, + </p> + <p> + ‘My child, let us have some tea;’ and she rose and seated herself at the + tea-table. Coningsby also quitted his seat, and surveyed the apartment. + </p> + <p> + There were several musical instruments; among others, he observed a + guitar; not such an instrument as one buys in a music shop, but such an + one as tinkles at Seville, a genuine Spanish guitar. Coningsby repaired to + the tea-table. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am glad that you are fond of music, Miss Millbank.’ + </p> + <p> + A blush and a bow. + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope after tea you will be so kind as to touch the guitar.’ + </p> + <p> + Signals of great distress. + </p> + <p> + ‘Were you ever at Birmingham?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes:’ a sigh. + </p> + <p> + ‘What a splendid music-hall! They should build one at Manchester.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They ought,’ in a whisper. + </p> + <p> + The tea-tray was removed; Coningsby was conversing with Mr. Millbank, who + was asking him questions about his son; what he thought of Oxford; what he + thought of Oriel; should himself have preferred Cambridge; but had + consulted a friend, an Oriel man, who had a great opinion of Oriel; and + Oswald’s name had been entered some years back. He rather regretted it + now; but the thing was done. Coningsby, remembering the promise of the + guitar, turned round to claim its fulfilment, but the singer had made her + escape. Time elapsed, and no Miss Millbank reappeared. Coningsby looked at + his watch; he had to go three miles to the train, which started, as his + friend of the previous night would phrase it, at 9.45. + </p> + <p> + ‘I should be happy if you remained with us,’ said Mr. Millbank; ‘but as + you say it is out of your power, in this age of punctual travelling a host + is bound to speed the parting guest. The carriage is ready for you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Farewell, then, sir. You must make my adieux to Miss Millbank, and accept + my thanks for your great kindness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Farewell, Mr. Coningsby,’ said his host, taking his hand, which he + retained for a moment, as if he would say more. Then leaving it, he + repeated with a somewhat wandering air, and in a voice of emotion, + ‘Farewell, farewell, Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + Towards the end of the session of 1836, the hopes of the Conservative + party were again in the ascendant. The Tadpoles and the Tapers had infused + such enthusiasm into all the country attorneys, who, in their turn, had so + bedeviled the registration, that it was whispered in the utmost + confidence, but as a flagrant truth, that Reaction was at length ‘a great + fact.’ All that was required was the opportunity; but as the existing + parliament was not two years old, and the government had an excellent + working majority, it seemed that the occasion could scarcely be furnished. + Under these circumstances, the backstairs politicians, not content with + having by their premature movements already seriously damaged the career + of their leader, to whom in public they pretended to be devoted, began + weaving again their old intrigues about the court, and not without effect. + </p> + <p> + It was said that the royal ear lent itself with no marked repugnance to + suggestions which might rid the sovereign of ministers, who, after all, + were the ministers not of his choice, but of his necessity. But William + IV., after two failures in a similar attempt, after his respective + embarrassing interviews with Lord Grey and Lord Melbourne, on their return + to office in 1832 and 1835, was resolved never to make another move unless + it were a checkmate. The king, therefore, listened and smiled, and loved + to talk to his favourites of his private feelings and secret hopes; the + first outraged, the second cherished; and a little of these revelations of + royalty was distilled to great personages, who in their turn spoke + hypothetically to their hangers-on of royal dispositions, and possible + contingencies, while the hangers-on and go-betweens, in their turn, looked + more than they expressed; took county members by the button into a corner, + and advised, as friends, the representatives of boroughs to look sharply + after the next registration. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth, who was never greater than in adversity, and whose + favourite excitement was to aim at the impossible, had never been more + resolved on a Dukedom than when the Reform Act deprived him of the twelve + votes which he had accumulated to attain that object. While all his + companions in discomfiture were bewailing their irretrievable overthrow, + Lord Monmouth became almost a convert to the measure, which had furnished + his devising and daring mind, palled with prosperity, and satiated with a + life of success, with an object, and the stimulating enjoyment of a + difficulty. + </p> + <p> + He had early resolved to appropriate to himself a division of the county + in which his chief seat was situate; but what most interested him, because + it was most difficult, was the acquisition of one of the new boroughs that + was in his vicinity, and in which he possessed considerable property. The + borough, however, was a manufacturing town, and returning only one member, + it had hitherto sent up to Westminster a radical shopkeeper, one Mr. + Jawster Sharp, who had taken what is called ‘a leading part’ in the town + on every ‘crisis’ that had occurred since 1830; one of those zealous + patriots who had got up penny subscriptions for gold cups to Lord Grey; + cries for the bill, the whole bill, and nothing but the bill; and public + dinners where the victual was devoured before grace was said; a worthy who + makes speeches, passes resolutions, votes addresses, goes up with + deputations, has at all times the necessary quantity of confidence in the + necessary individual; confidence in Lord Grey; confidence in Lord Durham; + confidence in Lord Melbourne: and can also, if necessary, give three + cheers for the King, or three groans for the Queen. + </p> + <p> + But the days of the genus Jawster Sharp were over in this borough as well + as in many others. He had contrived in his lustre of agitation to feather + his nest pretty successfully; by which he had lost public confidence and + gained his private end. Three hungry Jawster Sharps, his hopeful sons, had + all become commissioners of one thing or another; temporary appointments + with interminable duties; a low-church son-in-law found himself + comfortably seated in a chancellor’s living; and several cousins and + nephews were busy in the Excise. But Jawster Sharp himself was as pure as + Cato. He had always said he would never touch the public money, and he had + kept his word. It was an understood thing that Jawster Sharp was never to + show his face again on the hustings of Darlford; the Liberal party was + determined to be represented in future by a man of station, substance, + character, a true Reformer, but one who wanted nothing for himself, and + therefore might, if needful, get something for them. They were looking out + for such a man, but were in no hurry. The seat was looked upon as a good + thing; a contest certainly, every place is contested now, but as certainly + a large majority. Notwithstanding all this confidence, however, Reaction + or Registration, or some other mystification, had produced effects even in + this creature of the Reform Bill, the good Borough of Darlford. The + borough that out of gratitude to Lord Grey returned a jobbing shopkeeper + twice to Parliament as its representative without a contest, had now a + Conservative Association, with a banker for its chairman, and a brewer for + its vice-president, and four sharp lawyers nibbing their pens, noting + their memorandum-books, and assuring their neighbours, with a consoling + and complacent air, that ‘Property must tell in the long run.’ Whispers + also were about, that when the proper time arrived, a Conservative + candidate would certainly have the honour of addressing the electors. No + name mentioned, but it was not concealed that he was to be of no ordinary + calibre; a tried man, a distinguished individual, who had already fought + the battle of the constitution, and served his country in eminent posts; + honoured by the nation, favoured by his sovereign. These important and + encouraging intimations were ably diffused in the columns of the + Conservative journal, and in a style which, from its high tone, evidently + indicated no ordinary source and no common pen. Indeed, there appeared + occasionally in this paper, articles written with such unusual vigour, + that the proprietors of the Liberal journal almost felt the necessity of + getting some eminent hand down from town to compete with them. It was + impossible that they could emanate from the rival Editor. They knew well + the length of their brother’s tether. Had they been more versant in the + periodical literature of the day, they might in this ‘slashing’ style have + caught perhaps a glimpse of the future candidate for their borough, the + Right Honourable Nicholas Rigby. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth, though he had been absent from England since 1832, had + obtained from his vigilant correspondent a current knowledge of all that + had occurred in the interval: all the hopes, fears, plans, prospects, + manoeuvres, and machinations; their rise and fall; how some had bloomed, + others were blighted; not a shade of reaction that was not represented to + him; not the possibility of an adhesion that was not duly reported; he + could calculate at Naples at any time, within ten, the result of a + dissolution. The season of the year had prevented him crossing the Alps in + 1834, and after the general election he was too shrewd a practiser in the + political world to be deceived as to the ultimate result. Lord Eskdale, in + whose judgment he had more confidence than in that of any individual, had + told him from the first that the pear was not ripe; Rigby, who always + hedged against his interest by the fulfilment of his prophecy of + irremediable discomfiture, was never very sanguine. Indeed, the whole + affair was always considered premature by the good judges; and a long time + elapsed before Tadpole and Taper recovered their secret influence, or + resumed their ostentatious loquacity, or their silent insolence. + </p> + <p> + The pear, however, was now ripe. Even Lord Eskdale wrote that after the + forthcoming registration a bet was safe, and Lord Monmouth had the + satisfaction of drawing the Whig Minister at Naples into a cool thousand + on the event. Soon after this he returned to England, and determined to + pay a visit to Coningsby Castle, feast the county, patronise the borough, + diffuse that confidence in the party which his presence never failed to + do; so great and so just was the reliance in his unerring powers of + calculation and his intrepid pluck. Notwithstanding Schedule A, the + prestige of his power had not sensibly diminished, for his essential + resources were vast, and his intellect always made the most of his + influence. + </p> + <p> + True, however, to his organisation, Lord Monmouth, even to save his party + and gain his dukedom, must not be bored. He, therefore, filled his castle + with the most agreeable people from London, and even secured for their + diversion a little troop of French comedians. Thus supported, he received + his neighbours with all the splendour befitting his immense wealth and + great position, and with one charm which even immense wealth and great + position cannot command, the most perfect manner in the world. Indeed, + Lord Monmouth was one of the most finished gentlemen that ever lived; and + as he was good-natured, and for a selfish man even good-humoured, there + was rarely a cloud of caprice or ill-temper to prevent his fine manners + having their fair play. The country neighbours were all fascinated; they + were received with so much dignity and dismissed with so much grace. + Nobody would believe a word of the stories against him. Had he lived all + his life at Coningsby, fulfilled every duty of a great English nobleman, + benefited the county, loaded the inhabitants with favours, he would not + have been half so popular as he found himself within a fortnight of his + arrival with the worst county reputation conceivable, and every little + squire vowing that he would not even leave his name at the Castle to show + his respect. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth, whose contempt for mankind was absolute; not a fluctuating + sentiment, not a mournful conviction, ebbing and flowing with + circumstances, but a fixed, profound, unalterable instinct; who never + loved any one, and never hated any one except his own children; was + diverted by his popularity, but he was also gratified by it. At this + moment it was a great element of power; he was proud that, with a vicious + character, after having treated these people with unprecedented neglect + and contumely, he should have won back their golden opinions in a moment + by the magic of manner and the splendour of wealth. His experience proved + the soundness of his philosophy. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth worshipped gold, though, if necessary, he could squander it + like a caliph. He had even a respect for very rich men; it was his only + weakness, the only exception to his general scorn for his species. Wit, + power, particular friendships, general popularity, public opinion, beauty, + genius, virtue, all these are to be purchased; but it does not follow that + you can buy a rich man: you may not be able or willing to spare enough. A + person or a thing that you perhaps could not buy, became invested, in the + eyes of Lord Monmouth, with a kind of halo amounting almost to sanctity. + </p> + <p> + As the prey rose to the bait, Lord Monmouth resolved they should be + gorged. His banquets were doubled; a ball was announced; a public day + fixed; not only the county, but the principal inhabitants of the + neighbouring borough, were encouraged to attend; Lord Monmouth wished it, + if possible, to be without distinction of party. He had come to reside + among his old friends, to live and die where he was born. The Chairman of + the Conservative Association and the Vice President exchanged glances, + which would have become Tadpole and Taper; the four attorneys nibbed their + pens with increased energy, and vowed that nothing could withstand the + influence of the aristocracy ‘in the long run.’ All went and dined at the + Castle; all returned home overpowered by the condescension of the host, + the beauty of the ladies, several real Princesses, the splendour of his + liveries, the variety of his viands, and the flavour of his wines. It was + agreed that at future meetings of the Conservative Association, they + should always give ‘Lord Monmouth and the House of Lords!’ superseding the + Duke of Wellington, who was to figure in an after-toast with the Battle of + Waterloo. + </p> + <p> + It was not without emotion that Coningsby beheld for the first time the + castle that bore his name. It was visible for several miles before he even + entered the park, so proud and prominent was its position, on the + richly-wooded steep of a considerable eminence. It was a castellated + building, immense and magnificent, in a faulty and incongruous style of + architecture, indeed, but compensating in some degree for these + deficiencies of external taste and beauty by the splendour and + accommodation of its exterior, and which a Gothic castle, raised according + to the strict rules of art, could scarcely have afforded. The declining + sun threw over the pile a rich colour as Coningsby approached it, and lit + up with fleeting and fanciful tints the delicate foliage of the rare + shrubs and tall thin trees that clothed the acclivity on which it stood. + Our young friend felt a little embarrassed when, without a servant and in + a hack chaise, he drew up to the grand portal, and a crowd of retainers + came forth to receive him. A superior servant inquired his name with a + stately composure that disdained to be supercilious. It was not without + some degree of pride and satisfaction that the guest replied, ‘Mr. + Coningsby.’ The instantaneous effect was magical. It seemed to Coningsby + that he was borne on the shoulders of the people to his apartment; each + tried to carry some part of his luggage; and he only hoped his welcome + from their superiors might be as hearty. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + It appeared to Coningsby in his way to his room, that the Castle was in a + state of great excitement; everywhere bustle, preparation, moving to and + fro, ascending and descending of stairs, servants in every corner; orders + boundlessly given, rapidly obeyed; many desires, equal gratification. All + this made him rather nervous. It was quite unlike Beaumanoir. That also + was a palace, but it was a home. This, though it should be one to him, + seemed to have nothing of that character. Of all mysteries the social + mysteries are the most appalling. Going to an assembly for the first time + is more alarming than the first battle. Coningsby had never before been in + a great house full of company. It seemed an overwhelming affair. The sight + of the servants bewildered him; how then was he to encounter their + masters? + </p> + <p> + That, however, he must do in a moment. A groom of the chambers indicates + the way to him, as he proceeds with a hesitating yet hurried step through + several ante-chambers and drawing-rooms; then doors are suddenly thrown + open, and he is ushered into the largest and most sumptuous saloon that he + had ever entered. It was full of ladies and gentlemen. Coningsby for the + first time in his life was at a great party. His immediate emotion was to + sink into the earth; but perceiving that no one even noticed him, and that + not an eye had been attracted to his entrance, he regained his breath and + in some degree his composure, and standing aside, endeavoured to make + himself, as well as he could, master of the land. + </p> + <p> + Not a human being that he had ever seen before! The circumstance of not + being noticed, which a few minutes since he had felt as a relief, became + now a cause of annoyance. It seemed that he was the only person standing + alone whom no one was addressing. He felt renewed and aggravated + embarrassment, and fancied, perhaps was conscious, that he was blushing. + At length his ear caught the voice of Mr. Rigby. The speaker was not + visible; he was at a distance surrounded by a wondering group, whom he was + severally and collectively contradicting, but Coningsby could not mistake + those harsh, arrogant tones. He was not sorry indeed that Mr. Rigby did + not observe him. Coningsby never loved him particularly, which was rather + ungrateful, for he was a person who had been kind, and, on the whole, + serviceable to him; but Coningsby writhed, especially as he grew older, + under Mr. Rigby’s patronising air and paternal tone. Even in old days, + though attentive, Coningsby had never found him affectionate. Mr. Rigby + would tell him what to do and see, but never asked him what he wished to + do and see. It seemed to Coningsby that it was always contrived that he + should appear the <i>protégé</i>, or poor relation, of a dependent of his + family. These feelings, which the thought of Mr. Rigby had revived, caused + our young friend, by an inevitable association of ideas, to remember that, + unknown and unnoticed as he might be, he was the only Coningsby in that + proud Castle, except the Lord of the Castle himself; and he began to be + rather ashamed of permitting a sense of his inexperience in the mere forms + and fashions of society so to oppress him, and deprive him, as it were, of + the spirit and carriage which became alike his character and his position. + Emboldened and greatly restored to himself, Coningsby advanced into the + body of the saloon. + </p> + <p> + On his legs, wearing his blue ribbon and bending his head frequently to a + lady who was seated on a sofa, and continually addressed him, Coningsby + recognised his grandfather. Lord Monmouth was somewhat balder than four + years ago, when he had come down to Montem, and a little more portly + perhaps; but otherwise unchanged. Lord Monmouth never condescended to the + artifices of the toilet, and, indeed, notwithstanding his life of excess, + had little need of them. Nature had done much for him, and the slow + progress of decay was carried off by his consummate bearing. He looked, + indeed, the chieftain of a house of whom a cadet might be proud. + </p> + <p> + For Coningsby, not only the chief of his house, but his host too. In + either capacity he ought to address Lord Monmouth. To sit down to dinner + without having previously paid his respects to his grandfather, to whom he + was so much indebted, and whom he had not seen for so many years, struck + him not only as uncourtly, but as unkind and ungrateful, and, indeed, in + the highest degree absurd. But how was he to do it? Lord Monmouth seemed + deeply engaged, and apparently with some very great lady. And if Coningsby + advanced and bowed, in all probability he would only get a bow in return. + He remembered the bow of his first interview. It had made a lasting + impression on his mind. For it was more than likely Lord Monmouth would + not recognise him. Four years had not sensibly altered Lord Monmouth, but + four years had changed Harry Coningsby from a schoolboy into a man. Then + how was he to make himself known to his grandfather? To announce himself + as Coningsby, as his Lordship’s grandson, seemed somewhat ridiculous: to + address his grandfather as Lord Monmouth would serve no purpose: to style + Lord Monmouth ‘grandfather’ would make every one laugh, and seem stiff and + unnatural. What was he to do? To fall into an attitude and exclaim, + ‘Behold your grandchild!’ or, ‘Have you forgotten your Harry?’ + </p> + <p> + Even to catch Lord Monmouth’s glance was not an easy affair; he was much + occupied on one side by the great lady, on the other were several + gentlemen who occasionally joined in the conversation. But something must + be done. + </p> + <p> + There ran through Coningsby’s character, as we have before mentioned, a + vein of simplicity which was not its least charm. It resulted, no doubt, + in a great degree from the earnestness of his nature. There never was a + boy so totally devoid of affectation, which was remarkable, for he had a + brilliant imagination, a quality that, from its fantasies, and the vague + and indefinite desires it engenders, generally makes those whose + characters are not formed, affected. The Duchess, who was a fine judge of + character, and who greatly regarded Coningsby, often mentioned this trait + as one which, combined with his great abilities and acquirements so + unusual at his age, rendered him very interesting. In the present instance + it happened that, while Coningsby was watching his grandfather, he + observed a gentleman advance, make his bow, say and receive a few words + and retire. This little incident, however, made a momentary diversion in + the immediate circle of Lord Monmouth, and before they could all resume + their former talk and fall into their previous positions, an impulse sent + forth Coningsby, who walked up to Lord Monmouth, and standing before him, + said, + </p> + <p> + ‘How do you do, grandpapa?’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth beheld his grandson. His comprehensive and penetrating + glance took in every point with a flash. There stood before him one of the + handsomest youths he had ever seen, with a mien as graceful as his + countenance was captivating; and his whole air breathing that freshness + and ingenuousness which none so much appreciates as the used man of the + world. And this was his child; the only one of his blood to whom he had + been kind. It would be exaggeration to say that Lord Monmouth’s heart was + touched; but his goodnature effervesced, and his fine taste was deeply + gratified. He perceived in an instant such a relation might be a valuable + adherent; an irresistible candidate for future elections: a brilliant tool + to work out the Dukedom. All these impressions and ideas, and many more, + passed through the quick brain of Lord Monmouth ere the sound of + Coningsby’s words had seemed to cease, and long before the surrounding + guests had recovered from the surprise which they had occasioned them, and + which did not diminish, when Lord Monmouth, advancing, placed his arms + round Coningsby with a dignity of affection that would have become Louis + XIV., and then, in the high manner of the old Court, kissed him on each + cheek. + </p> + <p> + ‘Welcome to your home,’ said Lord Monmouth. ‘You have grown a great deal.’ + </p> + <p> + Then Lord Monmouth led the agitated Coningsby to the great lady, who was a + Princess and an Ambassadress, and then, placing his arm gracefully in that + of his grandson, he led him across the room, and presented him in due form + to some royal blood that was his guest, in the shape of a Russian + Grand-duke. His Imperial Highness received our hero as graciously as the + grandson of Lord Monmouth might expect; but no greeting can be imagined + warmer than the one he received from the lady with whom the Grand-duke was + conversing. She was a dame whose beauty was mature, but still radiant. Her + figure was superb; her dark hair crowned with a tiara of curious + workmanship. Her rounded arm was covered with costly bracelets, but not a + jewel on her finely formed bust, and the least possible rouge on her still + oval cheek. Madame Colonna retained her charms. + </p> + <p> + The party, though so considerable, principally consisted of the guests at + the Castle. The suite of the Grand-duke included several counts and + generals; then there were the Russian Ambassador and his lady; and a + Russian Prince and Princess, their relations. The Prince and Princess + Colonna and the Princess Lucretia were also paying a visit to the + Marquess; and the frequency of these visits made some straight-laced + magnificoes mysteriously declare it was impossible to go to Coningsby; but + as they were not asked, it did not much signify. The Marquess knew a great + many very agreeable people of the highest <i>ton</i>, who took a more + liberal view of human conduct, and always made it a rule to presume the + best motives instead of imputing the worst. There was Lady St. Julians, + for example, whose position was of the highest; no one more sought; she + made it a rule to go everywhere and visit everybody, provided they had + power, wealth, and fashion. She knew no crime except a woman not living + with her husband; that was past pardon. So long as his presence sanctioned + her conduct, however shameless, it did not signify; but if the husband + were a brute, neglected his wife first, and then deserted her; then, if a + breath but sullies her name she must be crushed; unless, indeed, her own + family were very powerful, which makes a difference, and sometimes softens + immorality into indiscretion. + </p> + <p> + Lord and Lady Gaverstock were also there, who never said an unkind thing + of anybody; her ladyship was pure as snow; but her mother having been + divorced, she ever fancied she was paying a kind of homage to her parent, + by visiting those who might some day be in the same predicament. There + were other lords and ladies of high degree; and some who, though neither + lords nor ladies, were charming people, which Lord Monmouth chiefly cared + about; troops of fine gentlemen who came and went; and some who were + neither fine nor gentlemen, but who were very amusing or very obliging, as + circumstances required, and made life easy and pleasant to others and + themselves. + </p> + <p> + A new scene this for Coningsby, who watched with interest all that passed + before him. The dinner was announced as served; an affectionate arm guides + him at a moment of some perplexity. + </p> + <p> + ‘When did you arrive, Harry? We shall sit together. How is the Duchess?’ + inquired Mr. Rigby, who spoke as if he had seen Coningsby for the first + time; but who indeed had, with that eye which nothing could escape, + observed his reception by his grandfather, marked it well, and inwardly + digested it. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + There was to be a first appearance on the stage of Lord Monmouth’s theatre + to-night, the expectation of which created considerable interest in the + party, and was one of the principal subjects of conversation at dinner. + Villebecque, the manager of the troop, had married the actress Stella, + once celebrated for her genius and her beauty; a woman who had none of the + vices of her craft, for, though she was a fallen angel, there were what + her countrymen style extenuating circumstances in her declension. With the + whole world at her feet, she had remained unsullied. Wealth and its + enjoyments could not tempt her, although she was unable to refuse her + heart to one whom she deemed worthy of possessing it. She found her fate + in an Englishman, who was the father of her only child, a daughter. She + thought she had met in him a hero, a demi-god, a being of deep passion and + original and creative mind; but he was only a voluptuary, full of violence + instead of feeling, and eccentric, because he had great means with which + he could gratify extravagant whims. Stella found she had made the great + and irretrievable mistake. She had exchanged devotion for a passionate and + evanescent fancy, prompted at first by vanity, and daily dissipating under + the influence of custom and new objects. Though not stainless in conduct, + Stella was pure in spirit. She required that devotion which she had + yielded; and she separated herself from the being to whom she had made the + most precious sacrifice. He offered her the consoling compensation of a + settlement, which she refused; and she returned with a broken spirit to + that profession of which she was still the ornament and the pride. + </p> + <p> + The animating principle of her career was her daughter, whom she educated + with a solicitude which the most virtuous mother could not surpass. To + preserve her from the stage, and to secure for her an independence, were + the objects of her mother’s life; but nature whispered to her, that the + days of that life were already numbered. The exertions of her profession + had alarmingly developed an inherent tendency to pulmonary disease. + Anxious that her child should not be left without some protector, Stella + yielded to the repeated solicitations of one who from the first had been + her silent admirer, and she married Villebecque, a clever actor, and an + enterprising man who meant to be something more. Their union was not of + long duration, though it was happy on the side of Villebecque, and serene + on that of his wife. Stella was recalled from this world, where she had + known much triumph and more suffering; and where she had exercised many + virtues, which elsewhere, though not here, may perhaps be accepted as some + palliation of one great error. + </p> + <p> + Villebecque acted becomingly to the young charge which Stella had + bequeathed to him. He was himself, as we have intimated, a man of + enterprise, a restless spirit, not content to move for ever in the sphere + in which he was born. Vicissitudes are the lot of such aspirants. + Villebecque became manager of a small theatre, and made money. If + Villebecque without a sou had been a schemer, Villebecque with a small + capital was the very Chevalier Law of theatrical managers. He took a + larger theatre, and even that succeeded. Soon he was recognised as the + lessee of more than one, and still he prospered. Villebecque began to + dabble in opera-houses. He enthroned himself at Paris; his envoys were + heard of at Milan and Naples, at Berlin and St. Petersburg. His + controversies with the Conservatoire at Paris ranked among state papers. + Villebecque rolled in chariots and drove cabriolets; Villebecque gave + refined suppers to great nobles, who were honoured by the invitation; + Villebecque wore a red ribbon in the button-hole of his frock, and more + than one cross in his gala dress. + </p> + <p> + All this time the daughter of Stella increased in years and stature, and + we must add in goodness: a mild, soft-hearted girl, as yet with no decided + character, but one who loved calmness and seemed little fitted for the + circle in which she found herself. In that circle, however, she ever + experienced kindness and consideration. No enterprise however hazardous, + no management however complicated, no schemes however vast, ever for a + moment induced Villebecque to forget ‘La Petite.’ If only for one + breathless instant, hardly a day elapsed but he saw her; she was his + companion in all his rapid movements, and he studied every comfort and + convenience that could relieve her delicate frame in some degree from the + inconvenience and exhaustion of travel. He was proud to surround her with + luxury and refinement; to supply her with the most celebrated masters; to + gratify every wish that she could express. + </p> + <p> + But all this time Villebecque was dancing on a volcano. The catastrophe + which inevitably occurs in the career of all great speculators, and + especially theatrical ones, arrived to him. Flushed with his prosperity, + and confident in his constant success, nothing would satisfy him but + universal empire. He had established his despotism at Paris, his dynasties + at Naples and at Milan; but the North was not to him, and he was + determined to appropriate it. Berlin fell before a successful campaign, + though a costly one; but St. Petersburg and London still remained. + Resolute and reckless, nothing deterred Villebecque. One season all the + opera-houses in Europe obeyed his nod, and at the end of it he was ruined. + The crash was utter, universal, overwhelming; and under ordinary + circumstances a French bed and a brasier of charcoal alone remained for + Villebecque, who was equal to the occasion. But the thought of La Petite + and the remembrance of his promise to Stella deterred him from the deed. + He reviewed his position in a spirit becoming a practical philosopher. Was + he worse off than before he commenced his career? Yes, because he was + older; though to be sure he had his compensating reminiscences. But was he + too old to do anything? At forty-five the game was not altogether up; and + in a large theatre, not too much lighted, and with the artifices of a + dramatic toilet, he might still be able successfully to reassume those + characters of coxcombs and muscadins, in which he was once so celebrated. + Luxury had perhaps a little too much enlarged his waist, but diet and + rehearsals would set all right. + </p> + <p> + Villebecque in their adversity broke to La Petite, that the time had + unfortunately arrived when it would be wise for her to consider the most + effectual means for turning her talents and accomplishments to account. He + himself suggested the stage, to which otherwise there were doubtless + objections, because her occupation in any other pursuit would necessarily + separate them; but he impartially placed before her the relative + advantages and disadvantages of every course which seemed to lie open to + them, and left the preferable one to her own decision. La Petite, who had + wept very much over Villebecque’s misfortunes, and often assured him that + she cared for them only for his sake, decided for the stage, solely + because it would secure their not being parted; and yet, as she often + assured him, she feared she had no predisposition for the career. + </p> + <p> + Villebecque had now not only to fill his own parts at the theatre at which + he had obtained an engagement, but he had also to be the instructor of his + ward. It was a life of toil; an addition of labour and effort that need + scarcely have been made to the exciting exertion of performance, and the + dull exercise of rehearsal; but he bore it all without a murmur; with a + self-command and a gentle perseverance which the finest temper in the + world could hardly account for; certainly not when we remember that its + possessor, who had to make all these exertions and endure all this + wearisome toil, had just experienced the most shattering vicissitudes of + fortune, and been hurled from the possession of absolute power and + illimitable self-gratification. + </p> + <p> + Lord Eskdale, who was always doing kind things to actors and actresses, + had a great regard for Villebecque, with whom he had often supped. He had + often been kind, too, to La Petite. Lord Eskdale had a plan for putting + Villebecque, as he termed it, ‘on his legs again.’ It was to establish him + with a French Company in London at some pretty theatre; Lord Eskdale to + take a private box and to make all his friends do the same. Villebecque, + who was as sanguine as he was good-tempered, was ravished by this friendly + scheme. He immediately believed that he should recover his great fortunes + as rapidly as he had lost them. He foresaw in La Petite a genius as + distinguished as that of her mother, although as yet not developed, and he + was boundless in his expressions of gratitude to his patron. And indeed of + all friends, a friend in need is the most delightful. Lord Eskdale had the + talent of being a friend in need. Perhaps it was because he knew so many + worthless persons. But it often happens that worthless persons are merely + people who are worth nothing. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth having written to Mr. Rigby of his intention to reside for + some months at Coningsby, and having mentioned that he wished a troop of + French comedians to be engaged for the summer, Mr. Rigby had immediately + consulted Lord Eskdale on the subject, as the best current authority. + Thinking this a good opportunity of giving a turn to poor Villebecque, and + that it might serve as a capital introduction to their scheme of the + London company, Lord Eskdale obtained for him the engagement. + </p> + <p> + Villebecque and his little troop had now been a month at Coningsby, and + had hitherto performed three times a-week. Lord Monmouth was content; his + guests much gratified; the company, on the whole, much approved of. It + was, indeed, considering its limited numbers, a capital company. There was + a young lady who played the old woman’s parts, nothing could be more + garrulous and venerable; and a lady of maturer years who performed the + heroines, gay and graceful as May. Villebecque himself was a celebrity in + characters of airy insolence and careless frolic. Their old man, indeed, + was rather hard, but handy; could take anything either in the high + serious, or the low droll. Their sentimental lover was rather too much + bewigged, and spoke too much to the audience, a fault rare with the + French; but this hero had a vague idea that he was ultimately destined to + run off with a princess. + </p> + <p> + In this wise, affairs had gone on for a month; very well, but not too + well. The enterprising genius of Villebecque, once more a manager, + prompted him to action. He felt an itching desire to announce a novelty. + He fancied Lord Monmouth had yawned once or twice when the heroine came + on. Villebecque wanted to make a <i>coup.</i> It was clear that La Petite + must sooner or later begin. Could she find a more favourable audience, or + a more fitting occasion, than were now offered? True it was she had a + great repugnance to come out; but it certainly seemed more to her + advantage that she should make her first appearance at a private theatre + than at a public one; supported by all the encouraging patronage of + Coningsby Castle, than subjected to all the cynical criticism of the + stalls of St. James’. + </p> + <p> + These views and various considerations were urged and represented by + Villebecque to La Petite, with all the practised powers of plausibility of + which so much experience as a manager had made him master. La Petite + looked infinitely distressed, but yielded, as she ever did. And the night + of Coningsby’s arrival at the Castle was to witness in its private theatre + the first appearance of MADEMOISELLE FLORA. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + The guests re-assembled in the great saloon before they repaired to the + theatre. A lady on the arm of the Russian Prince bestowed on Coningsby a + haughty, but not ungracious bow; which he returned, unconscious of the + person to whom he bent. She was, however, a striking person; not + beautiful, her face, indeed, at the first glance was almost repulsive, yet + it ever attracted a second gaze. A remarkable pallor distinguished her; + her features had neither regularity nor expression; neither were her eyes + fine; but her brow impressed you with an idea of power of no ordinary + character or capacity. Her figure was as fine and commanding as her face + was void of charm. Juno, in the full bloom of her immortality, could have + presented nothing more majestic. Coningsby watched her as she swept along + like a resistless Fate. + </p> + <p> + Servants now went round and presented to each of the guests a billet of + the performance. It announced in striking characters the <i>début</i> of + Mademoiselle Flora. A principal servant, bearing branch lights, came + forward and bowed to the Marquess. Lord Monmouth went immediately to the + Grand-duke, and notified to his Imperial Highness that the comedy was + ready. The Grand-duke offered his arm to the Ambassadress; the rest were + following; Coningsby was called; Madame Colonna wished him to be her beau. + </p> + <p> + It was a pretty theatre; had been rapidly rubbed up and renovated here and + there; the painting just touched; a little gilding on a cornice. There + were no boxes, but the ground-floor, which gradually ascended, was + carpeted and covered with arm-chairs, and the back of the theatre with a + new and rich curtain of green velvet. + </p> + <p> + They are all seated; a great artist performs on the violin, accompanied by + another great artist on the piano. The lights rise; somebody evidently + crosses the stage behind the curtain. They are disposing the scene. In a + moment the curtain will rise also. + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you seen Lucretia?’ said the Princess to Coningsby. ‘She is so + anxious to resume her acquaintance with you.’ + </p> + <p> + But before he could answer the bell rang, and the curtain rose. + </p> + <p> + The old man, who had a droll part to-night, came forward and maintained a + conversation with his housekeeper; not bad. The young woman who played the + grave matron performed with great finish. She was a favourite, and was + ever applauded. The second scene came; a saloon tastefully furnished; a + table with flowers, arranged with grace; birds in cages, a lap-dog on a + cushion; some books. The audience were pleased; especially the ladies; + they like to recognise signs of <i>bon ton</i> in the details of the + scene. A rather awful pause, and Mademoiselle Flora enters. She was + greeted with even vehement approbation. Her agitation is extreme; she + curtseys and bows her head, as if to hide her face. The face was pleasing, + and pretty enough, soft and engaging. Her figure slight and rather + graceful. Nothing could be more perfect than her costume; purely white, + but the fashion consummate; a single rose her only ornament. All admitted + that her hair was arranged to admiration. + </p> + <p> + At length she spoke; her voice trembled, but she had a good elocution, + though her organ wanted force. The gentlemen looked at each other, and + nodded approbation. There was something so unobtrusive in her mien, that + she instantly became a favourite with the ladies. The scene was not long, + but it was successful. + </p> + <p> + Flora did not appear in the next scene. In the fourth and final one of the + act, she had to make a grand display. It was a love-scene, and rather of + an impassioned character; Villebecque was her suitor. He entered first on + the stage. Never had he looked so well, or performed with more spirit. You + would not have given him five-and-twenty years; he seemed redolent of + youth. His dress, too, was admirable. He had studied the most + distinguished of his audience for the occasion, and had outdone them all. + The fact is, he had been assisted a little by a great connoisseur, a + celebrated French nobleman, Count D’O——y, who had been one of + the guests. The thing was perfect; and Lord Monmouth took a pinch of + snuff, and tapped approbation on the top of his box. + </p> + <p> + Flora now re-appeared, received with renewed approbation. It did not seem, + however, that in the interval she had gained courage; she looked agitated. + She spoke, she proceeded with her part; it became impassioned. She had to + speak of her feelings; to tell the secrets of her heart; to confess that + she loved another; her emotion was exquisitely performed, the mournful + tenderness of her tones thrilling. There was, throughout the audience, a + dead silence; all were absorbed in their admiration of the unrivalled + artist; all felt a new genius had visited the stage; but while they were + fascinated by the actress, the woman was in torture. The emotion was the + disturbance of her own soul; the mournful tenderness of her tones thrilled + from the heart: suddenly she clasped her hands with all the exhaustion of + woe; an expression of agony flitted over her countenance; and she burst + into tears. Villebecque rushed forward, and carried, rather than led, her + from the stage; the audience looking at each other, some of them + suspecting that this movement was a part of the scene. + </p> + <p> + ‘She has talent,’ said Lord Monmouth to the Russian Ambassadress, ‘but + wants practice. Villebecque should send her for a time to the provinces.’ + </p> + <p> + At length M. Villebecque came forward to express his deep regret that the + sudden and severe indisposition of Mlle. Flora rendered it impossible for + the company to proceed with the piece; but that the curtain would descend + to rise again for the second and last piece announced. + </p> + <p> + All this accordingly took place. The experienced performer who acted the + heroines now came forward and disported most jocundly. The failure of + Flora had given fresh animation to her perpetual liveliness. She seemed + the very soul of elegant frolic. In the last scene she figured in male + attire; and in air, fashion, and youth, beat Villebecque out of the field. + She looked younger than Coningsby when he went up to his grandpapa. + </p> + <p> + The comedy was over, the curtain fell; the audience, much amused, + chattered brilliant criticism, and quitted the theatre to repair to the + saloon, where they were to be diverted tonight with Russian dances. Nobody + thought of the unhappy Flora; not a single message to console her in her + grief, to compliment her on what she had done, to encourage her future. + And yet it was a season for a word of kindness; so, at least, thought one + of the audience, as he lingered behind the hurrying crowd, absorbed in + their coming amusements. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had sat very near the stage; he had observed, with great + advantage and attention, the countenance and movements of Flora from the + beginning. He was fully persuaded that her woe was genuine and profound. + He had felt his eyes moist when she wept. He recoiled from the cruelty and + the callousness that, without the slightest symptom of sympathy, could + leave a young girl who had been labouring for their amusement, and who was + suffering for her trial. + </p> + <p> + He got on the stage, ran behind the scenes, and asked for Mlle. Flora. + They pointed to a door; he requested permission to enter. Flora was + sitting at a table, with her face resting on her hands. Villebecque was + there, resting on the edge of the tall fender, and still in the dress in + which he had performed in the last piece. + </p> + <p> + ‘I took the liberty,’ said Coningsby, ‘of inquiring after Mlle. Flora;’ + and then advancing to her, who had raised her head, he added, ‘I am sure + my grandfather must feel much indebted to you, Mademoiselle, for making + such exertions when you were suffering under so much indisposition.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This is very amiable of you, sir,’ said the young lady, looking at him + with earnestness. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mademoiselle has too much sensibility,’ said Villebecque, making an + observation by way of diversion. + </p> + <p> + ‘And yet that must be the soul of fine acting,’ said Coningsby; ‘I look + forward, all look forward, with great interest to the next occasion on + which you will favour us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never!’ said La Petite, in a plaintive tone; ‘oh, I hope, never!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mademoiselle is not aware at this moment,’ said Coningsby, ‘how much her + talent is appreciated. I assure you, sir,’ he added, turning to + Villebecque, ‘I heard but one opinion, but one expression of gratification + at her feeling and her fine taste.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The talent is hereditary,’ said Villebecque. + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed you have reason to say so,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Pardon; I was not thinking of myself. My child reminded me so much of + another this evening. But that is nothing. I am glad you are here, sir, to + reassure Mademoiselle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I came only to congratulate her, and to lament, for our sakes as well as + her own, her indisposition.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not indisposition,’ said La Petite, in a low tone, with her eyes + cast down. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mademoiselle cannot overcome the nervousness incidental to a first + appearance,’ said Villebecque. + </p> + <p> + ‘A last appearance,’ said La Petite: ‘yes, it must be the last.’ She rose + gently, she approached Villebecque, she laid her head on his breast, and + placed her arms round his neck, ‘My father, my best father, yes, say it is + the last.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are the mistress of your lot, Flora,’ said Villebecque; ‘but with + such a distinguished talent—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no, no; no talent. You are wrong, my father. I know myself. I am not + of those to whom nature gives talents. I am born only for still life. I + have no taste except for privacy. The convent is more suited to me than + the stage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you hear what this gentleman says,’ said Villebecque, returning her + embrace. ‘He tells you that his grandfather, my Lord Marquess, I believe, + sir, that every one, that—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, no, no, no!’ said Flora, shaking her head. ‘He comes here because he + is generous, because he is a gentleman; and he wished to soothe the soul + that he knew was suffering. Thank him, my father, thank him for me and + before me, and promise in his presence that the stage and your daughter + have parted for ever.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay, Mademoiselle,’ said Coningsby, advancing and venturing to take her + hand, a soft hand, ‘make no such resolutions to-night. M. Villebecque can + have no other thought or object but your happiness; and, believe me, ‘tis + not I only, but all, who appreciate, and, if they were here, must respect + you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I prefer respect to admiration,’ said Flora; ‘but I fear that respect is + not the appanage of such as I am.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All must respect those who respect themselves,’ said Coningsby. ‘Adieu, + Mademoiselle; I trust to-morrow to hear that you are yourself.’ He bowed + to Villebecque and retired. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime affairs in the drawing-room assumed a very different + character from those behind the scenes. Coningsby returned to brilliancy, + groups apparently gushing with light-heartedness, universal content, and + Russian dances! + </p> + <p> + ‘And you too, do you dance the Russian dances, Mr. Coningsby?’ said Madame + Colonna. + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot dance at all,’ said Coningsby, beginning a little to lose his + pride in the want of an accomplishment which at Eton he had thought it + spirited to despise. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you cannot dance the Russian dances! Lucretia shall teach you,’ said + the Princess; ‘nothing will please her so much.’ + </p> + <p> + On the present occasion the ladies were not so experienced in the + entertainment as the gentlemen; but there was amusement in being + instructed. To be disciplined by a Grand-duke or a Russian Princess was + all very well; but what even good-tempered Lady Gaythorp could not pardon + was, that a certain Mrs. Guy Flouncey, whom they were all of them trying + to put down and to keep down, on this, as almost on every other occasion, + proved herself a more finished performer than even the Russians + themselves. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth had picked up the Guy Flounceys during a Roman winter. They + were people of some position in society. Mr. Guy Flouncey was a man of + good estate, a sportsman, proud of his pretty wife. Mrs. Guy Flouncey was + even very pretty, dressed in a style of ultra fashion. However, she could + sing, dance, act, ride, and talk, and all well; and was mistress of the + art of flirtation. She had amused the Marquess abroad, and had taken care + to call at Monmouth House the instant the <i>Morning Post</i> apprised her + he had arrived in England; the consequence was an invitation to Coningsby. + She came with a wardrobe which, in point of variety, fancy, and fashion, + never was surpassed. Morning and evening, every day a new dress equally + striking; and a riding habit that was the talk and wonder of the whole + neighbourhood. Mrs. Guy Flouncey created far more sensation in the borough + when she rode down the High Street, than what the good people called the + real Princesses. + </p> + <p> + At first the fine ladies never noticed her, or only stared at her over + their shoulders; everywhere sounded, in suppressed whispers, the fatal + question, ‘Who is she?’ After dinner they formed always into polite + groups, from which Mrs. Guy Flouncey was invariably excluded; and if ever + the Princess Colonna, impelled partly by goodnature, and partly from + having known her on the Continent, did kindly sit by her, Lady St. + Julians, or some dame equally benevolent, was sure, by an adroit appeal to + Her Highness on some point which could not be decided without moving, to + withdraw her from her pretty and persecuted companion. + </p> + <p> + It was, indeed, rather difficult work the first few days for Mrs. Guy + Flouncey, especially immediately after dinner. It is not soothing to one’s + self-love to find oneself sitting alone, pretending to look at prints, in + a fine drawing-room, full of fine people who don’t speak to you. But Mrs. + Guy Flouncey, after having taken Coningsby Castle by storm, was not to be + driven out of its drawing-room by the tactics even of a Lady St. Julians. + Experience convinced her that all that was required was a little patience. + Mrs. Guy had confidence in herself, her quickness, her ever ready + accomplishments, and her practised powers of attraction. And she was + right. She was always sure of an ally the moment the gentlemen appeared. + The cavalier who had sat next to her at dinner was only too happy to meet + her again. More than once, too, she had caught her noble host, though a + whole garrison was ever on the watch to prevent her, and he was greatly + amused, and showed that he was greatly amused by her society. Then she + suggested plans to him to divert his guests. In a country-house the + suggestive mind is inestimable. Somehow or other, before a week passed, + Mrs. Guy Flouncey seemed the soul of everything, was always surrounded by + a cluster of admirers, and with what are called ‘the best men’ ever ready + to ride with her, dance with her, act with her, or fall at her feet. The + fine ladies found it absolutely necessary to thaw: they began to ask her + questions after dinner. Mrs. Guy Flouncey only wanted an opening. She was + an adroit flatterer, with a temper imperturbable, and gifted with a + ceaseless energy of conferring slight obligations. She lent them patterns + for new fashions, in all which mysteries she was very versant; and what + with some gentle glozing and some gay gossip, sugar for their tongues and + salt for their tails, she contrived pretty well to catch them all. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> + <p> + Nothing could present a greater contrast than the respective interiors of + Coningsby and Beaumanoir. That air of habitual habitation, which so + pleasingly distinguished the Duke’s family seat, was entirely wanting at + Coningsby. Everything, indeed, was vast and splendid; but it seemed rather + a gala-house than a dwelling; as if the grand furniture and the grand + servants had all come down express from town with the grand company, and + were to disappear and to be dispersed at the same time. And truly there + were manifold traces of hasty and temporary arrangement; new carpets and + old hangings; old paint, new gilding; battalions of odd French chairs, + squadrons of queer English tables; and large tasteless lamps and tawdry + chandeliers, evidently true cockneys, and only taking the air by way of + change. There was, too, throughout the drawing-rooms an absence of all + those minor articles of ornamental furniture that are the offering of + taste to the home we love. There were no books neither; few flowers; no + pet animals; no portfolios of fine drawings by our English artists like + the album of the Duchess, full of sketches by Landseer and Stanfield, and + their gifted brethren; not a print even, except portfolios of H. B.‘s + caricatures. The modes and manners of the house were not rural; there was + nothing of the sweet order of a country life. Nobody came down to + breakfast; the ladies were scarcely seen until dinner-time; they rolled + about in carriages together late in the afternoon as if they were in + London, or led a sort of factitious boudoir life in their provincial + dressing-rooms. + </p> + <p> + The Marquess sent for Coningsby the morning after his arrival and asked + him to breakfast with him in his private rooms. Nothing could be more kind + or more agreeable than his grandfather. He appeared to be interested in + his grandson’s progress, was glad to find Coningsby had distinguished + himself at Eton, solemnly adjured him not to neglect his French. A + classical education, he said, was a very admirable thing, and one which + all gentlemen should enjoy; but Coningsby would find some day that there + were two educations, one which his position required, and another which + was demanded by the world. ‘French, my dear Harry,’ he continued, ‘is the + key to this second education. In a couple of years or so you will enter + the world; it is a different thing to what you read about. It is a + masquerade; a motley, sparkling multitude, in which you may mark all forms + and colours, and listen to all sentiments and opinions; but where all you + see and hear has only one object, plunder. When you get into this crowd + you will find that Greek and Latin are not so much diffused as you + imagine. I was glad to hear you speaking French yesterday. Study your + accent. There are a good many foreigners here with whom you may try your + wing a little; don’t talk to any of them too much. Be very careful of + intimacies. All the people here are good acquaintance; at least pretty + well. Now, here,’ said the Marquess, taking up a letter and then throwing + it on the table again, ‘now here is a man whom I should like you to know, + Sidonia. He will be here in a few days. Lay yourself out for him if you + have the opportunity. He is a man of rare capacity, and enormously rich. + No one knows the world like Sidonia. I never met his equal; and ‘tis so + pleasant to talk with one that can want nothing of you.’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth had invited Coningsby to take a drive with him in the + afternoon. The Marquess wished to show a part of his domain to the + Ambassadress. Only Lucretia, he said, would be with them, and there was a + place for him. This invitation was readily accepted by Coningsby, who was + not yet sufficiently established in the habits of the house exactly to + know how to pass his morning. His friend and patron, Mr. Rigby, was + entirely taken up with the Grand-duke, whom he was accompanying all over + the neighbourhood, in visits to manufactures, many of which Rigby himself + saw for the first time, but all of which he fluently explained to his + Imperial Highness. In return for this, he extracted much information from + the Grand-duke on Russian plans and projects, materials for a ‘slashing’ + article against the Russophobia that he was preparing, and in which he was + to prove that Muscovite aggression was an English interest, and entirely + to be explained by the want of sea-coast, which drove the Czar, for the + pure purposes of commerce, to the Baltic and the Euxine. + </p> + <p> + When the hour for the drive arrived, Coningsby found Lucretia, a young + girl when he had first seen her only four years back, and still his + junior, in that majestic dame who had conceded a superb recognition to him + the preceding eve. She really looked older than Madame Colonna; who, very + beautiful, very young-looking, and mistress of the real arts of the + toilet, those that cannot be detected, was not in the least altered since + she first so cordially saluted Coningsby as her dear young friend at + Monmouth House. + </p> + <p> + The day was delightful, the park extensive and picturesque, the + Ambassadress sparkling with anecdote, and occasionally, in a low voice, + breathing a diplomatic hint to Lord Monmouth, who bowed his graceful + consciousness of her distinguished confidence. Coningsby occasionally took + advantage of one of those moments, when the conversation ceased to be + general, to address Lucretia, who replied in calm, fine smiles, and in + affable monosyllables. She indeed generally succeeded in conveying an + impression to those she addressed, that she had never seen them before, + did not care to see them now, and never wished to see them again. And all + this, too, with an air of great courtesy. + </p> + <p> + They arrived at the brink of a wooded bank; at their feet flowed a fine + river, deep and rushing, though not broad; its opposite bank the boundary + of a richly-timbered park. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! this is beautiful!’ exclaimed the Ambassadress. ‘And is that yours, + Lord Monmouth?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not yet,’ said the Marquess. ‘That is Hellingsley; it is one of the + finest places in the county, with a splendid estate; not so considerable + as Coningsby, but very great. It belongs to an old, a very old man, + without a relative in the world. It is known that the estate will be sold + at his death, which may be almost daily expected. Then it is mine. No one + can offer for it what I can afford. For it gives me this division of the + county, Princess. To possess Hellingsley is one of my objects.’ The + Marquess spoke with an animation unusual with him, almost with a degree of + excitement. + </p> + <p> + The wind met them as they returned, the breeze blew rather freshly. + Lucretia all of a sudden seemed touched with unusual emotion. She was + alarmed lest Lord Monmouth should catch cold; she took a kerchief from her + own well-turned throat to tie round his neck. He feebly resisted, + evidently much pleased. + </p> + <p> + The Princess Lucretia was highly accomplished. In the evening, having + refused several distinguished guests, but instantly yielding to the + request of Lord Monmouth, she sang. It was impossible to conceive a + contralto of more thrilling power, or an execution more worthy of the + voice. Coningsby, who was not experienced in fine singing, listened as if + to a supernatural lay, but all agreed it was of the highest class of + nature and of art; and the Grand-duke was in raptures. Lucretia received + even his Highness’ compliments with a graceful indifference. Indeed, to + those who watched her demeanour, it might be remarked that she seemed to + yield to none, although all bowed before her. + </p> + <p> + Madame Colonna, who was always kind to Coningsby, expressed to him her + gratification from the party of the morning. It must have been delightful, + she assured Coningsby, for Lord Monmouth to have had both Lucretia and his + grandson with him; and Lucretia too, she added, must have been so pleased. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby could not make out why Madame Colonna was always intimating to + him that the Princess Lucretia took such great interest in his existence, + looked forward with such gratification to his society, remembered with so + much pleasure the past, anticipated so much happiness from the future. It + appeared to him that he was to Lucretia, if not an object of repugnance, + as he sometimes fancied, certainly one only of absolute indifference; but + he said nothing. He had already lived long enough to know that it is + unwise to wish everything explained. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime his life was agreeable. Every day, he found, added to his + acquaintance. He was never without a companion to ride or to shoot with; + and of riding Coningsby was very fond. His grandfather, too, was + continually giving him goodnatured turns, and making him of consequence in + the Castle: so that all the guests were fully impressed with the + importance of Lord Monmouth’s grandson. Lady St. Julians pronounced him + distinguished; the Ambassadress thought diplomacy should be his part, as + he had a fine person and a clear brain; Madame Colonna spoke of him always + as if she took intense interest in his career, and declared she liked him + almost as much as Lucretia did; the Russians persisted in always styling + him ‘the young Marquess,’ notwithstanding the Ambassador’s explanations; + Mrs. Guy Flouncey made a dashing attack on him; but Coningsby remembered a + lesson which Lady Everingham had graciously bestowed on him. He was not to + be caught again easily. Besides, Mrs. Guy Flouncey laughed a little too + much, and talked a little too loud. + </p> + <p> + As time flew on, there were changes of visitors, chiefly among the single + men. At the end of the first week after Coningsby’s arrival, Lord Eskdale + appeared, bringing with him Lucian Gay; and soon after followed the + Marquess of Beaumanoir and Mr. Melton. These were all heroes who, in their + way, interested the ladies, and whose advent was hailed with general + satisfaction. Even Lucretia would relax a little to Lord Eskdale. He was + one of her oldest friends, and with a simplicity of manner which amounted + almost to plainness, and with rather a cynical nonchalance in his carriage + towards men, Lord Eskdale was invariably a favourite with women. To be + sure his station was eminent; he was noble, and very rich, and very + powerful, and these are qualities which tell as much with the softer as + the harsher sex; but there are individuals with all these qualities who + are nevertheless unpopular with women. Lord Eskdale was easy, knew the + world thoroughly, had no prejudices, and, above all, had a reputation for + success. A reputation for success has as much influence with women as a + reputation for wealth has with men. Both reputations may be, and often + are, unjust; but we see persons daily make good fortunes by them all the + same. Lord Eskdale was not an impostor; and though he might not have been + so successful a man had he not been Lord Eskdale, still, thrown over by a + revolution, he would have lighted on his legs. + </p> + <p> + The arrival of this nobleman was the occasion of giving a good turn to + poor Flora. He went immediately to see his friend Villebecque and his + troop. Indeed it was a sort of society which pleased Lord Eskdale more + than that which is deemed more refined. He was very sorry about ‘La + Petite;’ but thought that everything would come right in the long run; and + told Villebecque that he was glad to hear him well spoken of here, + especially by the Marquess, who seemed to take to him. As for Flora, he + was entirely against her attempting the stage again, at least for the + present, but as she was a good musician, he suggested to the Princess + Lucretia one night, that the subordinate aid of Flora might be of service + to her, and permit her to favour her friends with some pieces which + otherwise she must deny to them. This suggestion was successful; Flora was + introduced occasionally, soon often, to their parties in the evening, and + her performances were in every respect satisfactory. There was nothing to + excite the jealousy of Lucretia either in her style or her person. And yet + she sang well enough, and was a quiet, refined, retiring, by no means + disagreeable person. She was the companion of Lucretia very often in the + morning as well as in the illumined saloon; for the Princess was devoted + to the art in which she excelled. This connexion on the whole contributed + to the happiness of poor Flora. True it was, in the evening she often + found herself sitting or standing alone and no one noticing her; she had + no dazzling quality to attract men of fashion, who themselves love to + worship ever the fashionable. Even their goddesses must be <i>à la mode</i>. + But Coningsby never omitted an opportunity to show Flora some kindness + under these circumstances. He always came and talked to her, and praised + her singing, and would sometimes hand her refreshments and give her his + arm if necessary. These slight attentions coming from the grandson of Lord + Monmouth were for the world redoubled in their value, though Flora thought + only of their essential kindness; all in character with that first visit + which dwelt on the poor girl’s memory, though it had long ago escaped that + of her visitor. For in truth Coningsby had no other impulse for his + conduct but kind-heartedness. + </p> + <p> + Thus we have attempted to give some faint idea how life glided away at the + Castle the first fortnight that Coningsby passed there. Perhaps we ought + not to omit that Mrs. Guy Flouncey, to the infinite disgust of Lady St. + Julians, who had a daughter with her, successfully entrapped the devoted + attentions of the young Marquess of Beaumanoir, who was never very + backward if a lady would take trouble enough; while his friend, Mr. + Melton, whose barren homage Lady St. Julians wished her daughter ever + particularly to shun, employed all his gaiety, good-humour, frivolity, and + fashion in amusing that young lady, and with irresistible effect. For the + rest, they continued, though they had only partridges to shoot, to pass + the morning without weariness. The weather was fine; the stud numerous; + all might be mounted. The Grand-duke and his suite, guided by Mr. Rigby, + had always some objects to visit, and railroads returned them just in time + for the banquet with an appetite which they had earned, and during which + Rigby recounted their achievements, and his own opinions. + </p> + <p> + The dinner was always firstrate; the evening never failed; music, dancing, + and the theatre offered great resources independently of the soul-subduing + sentiment harshly called flirtation, and which is the spell of a country + house. Lord Monmouth was satisfied, for he had scarcely ever felt wearied. + All that he required in life was to be amused; perhaps that was not all he + required, but it was indispensable. Nor was it wonderful that on the + present occasion he obtained his purpose, for there were half a hundred of + the brightest eyes and quickest brains ever on the watch or the whirl to + secure him distraction. The only circumstance that annoyed him was the + non-arrival of Sidonia. Lord Monmouth could not bear to be disappointed. + He could not refrain from saying, notwithstanding all the resources and + all the exertions of his guests, + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot understand why Sidonia does not come. I wish Sidonia were here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So do I,’ said Lord Eskdale; ‘Sidonia is the only man who tells one + anything new.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We saw Sidonia at Lord Studcaster’s,’ said Lord Beaumanoir. ‘He told + Melton he was coming here.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You know he has bought all Studcaster’s horses,’ said Mr. Melton. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder he does not buy Studcaster himself,’ said Lord Monmouth; ‘I + would if I were he; Sidonia can buy anything,’ he turned to Mrs. Guy + Flouncey. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder who Sidonia is,’ thought Mrs. Guy Flouncey, but she was + determined no one should suppose she did not know. + </p> + <p> + At length one day Coningsby met Madame Colonna in the vestibule before + dinner. + </p> + <p> + ‘Milor is in such good temper, Mr. Coningsby,’ she said; ‘Monsieur de + Sidonia has arrived.’ + </p> + <p> + About ten minutes before dinner there was a stir in the chamber. Coningsby + looked round. He saw the Grand-duke advancing, and holding out his hand in + a manner the most gracious. A gentleman, of distinguished air, but with + his back turned to Coningsby, was bowing as he received his Highness’ + greeting. There was a general pause in the room. Several came forward: + even the Marquess seemed a little moved. Coningsby could not resist the + impulse of curiosity to see this individual of whom he had heard so much. + He glided round the room, and caught the countenance of his companion in + the forest inn; he who announced to him, that ‘the Age of Ruins was past.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> + <p> + Sidonia was descended from a very ancient and noble family of Arragon, + that, in the course of ages, had given to the state many distinguished + citizens. In the priesthood its members had been peculiarly eminent. + Besides several prelates, they counted among their number an Archbishop of + Toledo; and a Sidonia, in a season of great danger and difficulty, had + exercised for a series of years the paramount office of Grand Inquisitor. + </p> + <p> + Yet, strange as it may sound, it is nevertheless a fact, of which there is + no lack of evidence, that this illustrious family during all this period, + in common with two-thirds of the Arragonese nobility, secretly adhered to + the ancient faith and ceremonies of their fathers; a belief in the unity + of the God of Sinai, and the rights and observances of the laws of Moses. + </p> + <p> + Whence came those Mosaic Arabs whose passages across the strait from + Africa to Europe long preceded the invasion of the Mohammedan Arabs, it is + now impossible to ascertain. Their traditions tell us that from time + immemorial they had sojourned in Africa; and it is not improbable that + they may have been the descendants of some of the earlier dispersions; + like those Hebrew colonies that we find in China, and who probably + emigrated from Persia in the days of the great monarchies. Whatever may + have been their origin in Africa, their fortunes in Southern Europe are + not difficult to trace, though the annals of no race in any age can detail + a history of such strange vicissitudes, or one rife with more touching and + romantic incident. Their unexampled prosperity in the Spanish Peninsula, + and especially in the south, where they had become the principal + cultivators of the soil, excited the jealousy of the Goths; and the + Councils of Toledo during the sixth and seventh centuries attempted, by a + series of decrees worthy of the barbarians who promulgated them, to root + the Jewish Arabs out of the land. There is no doubt the Council of Toledo + led, as directly as the lust of Roderick, to the invasion of Spain by the + Moslemin Arabs. The Jewish population, suffering under the most sanguinary + and atrocious persecution, looked to their sympathising brethren of the + Crescent, whose camps already gleamed on the opposite shore. The overthrow + of the Gothic kingdoms was as much achieved by the superior information + which the Saracens received from their suffering kinsmen, as by the + resistless valour of the Desert. The Saracen kingdoms were established. + That fair and unrivalled civilisation arose which preserved for Europe + arts and letters when Christendom was plunged in darkness. The children of + Ishmael rewarded the children of Israel with equal rights and privileges + with themselves. During these halcyon centuries, it is difficult to + distinguish the follower of Moses from the votary of Mahomet. Both alike + built palaces, gardens, and fountains; filled equally the highest offices + of the state, competed in an extensive and enlightened commerce, and + rivalled each other in renowned universities. + </p> + <p> + Even after the fall of the principal Moorish kingdoms, the Jews of Spain + were still treated by the conquering Goths with tenderness and + consideration. Their numbers, their wealth, the fact that, in Arragon + especially, they were the proprietors of the soil, and surrounded by + warlike and devoted followers, secured for them an usage which, for a + considerable period, made them little sensible of the change of dynasties + and religions. But the tempest gradually gathered. As the Goths grew + stronger, persecution became more bold. Where the Jewish population was + scanty they were deprived of their privileges, or obliged to conform under + the title of ‘Nuevos Christianos.’ At length the union of the two crowns + under Ferdinand and Isabella, and the fall of the last Moorish kingdom, + brought the crisis of their fate both to the New Christian and the + nonconforming Hebrew. The Inquisition appeared, the Institution that had + exterminated the Albigenses and had desolated Languedoc, and which, it + should ever be remembered, was established in the Spanish kingdoms against + the protests of the Cortes and amid the terror of the populace. The + Dominicans opened their first tribunal at Seville, and it is curious that + the first individuals they summoned before them were the Duke of Medina + Sidonia, the Marquess of Cadiz, and the Count of Arcos; three of the most + considerable personages in Spain. How many were burned alive at Seville + during the first year, how many imprisoned for life, what countless + thousands were visited with severe though lighter punishments, need not be + recorded here. In nothing was the Holy Office more happy than in multiform + and subtle means by which they tested the sincerity of the New Christians. + </p> + <p> + At length the Inquisition was to be extended to Arragon. The high-spirited + nobles of that kingdom knew that its institution was for them a matter of + life or death. The Cortes of Arragon appealed to the King and to the Pope; + they organised an extensive conspiracy; the chief Inquisitor was + assassinated in the cathedral of Saragossa. Alas! it was fated that in + this, one of the many, and continual, and continuing struggles between the + rival organisations of the North and the South, the children of the sun + should fall. The fagot and the San Benito were the doom of the nobles of + Arragon. Those who were convicted of secret Judaism, and this scarcely + three centuries ago, were dragged to the stake; the sons of the noblest + houses, in whose veins the Hebrew taint could be traced, had to walk in + solemn procession, singing psalms, and confessing their faith in the + religion of the fell Torquemada. + </p> + <p> + This triumph in Arragon, the almost simultaneous fall of the last Moorish + kingdom, raised the hopes of the pure Christians to the highest pitch. + Having purged the new Christians, they next turned their attention to the + old Hebrews. Ferdinand was resolved that the delicious air of Spain should + be breathed no longer by any one who did not profess the Catholic faith. + Baptism or exile was the alternative. More than six hundred thousand + individuals, some authorities greatly increase the amount, the most + industrious, the most intelligent, and the most enlightened of Spanish + subjects, would not desert the religion of their fathers. For this they + gave up the delightful land wherein they had lived for centuries, the + beautiful cities they had raised, the universities from which Christendom + drew for ages its most precious lore, the tombs of their ancestors, the + temples where they had worshipped the God for whom they had made this + sacrifice. They had but four months to prepare for eternal exile, after a + residence of as many centuries; during which brief period forced sales and + glutted markets virtually confiscated their property. It is a calamity + that the scattered nation still ranks with the desolations of + Nebuchadnezzar and of Titus. Who after this should say the Jews are by + nature a sordid people? But the Spanish Goth, then so cruel and so + haughty, where is he? A despised suppliant to the very race which he + banished, for some miserable portion of the treasure which their habits of + industry have again accumulated. Where is that tribunal that summoned + Medina Sidonia and Cadiz to its dark inquisition? Where is Spain? Its + fall, its unparalleled and its irremediable fall, is mainly to be + attributed to the expulsion of that large portion of its subjects, the + most industrious and intelligent, who traced their origin to the Mosaic + and Mohammedan Arabs. + </p> + <p> + The Sidonias of Arragon were Nuevos Christianos. Some of them, no doubt, + were burned alive at the end of the fifteenth century, under the system of + Torquemada; many of them, doubtless, wore the San Benito; but they kept + their titles and estates, and in time reached those great offices to which + we have referred. + </p> + <p> + During the long disorders of the Peninsular war, when so many openings + were offered to talent, and so many opportunities seized by the + adventurous, a cadet of a younger branch of this family made a large + fortune by military contracts, and supplying the commissariat of the + different armies. At the peace, prescient of the great financial future of + Europe, confident in the fertility of his own genius, in his original + views of fiscal subjects, and his knowledge of national resources, this + Sidonia, feeling that Madrid, or even Cadiz, could never be a base on + which the monetary transactions of the world could be regulated, resolved + to emigrate to England, with which he had, in the course of years, formed + considerable commercial connections. He arrived here after the peace of + Paris, with his large capital. He staked all he was worth on the Waterloo + loan; and the event made him one of the greatest capitalists in Europe. + </p> + <p> + No sooner was Sidonia established in England than he professed Judaism; + which Torquemada flattered himself, with the fagot and the San Benito, he + had drained out of the veins of his family more than three centuries ago. + He sent over, also, for several of his brothers, who were as good + Catholics in Spain as Ferdinand and Isabella could have possibly desired, + but who made an offering in the synagogue, in gratitude for their safe + voyage, on their arrival in England. + </p> + <p> + Sidonia had foreseen in Spain that, after the exhaustion of a war of + twenty-five years, Europe must require capital to carry on peace. He + reaped the due reward of his sagacity. Europe did require money, and + Sidonia was ready to lend it to Europe. France wanted some; Austria more; + Prussia a little; Russia a few millions. Sidonia could furnish them all. + The only country which he avoided was Spain; he was too well acquainted + with its resources. Nothing, too, would ever tempt him to lend anything to + the revolted colonies of Spain. Prudence saved him from being a creditor + of the mother-country; his Spanish pride recoiled from the rebellion of + her children. + </p> + <p> + It is not difficult to conceive that, after having pursued the career we + have intimated for about ten years, Sidonia had become one of the most + considerable personages in Europe. He had established a brother, or a near + relative, in whom he could confide, in most of the principal capitals. He + was lord and master of the money-market of the world, and of course + virtually lord and master of everything else. He literally held the + revenues of Southern Italy in pawn; and monarchs and ministers of all + countries courted his advice and were guided by his suggestions. He was + still in the vigour of life, and was not a mere money-making machine. He + had a general intelligence equal to his position, and looked forward to + the period when some relaxation from his vast enterprises and exertions + might enable him to direct his energies to great objects of public + benefit. But in the height of his vast prosperity he suddenly died, + leaving only one child, a youth still of tender years, and heir to the + greatest fortune in Europe, so great, indeed, that it could only be + calculated by millions. + </p> + <p> + Shut out from universities and schools, those universities and schools + which were indebted for their first knowledge of ancient philosophy to the + learning and enterprise of his ancestors, the young Sidonia was fortunate + in the tutor whom his father had procured for him, and who devoted to his + charge all the resources of his trained intellect and vast and varied + erudition. A Jesuit before the revolution; since then an exiled Liberal + leader; now a member of the Spanish Cortes; Rebello was always a Jew. He + found in his pupil that precocity of intellectual development which is + characteristic of the Arabian organisation. The young Sidonia penetrated + the highest mysteries of mathematics with a facility almost instinctive; + while a memory, which never had any twilight hours, but always reflected a + noontide clearness, seemed to magnify his acquisitions of ancient learning + by the promptness with which they could be reproduced and applied. + </p> + <p> + The circumstances of his position, too, had early contributed to give him + an unusual command over the modern languages. An Englishman, and taught + from his cradle to be proud of being an Englishman, he first evinced in + speaking his native language those remarkable powers of expression, and + that clear and happy elocution, which ever afterwards distinguished him. + But the son of a Spaniard, the sonorous syllables of that noble tongue + constantly resounded in his ear; while the foreign guests who thronged his + father’s mansion habituated him from an early period of life to the tones + of languages that were not long strange to him. When he was nineteen, + Sidonia, who had then resided some time with his uncle at Naples, and had + made a long visit to another of his father’s relatives at Frankfort, + possessed a complete mastery over the principal European languages. + </p> + <p> + At seventeen he had parted with Rebello, who returned to Spain, and + Sidonia, under the control of his guardians, commenced his travels. He + resided, as we have mentioned, some time in Germany, and then, having + visited Italy, settled at Naples, at which city it may be said he made his + entrance into life. With an interesting person, and highly accomplished, + he availed himself of the gracious attentions of a court of which he was + principal creditor; and which, treating him as a distinguished English + traveller, were enabled perhaps to show him some favours that the manners + of the country might not have permitted them to accord to his Neapolitan + relatives. Sidonia thus obtained at an early age that experience of + refined and luxurious society, which is a necessary part of a finished + education. It gives the last polish to the manners; it teaches us + something of the power of the passions, early developed in the hot-bed of + self-indulgence; it instils into us that indefinable tact seldom obtained + in later life, which prevents us from saying the wrong thing, and often + impels us to do the right. + </p> + <p> + Between Paris and Naples Sidonia passed two years, spent apparently in the + dissipation which was perhaps inseparable from his time of life. He was + admired by women, to whom he was magnificent, idolised by artists whom he + patronised, received in all circles with great distinction, and + appreciated for his intellect by the very few to whom he at all opened + himself. For, though affable and gracious, it was impossible to penetrate + him. Though unreserved in his manner, his frankness was strictly limited + to the surface. He observed everything, thought ever, but avoided serious + discussion. If you pressed him for an opinion, he took refuge in raillery, + or threw out some grave paradox with which it was not easy to cope. + </p> + <p> + The moment he came of age, Sidonia having previously, at a great family + congress held at Naples, made arrangements with the heads of the houses + that bore his name respecting the disposition and management of his vast + fortune, quitted Europe. + </p> + <p> + Sidonia was absent from his connections for five years, during which + period he never communicated with them. They were aware of his existence + only by the orders which he drew on them for payment, and which arrived + from all quarters of the globe. It would appear from these documents that + he had dwelt a considerable time in the Mediterranean regions; penetrated + Nilotic Africa to Sennaar and Abyssinia; traversed the Asiatic continent + to Tartary, whence he had visited Hindostan, and the isles of that Indian + Sea which are so little known. Afterwards he was heard of at Valparaiso, + the Brazils, and Lima. He evidently remained some time at Mexico, which he + quitted for the United States. One morning, without notice, he arrived in + London. + </p> + <p> + Sidonia had exhausted all the sources of human knowledge; he was master of + the learning of every nation, of all tongues dead or living, of every + literature, Western and Oriental. He had pursued the speculations of + science to their last term, and had himself illustrated them by + observation and experiment. He had lived in all orders of society, had + viewed every combination of Nature and of Art, and had observed man under + every phasis of civilisation. He had even studied him in the wilderness. + The influence of creeds and laws, manners, customs, traditions, in all + their diversities, had been subjected to his personal scrutiny. + </p> + <p> + He brought to the study of this vast aggregate of knowledge a penetrative + intellect that, matured by long meditation, and assisted by that absolute + freedom from prejudice, which, was the compensatory possession of a man + without a country, permitted Sidonia to fathom, as it were by intuition, + the depth of questions apparently the most difficult and profound. He + possessed the rare faculty of communicating with precision ideas the most + abstruse, and in general a power of expression which arrests and satisfies + attention. + </p> + <p> + With all this knowledge, which no one knew more to prize, with boundless + wealth, and with an athletic frame, which sickness had never tried, and + which had avoided excess, Sidonia nevertheless looked upon life with a + glance rather of curiosity than content. His religion walled him out from + the pursuits of a citizen; his riches deprived him of the stimulating + anxieties of a man. He perceived himself a lone being, alike without cares + and without duties. + </p> + <p> + To a man in his position there might yet seem one unfailing source of + felicity and joy; independent of creed, independent of country, + independent even of character. He might have discovered that perpetual + spring of happiness in the sensibility of the heart. But this was a sealed + fountain to Sidonia. In his organisation there was a peculiarity, perhaps + a great deficiency. He was a man without affections. It would be harsh to + say he had no heart, for he was susceptible of deep emotions, but not for + individuals. He was capable of rebuilding a town that was burned down; of + restoring a colony that had been destroyed by some awful visitation of + Nature; of redeeming to liberty a horde of captives; and of doing these + great acts in secret; for, void of all self-love, public approbation was + worthless to him; but the individual never touched him. Woman was to him a + toy, man a machine. + </p> + <p> + The lot the most precious to man, and which a beneficent Providence has + made not the least common; to find in another heart a perfect and profound + sympathy; to unite his existence with one who could share all his joys, + soften all his sorrows, aid him in all his projects, respond to all his + fancies, counsel him in his cares, and support him in his perils; make + life charming by her charms, interesting by her intelligence, and sweet by + the vigilant variety of her tenderness; to find your life blessed by such + an influence, and to feel that your influence can bless such a life: this + lot, the most divine of divine gifts, that power and even fame can never + rival in its delights, all this Nature had denied to Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + With an imagination as fiery as his native Desert, and an intellect as + luminous as his native sky, he wanted, like that land, those softening + dews without which the soil is barren, and the sunbeam as often a + messenger of pestilence as an angel of regenerative grace. + </p> + <p> + Such a temperament, though rare, is peculiar to the East. It inspired the + founders of the great monarchies of antiquity, the prophets that the + Desert has sent forth, the Tartar chiefs who have overrun the world; it + might be observed in the great Corsican, who, like most of the inhabitants + of the Mediterranean isles, had probably Arab blood in his veins. It is a + temperament that befits conquerors and legislators, but, in ordinary times + and ordinary situations, entails on its possessor only eccentric + aberrations or profound melancholy. + </p> + <p> + The only human quality that interested Sidonia was Intellect. He cared not + whence it came; where it was to be found: creed, country, class, + character, in this respect, were alike indifferent to him. The author, the + artist, the man of science, never appealed to him in vain. Often he + anticipated their wants and wishes. He encouraged their society; was as + frank in his conversation as he was generous in his contributions; but the + instant they ceased to be authors, artists, or philosophers, and their + communications arose from anything but the intellectual quality which had + originally interested him, the moment they were rash enough to approach + intimacy and appealed to the sympathising man instead of the congenial + intelligence, he saw them no more. It was not however intellect merely in + these unquestionable shapes that commanded his notice. There was not an + adventurer in Europe with whom he was not familiar. No Minister of State + had such communication with secret agents and political spies as Sidonia. + He held relations with all the clever outcasts of the world. The catalogue + of his acquaintance in the shape of Greeks, Armenians, Moors, secret Jews, + Tartars, Gipsies, wandering Poles and Carbonari, would throw a curious + light on those subterranean agencies of which the world in general knows + so little, but which exercise so great an influence on public events. His + extensive travels, his knowledge of languages, his daring and adventurous + disposition, and his unlimited means, had given him opportunities of + becoming acquainted with these characters, in general so difficult to + trace, and of gaining their devotion. To these sources he owed that + knowledge of strange and hidden things which often startled those who + listened to him. Nor was it easy, scarcely possible, to deceive him. + Information reached him from so many, and such contrary quarters, that + with his discrimination and experience, he could almost instantly + distinguish the truth. The secret history of the world was his pastime. + His great pleasure was to contrast the hidden motive, with the public + pretext, of transactions. + </p> + <p> + One source of interest Sidonia found in his descent and in the fortunes of + his race. As firm in his adherence to the code of the great Legislator as + if the trumpet still sounded on Sinai, he might have received in the + conviction of divine favour an adequate compensation for human + persecution. But there were other and more terrestrial considerations that + made Sidonia proud of his origin, and confident in the future of his kind. + Sidonia was a great philosopher, who took comprehensive views of human + affairs, and surveyed every fact in its relative position to other facts, + the only mode of obtaining truth. + </p> + <p> + Sidonia was well aware that in the five great varieties into which + Physiology has divided the human species; to wit, the Caucasian, the + Mongolian, the Malayan, the American, the Ethiopian; the Arabian tribes + rank in the first and superior class, together, among others, with the + Saxon and the Greek. This fact alone is a source of great pride and + satisfaction to the animal Man. But Sidonia and his brethren could claim a + distinction which the Saxon and the Greek, and the rest of the Caucasian + nations, have forfeited. The Hebrew is an unmixed race. Doubtless, among + the tribes who inhabit the bosom of the Desert, progenitors alike of the + Mosaic and the Mohammedan Arabs, blood may be found as pure as that of the + descendants of the Scheik Abraham. But the Mosaic Arabs are the most + ancient, if not the only, unmixed blood that dwells in cities. + </p> + <p> + An unmixed race of a firstrate organisation are the aristocracy of Nature. + Such excellence is a positive fact; not an imagination, a ceremony, coined + by poets, blazoned by cozening heralds, but perceptible in its physical + advantages, and in the vigour of its unsullied idiosyncrasy. + </p> + <p> + In his comprehensive travels, Sidonia had visited and examined the Hebrew + communities of the world. He had found, in general, the lower orders + debased; the superior immersed in sordid pursuits; but he perceived that + the intellectual development was not impaired. This gave him hope. He was + persuaded that organisation would outlive persecution. When he reflected + on what they had endured, it was only marvellous that the race had not + disappeared. They had defied exile, massacre, spoliation, the degrading + influence of the constant pursuit of gain; they had defied Time. For + nearly three thousand years, according to Archbishop Usher, they have been + dispersed over the globe. To the unpolluted current of their Caucasian + structure, and to the segregating genius of their great Law-giver, Sidonia + ascribed the fact that they had not been long ago absorbed among those + mixed races, who presume to persecute them, but who periodically wear away + and disappear, while their victims still flourish in all the primeval + vigour of the pure Asian breed. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after his arrival in England, Sidonia repaired to the principal + Courts of Europe, that he might become personally acquainted with the + monarchs and ministers of whom he had heard so much. His position insured + him a distinguished reception; his personal qualities immediately made him + cherished. He could please; he could do more, he could astonish. He could + throw out a careless observation which would make the oldest diplomatist + start; a winged word that gained him the consideration, sometimes the + confidence, of Sovereigns. When he had fathomed the intelligence which + governs Europe, and which can only be done by personal acquaintance, he + returned to this country. + </p> + <p> + The somewhat hard and literal character of English life suited one who + shrank from sensibility, and often took refuge in sarcasm. Its masculine + vigour and active intelligence occupied and interested his mind. Sidonia, + indeed, was exactly the character who would be welcomed in our circles. + His immense wealth, his unrivalled social knowledge, his clear vigorous + intellect, the severe simplicity of his manners, frank, but neither + claiming nor brooking familiarity, and his devotion to field sports, which + was the safety-valve of his energy, were all circumstances and qualities + which the English appreciate and admire; and it may be fairly said of + Sidonia that few men were more popular, and none less understood. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> + <p> + At dinner, Coningsby was seated on the same side as Sidonia, and distant + from him. There had been, therefore, no mutual recognition. Another guest + had also arrived, Mr. Ormsby. He came straight from London, full of + rumours, had seen Tadpole, who, hearing he was on the wing for Coningsby + Castle, had taken him into a dark corner of a club, and shown him his + book, a safe piece of confidence, as Mr. Ormsby was very near-sighted. It + was, however, to be received as an undoubted fact, that all was right, and + somehow or other, before very long, there would be national demonstration + of the same. This arrival of Mr. Ormsby, and the news that he bore, gave a + political turn to the conversation after the ladies had left the room. + </p> + <p> + ‘Tadpole wants me to stand for Birmingham,’ said Mr. Ormsby, gravely. + </p> + <p> + ‘You!’ exclaimed Lord Monmouth, and throwing himself back in his chair, he + broke into a real, hearty laugh. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; the Conservatives mean to start two candidates; a manufacturer they + have got, and they have written up to Tadpole for a “West-end man.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A what?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A West-end man, who will make the ladies patronise their fancy articles.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The result of the Reform Bill, then,’ said Lucian Gay, ‘will be to give + Manchester a bishop, and Birmingham a dandy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I begin to believe the result will be very different from what we + expected,’ said Lord Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby shook his head and was going to prophesy, when Lord Eskdale, who + liked talk to be short, and was of opinion that Rigby should keep his + amplifications for his slashing articles, put in a brief careless + observation, which balked his inspiration. + </p> + <p> + ‘Certainly,’ said Mr. Ormsby, ‘when the guns were firing over Vyvyan’s + last speech and confession, I never expected to be asked to stand for + Birmingham.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Perhaps you may be called up to the other house by the title,’ said + Lucian Gay. ‘Who knows?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I agree with Tadpole,’ said Mr. Ormsby, ‘that if we only stick to the + Registration the country is saved.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Fortunate country!’ said Sidonia, ‘that can be saved by a good + registration!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe, after all, that with property and pluck,’ said Lord Monmouth, + ‘Parliamentary Reform is not such a very bad thing.’ + </p> + <p> + Here several gentlemen began talking at the same time, all agreeing with + their host, and proving in their different ways, the irresistible + influence of property and pluck; property in Lord Monmouth’s mind meaning + vassals, and pluck a total disregard for public opinion. Mr. Guy Flouncey, + who wanted to get into parliament, but why nobody knew, who had neither + political abilities nor political opinions, but had some floating idea + that it would get himself and his wife to some more balls and dinners, and + who was duly ticketed for ‘a good thing’ in the candidate list of the + Tadpoles and the Tapers, was of opinion that an immense deal might be done + by properly patronising borough races. That was his specific how to + prevent revolution. + </p> + <p> + Taking advantage of a pause, Lord Monmouth said, ‘I should like to know + what you think of this question, Sidonia?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am scarcely a competent judge,’ he said, as if wishing to disclaim any + interference in the conversation, and then added, ‘but I have been ever of + opinion that revolutions are not to be evaded.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Exactly my views,’ said Mr. Rigby, eagerly; ‘I say it now, I have said it + a thousand times, you may doctor the registration as you like, but you can + never get rid of Schedule A.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is there a person in this room who can now tell us the names of the + boroughs in Schedule A?’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure I cannot, ‘said Lord Monmouth, ‘though six of them belong to + myself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But the principle,’ said Mr. Rigby; ‘they represented a principle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nothing else, certainly,’ said Lucian Gay. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what principle?’ inquired Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘The principle of nomination.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That is a practice, not a principle,’ said Sidonia. ‘Is it a practice + that no longer exists?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You think then,’ said Lord Eskdale, cutting in before Rigby, ‘that the + Reform Bill has done us no harm?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not the Reform Bill that has shaken the aristocracy of this + country, but the means by which that Bill was carried,’ replied Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Physical force?’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘Or social power?’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + Upon this, Mr. Rigby, impatient at any one giving the tone in a political + discussion but himself, and chafing under the vigilance of Lord Eskdale, + which to him ever appeared only fortuitous, violently assaulted the + argument, and astonished several country gentlemen present by its + volubility. They at length listened to real eloquence. At the end of a + long appeal to Sidonia, that gentleman only bowed his head and said, + ‘Perhaps;’ and then, turning to his neighbour, inquired whether birds were + plentiful in Lancashire this season; so that Mr. Rigby was reduced to the + necessity of forming the political opinions of Mr. Guy Flouncey. + </p> + <p> + As the gentlemen left the dining-room, Coningsby, though at some distance, + was observed by Sidonia, who stopped instantly, then advanced to + Coningsby, and extending his hand said, ‘I said we should meet again, + though I hardly expected so quickly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I hope we shall not separate so soon,’ said Coningsby; ‘I was much + struck with what you said just now about the Reform Bill. Do you know that + the more I think the more I am perplexed by what is meant by + Representation?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is a principle of which a limited definition is only current in this + country,’ said Sidonia, quitting the room with him. ‘People may be + represented without periodical elections of neighbours who are incapable + to maintain their interests, and strangers who are unwilling.’ + </p> + <p> + The entrance of the gentlemen produced the same effect on the saloon as + sunrise on the world; universal animation, a general though gentle stir. + The Grand-duke, bowing to every one, devoted himself to the daughter of + Lady St. Julians, who herself pinned Lord Beaumanoir before he could reach + Mrs. Guy Flouncey. Coningsby instead talked nonsense to that lady. + Brilliant cavaliers, including Mr. Melton, addressed a band of beautiful + damsels grouped on a large ottoman. Everywhere sounded a delicious murmur, + broken occasionally by a silver-sounding laugh not too loud. Sidonia and + Lord Eskdale did not join the ladies. They stood for a few moments in + conversation, and then threw themselves on a sofa. + </p> + <p> + ‘Who is that?’ asked Sidonia of his companion rather earnestly, as + Coningsby quitted them. + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis the grandson of Monmouth; young Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! The new generation then promises. I met him once before, by chance; + he interests me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They tell me he is a lively lad. He is a prodigious favourite here, and I + should not be surprised if Monmouth made him his heir.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope he does not dream of inheritance,’ said Sidonia. ‘’Tis the most + enervating of visions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you admire Lady Augustina St. Julians?’ said Mrs. Guy Flouncey to + Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I admire no one except yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! how very gallant, Mr. Coningsby!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘When should men be gallant, if not to the brilliant and the beautiful!’ + said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you are laughing at me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I am not. I am quite grave.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your eyes laugh. Now tell me, Mr. Coningsby, Lord Henry Sydney is a very + great friend of yours?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is very amiable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He does a great deal for the poor at Beaumanoir. A very fine place, is it + not?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘As fine as Coningsby?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At present, with Mrs. Guy Flouncey at Coningsby, Beaumanoir would have no + chance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! you laugh at me again! Now tell me, Mr. Coningsby, what do you think + we shall do to-night? I look upon you, you know, as the real arbiter of + our destinies.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You shall decide,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mon cher Harry,’ said Madame Colonna, coming up, ‘they wish Lucretia to + sing and she will not. You must ask her, she cannot refuse you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I assure you she can,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mon cher Harry, your grandpapa did desire me to beg you to ask her to + sing.’ + </p> + <p> + So Coningsby unwillingly approached Lucretia, who was talking with the + Russian Ambassador. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sent upon a fruitless mission,’ said Coningsby, looking at her, and + catching her glance. + </p> + <p> + ‘What and why?’ she replied. + </p> + <p> + ‘The mission is to entreat you to do us all a great favour; and the cause + of its failure will be that I am the envoy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If the favour be one to yourself, it is granted; and if you be the envoy, + you need never fear failure with me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must presume then to lead you away,’ said Coningsby, bending to the + Ambassador. + </p> + <p> + ‘Remember,’ said Lucretia, as they approached the instrument, ‘that I am + singing to you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is impossible ever to forget it,’ said Coningsby, leading her to the + piano with great politeness, but only with great politeness. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where is Mademoiselle Flora?’ she inquired. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby found La Petite crouching as it were behind some furniture, and + apparently looking over some music. She looked up as he approached, and a + smile stole over her countenance. ‘I am come to ask a favour,’ he said, + and he named his request. + </p> + <p> + ‘I will sing,’ she replied; ‘but only tell me what you like.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby felt the difference between the courtesy of the head and of the + heart, as he contrasted the manner of Lucretia and Flora. Nothing could be + more exquisitely gracious than the daughter of Colonna was to-night; + Flora, on the contrary, was rather agitated and embarrassed; and did not + express her readiness with half the facility and the grace of Lucretia; + but Flora’s arm trembled as Coningsby led her to the piano. + </p> + <p> + Meantime Lord Eskdale and Sidonia are in deep converse. + </p> + <p> + ‘Hah! that is a fine note!’ said Sidonia, and he looked round. ‘Who is + that singing? Some new <i>protégée</i> of Lord Monmouth?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis the daughter of the Colonnas,’ said Lord Eskdale, ‘the Princess + Lucretia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, she was not at dinner to-day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, she was not there.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My favourite voice; and of all, the rarest to be found. When I was a boy, + it made me almost in love even with Pisaroni.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, the Princess is scarcely more lovely. ‘Tis a pity the plumage is + not as beautiful as the note. She is plain.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; not plain with that brow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I rather admire her myself,’ said Lord Eskdale. ‘She has fine + points.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us approach,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + The song ceased, Lord Eskdale advanced, made his compliments, and then + said, ‘You were not at dinner to-day.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why should I be?’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘For our sakes, for mine, if not for your own,’ said Lord Eskdale, + smiling. ‘Your absence has been remarked, and felt, I assure you, by + others as well as myself. There is my friend Sidonia so enraptured with + your thrilling tones, that he has abruptly closed a conversation which I + have been long counting on. Do you know him? May I present him to you?’ + </p> + <p> + And having obtained a consent, not often conceded, Lord Eskdale looked + round, and calling Sidonia, he presented his friend to the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are fond of music, Lord Eskdale tells me?’ said Lucretia. + </p> + <p> + ‘When it is excellent,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘But that is so rare,’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘And precious as Paradise,’ said Sidonia. ‘As for indifferent music, ‘tis + Purgatory; but when it is bad, for my part I feel myself—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where?’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘In the last circle of the Inferno,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + Lord Eskdale turned to Flora. + </p> + <p> + ‘And in what circle do you place us who are here?’ the Princess inquired + of Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘One too polished for his verse,’ replied her companion. + </p> + <p> + ‘You mean too insipid,’ said the Princess. ‘I wish that life were a little + more Dantesque.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is not less treasure in the world,’ said Sidonia, ‘because we use + paper currency; and there is not less passion than of old, though it is <i>bon + ton</i> to be tranquil.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think so?’ said the Princess, inquiringly, and then looking round + the apartment. ‘Have these automata, indeed, souls?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Some of them,’ said Sidonia. ‘As many as would have had souls in the + fourteenth century.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought they were wound up every day,’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘Some are self-impelling,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you can tell at a glance?’ inquired the Princess. ‘You are one of + those who can read human nature?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis a book open to all.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But if they cannot read?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Those must be your automata.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lord Monmouth tells me you are a great traveller?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have not discovered a new world.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you have visited it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is getting old.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I would sooner recall the old than discover the new,’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘We have both of us cause,’ said Sidonia. ‘Our names are the names of the + Past.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not love a world of Utility,’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘You prefer to be celebrated to being comfortable,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘It seems to me that the world is withering under routine.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis the inevitable lot of humanity,’ said Sidonia. ‘Man must ever be the + slave of routine: but in old days it was a routine of great thoughts, and + now it is a routine of little ones.’ + </p> + <p> + The evening glided on; the dance succeeded the song; the ladies were fast + vanishing; Coningsby himself was meditating a movement, when Lord + Beaumanoir, as he passed him, said, ‘Come to Lucian Gay’s room; we are + going to smoke a cigar.’ + </p> + <p> + This was a favourite haunt, towards midnight, of several of the younger + members of the party at the Castle, who loved to find relaxation from the + decorous gravities of polished life in the fumes of tobacco, the + inspiration of whiskey toddy, and the infinite amusement of Lucian Gay’s + conversation and company. This was the genial hour when the good story + gladdened, the pun flashed, and the song sparkled with jolly mirth or + saucy mimicry. To-night, being Coningsby’s initiation, there was a special + general meeting of the Grumpy Club, in which everybody was to say the + gayest things with the gravest face, and every laugh carried a forfeit. + Lucian was the inimitable president. He told a tale for which he was + famous, of ‘the very respectable county family who had been established in + the shire for several generations, but who, it was a fact, had been ever + distinguished by the strange and humiliating peculiarity of being born + with sheep’s tails.’ The remarkable circumstances under which Lucian Gay + had become acquainted with this fact; the traditionary mysteries by which + the family in question had succeeded for generations in keeping it secret; + the decided measures to which the chief of the family had recourse to stop + for ever the rumour when it first became prevalent; and finally the origin + and result of the legend; were details which Lucian Gay, with the most + rueful countenance, loved to expend upon the attentive and expanding + intelligence of a new member of the Grumpy Club. Familiar as all present + were with the story whose stimulus of agonising risibility they had all in + turn experienced, it was with extreme difficulty that any of them could + resist the fatal explosion which was to be attended with the dreaded + penalty. Lord Beaumanoir looked on the table with desperate seriousness, + an ominous pucker quivering round his lip; Mr. Melton crammed his + handkerchief into his mouth with one hand, while he lighted the wrong end + of a cigar with the other; one youth hung over the back of his chair + pinching himself like a faquir, while another hid his countenance on the + table. + </p> + <p> + ‘It was at the Hunt dinner,’ continued Lucian Gay, in an almost solemn + tone, ‘that an idea for a moment was prevalent, that Sir Mowbray + Cholmondeley Fetherstonehaugh, as the head of the family, had resolved to + terminate for ever these mysterious aspersions on his race, that had + circulated in the county for more than two centuries; I mean that the + highly respectable family of the Cholmondeley Fetherstonehaughs had the + misfortune to be graced with that appendage to which I have referred. His + health being drunk, Sir Mowbray Cholmondeley Fetherstonehaugh rose. He was + a little unpopular at the moment, from an ugly story about killing foxes, + and the guests were not as quiet as orators generally desire, so the + Honourable Baronet prayed particular attention to a matter personal to + himself. Instantly there was a dead silence—’ but here Coningsby, + who had moved for some time very restlessly on his chair, suddenly started + up, and struggling for a moment against the inward convulsion, but in + vain, stamped against the floor, and gave a shout. + </p> + <p> + ‘A song from Mr. Coningsby,’ said the president of the Grumpy Club, amid + an universal, and now permissible roar of laughter. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby could not sing; so he was to favour them as a substitute with a + speech or a sentiment. But Lucian Gay always let one off these penalties + easily, and, indeed, was ever ready to fulfil them for all. Song, speech, + or sentiment, he poured them all forth; nor were pastimes more active + wanting. He could dance a Tarantella like a Lazzarone, and execute a + Cracovienne with all the mincing graces of a ballet heroine. + </p> + <p> + His powers of mimicry, indeed, were great and versatile. But in nothing + was he so happy as in a Parliamentary debate. And it was remarkable that, + though himself a man who on ordinary occasions was quite incapable without + infinite perplexity of publicly expressing his sense of the merest + courtesy of society, he was not only a master of the style of every + speaker of distinction in either house, but he seemed in his imitative + play to appropriate their intellectual as well as their physical + peculiarities, and presented you with their mind as well as their manner. + There were several attempts to-night to induce Lucian to indulge his + guests with a debate, but he seemed to avoid the exertion, which was + great. As the night grew old, however, and every hour he grew more lively, + he suddenly broke without further pressure into the promised diversion; + and Coningsby listened really with admiration to a discussion, of which + the only fault was that it was more parliamentary than the original, ‘plus + Arabe que l’Arabie.’ + </p> + <p> + The Duke was never more curt, nor Sir Robert more specious; he was as + fiery as Stanley, and as bitter as Graham. Nor did he do their opponents + less justice. Lord Palmerston himself never treated a profound subject + with a more pleasant volatility; and when Lucian rose at an early hour of + morn, in a full house alike exhausted and excited, and after having + endured for hours, in sarcastic silence, the menacing finger of Sir + Robert, shaking over the green table and appealing to his misdeeds in the + irrevocable records of Hansard, Lord John himself could not have afforded + a more perfect representative of pluck. + </p> + <p> + But loud as was the laughter, and vehement the cheering, with which + Lucian’s performances were received, all these ebullitions sank into + insignificance compared with the reception which greeted what he himself + announced was to be the speech of the night. Having quaffed full many a + quaigh of toddy, he insisted on delivering, it on the table, a proposition + with which his auditors immediately closed. + </p> + <p> + The orator appeared, the great man of the night, who was to answer + everybody on both sides. Ah! that harsh voice, that arrogant style, that + saucy superficiality which decided on everything, that insolent ignorance + that contradicted everybody; it was impossible to mistake them! And + Coningsby had the pleasure of seeing reproduced before him the guardian of + his youth and the patron of the mimic, the Right Honourable Nicholas + Rigby! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. + </h2> + <p> + Madame Colonna, with that vivacious energy which characterises the south, + had no sooner seen Coningsby, and heard his praises celebrated by his + grandfather, than she resolved that an alliance should sooner or later + take place between him and her step-daughter. She imparted her projects + without delay to Lucretia, who received them in a different spirit from + that in which they were communicated. Lucretia bore as little resemblance + to her step-mother in character, as in person. If she did not possess her + beauty, she was born with an intellect of far greater capacity and reach. + She had a deep judgment. A hasty alliance with a youth, arranged by their + mutual relatives, might suit very well the clime and manners of Italy, but + Lucretia was well aware that it was altogether opposed to the habits and + feelings of this country. She had no conviction that either Coningsby + would wish to marry her, or, if willing, that his grandfather would + sanction such a step in one as yet only on the threshold of the world. + Lucretia therefore received the suggestions and proposals of Madarne + Colonna with coldness and indifference; one might even say contempt, for + she neither felt respect for this lady, nor was she sedulous to evince it. + Although really younger than Coningsby, Lucretia felt that a woman of + eighteen is, in all worldly considerations, ten years older than a youth + of the same age. She anticipated that a considerable time might elapse + before Coningsby would feel it necessary to seal his destiny by marriage, + while, on the other hand, she was not only anxious, but resolved, not to + delay on her part her emancipation from the galling position in which she + very frequently found herself. + </p> + <p> + Lucretia felt rather than expressed these ideas and impressions. She was + not naturally communicative, and conversed with no one with less frankness + and facility than with her step-mother. Madame Colonna therefore found no + reasons in her conversation with Lucretia to change her determination. As + her mind was not ingenious she did not see questions in those various + lights which make us at the same time infirm of purpose and tolerant. What + she fancied ought to be done, she fancied must be done; for she perceived + no middle course or alternative. For the rest, Lucretia’s carriage towards + her gave her little discomfort. Besides, she herself, though good-natured, + was obstinate. Her feelings were not very acute; nothing much vexed her. + As long as she had fine dresses, good dinners, and opera-boxes, she could + bear her plans to be crossed like a philosopher; and her consolation under + her unaccomplished devices was her admirable consistency, which always + assured her that her projects were wise, though unfulfilled. + </p> + <p> + She broke her purpose to Mr. Rigby, that she might gain not only his + adhesion to her views, but his assistance in achieving them. As Madame + Colonna, in Mr. Rigby’s estimation, exercised more influence over Lord + Monmouth than any other individual, faithful to his policy or practice, he + agreed with all Madame Colonna’s plans and wishes, and volunteered + instantly to further them. As for the Prince, his wife never consulted him + on any subject, nor did he wish to be consulted. On the contrary, he had + no opinion about anything. All that he required was that he should be + surrounded by what contributed to his personal enjoyment, that he should + never be troubled, and that he should have billiards. He was not inexpert + in field-sports, rode indeed very well for an Italian, but he never cared + to be out-of-doors; and there was only one room in the interior which + passionately interested him. It was where the echoing balls denoted the + sweeping hazard or the effective cannonade. That was the chamber where the + Prince Colonna literally existed. Half-an-hour after breakfast he was in + the billiard-room; he never quitted it until he dressed for dinner; and he + generally contrived, while the world were amused or amusing themselves at + the comedy or in the dance, to steal down with some congenial sprites to + the magical and illumined chamber, and use his cue until bedtime. + </p> + <p> + Faithful to her first impressions, Lucretia had made no difference in her + demeanour to Coningsby to that which she offered to the other guests. + Polite, but uncommunicative; ready to answer, but never originating + conversation; she charmed him as little by her manner as by her person; + and after some attempts, not very painstaking, to interest her, Coningsby + had ceased to address her. The day passed by with only a faint recognition + between them; even that sometimes omitted. + </p> + <p> + When, however, Lucretia observed that Coningsby had become one of the most + notable persons in the Castle; when she heard everywhere of his talents + and accomplishments, his beauty and grace and great acquirements, and + perceived that he was courted by all; that Lord Monmouth omitted no + occasion publicly to evince towards him his regard and consideration; that + he seemed generally looked upon in the light of his grandfather’s heir; + and that Lady St. Julians, more learned in that respect than any lady in + the kingdom, was heard more than once to regret that she had not brought + another daughter with her, Clara Isabella, as well as Augustina; the + Princess Lucretia began to imagine that Madame Colonna, after all, might + not be so extravagant in her purpose as she had first supposed. She, + therefore, surprised Coningsby with the almost affectionate moroseness + with which, while she hated to sing, she yet found pleasure in singing for + him alone. And it is impossible to say what might not have been the next + move in her tactics in this respect, had not the very night on which she + had resolved to commence the enchantment of Coningsby introduced to her + Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + The Princess Lucretia encountered the dark still glance of the friend of + Lord Eskdale. He, too, beheld a woman unlike other women, and with his + fine experience, both as a man and as a physiologist, felt that he was in + the presence of no ordinary organisation. From the evening of his + introduction Sidonia sought the society of the Princess Lucretia. He could + not complain of her reserve. She threw out her mind in various and + highly-cultivated intelligence. He recognised in her a deep and subtile + spirit, considerable reading for a woman, habits of thought, and a soul + passionate and daring. She resolved to subdue one whose appreciation she + had gained, and who had subdued her. The profound meaning and the calm + manner of Sidonia combined to quell her spirit. She struggled against the + spell. She tried to rival his power; to cope with him, and with the same + weapons. But prompt as was her thought and bright as was its expression, + her heart beat in tumult; and, with all her apparent serenity, her + agitated soul was a prey of absorbing passion. She could not contend with + that intelligent, yet inscrutable, eye; with that manner so full of + interest and respect, and yet so tranquil. Besides, they were not on equal + terms. Here was a girl contending with a man learned in the world’s way. + </p> + <p> + Between Sidonia and Coningsby there at once occurred companionship. The + morning after his arrival they went out shooting together. After a long + ramble they would stretch themselves on the turf under a shady tree, often + by the side of some brook where the cresses grow, that added a luxury to + their sporting-meal; and then Coningsby would lead their conversation to + some subject on which Sidonia would pour out his mind with all that depth + of reflection, variety of knowledge, and richness of illustrative memory, + which distinguished him; and which offered so striking a contrast to the + sharp talent, the shallow information, and the worldly cunning, that make + a Rigby. + </p> + <p> + This fellowship between Sidonia and Coningsby elevated the latter still + more in the estimation of Lucretia, and rendered her still more desirous + of gaining his good will and opinion. A great friendship seemed to have + arisen between them, and the world began to believe that there must be + some foundation for Madame Colonna’s innuendos. That lady herself was not + in the least alarmed by the attention which Sidonia paid her + step-daughter. It was, of course, well known that Sidonia was not a + marrying man. He was, however, a great friend of Mr. Coningsby, his + presence and society brought Coningsby and Lucretia more together; and + however flattered her daughter might be for the moment by Sidonia’s + homage, still, as she would ultimately find out, if indeed she ever cared + so to do, that Sidonia could only be her admirer, Madame Colonna had no + kind of doubt that ultimately Coningsby would be Lucretia’s husband, as + she had arranged from the first. + </p> + <p> + The Princess Lucretia was a fine horse-woman, though she rarely joined the + various riding-parties that were daily formed at the Castle. Often, + indeed, attended only by her groom, she met the equestrians. Now she would + ride with Sidonia and Coningsby, and as a female companion was + indispensable, she insisted upon La Petite accompanying her. This was a + fearful trial for Flora, but she encountered it, encouraged by the kind + solicitude of Coningsby, who always seemed her friend. + </p> + <p> + Very shortly after the arrival of Sidonia, the Grand-duke and his suite + quitted the Castle, which had been his Highness’ head-quarters during his + visit to the manufacturing districts; but no other great change in the + assembled company occurred for some little time. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> + <p> + ‘You will observe one curious trait,’ said Sidonia to Coningsby, ‘in the + history of this country: the depository of power is always unpopular; all + combine against it; it always falls. Power was deposited in the great + Barons; the Church, using the King for its instrument, crushed the great + Barons. Power was deposited in the Church; the King, bribing the + Parliament, plundered the Church. Power was deposited in the King; the + Parliament, using the People, beheaded the King, expelled the King, + changed the King, and, finally, for a King substituted an administrative + officer. For one hundred and fifty years Power has been deposited in the + Parliament, and for the last sixty or seventy years it has been becoming + more and more unpopular. In 1830 it was endeavoured by a reconstruction to + regain the popular affection; but, in truth, as the Parliament then only + made itself more powerful, it has only become more odious. As we see that + the Barons, the Church, the King, have in turn devoured each other, and + that the Parliament, the last devourer, remains, it is impossible to + resist the impression that this body also is doomed to be destroyed; and + he is a sagacious statesman who may detect in what form and in what + quarter the great consumer will arise.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You take, then, a dark view of our position?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Troubled, not dark. I do not ascribe to political institutions that + paramount influence which it is the feeling of this age to attribute to + them. The Senate that confronted Brennus in the Forum was the same body + that registered in an after-age the ribald decrees of a Nero. Trial by + jury, for example, is looked upon by all as the Palladium of our + liberties; yet a jury, at a very recent period of our own history, the + reign of Charles II., was a tribunal as iniquitous as the Inquisition.’ + And a graver expression stole over the countenance of Sidonia as he + remembered what that Inquisition had operated on his own race and his own + destiny. ‘There are families in this country,’ he continued, ‘of both the + great historical parties, that in the persecution of their houses, the + murder and proscription of some of their most illustrious members, found + judges as unjust and relentless in an open jury of their countrymen as we + did in the conclaves of Madrid and Seville.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Where, then, would you look for hope?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In what is more powerful than laws and institutions, and without which + the best laws and the most skilful institutions may be a dead letter, or + the very means of tyranny in the national character. It is not in the + increased feebleness of its institutions that I see the peril of England; + it is in the decline of its character as a community.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And yet you could scarcely describe this as an age of corruption?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not of political corruption. But it is an age of social disorganisation, + far more dangerous in its consequences, because far more extensive. You + may have a corrupt government and a pure community; you may have a corrupt + community and a pure administration. Which would you elect?’ + </p> + <p> + Neither,’ said Coningsby; ‘I wish to see a people full of faith, and a + government full of duty.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Rely upon it,’ said Sidonia, ‘that England should think more of the + community and less of the government.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But tell me, what do you understand by the term national character?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A character is an assemblage of qualities; the character of England + should be an assemblage of great qualities.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But we cannot deny that the English have great virtues.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The civilisation of a thousand years must produce great virtues; but we + are speaking of the decline of public virtue, not its existence.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In what, then, do you trace that decline?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In the fact that the various classes of this country are arrayed against + each other.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But to what do you attribute those reciprocal hostilities?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not entirely, not even principally, to those economical causes of which + we hear so much. I look upon all such as secondary causes, which, in a + certain degree, must always exist, which obtrude themselves in troubled + times, and which at all times it is the business of wise statesmen to + watch, to regulate, to ameliorate, to modify.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am speaking to elicit truth, not to maintain opinions,’ said Coningsby; + ‘for I have none,’ he added, mournfully. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think,’ said Sidonia, ‘that there is no error so vulgar as to believe + that revolutions are occasioned by economical causes. They come in, + doubtless, very often to precipitate a catastrophe; very rarely do they + occasion one. I know no period, for example, when physical comfort was + more diffused in England than in 1640. England had a moderate population, + a very improved agriculture, a rich commerce; yet she was on the eve of + the greatest and most violent changes that she has as yet experienced.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That was a religious movement.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Admit it; the cause, then, was not physical. The imagination of England + rose against the government. It proves, then, that when that faculty is + astir in a nation, it will sacrifice even physical comfort to follow its + impulses.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you think, then, there is a wild desire for extensive political change + in the country?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hardly that: England is perplexed at the present moment, not inventive. + That will be the next phasis in her moral state, and to that I wish to + draw your thoughts. For myself, while I ascribe little influence to + physical causes for the production of this perplexity, I am still less of + opinion that it can be removed by any new disposition of political power. + It would only aggravate the evil. That would be recurring to the old error + of supposing you can necessarily find national content in political + institutions. A political institution is a machine; the motive power is + the national character. With that it rests whether the machine will + benefit society, or destroy it. Society in this country is perplexed, + almost paralysed; in time it will move, and it will devise. How are the + elements of the nation to be again blended together? In what spirit is + that reorganisation to take place?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To know that would be to know everything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At least let us free ourselves from the double ignorance of the + Platonists. Let us not be ignorant that we are ignorant.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have emancipated myself from that darkness for a long time,’ said + Coningsby. ‘Long has my mind been musing over these thoughts, but to me + all is still obscurity.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘In this country,’ said Sidonia, ‘since the peace, there has been an + attempt to advocate a reconstruction of society on a purely rational + basis. The principle of Utility has been powerfully developed. I speak not + with lightness of the labours of the disciples of that school. I bow to + intellect in every form: and we should be grateful to any school of + philosophers, even if we disagree with them; doubly grateful in this + country, where for so long a period our statesmen were in so pitiable an + arrear of public intelligence. There has been an attempt to reconstruct + society on a basis of material motives and calculations. It has failed. It + must ultimately have failed under any circumstances; its failure in an + ancient and densely-peopled kingdom was inevitable. How limited is human + reason, the profoundest inquirers are most conscious. We are not indebted + to the Reason of man for any of the great achievements which are the + landmarks of human action and human progress. It was not Reason that + besieged Troy; it was not Reason that sent forth the Saracen from the + Desert to conquer the world; that inspired the Crusades; that instituted + the Monastic orders; it was not Reason that produced the Jesuits; above + all, it was not Reason that created the French Revolution. Man is only + truly great when he acts from the passions; never irresistible but when he + appeals to the imagination. Even Mormon counts more votaries than + Bentham.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you think, then, that as Imagination once subdued the State, + Imagination may now save it?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Man is made to adore and to obey: but if you will not command him, if you + give him nothing to worship, he will fashion his own divinities, and find + a chieftain in his own passions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But where can we find faith in a nation of sectaries? Who can feel + loyalty to a sovereign of Downing Street?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I speak of the eternal principles of human nature, you answer me with the + passing accidents of the hour. Sects rise and sects disappear. Where are + the Fifth-Monarchy men? England is governed by Downing Street; once it was + governed by Alfred and Elizabeth.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> + <p> + About this time a steeple-chase in the West of England had attracted + considerable attention. This sport was then of recent introduction in + England, and is, in fact, an importation of Irish growth, although it has + flourished in our soil. A young guardsman, who was then a guest at the + Castle, and who had been in garrison in Ireland, had some experience of + this pastime in the Kildare country, and he proposed that they should have + a steeple-chase at Coningsby. This was a suggestion very agreeable to the + Marquess of Beaumanoir, celebrated for his feats of horsemanship, and, + indeed, to most of the guests. It was agreed that the race should come off + at once, before any of the present company, many of whom gave symptoms of + being on the wing, had quitted the Castle. The young guardsman and Mr. Guy + Flouncey had surveyed the country and had selected a line which they + esteemed very appropriate for the scene of action. From a hill of common + land you looked down upon the valley of Coningsby, richly cultivated, + deeply ditched, and stiffly fenced; the valley was bounded by another + rising ground, and the scene was admirably calculated to give an extensive + view to a multitude. + </p> + <p> + The distance along the valley was to be two miles out, and home again; the + starting-post being also the winning-post, and the flags, which were + placed on every fence which the horses were to pass, were to be passed on + the left hand of the rider both going and coming; so that although the + horses had to leap the same fences forward and backward, they could not + come over the same place twice. In the last field before they turned, was + a brook seventeen feet clear from side to side, with good taking off both + banks. Here real business commenced. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth highly approved the scheme, but mentioned that the stakes + must be moderate, and open to the whole county. The neighbourhood had a + week of preparation, and the entries for the Coningsby steeple-chase were + numerous. Lord Monmouth, after a reserve for his own account, placed his + stable at the service of his guests. For himself, he offered to back his + horse, Sir Robert, which was to be ridden by his grandson. + </p> + <p> + Now, nothing was spoken or thought of at Coningsby Castle except the + coming sport. The ladies shared the general excitement. They embroidered + handkerchiefs, and scarfs, and gloves, with the respective colours of the + rivals, and tried to make jockey-caps. Lady St. Julians postponed her + intended departure in consequence. Madame Colonna wished that some means + could be contrived by which they might all win. + </p> + <p> + Sidonia, with the other competitors, had ridden over the ground and + glanced at the brook with the eye of a workman. On his return to the + Castle he sent a despatch for some of his stud. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby was all anxiety to win. He was proud of the confidence of his + grandfather in backing him. He had a powerful horse and a firstrate + fencer, and he was resolved himself not to flinch. On the night before the + race, retiring somewhat earlier than usual to his chamber, he observed on + his dressing-table a small packet addressed to his name, and in an unknown + handwriting. Opening it, he found a pretty racing-jacket embroidered with + his colours of pink and white. This was a perplexing circumstance, but he + fancied it on the whole a happy omen. And who was the donor? Certainly not + the Princess Lucretia, for he had observed her fashioning some maroon + ribbons, which were the colours of Sidonia. It could scarcely be from Mrs. + Guy Flouncey. Perhaps Madame Colonna to please the Marquess? Thinking over + this incident he fell asleep. + </p> + <p> + The morning before the race Sidonia’s horses arrived. All went to examine + them at the stables. Among them was an Arab mare. Coningsby recognised the + Daughter of the Star. She was greatly admired for her points; but Guy + Flouncey whispered to Mr. Melton that she never could do the work. + </p> + <p> + ‘But Lord Beaumanoir says he is all for speed against strength in these + affairs,’ said Mr. Melton. + </p> + <p> + Guy Flouncey smiled incredulously. + </p> + <p> + The night before the race it rained rather heavily. + </p> + <p> + ‘I take it the country will not be very like the Deserts of Arabia,’ said + Mr. Guy Flouncey, with a knowing look to Mr. Melton, who was noting a bet + in his memorandum-book. + </p> + <p> + The morning was fine, clear, and sunny, with a soft western breeze. The + starting-post was about three miles from the Castle; but, long before the + hour, the surrounding hills were covered with people; squire and farmer; + with no lack of their wives and daughters; many a hind in his smock-frock, + and many an ‘operative’ from the neighbouring factories. The ‘gentlemen + riders’ gradually arrived. The entries were very numerous, though it was + understood that not more than a dozen would come to the post, and half of + these were the guests of Lord Monmouth. At half-past one the <i>cortège</i> + from the Castle arrived, and took up the post which had been prepared for + them on the summit of the hill. Lord Monmouth was much cheered on his + arrival. In the carriage with him were Madame Colonna and Lady St. + Julians. The Princess Lucretia, Lady Gaythorp, Mrs. Guy Flouncey, + accompanied by Lord Eskdale and other cavaliers, formed a brilliant + company. There was scarcely a domestic in the Castle who was not there. + The comedians, indeed, did not care to come, but Villebecque prevailed + upon Flora to drive with him to the race in a buggy he borrowed of the + steward. + </p> + <p> + The start was to be at two o’clock. The ‘gentlemen jockeys’ are mustered. + Never were riders mounted and appointed in better style. The stewards and + the clerk of the course attend them to the starting-post. There they are + now assembled. Guy Flouncey takes up his stirrup-leathers a hole; Mr. + Melton looks at his girths. In a few moments, the irrevocable monosyllable + will be uttered. + </p> + <p> + The bugle sounds for them to face about; the clerk of the course sings + out, ‘Gentlemen, are you all ready?’ No objection made, the word given to + go, and fifteen riders start in excellent style. + </p> + <p> + Prince Colonna, who rode like Prince Rupert, took the lead, followed close + by a stout yeoman on an old white horse of great provincial celebrity, who + made steady running, and, from his appearance and action, an awkward + customer. The rest, with two exceptions, followed in a cluster at no great + distance, and in this order they continued, with very slight variation, + for the first two miles, though there were several ox-fences, and one or + two of them remarkably stiff. Indeed, they appeared more like horses + running over a course than over a country. The two exceptions were Lord + Beaumanoir on his horse Sunbeam, and Sidonia on the Arab. These kept + somewhat slightly in the rear. + </p> + <p> + Almost in this wise they approached the dreaded brook. Indeed, with the + exception of the last two riders, who were about thirty yards behind, it + seemed that you might have covered the rest of the field with a sheet. + They arrived at the brook at the same moment: seventeen feet of water + between strong sound banks is no holiday work; but they charged with + unfaltering intrepidity. But what a revolution in their spirited order did + that instant produce! A masked battery of canister and grape could not + have achieved more terrible execution. Coningsby alone clearly lighted on + the opposing bank; but, for the rest of them, it seemed for a moment that + they were all in the middle of the brook, one over another, splashing, + kicking, swearing; every one trying to get out and keep others in. Mr. + Melton and the stout yeoman regained their saddles and were soon again in + chase. The Prince lost his horse, and was not alone in his misfortune. Mr. + Guy Flouncey lay on his back with a horse across his diaphragm; only his + head above the water, and his mouth full of chickweed and dockleaves. And + if help had not been at hand, he and several others might have remained + struggling in their watery bed for a considerable period. In the midst of + this turmoil, the Marquess and Sidonia at the same moment cleared the + brook. + </p> + <p> + Affairs now became interesting. Here Coningsby took up the running, + Sidonia and the Marquess lying close at his quarters. Mr. Melton had gone + the wrong side of a flag, and the stout yeoman, though close at hand, was + already trusting much to his spurs. In the extreme distance might be + detected three or four stragglers. Thus they continued until within three + fields of home. A ploughed field finished the old white horse; the yeoman + struck his spurs to the rowels, but the only effect of the experiment was, + that the horse stood stock-still. Coningsby, Sidonia, and the Marquess + were now all together. The winning-post is in sight, and a high and strong + gate leads to the last field. Coningsby, looking like a winner, gallantly + dashed forward and sent Sir Robert at the gate, but he had over-estimated + his horse’s powers at this point of the game, and a rattling fall was the + consequence: however, horse and rider were both on the right side, and + Coningsby was in his saddle and at work again in a moment. It seemed that + the Marquess was winning. There was only one more fence; and that the foot + people had made a breach in by the side of a gate-post, and wide enough, + as was said, for a broad-wheeled waggon to travel by. Instead of passing + straight over this gap, Sunbeam swerved against the gate and threw his + rider. This was decisive. The Daughter of the Star, who was still going + beautifully, pulling double, and her jockey sitting still, sprang over the + gap and went in first; Coningsby, on Sir Robert, being placed second. The + distance measured was about four miles; there were thirty-nine leaps; and + it was done under fifteen minutes. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth was well content with the prowess of his grandson, and his + extreme cordiality consoled Coningsby under a defeat which was very + vexatious. It was some alleviation that he was beaten by Sidonia. Madame + Colonna even shed tears at her young friend’s disappointment, and mourned + it especially for Lucretia, who had said nothing, though a flush might be + observed on her usually pale countenance. Villebecque, who had betted, was + so extremely excited by the whole affair, especially during the last three + minutes, that he quite forgot his quiet companion, and when he looked + round he found Flora fainting. + </p> + <p> + ‘You rode well,’ said Sidonia to Coningsby; ‘but your horse was more + strong than swift. After all, this thing is a race; and, notwithstanding + Solomon, in a race speed must win.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. + </h2> + <p> + Notwithstanding the fatigues of the morning, the evening was passed with + great gaiety at the Castle. The gentlemen all vowed that, far from being + inconvenienced by their mishaps, they felt, on the whole, rather better + for them. Mr. Guy Flouncey, indeed, did not seem quite so limber and + flexible as usual; and the young guardsman, who had previously discoursed + in an almost alarming style of the perils and feats of the Kildare + country, had subsided into a remarkable reserve. The Provincials were + delighted with Sidonia’s riding, and even the Leicestershire gentlemen + admitted that he was a ‘customer.’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth beckoned to Coningsby to sit by him on the sofa, and spoke + of his approaching University life. He gave his grandson a great deal of + good advice: told him to avoid drinking, especially if he ever chanced to + play cards, which he hoped he never would; urged the expediency of never + borrowing money, and of confining his loans to small sums, and then only + to friends of whom he wished to get rid; most particularly impressed on + him never to permit his feelings to be engaged by any woman; nobody, he + assured Coningsby, despised that weakness more than women themselves. + Indeed, feeling of any kind did not suit the present age: it was not <i>bon + ton</i>; and in some degree always made a man ridiculous. Coningsby was + always to have before him the possible catastrophe of becoming ridiculous. + It was the test of conduct, Lord Monmouth said; a fear of becoming + ridiculous is the best guide in life, and will save a man from all sorts + of scrapes. For the rest, Coningsby was to appear at Cambridge as became + Lord Monmouth’s favourite grandson. His grandfather had opened an account + for him with Drummonds’, on whom he was to draw for his considerable + allowance; and if by any chance he found himself in a scrape, no matter of + what kind, he was to be sure to write to his grandfather, who would + certainly get him out of it. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your departure is sudden,’ said the Princess Lucretia, in a low deep tone + to Sidonia, who was sitting by her side and screened from general + observation by the waltzers who whirled by. + </p> + <p> + ‘Departures should be sudden.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not like departures,’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor did the Queen of Sheba when she quitted Solomon. You know what she + did?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Tell me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She wept very much, and let one of the King’s birds fly into the garden. + “You are freed from your cage,” she said; “but I am going back to mine.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you never weep?’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘Never.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And are always free?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So are men in the Desert.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But your life is not a Desert?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It at least resembles the Desert in one respect: it is useless.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The only useless life is woman’s.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yet there have been heroines,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘The Queen of Sheba,’ said the Princess, smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘A favourite of mine,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘And why was she a favourite of yours?’ rather eagerly inquired Lucretia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Because she thought deeply, talked finely, and moved gracefully.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And yet might be a very unfeeling dame at the same time,’ said the + Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘I never thought of that,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘The heart, apparently, does not reckon in your philosophy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What we call the heart,’ said Sidonia, ‘is a nervous sensation, like + shyness, which gradually disappears in society. It is fervent in the + nursery, strong in the domestic circle, tumultuous at school. The + affections are the children of ignorance; when the horizon of our + experience expands, and models multiply, love and admiration imperceptibly + vanish.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I fear the horizon of your experience has very greatly expanded. With + your opinions, what charm can there be in life?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The sense of existence.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So Sidonia is off to-morrow, Monmouth,’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + ‘Hah!’ said the Marquess. ‘I must get him to breakfast with me before he + goes.’ + </p> + <p> + The party broke up. Coningsby, who had heard Lord Eskdale announce + Sidonia’s departure, lingered to express his regret, and say farewell. + </p> + <p> + ‘I cannot sleep,’ said Sidonia, ‘and I never smoke in Europe. If you are + not stiff with your wounds, come to my rooms.’ + </p> + <p> + This invitation was willingly accepted. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am going to Cambridge in a week,’ said Coningsby. I was almost in hopes + you might have remained as long.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I also; but my letters of this morning demand me. If it had not been for + our chase, I should have quitted immediately. The minister cannot pay the + interest on the national debt; not an unprecedented circumstance, and has + applied to us. I never permit any business of State to be transacted + without my personal interposition; and so I must go up to town + immediately.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Suppose you don’t pay it,’ said Coningsby, smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘If I followed my own impulse, I would remain here,’ said Sidonia. ‘Can + anything be more absurd than that a nation should apply to an individual + to maintain its credit, and, with its credit, its existence as an empire, + and its comfort as a people; and that individual one to whom its laws deny + the proudest rights of citizenship, the privilege of sitting in its senate + and of holding land? for though I have been rash enough to buy several + estates, my own opinion is, that, by the existing law of England, an + Englishman of Hebrew faith cannot possess the soil.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But surely it would be easy to repeal a law so illiberal—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! as for illiberality, I have no objection to it if it be an element of + power. Eschew political sentimentalism. What I contend is, that if you + permit men to accumulate property, and they use that permission to a great + extent, power is inseparable from that property, and it is in the last + degree impolitic to make it the interest of any powerful class to oppose + the institutions under which they live. The Jews, for example, + independently of the capital qualities for citizenship which they possess + in their industry, temperance, and energy and vivacity of mind, are a race + essentially monarchical, deeply religious, and shrinking themselves from + converts as from a calamity, are ever anxious to see the religious systems + of the countries in which they live flourish; yet, since your society has + become agitated in England, and powerful combinations menace your + institutions, you find the once loyal Hebrew invariably arrayed in the + same ranks as the leveller, and the latitudinarian, and prepared to + support the policy which may even endanger his life and property, rather + than tamely continue under a system which seeks to degrade him. The Tories + lose an important election at a critical moment; ‘tis the Jews come + forward to vote against them. The Church is alarmed at the scheme of a + latitudinarian university, and learns with relief that funds are not + forthcoming for its establishment; a Jew immediately advances and endows + it. Yet the Jews, Coningsby, are essentially Tories. Toryism, indeed, is + but copied from the mighty prototype which has fashioned Europe. And every + generation they must become more powerful and more dangerous to the + society which is hostile to them. Do you think that the quiet humdrum + persecution of a decorous representative of an English university can + crush those who have successively baffled the Pharaohs, Nebuchadnezzar, + Rome, and the Feudal ages? The fact is, you cannot destroy a pure race of + the Caucasian organisation. It is a physiological fact; a simple law of + nature, which has baffled Egyptian and Assyrian Kings, Roman Emperors, and + Christian Inquisitors. No penal laws, no physical tortures, can effect + that a superior race should be absorbed in an inferior, or be destroyed by + it. The mixed persecuting races disappear; the pure persecuted race + remains. And at this moment, in spite of centuries, of tens of centuries, + of degradation, the Jewish mind exercises a vast influence on the affairs + of Europe. I speak not of their laws, which you still obey; of their + literature, with which your minds are saturated; but of the living Hebrew + intellect. + </p> + <p> + ‘You never observe a great intellectual movement in Europe in which the + Jews do not greatly participate. The first Jesuits were Jews; that + mysterious Russian Diplomacy which so alarms Western Europe is organised + and principally carried on by Jews; that mighty revolution which is at + this moment preparing in Germany, and which will be, in fact, a second and + greater Reformation, and of which so little is as yet known in England, is + entirely developing under the auspices of Jews, who almost monopolise the + professorial chairs of Germany. Neander, the founder of Spiritual + Christianity, and who is Regius Professor of Divinity in the University of + Berlin, is a Jew. Benary, equally famous, and in the same University, is a + Jew. Wehl, the Arabic Professor of Heidelberg, is a Jew. Years ago, when I + was In Palestine, I met a German student who was accumulating materials + for the History of Christianity, and studying the genius of the place; a + modest and learned man. It was Wehl; then unknown, since become the first + Arabic scholar of the day, and the author of the life of Mahomet. But for + the German professors of this race, their name is Legion. I think there + are more than ten at Berlin alone. + </p> + <p> + ‘I told you just now that I was going up to town tomorrow, because I + always made it a rule to interpose when affairs of State were on the + carpet. Otherwise, I never interfere. I hear of peace and war in + newspapers, but I am never alarmed, except when I am informed that the + Sovereigns want treasure; then I know that monarchs are serious. + </p> + <p> + ‘A few years back we were applied, to by Russia. Now, there has been no + friendship between the Court of St. Petersburg and my family. It has Dutch + connections, which have generally supplied it; and our representations in + favour of the Polish Hebrews, a numerous race, but the most suffering and + degraded of all the tribes, have not been very agreeable to the Czar. + However, circumstances drew to an approximation between the Romanoffs and + the Sidonias. I resolved to go myself to St. Petersburg. I had, on my + arrival, an interview with the Russian Minister of Finance, Count Cancrin; + I beheld the son of a Lithuanian Jew. The loan was connected with the + affairs of Spain; I resolved on repairing to Spain from Russia. I + travelled without intermission. I had an audience immediately on my + arrival with the Spanish Minister, Senor Mendizabel; I beheld one like + myself, the son of a Nuevo Christiano, a Jew of Arragon. In consequence of + what transpired at Madrid, I went straight to Paris to consult the + President of the French Council; I beheld the son of a French Jew, a hero, + an imperial marshal, and very properly so, for who should be military + heroes if not those who worship the Lord of Hosts?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And is Soult a Hebrew?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, and others of the French marshals, and the most famous; Massena, for + example; his real name was Manasseh: but to my anecdote. The consequence + of our consultations was, that some Northern power should be applied to in + a friendly and mediative capacity. We fixed on Prussia; and the President + of the Council made an application to the Prussian Minister, who attended + a few days after our conference. Count Arnim entered the cabinet, and I + beheld a Prussian Jew. So you see, my dear Coningsby, that the world is + governed by very different personages from what is imagined by those who + are not behind the scenes.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You startle, and deeply interest me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must study physiology, my dear child. Pure races of Caucasus may be + persecuted, but they cannot be despised, except by the brutal ignorance of + some mongrel breed, that brandishes fagots and howls extermination, but is + itself exterminated without persecution, by that irresistible law of + Nature which is fatal to curs.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But I come also from Caucasus,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Verily; and thank your Creator for such a destiny: and your race is + sufficiently pure. You come from the shores of the Northern Sea, land of + the blue eye, and the golden hair, and the frank brow: ‘tis a famous + breed, with whom we Arabs have contended long; from whom we have suffered + much: but these Goths, and Saxons, and Normans were doubtless great men.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But so favoured by Nature, why has not your race produced great poets, + great orators, great writers?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Favoured by Nature and by Nature’s God, we produced the lyre of David; we + gave you Isaiah and Ezekiel; they are our Olynthians, our Philippics. + Favoured by Nature we still remain: but in exact proportion as we have + been favoured by Nature we have been persecuted by Man. After a thousand + struggles; after acts of heroic courage that Rome has never equalled; + deeds of divine patriotism that Athens, and Sparta, and Carthage have + never excelled; we have endured fifteen hundred years of supernatural + slavery, during which, every device that can degrade or destroy man has + been the destiny that we have sustained and baffled. The Hebrew child has + entered adolescence only to learn that he was the Pariah of that + ungrateful Europe that owes to him the best part of its laws, a fine + portion of its literature, all its religion. Great poets require a public; + we have been content with the immortal melodies that we sung more than two + thousand years ago by the waters of Babylon and wept. They record our + triumphs; they solace our affliction. Great orators are the creatures of + popular assemblies; we were permitted only by stealth to meet even in our + temples. And as for great writers, the catalogue is not blank. What are + all the schoolmen, Aquinas himself, to Maimonides? And as for modern + philosophy, all springs from Spinoza. + </p> + <p> + ‘But the passionate and creative genius, that is the nearest link to + Divinity, and which no human tyranny can destroy, though it can divert it; + that should have stirred the hearts of nations by its inspired sympathy, + or governed senates by its burning eloquence; has found a medium for its + expression, to which, in spite of your prejudices and your evil passions, + you have been obliged to bow. The ear, the voice, the fancy teeming with + combinations, the imagination fervent with picture and emotion, that came + from Caucasus, and which we have preserved unpolluted, have endowed us + with almost the exclusive privilege of Music; that science of harmonious + sounds, which the ancients recognised as most divine, and deified in the + person of their most beautiful creation. I speak not of the past; though, + were I to enter into the history of the lords of melody, you would find it + the annals of Hebrew genius. But at this moment even, musical Europe is + ours. There is not a company of singers, not an orchestra in a single + capital, that is not crowded with our children under the feigned names + which they adopt to conciliate the dark aversion which your posterity will + some day disclaim with shame and disgust. Almost every great composer, + skilled musician, almost every voice that ravishes you with its + transporting strains, springs from our tribes. The catalogue is too vast + to enumerate; too illustrious to dwell for a moment on secondary names, + however eminent. Enough for us that the three great creative minds to + whose exquisite inventions all nations at this moment yield, Rossini, + Meyerbeer, Mendelssohn, are of Hebrew race; and little do your men of + fashion, your muscadins of Paris, and your dandies of London, as they + thrill into raptures at the notes of a Pasta or a Grisi, little do they + suspect that they are offering their homage to “the sweet singers of + Israel!”’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> + <p> + It was the noon of the day on which Sidonia was to leave the Castle. The + wind was high; the vast white clouds scudded over the blue heaven; the + leaves yet green, and tender branches snapped like glass, were whirled in + eddies from the trees; the grassy sward undulated like the ocean with a + thousand tints and shadows. From the window of the music-room Lucretia + Colonna gazed on the turbulent sky. + </p> + <p> + The heaven of her heart, too, was disturbed. + </p> + <p> + She turned from the agitated external world to ponder over her inward + emotion. She uttered a deep sigh. + </p> + <p> + Slowly she moved towards her harp; wildly, almost unconsciously, she + touched with one hand its strings, while her eyes were fixed on the + ground. An imperfect melody resounded; yet plaintive and passionate. It + seemed to attract her soul. She raised her head, and then, touching the + strings with both her hands, she poured forth tones of deep, yet thrilling + power. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘I am a stranger in the halls of a stranger! Ah! whither shall I flee? + To the castle of my fathers in the green mountains; to the palace of my + fathers in the ancient city? + There is no flag on the castle of my fathers in the green mountains, + silent is the palace of my fathers in the ancient city. + Is there no home for the homeless? Can the unloved never find love? + Ah! thou fliest away, fleet cloud: he will leave us swifter than thee! + Alas! cutting wind, thy breath is not so cold as his heart! + I am a stranger in the halls of a stranger! Ah! whither shall I flee?’ +</pre> + <p> + The door of the music-room slowly opened. It was Sidonia. His hat was in + his hand; he was evidently on the point of departure. + </p> + <p> + ‘Those sounds assured me,’ he said calmly but kindly, as he advanced, + ‘that I might find you here, on which I scarcely counted at so early an + hour.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are going then?’ said the Princess. + </p> + <p> + ‘My carriage is at the door; the Marquess has delayed me; I must be in + London to-night. I conclude more abruptly than I could have wished one of + the most agreeable visits I ever made; and I hope you will permit me to + express to you how much I am indebted to you for a society which those + should deem themselves fortunate who can more frequently enjoy.’ + </p> + <p> + He held forth his hand; she extended hers, cold as marble, which he bent + over, but did not press to his lips. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lord Monmouth talks of remaining here some time,’ he observed; ‘but I + suppose next year, if not this, we shall all meet in some city of the + earth?’ + </p> + <p> + Lucretia bowed; and Sidonia, with a graceful reverence, withdrew. + </p> + <p> + The Princess Lucretia stood for some moments motionless; a sound attracted + her to the window; she perceived the equipage of Sidonia whirling along + the winding roads of the park. She watched it till it disappeared; then + quitting the window, she threw herself into a chair, and buried her face + in her shawl. + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK IV. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0048" id="link2H_4_0048"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK V. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0040" id="link2HCH0040"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + An University life did not bring to Coningsby that feeling of emancipation + usually experienced by freshmen. The contrast between school and college + life is perhaps, under any circumstances, less striking to the Etonian + than to others: he has been prepared for becoming his own master by the + liberty wisely entrusted to him in his boyhood, and which is, in general, + discreetly exercised. But there were also other reasons why Coningsby + should have been less impressed with the novelty of his life, and have + encountered less temptations than commonly are met with in the new + existence which an University opens to youth. In the interval which had + elapsed between quitting Eton and going to Cambridge, brief as the period + may comparatively appear, Coningsby had seen much of the world. Three or + four months, indeed, may not seem, at the first blush, a course of time + which can very materially influence the formation of character; but time + must not be counted by calendars, but by sensations, by thought. Coningsby + had felt a good deal, reflected more. He had encountered a great number of + human beings, offering a vast variety of character for his observation. It + was not merely manners, but even the intellectual and moral development of + the human mind, which in a great degree, unconsciously to himself, had + been submitted to his study and his scrutiny. New trains of ideas had been + opened to him; his mind was teeming with suggestions. The horizon of his + intelligence had insensibly expanded. He perceived that there were other + opinions in the world, besides those to which he had been habituated. The + depths of his intellect had been stirred. He was a wiser man. + </p> + <p> + He distinguished three individuals whose acquaintance had greatly + influenced his mind; Eustace Lyle, the elder Millbank, above all, Sidonia. + He curiously meditated over the fact, that three English subjects, one of + them a principal landed proprietor, another one of the most eminent + manufacturers, and the third the greatest capitalist in the kingdom, all + of them men of great intelligence, and doubtless of a high probity and + conscience, were in their hearts disaffected with the political + constitution of the country. Yet, unquestionably, these were the men among + whom we ought to seek for some of our first citizens. What, then, was this + repulsive quality in those institutions which we persisted in calling + national, and which once were so? Here was a great question. + </p> + <p> + There was another reason, also, why Coningsby should feel a little + fastidious among his new habits, and, without being aware of it, a little + depressed. For three or four months, and for the first time in his life, + he had passed his time in the continual society of refined and charming + women. It is an acquaintance which, when habitual, exercises a great + influence over the tone of the mind, even if it does not produce any more + violent effects. It refines the taste, quickens the perception, and gives, + as it were, a grace and flexibility to the intellect. Coningsby in his + solitary rooms arranging his books, sighed when he recalled the Lady + Everinghams and the Lady Theresas; the gracious Duchess; the frank, + good-natured Madame Colonna; that deeply interesting enigma the Princess + Lucretia; and the gentle Flora. He thought with disgust of the impending + dissipation of an University, which could only be an exaggeration of their + coarse frolics at school. It seemed rather vapid this mighty Cambridge, + over which they had so often talked in the playing fields of Eton, with + such anticipations of its vast and absorbing interest. And those + University honours that once were the great object of his aspirations, + they did not figure in that grandeur with which they once haunted his + imagination. + </p> + <p> + What Coningsby determined to conquer was knowledge. He had watched the + influence of Sidonia in society with an eye of unceasing vigilance. + Coningsby perceived that all yielded to him; that Lord Monmouth even, who + seemed to respect none, gave place to his intelligence; appealed to him, + listened to him, was guided by him. What was the secret of this influence? + Knowledge. On all subjects, his views were prompt and clear, and this not + more from his native sagacity and reach of view, than from the aggregate + of facts which rose to guide his judgment and illustrate his meaning, from + all countries and all ages, instantly at his command. + </p> + <p> + The friends of Coningsby were now hourly arriving. It seemed when he met + them again, that they had all suddenly become men since they had + separated; Buckhurst especially. He had been at Paris, and returned with + his mind very much opened, and trousers made quite in a new style. All his + thoughts were, how soon he could contrive to get back again; and he told + them endless stories of actresses, and dinners at fashionable <i>cafés</i>. + Vere enjoyed Cambridge most, because he had been staying with his family + since he quitted Eton. Henry Sydney was full of church architecture, + national sports, restoration of the order of the Peasantry, and was to + maintain a constant correspondence on these and similar subjects with + Eustace Lyle. Finally, however, they all fell into a very fair, regular, + routine life. They all read a little, but not with the enthusiasm which + they had once projected. Buckhurst drove four-in-hand, and they all of + them sometimes assisted him; but not immoderately. Their suppers were + sometimes gay, but never outrageous; and, among all of them, the school + friendship was maintained unbroken, and even undisturbed. + </p> + <p> + The fame of Coningsby preceded him at Cambridge. No man ever went up from + whom more was expected in every way. The dons awaited a sucking member for + the University, the undergraduates were prepared to welcome a new + Alcibiades. He was neither: neither a prig nor a profligate; but a quiet, + gentlemanlike, yet spirited young man, gracious to all, but intimate only + with his old friends, and giving always an impression in his general tone + that his soul was not absorbed in his University. + </p> + <p> + And yet, perhaps, he might have been coddled into a prig, or flattered + into a profligate, had it not been for the intervening experience which he + had gained between his school and college life. That had visibly impressed + upon him, what before he had only faintly acquired from books, that there + was a greater and more real world awaiting him, than to be found in those + bowers of Academus to which youth is apt at first to attribute an + exaggerated importance. A world of action and passion, of power and peril; + a world for which a great preparation was indeed necessary, severe and + profound, but not altogether such an one as was now offered to him. Yet + this want must be supplied, and by himself. Coningsby had already + acquirements sufficiently considerable, with some formal application, to + ensure him at all times his degree. He was no longer engrossed by the + intention he once proudly entertained of trying for honours, and he + chalked out for himself that range of reading, which, digested by his + thought, should furnish him in some degree with that various knowledge of + the history of man to which he aspired. No, we must not for a moment + believe that accident could have long diverted the course of a character + so strong. The same desire that prevented the Castle of his grandfather + from proving a Castle of Indolence to him, that saved him from a too early + initiation into the seductive distractions of a refined and luxurious + society, would have preserved Coningsby from the puerile profligacy of a + college life, or from being that idol of private tutors, a young pedant. + It was that noble ambition, the highest and the best, that must be born in + the heart and organised in the brain, which will not let a man be content, + unless his intellectual power is recognised by his race, and desires that + it should contribute to their welfare. It is the heroic feeling; the + feeling that in old days produced demigods; without which no State is + safe; without which political institutions are meat without salt; the + Crown a bauble, the Church an establishment, Parliaments debating-clubs, + and Civilisation itself but a fitful and transient dream. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0041" id="link2HCH0041"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + Less than a year after the arrival of Coningsby at Cambridge, and which he + had only once quitted in the interval, and that to pass a short time in + Berkshire with his friend Buckhurst, occurred the death of King William + IV. This event necessarily induced a dissolution of the Parliament, + elected under the auspices of Sir Robert Peel in 1834, and after the + publication of the Tamworth Manifesto. + </p> + <p> + The death of the King was a great blow to what had now come to be + generally styled the ‘Conservative Cause.’ It was quite unexpected; within + a fortnight of his death, eminent persons still believed that ‘it was only + the hay-fever.’ Had his Majesty lived until after the then impending + registration, the Whigs would have been again dismissed. Nor is there any + doubt that, under these circumstances, the Conservative Cause would have + secured for the new ministers a parliamentary majority. What would have + been the consequences to the country, if the four years of Whig rule, from + 1837 to 1841, had not occurred? It is easier to decide what would have + been the consequences to the Whigs. Some of their great friends might have + lacked blue ribbons and lord-lieutenancies, and some of their little + friends comfortable places in the Customs and Excise. They would have + lost, undoubtedly, the distribution of four years’ patronage; we can + hardly say the exercise of four years’ power; but they would have existed + at this moment as the most powerful and popular Opposition that ever + flourished in this country, if, indeed, the course of events had not long + ere this carried them back to their old posts in a proud and intelligible + position. The Reform Bill did not do more injury to the Tories, than the + attempt to govern this country without a decided Parliamentary majority + did the Whigs. The greatest of all evils is a weak government. They cannot + carry good measures, they are forced to carry bad ones. + </p> + <p> + The death of the King was a great blow to the Conservative Cause; that is + to say, it darkened the brow of Tadpole, quailed the heart of Taper, + crushed all the rising hopes of those numerous statesmen who believe the + country must be saved if they receive twelve hundred a-year. It is a + peculiar class, that; 1,200<i>l.</i> per annum, paid quarterly, is their + idea of political science and human nature. To receive 1,200<i>l.</i> per + annum is government; to try to receive 1,200<i>l.</i> per annum is + opposition; to wish to receive 1,200<i>l.</i> per annum is ambition. If a + man wants to get into Parliament, and does not want to get 1,200<i>l.</i> + per annum, they look upon him as daft; as a benighted being. They stare in + each other’s face, and ask, ‘What can ***** want to get into Parliament + for?’ They have no conception that public reputation is a motive power, + and with many men the greatest. They have as much idea of fame or + celebrity, even of the masculine impulse of an honourable pride, as + eunuchs of manly joys. + </p> + <p> + The twelve-hundred-a-yearers were in despair about the King’s death. Their + loyal souls were sorely grieved that his gracious Majesty had not outlived + the Registration. All their happy inventions about ‘hay-fever,’ circulated + in confidence, and sent by post to chairmen of Conservative Associations, + followed by a royal funeral! General election about to take place with the + old registration; government boroughs against them, and the young Queen + for a cry. What a cry! Youth, beauty, and a Queen! Taper grew pale at the + thought. What could they possibly get up to countervail it? Even Church + and Corn-laws together would not do; and then Church was sulky, for the + Conservative Cause had just made it a present of a commission, and all + that the country gentlemen knew of Conservatism was, that it would not + repeal the Malt Tax, and had made them repeal their pledges. Yet a cry + must be found. A dissolution without a cry, in the Taper philosophy, would + be a world without a sun. A rise might be got by ‘Independence of the + House of Lords;’ and Lord Lyndhurst’s summaries might be well circulated + at one penny per hundred, large discount allowed to Conservative + Associations, and endless credit. Tadpole, however, was never very fond of + the House of Lords; besides, it was too limited. Tadpole wanted the young + Queen brought in; the rogue! At length, one morning, Taper came up to him + with a slip of paper, and a smile of complacent austerity on his dull + visage, ‘I think, Mr. Tadpole, that will do!’ + </p> + <p> + Tadpole took the paper and read, ‘OUR YOUNG QUEEN, AND OUR OLD + INSTITUTIONS.’ + </p> + <p> + The eyes of Tadpole sparkled as if they had met a gnomic sentence of + Periander or Thales; then turning to Taper, he said, + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you think of “ancient,” instead of “old”?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You cannot have “Our modern Queen and our ancient Institutions,”’ said + Mr. Taper. + </p> + <p> + The dissolution was soon followed by an election for the borough of + Cambridge. The Conservative Cause candidate was an old Etonian. That was a + bond of sympathy which imparted zeal even to those who were a little + sceptical of the essential virtues of Conservatism. Every undergraduate + especially who remembered ‘the distant spires,’ became enthusiastic. + Buckhurst took a very decided part. He cheered, he canvassed, he brought + men to the poll whom none could move; he influenced his friends and his + companions. Even Coningsby caught the contagion, and Vere, who had imbibed + much of Coningsby’s political sentiment, prevailed on himself to be + neutral. The Conservative Cause triumphed in the person of its Eton + champion. The day the member was chaired, several men in Coningsby’s rooms + were talking over their triumph. + </p> + <p> + ‘By Jove!’ said the panting Buckhurst, throwing himself on the sofa, ‘it + was well done; never was any thing better done. An immense triumph! The + greatest triumph the Conservative Cause has had. And yet,’ he added, + laughing, ‘if any fellow were to ask me what the Conservative Cause is, I + am sure I should not know what to say.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, it is the cause of our glorious institutions,’ said Coningsby. ‘A + Crown robbed of its prerogatives; a Church controlled by a commission; and + an Aristocracy that does not lead.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Under whose genial influence the order of the Peasantry, “a country’s + pride,” has vanished from the face of the land,’ said Henry Sydney, ‘and + is succeeded by a race of serfs, who are called labourers, and who burn + ricks.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Under which,’ continued Coningsby, ‘the Crown has become a cipher; the + Church a sect; the Nobility drones; and the People drudges.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is the great constitutional cause,’ said Lord Vere, ‘that refuses + everything to opposition; yields everything to agitation; conservative in + Parliament, destructive out-of-doors; that has no objection to any change + provided only it be effected by unauthorised means.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The first public association of men,’ said Coningsby, ‘who have worked + for an avowed end without enunciating a single principle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And who have established political infidelity throughout the land,’ said + Lord Henry. + </p> + <p> + ‘By Jove!’ said Buckhurst, ‘what infernal fools we have made ourselves + this last week!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nay,’ said Coningsby, smiling, ‘it was our last schoolboy weakness. + Floreat Etona, under all circumstances.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I certainly, Coningsby,’ said Lord Vere, ‘shall not assume the + Conservative Cause, instead of the cause for which Hampden died in the + field, and Sydney on the scaffold.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The cause for which Hampden died in the field and Sydney on the + scaffold,’ said Coningsby, ‘was the cause of the Venetian Republic.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How, how?’ cried Buckhurst. + </p> + <p> + ‘I repeat it,’ said Coningsby. ‘The great object of the Whig leaders in + England from the first movement under Hampden to the last most successful + one in 1688, was to establish in England a high aristocratic republic on + the model of the Venetian, then the study and admiration of all + speculative politicians. Read Harrington; turn over Algernon Sydney; then + you will see how the minds of the English leaders in the seventeenth + century were saturated with the Venetian type. And they at length + succeeded. William III. found them out. He told the Whig leaders, “I will + not be a Doge.” He balanced parties; he baffled them as the Puritans + baffled them fifty years before. The reign of Anne was a struggle between + the Venetian and the English systems. Two great Whig nobles, Argyle and + Somerset, worthy of seats in the Council of Ten, forced their Sovereign on + her deathbed to change the ministry. They accomplished their object. They + brought in a new family on their own terms. George I. was a Doge; George + II. was a Doge; they were what William III., a great man, would not be. + George III. tried not to be a Doge, but it was impossible materially to + resist the deeply-laid combination. He might get rid of the Whig + magnificoes, but he could not rid himself of the Venetian constitution. + And a Venetian constitution did govern England from the accession of the + House of Hanover until 1832. Now I do not ask you, Vere, to relinquish the + political tenets which in ordinary times would have been your inheritance. + All I say is, the constitution introduced by your ancestors having been + subverted by their descendants your contemporaries, beware of still + holding Venetian principles of government when you have not a Venetian + constitution to govern with. Do what I am doing, what Henry Sydney and + Buckhurst are doing, what other men that I could mention are doing, hold + yourself aloof from political parties which, from the necessity of things, + have ceased to have distinctive principles, and are therefore practically + only factions; and wait and see, whether with patience, energy, honour, + and Christian faith, and a desire to look to the national welfare and not + to sectional and limited interests; whether, I say, we may not discover + some great principles to guide us, to which we may adhere, and which then, + if true, will ultimately guide and control others.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Whigs are worn out,’ said Vere, ‘Conservatism is a sham, and + Radicalism is pollution.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I certainly,’ said Buckhurst, ‘when I get into the House of Commons, + shall speak my mind without reference to any party whatever; and all I + hope is, we may all come in at the same time, and then we may make a party + of our own.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have always heard my father say,’ said Vere, ‘that there was nothing so + difficult as to organise an independent party in the House of Commons.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ay! but that was in the Venetian period, Vere,’ said Henry Sydney, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + ‘I dare say,’ said Buckhurst, ‘the only way to make a party in the House + of Commons is just the one that succeeds anywhere else. Men must associate + together. When you are living in the same set, dining together every day, + and quizzing the Dons, it is astonishing how well men agree. As for me, I + never would enter into a conspiracy, unless the conspirators were fellows + who had been at Eton with me; and then there would be no treachery.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us think of principles, and not of parties,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘For my part,’ said Buckhurst, ‘whenever a political system is breaking + up, as in this country at present, I think the very best thing is to brush + all the old Dons off the stage. They never take to the new road kindly. + They are always hampered by their exploded prejudices and obsolete + traditions. I don’t think a single man, Vere, that sat in the Venetian + Senate ought to be allowed to sit in the present English House of + Commons.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, no one does in our family except my uncle Philip,’ said Lord Henry; + ‘and the moment I want it, he will resign; for he detests Parliament. It + interferes so with his hunting.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, we all have fair parliamentary prospects,’ said Buckhurst. ‘That is + something. I wish we were in now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Heaven forbid!’ said Coningsby. ‘I tremble at the responsibility of a + seat at any time. With my present unsettled and perplexed views, there is + nothing from which I should recoil so much as the House of Commons.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I quite agree with you,’ said Henry Sydney. ‘The best thing we can do is + to keep as clear of political party as we possibly can. How many men waste + the best part of their lives in painfully apologising for conscientious + deviation from a parliamentary course which they adopted when they were + boys, without thought, or prompted by some local connection, or interest, + to secure a seat.’ + </p> + <p> + It was the midnight following the morning when this conversation took + place, that Coningsby, alone, and having just quitted a rather boisterous + party of wassailers who had been celebrating at Buckhurst’s rooms the + triumph of ‘Eton Statesmen,’ if not of Conservative principles, stopped in + the precincts of that Royal College that reminded him of his schooldays, + to cool his brow in the summer air, that even at that hour was soft, and + to calm his mind in the contemplation of the still, the sacred, and the + beauteous scene that surrounded him. + </p> + <p> + There rose that fane, the pride and boast of Cambridge, not unworthy to + rank among the chief temples of Christendom. Its vast form was exaggerated + in the uncertain hour; part shrouded in the deepest darkness, while a + flood of silver light suffused its southern side, distinguished with + revealing beam the huge ribs of its buttresses, and bathed with mild + lustre its airy pinnacles. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where is the spirit that raised these walls?’ thought Coningsby. ‘Is it + indeed extinct? Is then this civilisation, so much vaunted, inseparable + from moderate feelings and little thoughts? If so, give me back barbarism! + But I cannot believe it. Man that is made in the image of the Creator, is + made for God-like deeds. Come what come may, I will cling to the heroic + principle. It can alone satisfy my soul.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0042" id="link2HCH0042"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + We must now revert to the family, or rather the household, of Lord + Monmouth, in which considerable changes and events had occurred since the + visit of Coningsby to the Castle in the preceding autumn. + </p> + <p> + In the first place, the earliest frost of the winter had carried off the + aged proprietor of Hellingsley, that contiguous estate which Lord Monmouth + so much coveted, the possession of which was indeed one of the few objects + of his life, and to secure which he was prepared to pay far beyond its + intrinsic value, great as that undoubtedly was. Yet Lord Monmouth did not + become its possessor. Long as his mind had been intent upon the subject, + skilful as had been his combinations to secure his prey, and unlimited the + means which were to achieve his purpose, another stepped in, and without + his privity, without even the consolation of a struggle, stole away the + prize; and this too a man whom he hated, almost the only individual out of + his own family that he did hate; a man who had crossed him before in + similar enterprises; who was his avowed foe; had lavished treasure to + oppose him in elections; raised associations against his interest; + established journals to assail him; denounced him in public; agitated + against him in private; had declared more than once that he would make + ‘the county too hot for him;’ his personal, inveterate, indomitable foe, + Mr. Millbank of Millbank. + </p> + <p> + The loss of Hellingsley was a bitter disappointment to Lord Monmouth; but + the loss of it to such an adversary touched him to the quick. He did not + seek to control his anger; he could not succeed even in concealing his + agitation. He threw upon Rigby that glance so rare with him, but under + which men always quailed; that play of the eye which Lord Monmouth shared + in common with Henry VIII., that struck awe into the trembling Commons + when they had given an obnoxious vote, as the King entered the gallery of + his palace, and looked around him. + </p> + <p> + It was a look which implied that dreadful question, ‘Why have I bought you + that such things should happen? Why have I unlimited means and + unscrupulous agents?’ It made Rigby even feel; even his brazen tones were + hushed. + </p> + <p> + To fly from everything disagreeable was the practical philosophy of Lord + Monmouth; but he was as brave as he was sensual. He would not shrink + before the new proprietor of Hellingsley. He therefore remained at the + Castle with an aching heart, and redoubled his hospitalities. An ordinary + mind might have been soothed by the unceasing consideration and the + skilful and delicate flattery that ever surrounded Lord Monmouth; but his + sagacious intelligence was never for a moment the dupe of his vanity. He + had no self-love, and as he valued no one, there were really no feelings + to play upon. He saw through everybody and everything; and when he had + detected their purpose, discovered their weakness or their vileness, he + calculated whether they could contribute to his pleasure or his + convenience in a degree that counterbalanced the objections which might be + urged against their intentions, or their less pleasing and profitable + qualities. To be pleased was always a principal object with Lord Monmouth; + but when a man wants vengeance, gay amusement is not exactly a + satisfactory substitute. + </p> + <p> + A month elapsed. Lord Monmouth with a serene or smiling visage to his + guests, but in private taciturn and morose, scarcely ever gave a word to + Mr. Rigby, but continually bestowed on him glances which painfully + affected the appetite of that gentleman. In a hundred ways it was + intimated to Mr. Rigby that he was not a welcome guest, and yet something + was continually given him to do which rendered it impossible for him to + take his departure. In this state of affairs, another event occurred which + changed the current of feeling, and by its possible consequences + distracted the Marquess from his brooding meditations over his + discomfiture in the matter of Hellingsley. The Prince Colonna, who, since + the steeple-chase, had imbibed a morbid predilection for such amusements, + and indeed for every species of rough-riding, was thrown from his horse + and killed on the spot. + </p> + <p> + This calamity broke up the party at Coningsby, which was not at the moment + very numerous. Mr. Rigby, by command, instantly seized the opportunity of + preventing the arrival of other guests who were expected. This catastrophe + was the cause of Mr. Rigby resuming in a great measure his old position in + the Castle. There were a great many things to be done, and all + disagreeable; he achieved them all, and studied everybody’s convenience. + Coroners’ inquests, funerals especially, weeping women, these were all + spectacles which Lord Monmouth could not endure, but he was so high-bred, + that he would not for the world that there should be in manner or degree + the slightest deficiency in propriety or even sympathy. But he wanted + somebody to do everything that was proper; to be considerate and consoling + and sympathetic. Mr. Rigby did it all; gave evidence at the inquest, was + chief mourner at the funeral, and arranged everything so well that not a + single emblem of death crossed the sight of Lord Monmouth; while Madame + Colonna found submission in his exhortations, and the Princess Lucretia, a + little more pale and pensive than usual, listened with tranquillity to his + discourse on the vanity of all sublunary things. + </p> + <p> + When the tumult had subsided, and habits and feelings had fallen into + their old routine and relapsed into their ancient channels, the Marquess + proposed that they should all return to London, and with great formality, + though with warmth, begged that Madame Colonna would ever consider his + roof as her own. All were glad to quit the Castle, which now presented a + scene so different from its former animation, and Madame Colonna, weeping, + accepted the hospitality of her friend, until the impending expansion of + the spring would permit her to return to Italy. This notice of her return + to her own country seemed to occasion the Marquess great disquietude. + </p> + <p> + After they had remained about a month in London, Madame Colonna sent for + Mr. Rigby one morning to tell him how very painful it was to her feelings + to remain under the roof of Monmouth House without the sanction of a + husband; that the circumstance of being a foreigner, under such unusual + affliction, might have excused, though not authorised, the step at first, + and for a moment; but that the continuance of such a course was quite out + of the question; that she owed it to herself, to her step-child, no longer + to trespass on this friendly hospitality, which, if persisted in, might be + liable to misconstruction. Mr. Rigby listened with great attention to this + statement, and never in the least interrupted Madame Colonna; and then + offered to do that which he was convinced the lady desired, namely, to + make the Marquess acquainted with the painful state of her feelings. This + he did according to his fashion, and with sufficient dexterity. Mr. Rigby + himself was anxious to know which way the wind blew, and the mission with + which he had been entrusted, fell in precisely with his inclinations and + necessities. The Marquess listened to the communication and sighed, then + turned gently round and surveyed himself in the mirror and sighed again, + then said to Rigby, + </p> + <p> + ‘You understand exactly what I mean, Rigby. It is quite ridiculous their + going, and infinitely distressing to me. They must stay.’ + </p> + <p> + Rigby repaired to the Princess full of mysterious bustle, and with a face + beaming with importance and satisfaction. He made much of the two sighs; + fully justified the confidence of the Marquess in his comprehension of + unexplained intentions; prevailed on Madame Colonna to have some regard + for the feelings of one so devoted; expatiated on the insignificance of + worldly misconstructions, when replied to by such honourable intentions; + and fully succeeded in his mission. They did stay. Month after month + rolled on, and still they stayed; every month all the family becoming more + resigned or more content, and more cheerful. As for the Marquess himself, + Mr. Rigby never remembered him more serene and even joyous. His Lordship + scarcely ever entered general society. The Colonna family remained in + strict seclusion; and he preferred the company of these accomplished and + congenial friends to the mob of the great world. + </p> + <p> + Between Madame Colonna and Mr. Rigby there had always subsisted + considerable confidence. Now, that gentleman seemed to have achieved fresh + and greater claims to her regard. In the pleasure with which he looked + forward to her approaching alliance with his patron, he reminded her of + the readiness with which he had embraced her suggestions for the marriage + of her daughter with Coningsby. Always obliging, she was never wearied of + chanting his praises to her noble admirer, who was apparently much + gratified she should have bestowed her esteem on one of whom she would + necessarily in after-life see so much. It is seldom the lot of husbands + that their confidential friends gain the regards of their brides. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am glad you all like Rigby,’ said Lord Monmouth, ‘as you will see so + much of him.’ + </p> + <p> + The remembrance of the Hellingsley failure seemed to be erased from the + memory of the Marquess. Rigby never recollected him more cordial and + confidential, and more equable in his manner. He told Rigby one day, that + he wished that Monmouth House should possess the most sumptuous and the + most fanciful boudoir in London or Paris. What a hint for Rigby! That + gentleman consulted the first artists, and gave them some hints in return; + his researches on domestic decoration ranged through all ages; he even + meditated a rapid tour to mature his inventions; but his confidence in his + native taste and genius ultimately convinced him that this movement was + unnecessary. + </p> + <p> + The summer advanced; the death of the King occurred; the dissolution + summoned Rigby to Coningsby and the borough of Darlford. His success was + marked certain in the secret books of Tadpole and Taper. A manufacturing + town, enfranchised under the Reform Act, already gained by the + Conservative cause! Here was reaction; here influence of property! + Influence of character, too; for no one was so popular as Lord Monmouth; a + most distinguished nobleman of strict Conservative principles, who, if he + carried the county and the manufacturing borough also, merited the + strawberry-leaf. + </p> + <p> + ‘There will be no holding Rigby,’ said Taper; ‘I’m afraid he will be + looking for something very high.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The higher the better,’ rejoined Tadpole, ‘and then he will not interfere + with us. I like your high-flyers; it is your plodders I detest, wearing + old hats and high-lows, speaking in committee, and thinking they are men + of business: d——n them!’ + </p> + <p> + Rigby went down, and made some impressive speeches; at least they read + very well in some of his second-rate journals, where all the uproar + figured as loud cheering, and the interruption of a cabbage-stalk was + represented as a question from some intelligent individual in the crowd. + The fact is, Rigby bored his audience too much with history, especially + with the French Revolution, which he fancied was his ‘forte,’ so that the + people at last, whenever he made any allusion to the subject, were almost + as much terrified as if they had seen the guillotine. + </p> + <p> + Rigby had as yet one great advantage; he had no opponent; and without + personal opposition, no contest can be very bitter. It was for some days + Rigby <i>versus</i> Liberal principles; and Rigby had much the best of it; + for he abused Liberal principles roundly in his harangues, who, not being + represented on the occasion, made no reply; while plenty of ale, and some + capital songs by Lucian Gay, who went down express, gave the right cue to + the mob, who declared in chorus, beneath the windows of Rigby’s hotel, + that he was ‘a fine old English gentleman!’ + </p> + <p> + But there was to be a contest; no question about that, and a sharp one, + although Rigby was to win, and well. The Liberal party had been so + fastidious about their new candidate, that they had none ready though + several biting. Jawster Sharp thought at one time that sheer necessity + would give him another chance still; but even Rigby was preferable to + Jawster Sharp, who, finding it would not do, published his long-prepared + valedictory address, in which he told his constituents, that having long + sacrificed his health to their interests, he was now obliged to retire + into the bosom of his family. And a very well-provided-for family, too. + </p> + <p> + All this time the Liberal deputation from Darlford, two aldermen, three + town-councillors, and the Secretary of the Reform Association, were + walking about London like mad things, eating luncheons and looking for a + candidate. They called at the Reform Club twenty times in the morning, + badgered whips and red-tapers; were introduced to candidates, badgered + candidates; examined would-be members as if they were at a cattle-show, + listened to political pedigrees, dictated political pledges, referred to + Hansard to see how men had voted, inquired whether men had spoken, finally + discussed terms. But they never could hit the right man. If the principles + were right, there was no money; and if money were ready, money would not + take pledges. In fact, they wanted a Phoenix: a very rich man, who would + do exactly as they liked, with extremely low opinions and with very high + connections. + </p> + <p> + ‘If he would go for the ballot and had a handle to his name, it would have + the best effect,’ said the secretary of the Reform Association, ‘because + you see we are fighting against a Right Honourable, and you have no idea + how that takes with the mob.’ + </p> + <p> + The deputation had been three days in town, and urged by despatches by + every train to bring affairs to a conclusion; jaded, perplexed, confused, + they were ready to fall into the hands of the first jobber or bold + adventurer. They discussed over their dinner at a Strand coffee-house the + claims of the various candidates who had presented themselves. Mr. Donald + Macpherson Macfarlane, who would only pay the legal expenses; he was soon + despatched. Mr. Gingerly Browne, of Jermyn Street, the younger son of a + baronet, who would go as far as 1000<i>l.</i> provided the seat was + secured. Mr. Juggins, a distiller, 2000<i>l.</i> man; but would not agree + to any annual subscriptions. Sir Baptist Placid, vague about expenditure, + but repeatedly declaring that ‘there could be no difficulty on that head.’ + He however had a moral objection to subscribing to the races, and that was + a great point at Darlford. Sir Baptist would subscribe a guinea per annum + to the infirmary, and the same to all religious societies without any + distinction of sects; but races, it was not the sum, 100<i>l.</i> per + annum, but the principle. He had a moral objection. + </p> + <p> + In short, the deputation began to suspect, what was the truth, that they + were a day after the fair, and that all the electioneering rips that swarm + in the purlieus of political clubs during an impending dissolution of + Parliament, men who become political characters in their small circle + because they have been talked of as once having an intention to stand for + places for which they never offered themselves, or for having stood for + places where they never could by any circumstance have succeeded, were in + fact nibbling at their dainty morsel. + </p> + <p> + At this moment of despair, a ray of hope was imparted to them by a + confidential note from a secretary of the Treasury, who wished to see them + at the Reform Club on the morrow. You may be sure they were punctual to + their appointment. The secretary received them with great consideration. + He had got them a candidate, and one of high mark, the son of a Peer, and + connected with the highest Whig houses. Their eyes sparkled. A real + honourable. If they liked he would introduce them immediately to the + Honourable Alberic de Crecy. He had only to introduce them, as there was + no difficulty either as to means or opinions, expenses or pledges. + </p> + <p> + The secretary returned with a young gentleman, whose diminutive stature + would seem, from his smooth and singularly puerile countenance, to be + merely the consequence of his very tender years; but Mr. De Crecy was + really of age, or at least would be by nomination-day. He did not say a + word, but looked like the rosebud which dangled in the button-hole of his + frock-coat. The aldermen and town-councillors were what is sometimes + emphatically styled flabbergasted; they were speechless from bewilderment. + ‘Mr. De Crecy will go for the ballot,’ said the secretary of the Treasury, + with an audacious eye and a demure look, ‘and for Total and Immediate, if + you press him hard; but don’t, if you can help it, because he has an + uncle, an old county member, who has prejudices, and might disinherit him. + However, we answer for him. And I am very happy that I have been the means + of bringing about an arrangement which, I feel, will be mutually + advantageous.’ And so saying, the secretary effected his escape. + </p> + <p> + Circumstances, however, retarded for a season the political career of the + Honourable Alberic de Crecy. While the Liberal party at Darlford were + suffering under the daily inflictions of Mr. Rigby’s slashing style, and + the post brought them very unsatisfactory prospects of a champion, one + offered himself, and in an address which intimated that he was no man of + straw, likely to recede from any contest in which he chose to embark. The + town was suddenly placarded with a letter to the Independent Electors from + Mr. Millbank, the new proprietor of Hellingsley. + </p> + <p> + He expressed himself as one not anxious to obtrude himself on their + attention, and founding no claim to their confidence on his recent + acquisition; but at the same time as one resolved that the free and + enlightened community, with which he must necessarily hereafter be much + connected, should not become the nomination borough of any Peer of the + realm without a struggle, if they chose to make one. And so he offered + himself if they could not find a better candidate, without waiting for the + ceremony of a requisition. He was exactly the man they wanted; and though + he had ‘no handle to his name,’ and was somewhat impracticable about + pledges, his fortune was so great, and his character so high, that it + might be hoped that the people would be almost as content as if they were + appealed to by some obscure scion of factitious nobility, subscribing to + political engagements which he could not comprehend, and which, in + general, are vomited with as much facility as they are swallowed. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0043" id="link2HCH0043"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + The people of Darlford, who, as long as the contest for their + representation remained between Mr. Rigby and the abstraction called + Liberal Principles, appeared to be very indifferent about the result, the + moment they learned that for the phrase had been substituted a substance, + and that, too, in the form of a gentleman who was soon to figure as their + resident neighbour, became excited, speedily enthusiastic. All the bells + of all the churches rang when Mr. Millbank commenced his canvass; the + Conservatives, on the alert, if not alarmed, insisted on their champion + also showing himself in all directions; and in the course of + four-and-twenty hours, such is the contagion of popular feeling, the town + was divided into two parties, the vast majority of which were firmly + convinced that the country could only be saved by the return of Mr. Rigby, + or preserved from inevitable destruction by the election of Mr. Millbank. + </p> + <p> + The results of the two canvasses were such as had been anticipated from + the previous reports of the respective agents and supporters. In these + days the personal canvass of a candidate is a mere form. The whole country + that is to be invaded has been surveyed and mapped out before entry; every + position reconnoitred; the chain of communications complete. In the + present case, as was not unusual, both candidates were really supported by + numerous and reputable adherents; and both had good grounds for believing + that they would be ultimately successful. But there was a body of the + electors sufficiently numerous to turn the election, who would not promise + their votes: conscientious men who felt the responsibility of the duty + that the constitution had entrusted to their discharge, and who would not + make up their minds without duly weighing the respective merits of the two + rivals. This class of deeply meditative individuals are distinguished not + only by their pensive turn of mind, but by a charitable vein that seems to + pervade their being. Not only will they think of your request, but for + their parts they wish both sides equally well. Decision, indeed, as it + must dash the hopes of one of their solicitors, seems infinitely painful + to them; they have always a good reason for postponing it. If you seek + their suffrage during the canvass, they reply, that the writ not having + come down, the day of election is not yet fixed. If you call again to + inform them that the writ has arrived, they rejoin, that perhaps after all + there may not be a contest. If you call a third time, half dead with + fatigue, to give them friendly notice that both you and your rival have + pledged yourselves to go to the poll, they twitch their trousers, rub + their hands, and with a dull grin observe, + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, sir, we shall see.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Come, Mr. Jobson,’ says one of the committee, with an insinuating smile, + ‘give Mr. Millbank one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Jobson, I think you and I know each other,’ says a most influential + supporter, with a knowing nod. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, Mr. Smith, I should think we did.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Come, come, give us one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I have not made up my mind yet, gentlemen.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Jobson!’ says a solemn voice, ‘didn’t you tell me the other night you + wished well to this gentleman?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So I do; I wish well to everybody,’ replies the imperturbable Jobson. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Jobson,’ exclaims another member of the committee, with a sigh, + ‘who could have supposed that you would have been an enemy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t wish to be no enemy to no man, Mr. Trip.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Come, Jobson,’ says a jolly tanner, ‘if I wanted to be a Parliament man, + I don’t think you could refuse me one!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t think I could, Mr. Oakfield.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, then, give it to my friend.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, sir, I’ll think about it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Leave him to me,’ says another member of the committee, with a + significant look. ‘I know how to get round him. It’s all right.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, leave him to Hayfield, Mr. Millbank; he knows how to manage him.’ + </p> + <p> + But all the same, Jobson continues to look as little tractable and + lamb-like as can be well fancied. + </p> + <p> + And here, in a work which, in an unpretending shape, aspires to take + neither an uninformed nor a partial view of the political history of the + ten eventful years of the Reform struggle, we should pause for a moment to + observe the strangeness, that only five years after the reconstruction of + the electoral body by the Whig party, in a borough called into political + existence by their policy, a manufacturing town, too, the candidate + comprising in his person every quality and circumstance which could + recommend him to the constituency, and his opponent the worst specimen of + the Old Generation, a political adventurer, who owed the least + disreputable part of his notoriety to his opposition to the Reform Bill; + that in such a borough, under such circumstances, there should be a + contest, and that, too, one of a very doubtful issue. + </p> + <p> + What was the cause of this? Are we to seek it in the ‘Reaction’ of the + Tadpoles and the Tapers? That would not be a satisfactory solution. + Reaction, to a certain extent, is the law of human existence. In the + particular state of affairs before us, England after the Reform Act, it + never could be doubtful that Time would gradually, and in some instances + rapidly, counteract the national impulse of 1832. There never could have + been a question, for example, that the English counties would have + reverted to their natural allegiance to their proprietors; but the results + of the appeals to the third Estate in 1835 and 1837 are not to be + accounted for by a mere readjustment of legitimate influences. + </p> + <p> + The truth is, that, considerable as are the abilities of the Whig leaders, + highly accomplished as many of them unquestionably must be acknowledged in + parliamentary debate, experienced in council, sedulous in office, eminent + as scholars, powerful from their position, the absence of individual + influence, and of the pervading authority of a commanding mind, have been + the cause of the fall of the Whig party. + </p> + <p> + Such a supremacy was generally acknowledged in Lord Grey on the accession + of this party to power: but it was the supremacy of a tradition rather + than of a fact. Almost at the outset of his authority his successor was + indicated. When the crisis arrived, the intended successor was not in the + Whig ranks. It is in this virtual absence of a real and recognised leader, + almost from the moment that they passed their great measure, that we must + seek a chief cause of all that insubordination, all those distempered + ambitions, and all those dark intrigues, that finally broke up, not only + the Whig government, but the Whig party; demoralised their ranks, and sent + them to the country, both in 1835 and 1837, with every illusion, which had + operated so happily in their favour in 1832, scattered to the winds. In + all things we trace the irresistible influence of the individual. + </p> + <p> + And yet the interval that elapsed between 1835 and 1837 proved, that there + was all this time in the Whig array one entirely competent to the office + of leading a great party, though his capacity for that fulfilment was too + tardily recognised. + </p> + <p> + LORD JOHN RUSSELL has that degree of imagination, which, though evinced + rather in sentiment than expression, still enables him to generalise from + the details of his reading and experience; and to take those comprehensive + views, which, however easily depreciated by ordinary men in an age of + routine, are indispensable to a statesman in the conjunctures in which we + live. He understands, therefore, his position; and he has the moral + intrepidity which prompts him ever to dare that which his intellect + assures him is politic. He is consequently, at the same time, sagacious + and bold in council. As an administrator he is prompt and indefatigable. + He is not a natural orator, and labours under physical deficiencies which + even a Demosthenic impulse could scarcely overcome. But he is experienced + in debate, quick in reply, fertile in resource, takes large views, and + frequently compensates for a dry and hesitating manner by the expression + of those noble truths that flash across the fancy, and rise spontaneously + to the lip, of men of poetic temperament when addressing popular + assemblies. If we add to this, a private life of dignified repute, the + accidents of his birth and rank, which never can be severed from the man, + the scion of a great historic family, and born, as it were, to the + hereditary service of the State, it is difficult to ascertain at what + period, or under what circumstances, the Whig party have ever possessed, + or could obtain, a more efficient leader. + </p> + <p> + But we must return to the Darlford election. The class of thoughtful + voters was sufficiently numerous in that borough to render the result of + the contest doubtful to the last; and on the eve of the day of nomination + both parties were equally sanguine. + </p> + <p> + Nomination-day altogether is an unsatisfactory affair. There is little to + be done, and that little mere form. The tedious hours remain, and no one + can settle his mind to anything. It is not a holiday, for every one is + serious; it is not business, for no one can attend to it; it is not a + contest, for there is no canvassing; nor an election, for there is no + poll. It is a day of lounging without an object, and luncheons without an + appetite; of hopes and fears; confidence and dejection; bravado bets and + secret hedging; and, about midnight, of furious suppers of grilled bones, + brandy-and-water, and recklessness. + </p> + <p> + The president and vice-president of the Conservative Association, the + secretary and the four solicitors who were agents, had impressed upon Mr. + Rigby that it was of the utmost importance, and must produce a great moral + effect, if he obtain the show of hands. With his powers of eloquence and + their secret organisation, they flattered themselves it might be done. + With this view, Rigby inflicted a speech of more than two hours’ duration + on the electors, who bore it very kindly, as the mob likes, above all + things, that the ceremonies of nomination-day should not be cut short: + moreover, there is nothing that the mob likes so much as a speech. Rigby + therefore had, on the whole, a far from unfavourable audience, and he + availed himself of their forbearance. He brought in his crack theme, the + guillotine, and dilated so elaborately upon its qualities, that one of the + gentlemen below could not refrain from exclaiming, ‘I wish you may get + it.’ This exclamation gave Mr. Rigby what is called a great opening, + which, like a practised speaker, he immediately seized. He denounced the + sentiment as ‘un-English,’ and got much cheered. Excited by this success, + Rigby began to call everything else ‘un-English’ with which he did not + agree, until menacing murmurs began to rise, when he shifted the subject, + and rose into a grand peroration, in which he assured them that the eyes + of the whole empire were on this particular election; cries of ‘That’s + true,’ from all sides; and that England expected every man to do his duty. + </p> + <p> + ‘And who do you expect to do yours?’ inquired a gentleman below, ‘about + that ’ere pension?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Rigby,’ screeched a hoarse voice, ‘don’t you mind; you guv it them well.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Rigby, keep up your spirits, old chap: we will have you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Now!’ said a stentorian voice; and a man as tall as Saul looked round + him. This was the engaged leader of the Conservative mob; the eye of every + one of his minions was instantly on him. ‘Now! Our young Queen and our Old + Institutions! Rigby for ever!’ + </p> + <p> + This was a signal for the instant appearance of the leader of the Liberal + mob. Magog Wrath, not so tall as Bully Bluck, his rival, had a voice + almost as powerful, a back much broader, and a countenance far more + forbidding. ‘Now, my boys, the Queen and Millbank for ever!’ + </p> + <p> + These rival cries were the signals for a fight between the two bands of + gladiators in the face of the hustings, the body of the people little + interfering. Bully Bluck seized Magog Wrath’s colours; they wrestled, they + seized each other; their supporters were engaged in mutual contest; it + appeared to be a most alarming and perilous fray; several ladies from the + windows screamed, one fainted; a band of special constables pushed their + way through the mob; you heard their staves resounded on the skulls of all + who opposed them, especially the little boys: order was at length + restored; and, to tell the truth, the only hurts inflicted were those + which came from the special constables. Bully Bluck and Magog Wrath, with + all their fierce looks, flaunting colours, loud cheers, and desperate + assaults, were, after all, only a couple of Condottieri, who were cautious + never to wound each other. They were, in fact, a peaceful police, who kept + the town in awe, and prevented others from being mischievous who were more + inclined to do harm. Their hired gangs were the safety-valves for all the + scamps of the borough, who, receiving a few shillings per head for their + nominal service, and as much drink as they liked after the contest, were + bribed and organised into peace and sobriety on the days in which their + excesses were most to be apprehended. + </p> + <p> + Now Mr. Millbank came forward: he was brief compared with Mr. Rigby; but + clear and terse. No one could misunderstand him. He did not favour his + hearers with any history, but gave them his views about taxes, free trade, + placemen, and pensioners, whoever and wherever they might be. + </p> + <p> + ‘Hilloa, Rigby, about that ‘ere pension?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Millbank for ever! We will have him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Never mind, Rigby, you’ll come in next time.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Millbank was energetic about resident representatives, but did not + understand that a resident representative meant the nominee of a great + Lord, who lived in a great castle; great cheering. There was a Lord once + who declared that, if he liked, he would return his negro valet to + Parliament; but Mr. Millbank thought those days were over. It remained for + the people of Darlford to determine whether he was mistaken. + </p> + <p> + ‘Never!’ exclaimed the mob. ‘Millbank for ever! Rigby in the river! No + niggers, no walets!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Three groans for Rigby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘His language ain’t as purty as the Lunnun chap’s,’ said a critic below; + ‘but he speaks from his ‘art: and give me the man who ‘as got a ‘art.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That’s your time of day, Mr. Robinson.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Now!’ said Magog Wrath, looking around. ‘Now, the Queen and Millbank for + ever! Hurrah!’ + </p> + <p> + The show of hands was entirely in favour of Mr. Millbank. Scarcely a hand + was held up for Mr. Rigby below, except by Bully Bluck and his + praetorians. The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Conservative + Association, the Secretary, and the four agents, severally and + respectively went up to Mr. Rigby and congratulated him on the result, as + it was a known fact, ‘that the show of hands never won.’ + </p> + <p> + The eve of polling-day was now at hand. This is the most critical period + of an election. All night parties in disguise were perambulating the + different wards, watching each other’s tactics; masks, wigs, false noses, + gentles in livery coats, men in female attire, a silent carnival of + manoeuvre, vigilance, anxiety, and trepidation. The thoughtful voters + about this time make up their minds; the enthusiasts who have told you + twenty times a-day for the last fortnight, that they would get up in the + middle of the night to serve you, require the most watchful cooping; all + the individuals who have assured you that ‘their word is their bond,’ + change sides. + </p> + <p> + Two of the Rigbyites met in the market-place about an hour after midnight. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, how goes it?’ said one. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been the rounds. The blunt’s going like the ward-pump. I saw a man + come out of Moffatt’s house, muffled up with a mask on. I dodged him. It + was Biggs.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You don’t mean that, do you? D——e, I’ll answer for Moffatt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I never thought he was a true man.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Told Robins?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could not see him; but I met young Gunning and told him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Young Gunning! That won’t do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I thought he was as right as the town clock.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So did I, once. Hush! who comes here? The enemy, Franklin and Sampson + Potts. Keep close.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I’ll speak to them. Good night, Potts. Up rather late to-night?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All fair election time. You ain’t snoring, are you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I hope the best man will win.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure he will.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must go for Moffatt early, to breakfast at the White Lion; that’s + your sort. Don’t leave him, and poll him your-self. I am going off to + Solomon Lacey’s. He has got four Millbankites cooped up very drunk, and I + want to get them quietly into the country before daybreak.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Tis polling-day! The candidates are roused from their slumbers at an + early hour by the music of their own bands perambulating the town, and + each playing the ‘conquering hero’ to sustain the courage of their jaded + employers, by depriving them of that rest which can alone tranquillise the + nervous system. There is something in that matin burst of music, followed + by a shrill cheer from the boys of the borough, the only inhabitants yet + up, that is very depressing. + </p> + <p> + The committee-rooms of each candidate are soon rife with black reports; + each side has received fearful bulletins of the preceding night campaign; + and its consequences as exemplified in the morning, unprecedented + tergiversations, mysterious absences; men who breakfast with one side and + vote with the other; men who won’t come to breakfast; men who won’t leave + breakfast. + </p> + <p> + At ten o’clock Mr. Rigby was in a majority of twenty-eight. + </p> + <p> + The polling was brisk and equal until the middle of the day, when it + became slack. Mr. Rigby kept a majority, but an inconsiderable one. Mr. + Millbank’s friends were not disheartened, as it was known that the leading + members of Mr. Rigby’s committee had polled; whereas his opponent’s were + principally reserved. At a quarter-past two there was great cheering and + uproar. The four voters in favour of Millbank, whom Solomon Lacey had + cooped up, made drunk, and carried into the country, had recovered iheir + senses, made their escape, and voted as they originally intended. Soon + after this, Mr. Millbank was declared by his committee to be in a majority + of one, but the committee of Mr. Rigby instantly posted a placard, in + large letters, to announce that, on the contrary, their man was in a + majority of nine. + </p> + <p> + ‘If we could only have got another registration,’ whispered the principal + agent to Mr. Rigby, at a quarter-past four. + </p> + <p> + ‘You think it’s all over, then?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, I do not see now how we can win. We have polled all our dead men, + and Millbank is seven ahead.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have no doubt we shall be able to have a good petition,’ said the + consoling chairman of the Conservative Association. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0044" id="link2HCH0044"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + It was not with feelings of extreme satisfaction that Mr. Rigby returned + to London. The loss of Hellingsley, followed by the loss of the borough to + Hellingsley’s successful master, were not precisely the incidents which + would be adduced as evidence of Mr. Rigby’s good management or good + fortune. Hitherto that gentleman had persuaded the world that he was not + only very clever, but that he was also always in luck; a quality which + many appreciate more even than capacity. His reputation was unquestionably + damaged, both with his patron and his party. But what the Tapers and the + Tadpoles thought or said, what even might be the injurious effect on his + own career of the loss of this election, assumed an insignificant + character when compared with its influence on the temper and disposition + of the Marquess of Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + And yet his carriage is now entering the courtyard of Monmouth House, and, + in all probability, a few minutes would introduce him to that presence + before which he had, ere this, trembled. The Marquess was at home, and + anxious to see Mr. Rigby. In a few minutes that gentleman was ascending + the private staircase, entering the antechamber, and waiting to be + received in the little saloon, exactly as our Coningsby did more than five + years ago, scarcely less agitated, but by feelings of a very different + character. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, you made a good fight of it,’ exclaimed the Marquess, in a cheerful + and cordial tone, as Mr. Rigby entered his dressing-room. ‘Patience! We + shall win next time.’ + </p> + <p> + This reception instantly reassured the defeated candidate, though its + contrast to that which he expected rather perplexed him. He entered into + the details of the election, talked rapidly of the next registration, the + propriety of petitioning; accustomed himself to hearing his voice with its + habitual volubility in a chamber where he had feared it might not sound + for some time. + </p> + <p> + ‘D——n politics!’ said the Marquess. ‘These fellows are in for + this Parliament, and I am really weary of the whole affair. I begin to + think the Duke was right, and it would have been best to have left them to + themselves. I am glad you have come up at once, for I want you. The fact + is, I am going to be married.’ + </p> + <p> + This was not a startling announcement to Mr. Rigby; he was prepared for + it, though scarcely could have hoped that he would have been favoured with + it on the present occasion, instead of a morose comment on his + misfortunes. Marriage, then, was the predominant idea of Lord Monmouth at + the present moment, in whose absorbing interest all vexations were + forgotten. Fortunate Rigby! Disgusted by the failure of his political + combinations, his disappointments in not dictating to the county and not + carrying the borough, and the slight prospect at present of obtaining the + great object of his ambition, Lord Monmouth had resolved to precipitate + his fate, was about to marry immediately, and quit England. + </p> + <p> + ‘You will be wanted, Rigby,’ continued the Marquess. ‘We must have a + couple of trustees, and I have thought of you as one. You know you are my + executor; and it is better not to bring in unnecessarily new names into + the management of my affairs. Lord Eskdale will act with you.’ + </p> + <p> + Rigby then, after all, was a lucky man. After such a succession of + failures, he had returned only to receive fresh and the most delicate + marks of his patron’s good feeling and consideration. Lord Monmouth’s + trustee and executor! ‘You know you are my executor.’ Sublime truth! It + ought to be blazoned in letters of gold in the most conspicuous part of + Rigby’s library, to remind him perpetually of his great and impending + destiny. Lord Monmouth’s executor, and very probably one of his residuary + legatees! A legatee of some sort he knew he was. What a splendid <i>memento + mori</i>! What cared Rigby for the borough of Darlford? And as for his + political friends, he wished them joy of their barren benches. Nothing was + lost by not being in this Parliament. + </p> + <p> + It was then with sincerity that Rigby offered his congratulations to his + patron. He praised the judicious alliance, accompanied by every + circumstance conducive to worldly happiness; distinguished beauty, perfect + temper, princely rank. Rigby, who had hardly got out of his hustings’ + vein, was most eloquent in his praises of Madame Colonna. + </p> + <p> + ‘An amiable woman,’ said Lord Monmouth, ‘and very handsome. I always + admired her; and an agreeable person too; I dare say a very good temper, + but I am not going to marry her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Might I then ask who is—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Her step-daughter, the Princess Lucretia,’ replied the Marquess, quietly, + and looking at his ring. + </p> + <p> + Here was a thunderbolt! Rigby had made another mistake. He had been + working all this time for the wrong woman! The consciousness of being a + trustee alone sustained him. There was an inevitable pause. The Marquess + would not speak however, and Rigby must. He babbled rather incoherently + about the Princess Lucretia being admired by everybody; also that she was + the most fortunate of women, as well as the most accomplished; he was just + beginning to say he had known her from a child, when discretion stopped + his tongue, which had a habit of running on somewhat rashly; but Rigby, + though he often blundered in his talk, had the talent of extricating + himself from the consequence of his mistakes. + </p> + <p> + ‘And Madame must be highly gratified by all this?’ observed Mr. Rigby, + with an enquiring accent. He was dying to learn how she had first received + the intelligence, and congratulated himself that his absence at his + contest had preserved him from the storm. + </p> + <p> + ‘Madame Colonna knows nothing of our intentions,’ said Lord Monmouth. ‘And + by the bye, that is the very business on which I wish to see you, Rigby. I + wish you to communicate them to her. We are to be married, and + immediately. It would gratify me that the wife of Lucretia’s father should + attend our wedding. You understand exactly what I mean, Rigby; I must have + no scenes. Always happy to see the Princess Colonna under my roof; but + then I like to live quietly, particularly at present; harassed as I have + been by the loss of these elections, by all this bad management, and by + all these disappointments on subjects in which I was led to believe + success was certain. Madame Colonna is at home;’ and the Marquess bowed + Mr. Rigby out of the room. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0045" id="link2HCH0045"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + The departure of Sidonia from Coningsby Castle, in the autumn, determined + the Princess Lucretia on a step which had for some time before his arrival + occupied her brooding imagination. Nature had bestowed on this lady an + ambitious soul and a subtle spirit; she could dare much and could execute + finely. Above all things she coveted power; and though not free from the + characteristic susceptibility of her sex, the qualities that could engage + her passions or fascinate her fancy must partake of that intellectual + eminence which distinguished her. Though the Princess Lucretia in a short + space of time had seen much of the world, she had as yet encountered no + hero. In the admirers whom her rank, and sometimes her intelligence, + assembled around her, her master had not yet appeared. Her heart had not + trembled before any of those brilliant forms whom she was told her sex + admired; nor did she envy any one the homage which she did not appreciate. + There was, therefore, no disturbing element in the worldly calculations + which she applied to that question which is, to woman, what a career is to + man, the question of marriage. She would marry to gain power, and + therefore she wished to marry the powerful. Lord Eskdale hovered around + her, and she liked him. She admired his incomparable shrewdness; his + freedom from ordinary prejudices; his selfishness which was always + good-natured, and the imperturbability that was not callous. But Lord + Eskdale had hovered round many; it was his easy habit. He liked clever + women, young, but who had seen something of the world. The Princess + Lucretia pleased him much; with the form and mind of a woman even in the + nursery. He had watched her development with interest; and had witnessed + her launch in that world where she floated at once with as much dignity + and consciousness of superior power, as if she had braved for seasons its + waves and its tempests. + </p> + <p> + Musing over Lord Eskdale, the mind of Lucretia was drawn to the image of + his friend; her friend; the friend of her parents. And why not marry Lord + Monmouth? The idea pleased her. There was something great in the + conception; difficult and strange. The result, if achieved, would give her + all that she desired. She devoted her mind to this secret thought. She had + no confidants. She concentrated her intellect on one point, and that was + to fascinate the grandfather of Coningsby, while her step-mother was + plotting that she should marry his grandson. The volition of Lucretia + Colonna was, if not supreme, of a power most difficult to resist. There + was something charm-like and alluring in the conversation of one who was + silent to all others; something in the tones of her low rich voice which + acted singularly on the nervous system. It was the voice of the serpent; + indeed, there was an undulating movement in Lucretia, when she approached + you, which irresistibly reminded you of that mysterious animal. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth was not insensible to the spell, though totally unconscious + of its purpose. He found the society of Lucretia very agreeable to him; + she was animated, intelligent, original; her inquiries were stimulating; + her comments on what she saw, and heard, and read, racy and often + indicating a fine humour. But all this was reserved for his ear. Before + her parents, as before all others, Lucretia was silent, a little scornful, + never communicating, neither giving nor seeking amusement, shut up in + herself. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth fell therefore into the habit of riding and driving with + Lucretia alone. It was an arrangement which he found made his life more + pleasant. Nor was it displeasing to Madame Colonna. She looked upon Lord + Monmouth’s fancy for Lucretia as a fresh tie for them all. Even the + Prince, when his wife called his attention to the circumstance, observed + it with satisfaction. It was a circumstance which represented in his mind + a continuance of good eating and good drinking, fine horses, luxurious + baths, unceasing billiards. + </p> + <p> + In this state of affairs appeared Sidonia, known before to her + step-mother, but seen by Lucretia for the first time. Truly, he came, saw, + and conquered. Those eyes that rarely met another’s were fixed upon his + searching yet unimpassioned glance. She listened to that voice, full of + music yet void of tenderness; and the spirit of Lucretia Colonna bowed + before an intelligence that commanded sympathy, yet offered none. + </p> + <p> + Lucretia naturally possessed great qualities as well as great talents. + Under a genial influence, her education might have formed a being capable + of imparting and receiving happiness. But she found herself without a + guide. Her father offered her no love; her step-mother gained from her no + respect. Her literary education was the result of her own strong mind and + inquisitive spirit. She valued knowledge, and she therefore acquired it. + But not a single moral principle or a single religious truth had ever been + instilled into her being. Frequent absence from her own country had by + degrees broken off even an habitual observance of the forms of her creed; + while a life of undisturbed indulgence, void of all anxiety and care, + while it preserved her from many of the temptations to vice, deprived her + of that wisdom ‘more precious than rubies,’ which adversity and + affliction, the struggles and the sorrows of existence, can alone impart. + </p> + <p> + Lucretia had passed her life in a refined, but rather dissolute society. + Not indeed that a word that could call forth a maiden blush, conduct that + could pain the purest feelings, could be heard or witnessed in those + polished and luxurious circles. The most exquisite taste pervaded their + atmosphere; and the uninitiated who found themselves in those perfumed + chambers and those golden saloons, might believe, from all that passed + before them, that their inhabitants were as pure, as orderly, and as + irreproachable as their furniture. But among the habitual dwellers in + these delicate halls there was a tacit understanding, a prevalent doctrine + that required no formal exposition, no proofs and illustrations, no + comment and no gloss; which was indeed rather a traditional conviction + than an imparted dogma; that the exoteric public were, on many subjects, + the victims of very vulgar prejudices, which these enlightened personages + wished neither to disturb nor to adopt. + </p> + <p> + A being of such a temper, bred in such a manner; a woman full of intellect + and ambition, daring and lawless, and satiated with prosperity, is not + made for equable fortunes and an uniform existence. She would have + sacrificed the world for Sidonia, for he had touched the fervent + imagination that none before could approach; but that inscrutable man + would not read the secret of her heart; and prompted alike by pique, the + love of power, and a weariness of her present life, Lucretia resolved on + that great result which Mr. Rigby is now about to communicate to the + Princess Colonna. + </p> + <p> + About half-an-hour after Mr. Rigby had entered that lady’s apartments it + seemed that all the bells of Monmouth House were ringing at the same time. + The sound even reached the Marquess in his luxurious recess; who + immediately took a pinch of snuff, and ordered his valet to lock the door + of the ante-chamber. The Princess Lucretia, too, heard the sounds; she was + lying on a sofa, in her boudoir, reading the <i>Inferno</i>, and + immediately mustered her garrison in the form of a French maid, and gave + directions that no one should be admitted. Both the Marquess and his + intended bride felt that a crisis was at hand, and resolved to participate + in no scenes. + </p> + <p> + The ringing ceased; there was again silence. Then there was another ring; + a short, hasty, and violent pull; followed by some slamming of doors. The + servants, who were all on the alert, and had advantages of hearing and + observation denied to their secluded master, caught a glimpse of Mr. Rigby + endeavouring gently to draw back into her apartment Madame Colonna, + furious amid his deprecatory exclamations. + </p> + <p> + ‘For heaven’s sake, my dear Madame; for your own sake; now really; now I + assure you; you are quite wrong; you are indeed; it is a complete + misapprehension; I will explain everything. I entreat, I implore, whatever + you like, just what you please; only listen.’ + </p> + <p> + Then the lady, with a mantling visage and flashing eye, violently closing + the door, was again lost to their sight. A few minutes after there was a + moderate ring, and Mr. Rigby, coming out of the apartments, with his + cravat a little out of order, as if he had had a violent shaking, met the + servant who would have entered. + </p> + <p> + ‘Order Madame Colonna’s travelling carriage,’ he exclaimed in a loud + voice, ‘and send Mademoiselle Conrad here directly. I don’t think the + fellow hears me,’ added Mr. Rigby, and following the servant, he added in + a low tone and with a significant glance, ‘no travelling carriage; no + Mademoiselle Conrad; order the britska round as usual.’ + </p> + <p> + Nearly another hour passed; there was another ring; very moderate indeed. + The servant was informed that Madame Colonna was coming down, and she + appeared as usual. In a beautiful morning dress, and leaning on the arm of + Mr. Rigby, she descended the stairs, and was handed into her carriage by + that gentleman, who, seating himself by her side, ordered them to drive to + Richmond. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth having been informed that all was calm, and that Madame + Colonna, attended by Mr. Rigby, had gone to Richmond, ordered his + carriage, and accompanied by Lucretia and Lucian Gay, departed immediately + for Blackwall, where, in whitebait, a quiet bottle of claret, the society + of his agreeable friends, and the contemplation of the passing steamers, + he found a mild distraction and an amusing repose. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby reported that evening to the Marquess on his return, that all + was arranged and tranquil. Perhaps he exaggerated the difficulties, to + increase the service; but according to his account they were considerable. + It required some time to make Madame Colonna comprehend the nature of his + communication. All Rigby’s diplomatic skill was expended in the gradual + development. When it was once fairly put before her, the effect was + appalling. That was the first great ringing of bells. Rigby softened a + little what he had personally endured; but he confessed she sprang at him + like a tigress balked of her prey, and poured forth on him a volume of + epithets, many of which Rigby really deserved. But after all, in the + present instance, he was not treacherous, only base, which he always was. + Then she fell into a passion of tears, and vowed frequently that she was + not weeping for herself, but only for that dear Mr. Coningsby, who had + been treated so infamously and robbed of Lucretia, and whose heart she + knew must break. It seemed that Rigby stemmed the first violence of her + emotion by mysterious intimations of an important communication that he + had to make; and piquing her curiosity, he calmed her passion. But really + having nothing to say, he was nearly involved in fresh dangers. He took + refuge in the affectation of great agitation which prevented exposition. + The lady then insisted on her travelling carriage being ordered and + packed, as she was determined to set out for Rome that afternoon. This + little occurrence gave Rigby some few minutes to collect himself, at the + end of which he made the Princess several announcements of intended + arrangements, all of which pleased her mightily, though they were so + inconsistent with each other, that if she had not been a woman in a + passion, she must have detected that Rigby was lying. He assured her + almost in the same breath, that she was never to be separated from them, + and that she was to have any establishment in any country she liked. He + talked wildly of equipages, diamonds, shawls, opera-boxes; and while her + mind was bewildered with these dazzling objects, he, with intrepid + gravity, consulted her as to the exact amount she would like to have + apportioned, independent of her general revenue, for the purposes of + charity. + </p> + <p> + At the end of two hours, exhausted by her rage and soothed by these + visions, Madame Colonna having grown calm and reasonable, sighed and + murmured a complaint, that Lord Monmouth ought to have communicated this + important intelligence in person. Upon this Rigby instantly assured her, + that Lord Monmouth had been for some time waiting to do so, but in + consequence of her lengthened interview with Rigby, his Lordship had + departed for Richmond with Lucretia, where he hoped that Madame Colonna + and Mr. Rigby would join him. So it ended, with a morning drive and + suburban dinner; Rigby, after what he had gone through, finding no + difficulty in accounting for the other guests not being present, and + bringing home Madame Colonna in the evening, at times almost as gay and + good-tempered as usual, and almost oblivious of her disappointment. + </p> + <p> + When the Marquess met Madame Colonna he embraced her with great + courtliness, and from that time consulted her on every arrangement. He + took a very early occasion of presenting her with a diamond necklace of + great value. The Marquess was fond of making presents to persons to whom + he thought he had not behaved very well, and who yet spared him scenes. + </p> + <p> + The marriage speedily followed, by special license, at the villa of the + Right Hon. Nicholas Rigby, who gave away the bride. The wedding was very + select, but brilliant as the diamond necklace: a royal Duke and Duchess, + Lady St. Julians, and a few others. Mr. Ormsby presented the bride with a + bouquet of precious stones, and Lord Eskdale with a French fan in a + diamond frame. It was a fine day; Lord Monmouth, calm as if he were + winning the St. Leger; Lucretia, universally recognised as a beauty; all + the guests gay, the Princess Colonna especially. + </p> + <p> + The travelling carriage is at the door which is to bear away the happy + pair. Madame Colonna embraces Lucretia; the Marquess gives a grand bow: + they are gone. The guests remain awhile. A Prince of the blood will + propose a toast; there is another glass of champagne quaffed, another + ortolan devoured; and then they rise and disperse. Madame Colonna leaves + with Lady St. Julians, whose guest for a while she is to become. And in a + few minutes their host is alone. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby retired into his library: the repose of the chamber must have + been grateful to his feelings after all this distraction. It was spacious, + well-stored, classically adorned, and opened on a beautiful lawn. Rigby + threw himself into an ample chair, crossed his legs, and resting his head + on his arm, apparently fell into deep contemplation. + </p> + <p> + He had some cause for reflection, and though we did once venture to affirm + that Rigby never either thought or felt, this perhaps may be the exception + that proves the rule. + </p> + <p> + He could scarcely refrain from pondering over the strange event which he + had witnessed, and at which he had assisted. + </p> + <p> + It was an incident that might exercise considerable influence over his + fortunes. His patron married, and married to one who certainly did not + offer to Mr. Rigby such a prospect of easy management as her step-mother! + Here were new influences arising; new characters, new situations, new + contingencies. Was he thinking of all this? He suddenly jumps up, hurries + to a shelf and takes down a volume. It is his interleaved peerage, of + which for twenty years he had been threatening an edition. Turning to the + Marquisate of Monmouth, he took up his pen and thus made the necessary + entry: + </p> + <p> + ‘<i>Married, second time, August 3rd, 1837, The Princess Lucretia Colonna, + daughter of Prince Paul Colonna, born at Rome, February 16th, 1819.</i>’ + </p> + <p> + That was what Mr. Rigby called ‘a great fact.’ There was not a + peerage-compiler in England who had that date save himself. + </p> + <p> + Before we close this slight narrative of the domestic incidents that + occurred in the family of his grandfather since Coningsby quitted the + Castle, we must not forget to mention what happened to Villebecque and + Flora. Lord Monmouth took a great liking to the manager. He found him very + clever in many things independently of his profession; he was useful to + Lord Monmouth, and did his work in an agreeable manner. And the future + Lady Monmouth was accustomed to Flora, and found her useful too, and did + not like to lose her. And so the Marquess, turning all the circumstances + in his mind, and being convinced that Villebecque could never succeed to + any extent in England in his profession, and probably nowhere else, + appointed him, to Villebecque’s infinite satisfaction, intendant of his + household, with a considerable salary, while Flora still lived with her + kind step-father. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0046" id="link2HCH0046"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + Another year elapsed; not so fruitful in incidents to Coningsby as the + preceding ones, and yet not unprofitably passed. It had been spent in the + almost unremitting cultivation of his intelligence. He had read deeply and + extensively, digested his acquisitions, and had practised himself in + surveying them, free from those conventional conclusions and those + traditionary inferences that surrounded him. Although he had renounced his + once cherished purpose of trying for University honours, an aim which he + found discordant with the investigations on which his mind was bent, he + had rarely quitted Cambridge. The society of his friends, the great + convenience of public libraries, and the general tone of studious life + around, rendered an University for him a genial residence. There is a + moment in life, when the pride and thirst of knowledge seem to absorb our + being, and so it happened now to Coningsby, who felt each day stronger in + his intellectual resources, and each day more anxious and avid to increase + them. The habits of public discussion fostered by the Debating Society + were also for Coningsby no Inconsiderable tie to the University. This was + the arena in which he felt himself at home. The promise of his Eton days + was here fulfilled. And while his friends listened to his sustained + argument or his impassioned declamation, the prompt reply or the apt + retort, they looked forward with pride through the vista of years to the + time when the hero of the youthful Club should convince or dazzle in the + senate. It is probable then that he would have remained at Cambridge with + slight intervals until he had taken his degree, had not circumstances + occurred which gave altogether a new turn to his thoughts. + </p> + <p> + When Lord Monmouth had fixed his wedding-day he had written himself to + Coningsby to announce his intended marriage, and to request his grandson’s + presence at the ceremony. The letter was more than kind; it was warm and + generous. He assured his grandson that this alliance should make no + difference in the very ample provision which he had long intended for him; + that he should ever esteem Coningsby his nearest relative; and that, while + his death would bring to Coningsby as considerable an independence as an + English gentleman need desire, so in his lifetime Coningsby should ever be + supported as became his birth, breeding, and future prospects. Lord + Monmouth had mentioned to Lucretia, that he was about to invite his + grandson to their wedding, and the lady had received the intimation with + satisfaction. It so happened that a few hours after, Lucretia, who now + entered the private rooms of Lord Monmouth without previously announcing + her arrival, met Villebecque with the letter to Coningsby in his hand. + Lucretia took it away from him, and said it should be posted with her own + letters. It never reached its destination. Our friend learnt the marriage + from the newspapers, which somewhat astounded him; but Coningsby was fond + of his grandfather, and he wrote Lord Monmouth a letter of congratulation, + full of feeling and ingenuousness, and which, while it much pleased the + person to whom it was addressed, unintentionally convinced him that + Coningsby had never received his original communication. Lord Monmouth + spoke to Villebecque, who could throw sufficient light upon the subject, + but it was never mentioned to Lady Monmouth. The Marquess was a man who + always found out everything, and enjoyed the secret. + </p> + <p> + Rather more than a year after the marriage, when Coningsby had completed + his twenty-first year, the year which he had passed so quietly at + Cambridge, he received a letter from his grandfather, informing him that + after a variety of movements Lady Monmouth and himself were established in + Paris for the season, and desiring that he would not fail to come over as + soon as practicable, and pay them as long a visit as the regulations of + the University would permit. So, at the close of the December term, + Coningsby quitted Cambridge for Paris. + </p> + <p> + Passing through London, he made his first visit to his banker at Charing + Cross, on whom he had periodically drawn since he commenced his college + life. He was in the outer counting-house, making some inquiries about a + letter of credit, when one of the partners came out from an inner room, + and invited him to enter. This firm had been for generations the bankers + of the Coningsby family; and it appeared that there was a sealed box in + their possession, which had belonged to the father of Coningsby, and they + wished to take this opportunity of delivering it to his son. This + communication deeply interested him; and as he was alone in London, at an + hotel, and on the wing for a foreign country, he requested permission at + once to examine it, in order that he might again deposit it with them: so + he was shown into a private room for that purpose. The seal was broken; + the box was full of papers, chiefly correspondence: among them was a + packet described as letters from ‘my dear Helen,’ the mother of Coningsby. + In the interior of this packet there was a miniature of that mother. He + looked at it; put it down; looked at it again and again. He could not be + mistaken. There was the same blue fillet in the bright hair. It was an + exact copy of that portrait which had so greatly excited his attention + when at Millbank! This was a mysterious and singularly perplexing + incident. It greatly agitated him. He was alone in the room when he made + the discovery. When he had recovered himself, he sealed up the contents of + the box, with the exception of his mother’s letters and the miniature, + which he took away with him, and then re-delivered it to his banker for + custody until his return. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby found Lord and Lady Monmouth in a splendid hotel in the Faubourg + St. Honoré, near the English Embassy. His grandfather looked at him with + marked attention, and received him with evident satisfaction. Indeed, Lord + Monmouth was greatly pleased that Harry had come to Paris; it was the + University of the World, where everybody should graduate. Paris and London + ought to be the great objects of all travellers; the rest was mere + landscape. + </p> + <p> + It cannot be denied that between Lucretia and Coningsby there existed from + the first a certain antipathy; and though circumstances for a short time + had apparently removed or modified the aversion, the manner of the lady + when Coningsby was ushered into her boudoir, resplendent with all that + Parisian taste and luxury could devise, was characterised by that frigid + politeness which had preceded the days of their more genial acquaintance. + If the manner of Lucretia were the same as before her marriage, a + considerable change might however be observed in her appearance. Her fine + form had become more developed; while her dress, that she once neglected, + was elaborate and gorgeous, and of the last mode. Lucretia was the fashion + of Paris; a great lady, greatly admired. A guest under such a roof, + however, Coningsby was at once launched into the most brilliant circles of + Parisian society, which he found fascinating. + </p> + <p> + The art of society is, without doubt, perfectly comprehended and + completely practised in the bright metropolis of France. An Englishman + cannot enter a saloon without instantly feeling he is among a race more + social than his compatriots. What, for example, is more consummate than + the manner in which a French lady receives her guests! She unites graceful + repose and unaffected dignity, with the most amiable regard for others. + She sees every one; she speaks to every one; she sees them at the right + moment; she says the right thing; it is utterly impossible to detect any + difference in the position of her guests by the spirit in which she + welcomes them. There is, indeed, throughout every circle of Parisian + society, from the chateau to the cabaret, a sincere homage to intellect; + and this without any maudlin sentiment. None sooner than the Parisians can + draw the line between factitious notoriety and honest fame; or sooner + distinguished between the counterfeit celebrity and the standard + reputation. In England, we too often alternate between a supercilious + neglect of genius and a rhapsodical pursuit of quacks. In England when a + new character appears in our circles, the first question always is, ‘Who + is he?’ In France it is, ‘What is he?’ In England, ‘How much a-year?’ In + France, ‘What has he done?’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0047" id="link2HCH0047"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + About a week after Coningsby’s arrival in Paris, as he was sauntering on + the soft and sunny Boulevards, soft and sunny though Christmas, he met + Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘So you are here?’ said Sidonia. ‘Turn now with me, for I see you are only + lounging, and tell me when you came, where you are, and what you have done + since we parted. I have been here myself but a few days.’ + </p> + <p> + There was much to tell. And when Coningsby had rapidly related all that + had passed, they talked of Paris. Sidonia had offered him hospitality, + until he learned that Lord Monmouth was in Paris, and that Coningsby was + his guest. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry you cannot come to me,’ he remarked; ‘I would have shown you + everybody and everything. But we shall meet often.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have already seen many remarkable things,’ said Coningsby; ‘and met + many celebrated persons. Nothing strikes me more in this brilliant city + than the tone of its society, so much higher than our own. What an absence + of petty personalities! How much conversation, and how little gossip! Yet + nowhere is there less pedantry. Here all women are as agreeable as is the + remarkable privilege in London of some half-dozen. Men too, and great men, + develop their minds. A great man in England, on the contrary, is generally + the dullest dog in company. And yet, how piteous to think that so fair a + civilisation should be in such imminent peril!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes! that is a common opinion: and yet I am somewhat sceptical of its + truth,’ replied Sidonia. ‘I am inclined to believe that the social system + of England is in infinitely greater danger than that of France. We must + not be misled by the agitated surface of this country. The foundations of + its order are deep and sure. Learn to understand France. France is a + kingdom with a Republic for its capital. It has been always so, for + centuries. From the days of the League to the days of the Sections, to the + days of 1830. It is still France, little changed; and only more national, + for it is less Frank and more Gallic; as England has become less Norman + and more Saxon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And it is your opinion, then, that the present King may maintain + himself?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Every movement in this country, however apparently discordant, seems to + tend to that inevitable end. He would not be on the throne if the nature + of things had not demanded his presence. The Kingdom of France required a + Monarch; the Republic of Paris required a Dictator. He comprised in his + person both qualifications; lineage and intellect; blood for the + provinces, brains for the city.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What a position! what an individual!’ exclaimed Coningsby. ‘Tell me,’ he + added, eagerly, ‘what is he? This Prince of whom one hears in all + countries at all hours; on whose existence we are told the tranquillity, + almost the civilisation, of Europe depends, yet of whom we receive + accounts so conflicting, so contradictory; tell me, you who can tell me, + tell me what he is.’ + </p> + <p> + Sidonia smiled at his earnestness. ‘I have a creed of mine own,’ he + remarked, ‘that the great characters of antiquity are at rare epochs + reproduced for our wonder, or our guidance. Nature, wearied with + mediocrity, pours the warm metal into an heroic mould. When circumstances + at length placed me in the presence of the King of France, I recognised, + ULYSSES!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But is there no danger,’ resumed Coningsby, after the pause of a few + moments, ‘that the Republic of Paris may absorb the Kingdom of France?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I suspect the reverse,’ replied Sidonia. ‘The tendency of advanced + civilisation is in truth to pure Monarchy. Monarchy is indeed a government + which requires a high degree of civilisation for its full development. It + needs the support of free laws and manners, and of a widely-diffused + intelligence. Political compromises are not to be tolerated except at + periods of rude transition. An educated nation recoils from the imperfect + vicariate of what is called a representative government. Your House of + Commons, that has absorbed all other powers in the State, will in all + probability fall more rapidly than it rose. Public opinion has a more + direct, a more comprehensive, a more efficient organ for its utterance, + than a body of men sectionally chosen. The Printing-press is a political + element unknown to classic or feudal times. It absorbs in a great degree + the duties of the Sovereign, the Priest, the Parliament; it controls, it + educates, it discusses. That public opinion, when it acts, would appear in + the form of one who has no class interests. In an enlightened age the + Monarch on the throne, free from the vulgar prejudices and the corrupt + interests of the subject, becomes again divine!’ + </p> + <p> + At this moment they reached that part of the Boulevards which leads into + the Place of the Madeleine, whither Sidonia was bound; and Coningsby was + about to quit his companion, when Sidonia said: + </p> + <p> + ‘I am only going a step over to the Rue Tronchet to say a few words to a + friend of mine, M. P——s. I shall not detain you five minutes; + and you should know him, for he has some capital pictures, and a + collection of Limoges ware that is the despair of the dilettanti.’ + </p> + <p> + So saying they turned down by the Place of the Madeleine, and soon entered + the court of the hotel of M. P——s. That gentleman received + them in his gallery. After some general conversation, Coningsby turned + towards the pictures, and left Sidonia with their host. The collection was + rare, and interested Coningsby, though unacquainted with art. He sauntered + on from picture to picture until he reached the end of the gallery, where + an open door invited him into a suite of rooms also full of pictures and + objects of curiosity and art. As he was entering a second chamber, he + observed a lady leaning back in a cushioned chair, and looking earnestly + on a picture. His entrance was unheard and unnoticed, for the lady’s back + was to the door; yet Coningsby, advancing in an angular direction, + obtained nearly a complete view of her countenance. It was upraised, + gazing on the picture with an expression of delight; the bonnet thrown + back, while the large sable cloak of the gazer had fallen partly off. The + countenance was more beautiful than the beautiful picture. Those glowing + shades of the gallery to which love, and genius, and devotion had lent + their inspiration, seemed without life and lustre by the radiant + expression and expressive presence which Coningsby now beheld. + </p> + <p> + The finely-arched brow was a little elevated, the soft dark eyes were + fully opened, the nostril of the delicate nose slightly dilated, the + small, yet rich, full lips just parted; and over the clear, transparent + visage, there played a vivid glance of gratified intelligence. + </p> + <p> + The lady rose, advanced towards the picture, looked at it earnestly for a + few moments, and then, turning in a direction opposite to Coningsby, + walked away. She was somewhat above the middle stature, and yet could + scarcely be called tall; a quality so rare, that even skilful dancers do + not often possess it, was hers; that elastic gait that is so winning, and + so often denotes the gaiety and quickness of the spirit. + </p> + <p> + The fair object of his observation had advanced into other chambers, and + as soon as it was becoming, Coningsby followed her. She had joined a lady + and gentleman, who were examining an ancient carving in ivory. The + gentleman was middle-aged and portly; the elder lady tall and elegant, and + with traces of interesting beauty. Coningsby heard her speak; the words + were English, but the accent not of a native. + </p> + <p> + In the remotest part of the room, Coningsby, apparently engaged in + examining some of that famous Limoges ware of which Sidonia had spoken, + watched with interest and intentness the beautiful being whom he had + followed, and whom he concluded to be the child of her companions. After + some little time, they quitted the apartment on their return to the + gallery; Coningsby remained behind, caring for none of the rare and + fanciful objects that surrounded him, yet compelled, from the fear of + seeming obtrusive, for some minutes to remain. Then he too returned to the + gallery, and just as he had gained its end, he saw the portly gentleman in + the distance shaking hands with Sidonia, the ladies apparently expressing + their thanks and gratification to M. P——s, and then all + vanishing by the door through which Coningsby had originally entered. + </p> + <p> + ‘What a beautiful countrywoman of yours!’ said M. P——s, as + Coningsby approached him. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is she my countrywoman? I am glad to hear it; I have been admiring her,’ + he replied. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said M. P——s, ‘it is Sir Wallinger: one of your + deputies; don’t you know him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Sir Wallinger!’ said Coningsby, ‘no, I have not that honour.’ He looked + at Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sir Joseph Wallinger,’ said Sidonia, ‘one of the new Whig baronets, and + member for ——. I know him. He married a Spaniard. That is not + his daughter, but his niece; the child of his wife’s sister. It is not + easy to find any one more beautiful.’ + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK V. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0057" id="link2H_4_0057"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK VI. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0048" id="link2HCH0048"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + The knowledge that Sidonia was in Paris greatly agitated Lady Monmouth. + She received the intimation indeed from Coningsby at dinner with + sufficient art to conceal her emotion. Lord Monmouth himself was quite + pleased at the announcement. Sidonia was his especial favourite; he knew + so much, had such an excellent judgment, and was so rich. He had always + something to tell you, was the best man in the world to bet on, and never + wanted anything. A perfect character according to the Monmouth ethics. + </p> + <p> + In the evening of the day that Coningsby met Sidonia, Lady Monmouth made a + little visit to the charming Duchess de G——t who was ‘at home’ + every other night in her pretty hotel, with its embroidered white satin + draperies, its fine old cabinets, and ancestral portraits of famous name, + brave marshals and bright princesses of the olden time, on its walls. + These receptions without form, yet full of elegance, are what English ‘at + homes’ were before the Continental war, though now, by a curious + perversion of terms, the easy domestic title distinguishes in England a + formally-prepared and elaborately-collected assembly, in which everything + and every person are careful to be as little ‘homely’ as possible. In + France, on the contrary, ‘tis on these occasions, and in this manner, that + society carries on that degree and kind of intercourse which in England we + attempt awkwardly to maintain by the medium of that unpopular species of + visitation styled a morning call; which all complain that they have either + to make or to endure. + </p> + <p> + Nowhere was this species of reception more happily conducted than at the + Duchess de G——t’s. The rooms, though small, decorated with + taste, brightly illumined; a handsome and gracious hostess, the Duke the + very pearl of gentlemen, and sons and daughters worthy of such parents. + Every moment some one came in, and some one went away. In your way from a + dinner to a ball, you stopped to exchange agreeable <i>on dits</i>. It + seemed that every woman was pretty, every man a wit. Sure you were to find + yourself surrounded by celebrities, and men were welcomed there, if they + were clever, before they were famous, which showed it was a house that + regarded intellect, and did not seek merely to gratify its vanity by being + surrounded by the distinguished. + </p> + <p> + Enveloped in a rich Indian shawl, and leaning back on a sofa, Lady + Monmouth was engaged in conversation with the courtly and classic Count M——é, + when, on casually turning her head, she observed entering the saloon, + Sidonia. She just caught his form bowing to the Duchess, and instantly + turned her head and replunged into her conversation with increased + interest. Lady Monmouth was a person who had the power of seeing all about + her, everything and everybody, without appearing to look. She was + conscious that Sidonia was approaching her neighbourhood. Her heart beat + in tumult; she dreaded to catch the eye of that very individual whom she + was so anxious to meet. He was advancing towards the sofa. Instinctively, + Lady Monmouth turned from the Count, and began speaking earnestly to her + other neighbour, a young daughter of the house, innocent and beautiful, + not yet quite fledged, trying her wings in society under the maternal eye. + She was surprised by the extreme interest which her grand neighbour + suddenly took in all her pursuits, her studies, her daily walks in the + Bois de Boulogne. Sidonia, as the Marchioness had anticipated, had now + reached the sofa. But no, it was to the Count, and not to Lady Monmouth + that he was advancing; and they were immediately engaged in conversation. + After some little time, when she had become accustomed to his voice, and + found her own heart throbbing with less violence, Lucretia turned again, + as if by accident, to the Count, and met the glance of Sidonia. She meant + to have received him with haughtiness, but her self-command deserted her; + and slightly rising from the sofa, she welcomed him with a countenance of + extreme pallor and with some awkwardness. + </p> + <p> + His manner was such as might have assisted her, even had she been more + troubled. It was marked by a degree of respectful friendliness. He + expressed without reserve his pleasure at meeting her again; inquired much + how she had passed her time since they last parted; asked more than once + after the Marquess. The Count moved away; Sidonia took his seat. His ease + and homage combined greatly relieved her. She expressed to him how kind + her Lord would consider his society, for the Marquess had suffered in + health since Sidonia last saw him. His periodical gout had left him, which + made him ill and nervous. The Marquess received his friends at dinner + every day. Sidonia, particularly amiable, offered himself as a guest for + the following one. + </p> + <p> + ‘And do you go to the great ball to-morrow?’ inquired Lucretia, delighted + with all that had occurred. + </p> + <p> + ‘I always go to their balls,’ said Sidonia, ‘I have promised.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a momentary pause; Lucretia happier than she had been for a long + time, her face a little flushed, and truly in a secret tumult of sweet + thoughts, remembered she had been long there, and offering her hand to + Sidonia, bade him adieu until to-morrow, while he, as was his custom, soon + repaired to the refined circle of the Countess de C-s-l-ne, a lady whose + manners he always mentioned as his fair ideal, and whose house was his + favourite haunt. + </p> + <p> + Before to-morrow comes, a word or two respecting two other characters of + this history connected with the family of Lord Monmouth. And first of + Flora. La Petite was neither very well nor very happy. Her hereditary + disease developed itself; gradually, but in a manner alarming to those who + loved her. She was very delicate, and suffered so much from the weakness + of her chest, that she was obliged to relinquish singing. This was really + the only tie between her and the Marchioness, who, without being a petty + tyrant, treated her often with unfeeling haughtiness. She was, therefore, + now rarely seen in the chambers of the great. In her own apartments she + found, indeed, some distraction in music, for which she had a natural + predisposition, but this was a pursuit that only fed the morbid passion of + her tender soul. Alone, listening only to sweet sounds, or indulging in + soft dreams that never could be realised, her existence glided away like a + vision, and she seemed to become every day more fair and fragile. Alas! + hers was the sad and mystic destiny to love one whom she never met, and by + whom, if she met him, she would scarcely, perhaps, be recognised. Yet in + that passion, fanciful, almost ideal, her life was absorbed; nor for her + did the world contain an existence, a thought, a sensation, beyond those + that sprang from the image of the noble youth who had sympathised with her + in her sorrows, and had softened the hard fortunes of dependence by his + generous sensibility. Happy that, with many mortifications, it was still + her lot to live under the roof of one who bore his name, and in whose + veins flowed the same blood! She felt indeed for the Marquess, whom she so + rarely saw, and from whom she had never received much notice, prompted, it + would seem, by her fantastic passion, a degree of reverence, almost of + affection, which seemed occasionally, even to herself, as something + inexplicable and without reason. + </p> + <p> + As for her fond step-father, M. Villebecque, the world fared very + differently with him. His lively and enterprising genius, his ready and + multiform talents, and his temper which defied disturbance, had made their + way. He had become the very right hand of Lord Monmouth; his only + counsellor, his only confidant; his secret agent; the minister of his + will. And well did Villebecque deserve this trust, and ably did he + maintain himself in the difficult position which he achieved. There was + nothing which Villebecque did not know, nothing which he could not do, + especially at Paris. He was master of his subject; in all things the + secret of success, and without which, however they may from accident + dazzle the world, the statesman, the orator, the author, all alike feel + the damning consciousness of being charlatans. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had made a visit to M. Villebecque and Flora the day after his + arrival. It was a recollection and a courtesy that evidently greatly + gratified them. Villebecque talked very much and amusingly; and Flora, + whom Coningsby frequently addressed, very little, though she listened with + great earnestness. Coningsby told her that he thought, from all he heard, + she was too much alone, and counselled her to gaiety. But nature, that had + made her mild, had denied her that constitutional liveliness of being + which is the graceful property of French women. She was a lily of the + valley, that loved seclusion and the tranquillity of virgin glades. Almost + every day, as he passed their <i>entresol</i>, Coningsby would look into + Villebecque’s apartments for a moment, to ask after Flora. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0049" id="link2HCH0049"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + Sidonia was to dine at Lord Monmouth’s the day after he met Lucretia, and + afterwards they were all to meet at a ball much talked of, and to which + invitations were much sought; and which was to be given that evening by + the Baroness S. de R——d. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth’s dinners at Paris were celebrated. It was generally agreed + that they had no rivals; yet there were others who had as skilful cooks, + others who, for such a purpose, were equally profuse in their expenditure. + What, then, was the secret spell of his success? The simplest in the + world, though no one seemed aware of it. His Lordship’s plates were always + hot: whereas at Paris, in the best appointed houses, and at dinners which, + for costly materials and admirable art in their preparation, cannot be + surpassed, the effect is always considerably lessened, and by a mode the + most mortifying: by the mere circumstance that every one at a French + dinner is served on a cold plate. The reason of a custom, or rather a + necessity, which one would think a nation so celebrated for their + gastronomical taste would recoil from, is really, it is believed, that the + ordinary French porcelain is so very inferior that it cannot endure the + preparatory heat for dinner. The common white pottery, for example, which + is in general use, and always found at the cafés, will not bear vicinage + to a brisk kitchen fire for half-an-hour. Now, if we only had that treaty + of commerce with France which has been so often on the point of + completion, the fabrics of our unrivalled potteries, in exchange for their + capital wines, would be found throughout France. The dinners of both + nations would be improved: the English would gain a delightful beverage, + and the French, for the first time in their lives, would dine off hot + plates. An unanswerable instance of the advantages of commercial + reciprocity. + </p> + <p> + The guests at Lord Monmouth’s to-day were chiefly Carlists, individuals + bearing illustrious names, that animate the page of history, and are + indissolubly bound up with the glorious annals of their great country. + They are the phantoms of a past, but real Aristocracy; an Aristocracy that + was founded on an intelligible principle; which claimed great privileges + for great purposes; whose hereditary duties were such, that their + possessors were perpetually in the eye of the nation, and who maintained, + and, in a certain point of view justified, their pre-eminence by constant + illustration. + </p> + <p> + It pleased Lord Monmouth to show great courtesies to a fallen race with + whom he sympathised; whose fathers had been his friends in the days of his + hot youth; whose mothers he had made love to; whose palaces had been his + home; whose brilliant fêtes he remembered; whose fanciful splendour + excited his early imagination; and whose magnificent and wanton luxury had + developed his own predisposition for boundless enjoyment. Soubise and his + suppers; his cutlets and his mistresses; the profuse and embarrassed De + Lauragais, who sighed for ‘entire ruin,’ as for a strange luxury, which + perpetually eluded his grasp; these were the heroes of the olden time that + Lord Monmouth worshipped; the wisdom of our ancestors which he + appreciated; and he turned to their recollection for relief from the + vulgar prudence of the degenerate days on which he had fallen: days when + nobles must be richer than other men, or they cease to have any + distinction. + </p> + <p> + It was impossible not to be struck by the effective appearance of Lady + Monmouth as she received her guests in grand toilet preparatory to the + ball; white satin and minever, a brilliant tiara. Her fine form, her + costume of a fashion as perfect as its materials were sumptuous, and her + presence always commanding and distinguished, produced a general effect to + which few could be insensible. It was the triumph of mien over mere beauty + of countenance. + </p> + <p> + The hotel of Madame S. de R——d is not more distinguished by + its profuse decoration, than by the fine taste which has guided the vast + expenditure. Its halls of arabesque are almost without a rival; there is + not the slightest embellishment in which the hand and feeling of art are + not recognised. The rooms were very crowded; everybody distinguished in + Paris was there: the lady of the Court, the duchess of the Faubourg, the + wife of the financier, the constitutional Throne, the old Monarchy, the + modern Bourse, were alike represented. Marshals of the Empire, Ministers + of the Crown, Dukes and Marquesses, whose ancestors lounged in the Oeil de + Boeuf; diplomatists of all countries, eminent foreigners of all nations, + deputies who led sections, members of learned and scientific academies, + occasionally a stray poet; a sea of sparkling tiaras, brilliant bouquets, + glittering stars, and glowing ribbons, many beautiful faces, many famous + ones: unquestionably the general air of a firstrate Parisian saloon, on a + great occasion, is not easily equalled. In London there is not the variety + of guests; nor the same size and splendour of saloons. Our houses are too + small for reception. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby, who had stolen away from his grandfather’s before the rest of + the guests, was delighted with the novelty of the splendid scene. He had + been in Paris long enough to make some acquaintances, and mostly with + celebrated personages. In his long fruitless endeavour to enter the saloon + in which they danced, he found himself hustled against the illustrious + Baron von H——t, whom he had sat next to at dinner a few days + before at Count M——é’s. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is more difficult than cutting through the Isthmus of Panama, Baron,’ + said Coningsby, alluding to a past conversation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Infinitely,’ replied M. de H., smiling; ‘for I would undertake to cut + through the Isthmus, and I cannot engage that I shall enter this + ball-room.’ + </p> + <p> + Time, however, brought Coningsby into that brilliant chamber. What a blaze + of light and loveliness! How coquettish are the costumes! How vivid the + flowers! To sounds of stirring melody, beautiful beings move with grace. + Grace, indeed, is beauty in action. + </p> + <p> + Here, where all are fair and everything is attractive, his eye is suddenly + arrested by one object, a form of surpassing grace among the graceful, + among the beauteous a countenance of unrivalled beauty. + </p> + <p> + She was young among the youthful; a face of sunshine amid all that + artificial light; her head placed upon her finely-moulded shoulders with a + queen-like grace; a coronet of white roses on her dark brown hair; her + only ornament. It was the beauty of the picture-gallery. + </p> + <p> + The eye of Coningsby never quitted her. When the dance ceased, he had an + opportunity of seeing her nearer. He met her walking with her cavalier, + and he was conscious that she observed him. Finally he remarked that she + resumed a seat next to the lady whom he had mistaken for her mother, but + had afterwards understood to be Lady Wallinger. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby returned to the other saloons: he witnessed the entrance and + reception of Lady Monmouth, who moved on towards the ball-room. Soon after + this, Sidonia arrived; he came in with the still handsome and ever + courteous Duke D——s. Observing Coningsby, he stopped to + present him to the Duke. While thus conversing, the Duke, who is fond of + the English, observed, ‘See, here is your beautiful countrywoman that all + the world are talking of. That is her uncle. He brings to me letters from + one of your lords, whose name I cannot recollect.’ + </p> + <p> + And Sir Joseph and his lovely niece veritably approached. The Duke + addressed them: asked them in the name of his Duchess to a concert on the + next Thursday; and, after a thousand compliments, moved on. Sidonia + stopped; Coningsby could not refrain from lingering, but stood a little + apart, and was about to move away, when there was a whisper, of which, + without hearing a word, he could not resist the impression that he was the + subject. He felt a little embarrassed, and was retiring, when he heard + Sidonia reply to an inquiry of the lady, ‘The same,’ and then, turning to + Coningsby, said aloud, ‘Coningsby, Miss Millbank says that you have + forgotten her.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby started, advanced, coloured a little, could not conceal his + surprise. The lady, too, though more prepared, was not without confusion, + and for an instant looked down. Coningsby recalled at that moment the long + dark eyelashes, and the beautiful, bashful countenance that had so charmed + him at Millbank; but two years had otherwise effected a wonderful change + in the sister of his school-day friend, and transformed the silent, + embarrassed girl into a woman of surpassing beauty and of the most + graceful and impressive mien. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not surprising that Mr. Coningsby should not recollect my niece,’ + said Sir Joseph, addressing Sidonia, and wishing to cover their mutual + embarrassment; ‘but it is impossible for her, or for anyone connected with + her, not to be anxious at all times to express to him our sense of what we + all owe him.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby and Miss Millbank were now in full routine conversation, + consisting of questions; how long she had been at Paris; when she had + heard last from Millbank; how her father was; also, how was her brother. + Sidonia made an observation to Sir Joseph on a passer-by, and then himself + moved on; Coningsby accompanying his new friends, in a contrary direction, + to the refreshment-room, to which they were proceeding. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you have passed a winter at Rome,’ said Coningsby. ‘How I envy you! I + feel that I shall never be able to travel.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And why not?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Life has become so stirring, that there is ever some great cause that + keeps one at home.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Life, on the contrary, so swift, that all may see now that of which they + once could only read.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The golden and silver sides of the shield,’ said Coningsby, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you, like a good knight, will maintain your own.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, I would follow yours.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have not heard lately from Oswald?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, yes; I think there are no such faithful correspondents as we are; I + only wish we could meet.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You will soon; but he is such a devotee of Oxford; quite a monk; and you, + too, Mr. Coningsby, are much occupied.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, and at the same time as Millbank. I was in hopes, when I once paid + you a visit, I might have found your brother.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But that was such a rapid visit,’ said Miss Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘I always remember it with delight,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘You were willing to be pleased; but Millbank, notwithstanding Rome, + commands my affections, and in spite of this surrounding splendour, I + could have wished to have passed my Christmas in Lancashire.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Millbank has lately purchased a very beautiful place in the county. I + became acquainted with Hellingsley when staying at my grandfather’s.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I have never seen it; indeed, I was much surprised that papa became + its purchaser, because he never will live there; and Oswald, I am sure, + could never be tempted to quit Millbank. You know what enthusiastic ideas + he has of his order?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Like all his ideas, sound, and high, and pure. I always duly appreciated + your brother’s great abilities, and, what is far more important, his lofty + mind. When I recollect our Eton days, I cannot understand how more than + two years have passed away without our being together. I am sure the fault + is mine. I might now have been at Oxford instead of Paris. And yet,’ added + Coningsby, ‘that would have been a sad mistake, since I should not have + had the happiness of being here. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh, yes, that would have been a sad mistake,’ said Miss Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘Edith,’ said Sir Joseph, rejoining his niece, from whom he had been + momentarily separated, ‘Edith, that is Monsieur Thiers.’ + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Sidonia reached the ball-room, and sitting near the + entrance was Lady Monmouth, who immediately addressed him. He was, as + usual, intelligent and unimpassioned, and yet not without a delicate + deference which is flattering to women, especially if not altogether + unworthy of it. Sidonia always admired Lucretia, and preferred her society + to that of most persons. But the Lady was in error in supposing that she + had conquered or could vanquish his heart. Sidonia was one of those men, + not so rare as may be supposed, who shrink, above all things, from an + adventure of gallantry with a woman in a position. He had neither time nor + temper for sentimental circumvolutions. He detested the diplomacy of + passion: protocols, protracted negotiations, conferences, correspondence, + treaties projected, ratified, violated. He had no genius for the tactics + of intrigue; your reconnoiterings, and marchings, and countermarchings, + sappings, and minings, assaults, sometimes surrenders, and sometimes + repulses. All the solemn and studied hypocrisies were to him infinitely + wearisome; and if the movements were not merely formal, they irritated + him, distracted his feelings, disturbed the tenor of his mind, deranged + his nervous system. Something of the old Oriental vein influenced him in + his carriage towards women. He was oftener behind the scenes of the + Opera-house than in his box; he delighted, too, in the society of <i>etairai</i>; + Aspasia was his heroine. Obliged to appear much in what is esteemed pure + society, he cultivated the acquaintance of clever women, because they + interested him; but in such saloons his feminine acquaintances were merely + psychological. No lady could accuse him of trifling with her feelings, + however decided might be his predilection for her conversation. He yielded + at once to an admirer; never trespassed by any chance into the domain of + sentiment; never broke, by any accident or blunder, into the irregular + paces of flirtation; was a man who notoriously would never diminish by + marriage the purity of his race; and one who always maintained that + passion and polished life were quite incompatible. He liked the + drawing-room, and he liked the Desert, but he would not consent that + either should trench on their mutual privileges. + </p> + <p> + The Princess Lucretia had yielded herself to the spell of Sidonia’s + society at Coningsby Castle, when she knew that marriage was impossible. + But she loved him; and with an Italian spirit. Now they met again, and she + was the Marchioness of Monmouth, a very great lady, very much admired, and + followed, and courted, and very powerful. It is our great moralist who + tells us, in the immortal page, that an affair of gallantry with a great + lady is more delightful than with ladies of a lower degree. In this he + contradicts the good old ballad; but certain it is that Dr. Johnson + announced to Boswell, ‘Sir, in the case of a Countess the imagination is + more excited.’ + </p> + <p> + But Sidonia was a man on whom the conventional superiorities of life + produced as little effect as a flake falling on the glaciers of the high + Alps. His comprehension of the world and human nature was too vast and + complete; he understood too well the relative value of things to + appreciate anything but essential excellence; and that not too much. A + charming woman was not more charming to him because she chanced to be an + empress in a particular district of one of the smallest planets; a + charming woman under any circumstances was not an unique animal. When + Sidonia felt a disposition to be spellbound, he used to review in his + memory all the charming women of whom he had read in the books of all + literatures, and whom he had known himself in every court and clime, and + the result of his reflections ever was, that the charming woman in + question was by no means the paragon, which some who had read, seen, and + thought less, might be inclined to esteem her. There was, indeed, no + subject on which Sidonia discoursed so felicitously as on woman, and none + on which Lord Eskdale more frequently endeavoured to attract him. He would + tell you Talmudical stories about our mother Eve and the Queen of Sheba, + which would have astonished you. There was not a free lady of Greece, + Leontium and Phryne, Lais, Danae, and Lamia, the Egyptian girl Thonis, + respecting whom he could not tell you as many diverting tales as if they + were ladies of Loretto; not a nook of Athenseus, not an obscure scholiast, + not a passage in a Greek orator, that could throw light on these + personages, which was not at his command. What stories he would tell you + about Marc Antony and the actress Cytheris in their chariot drawn by + tigers! What a character would he paint of that Flora who gave her gardens + to the Roman people! It would draw tears to your eyes. No man was ever so + learned in the female manners of the last centuries of polytheism as + Sidonia. You would have supposed that he had devoted his studies + peculiarly to that period if you had not chanced to draw him to the + Italian middle ages. And even these startling revelations were almost + eclipsed by his anecdotes of the Court of Henry III. of France, with every + character of which he was as familiar as with the brilliant groups that at + this moment filled the saloons of Madame de R——d. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0050" id="link2HCH0050"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + The image of Edith Millbank was the last thought of Coningsby, as he sank + into an agitated slumber. To him had hitherto in general been accorded the + precious boon of dreamless sleep. Homer tells us these phantasms come from + Jove; they are rather the children of a distracted soul. Coningsby this + night lived much in past years, varied by painful perplexities of the + present, which he could neither subdue nor comprehend. The scene flitted + from Eton to the castle of his grandfather; and then he found himself + among the pictures of the Rue de Tronchet, but their owner bore the + features of the senior Millbank. A beautiful countenance that was + alternately the face in the mysterious picture, and then that of Edith, + haunted him under all circumstances. He woke little refreshed; restless, + and yet sensible of some secret joy. + </p> + <p> + He woke to think of her of whom he had dreamed. The light had dawned on + his soul. Coningsby loved. + </p> + <p> + Ah! what is that ambition that haunts our youth, that thirst for power or + that lust of fame that forces us from obscurity into the sunblaze of the + world, what are these sentiments so high, so vehement, so ennobling? They + vanish, and in an instant, before the glance of a woman! + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had scarcely quitted her side the preceding eve. He hung upon + the accents of that clear sweet voice, and sought, with tremulous + fascination, the gleaming splendour of those soft dark eyes. And now he + sat in his chamber, with his eyes fixed on vacancy. All thoughts and + feelings, pursuits, desires, life, merge in one absorbing sentiment. + </p> + <p> + It is impossible to exist without seeing her again, and instantly. He had + requested and gained permission to call on Lady Wallinger; he would not + lose a moment in availing himself of it. As early as was tolerably + decorous, and before, in all probability, they could quit their hotel, + Coningsby repaired to the Rue de Rivoli to pay his respects to his new + friends. + </p> + <p> + As he walked along, he indulged in fanciful speculations which connected + Edith and the mysterious portrait of his mother. He felt himself, as it + were, near the fulfilment of some fate, and on the threshold of some + critical discovery. He recalled the impatient, even alarmed, expressions + of Rigby at Montem six years ago, when he proposed to invite young + Millbank to his grandfather’s dinner; the vindictive feud that existed + between the two families, and for which political opinion, or even party + passion, could not satisfactorily account; and he reasoned himself into a + conviction, that the solution of many perplexities was at hand, and that + all would be consummated to the satisfaction of every one, by his + unexpected but inevitable agency. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby found Sir Joseph alone. The worthy Baronet was at any rate no + participator in Mr. Millbank’s vindictive feelings against Lord Monmouth. + On the contrary, he had a very high respect for a Marquess, whatever might + be his opinions, and no mean consideration for a Marquess’ grandson. + </p> + <p> + Sir Joseph had inherited a large fortune made by commerce, and had + increased it by the same means. He was a middle-class Whig, had faithfully + supported that party in his native town during the days they wandered in + the wilderness, and had well earned his share of the milk and honey when + they had vanquished the promised land. In the springtide of Liberalism, + when the world was not analytical of free opinions, and odious + distinctions were not drawn between Finality men and progressive + Reformers, Mr. Wallinger had been the popular leader of a powerful body of + his fellow-citizens, who had returned him to the first Reformed + Parliament, and where, in spite of many a menacing registration, he had + contrived to remain. He had never given a Radical vote without the + permission of the Secretary of the Treasury, and was not afraid of giving + an unpopular one to serve his friends. He was not like that distinguished + Liberal, who, after dining with the late Whig Premier, expressed his + gratification and his gratitude, by assuring his Lordship that he might + count on his support on all popular questions. + </p> + <p> + ‘I want men who will support the government on all unpopular questions,’ + replied the witty statesman. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wallinger was one of these men. His high character and strong purse + were always in the front rank in the hour of danger. His support in the + House was limited to his votes; but in other places equally important, at + a meeting at a political club, or in Downing Street, he could find his + tongue, take what is called a ‘practical’ view of a question, adopt what + is called an ‘independent tone,’ reanimate confidence in ministers, check + mutiny, and set a bright and bold example to the wavering. A man of his + property, and high character, and sound views, so practical and so + independent, this was evidently the block from which a Baronet should be + cut, and in due time he figured Sir Joseph. + </p> + <p> + A Spanish gentleman of ample means, and of a good Catalan family, flying + during a political convulsion to England, arrived with his two daughters + at Liverpool, and bore letters of introduction to the house of Wallinger. + Some little time after this, by one of those stormy vicissitudes of + political fortune, of late years not unusual in the Peninsula, he returned + to his native country, and left his children, and the management of that + portion of his fortune that he had succeeded in bringing with him, under + the guardianship of the father of the present Sir Joseph. This gentleman + was about again to become an exile, when he met with an untimely end in + one of those terrible tumults of which Barcelona is the frequent scene. + </p> + <p> + The younger Wallinger was touched by the charms of one of his father’s + wards. Her beauty of a character to which he was unaccustomed, her + accomplishments of society, and the refinement of her manners, conspicuous + in the circle in which he lived, captivated him; and though they had no + heir, the union had been one of great felicity. Sir Joseph was proud of + his wife; he secretly considered himself, though his ‘tone’ was as liberal + and independent as in old days, to be on the threshold of aristocracy, and + was conscious that Lady Wallinger played her part not unworthily in the + elevated circles in which they now frequently found themselves. Sir Joseph + was fond of great people, and not averse to travel; because, bearing a + title, and being a member of the British Parliament, and always moving + with the appendages of wealth, servants, carriages, and couriers, and + fortified with no lack of letters from the Foreign Office, he was + everywhere acknowledged, and received, and treated as a personage; was + invited to court-balls, dined with ambassadors, and found himself and his + lady at every festival of distinction. + </p> + <p> + The elder Millbank had been Joseph Wallinger’s youthful friend. Different + as were their dispositions and the rate of their abilities, their + political opinions were the same; and commerce habitually connected their + interests. During a visit to Liverpool, Millbank had made the acquaintance + of the sister of Lady Wallinger, and had been a successful suitor for her + hand. This lady was the mother of Edith and of the schoolfellow of + Coningsby. It was only within a very few years that she had died; she had + scarcely lived long enough to complete the education of her daughter, to + whom she was devoted, and on whom she lavished the many accomplishments + that she possessed. Lady Wallinger having no children, and being very fond + of her niece, had watched over Edith with infinite solicitude, and finally + had persuaded Mr. Millbank, that it would be well that his daughter should + accompany them in their somewhat extensive travels. It was not, therefore, + only that nature had developed a beautiful woman out of a bashful girl + since Coningsby’s visit to Millbank; but really, every means and every + opportunity that could contribute to render an individual capable of + adorning the most accomplished circles of life, had naturally, and without + effort, fallen to the fortunate lot of the manufacturer’s daughter. Edith + possessed an intelligence equal to those occasions. Without losing the + native simplicity of her character, which sprang from the heart, and which + the strong and original bent of her father’s mind had fostered, she had + imbibed all the refinement and facility of the polished circles in which + she moved. She had a clear head, a fine taste, and a generous spirit; had + received so much admiration, that, though by no means insensible to + homage, her heart was free; was strongly attached to her family; and, + notwithstanding all the splendour of Rome, and the brilliancy of Paris, + her thoughts were often in her Saxon valley, amid the green hills and busy + factories of Millbank. + </p> + <p> + Sir Joseph, finding himself alone with the grandson of Lord Monmouth, was + not very anxious that the ladies should immediately appear. He thought + this a good opportunity of getting at what are called ‘the real feelings + of the Tory party;’ and he began to pump with a seductive semblance of + frankness. For his part, he had never doubted that a Conservative + government was ultimately inevitable; had told Lord John so two years ago, + and, between themselves, Lord John was of the same opinion. The present + position of the Whigs was the necessary fate of all progressive parties; + could not see exactly how it would end; thought sometimes it must end in a + fusion of parties; but could not well see how that could be brought about, + at least at present. For his part, should be happy to witness an union of + the best men of all parties, for the preservation of peace and order, + without any reference to any particular opinions. And, in that sense of + the word, it was not at all impossible he might find it his duty some day + to support a Conservative government. + </p> + <p> + Sir Joseph was much astonished when Coningsby, who being somewhat + impatient for the entrance of the ladies was rather more abrupt than his + wont, told the worthy Baronet that he looked, upon a government without + distinct principles of policy as only a stop-gap to a wide-spread and + demoralising anarchy; that he for one could not comprehend how a free + government could endure without national opinions to uphold it; and that + governments for the preservation of peace and order, and nothing else, had + better be sought in China, or among the Austrians, the Chinese of Europe. + As for Conservative government, the natural question was, What do you mean + to conserve? Do you mean to conserve things or only names, realities or + merely appearances? Or, do you mean to continue the system commenced in + 1834, and, with a hypocritical reverence for the principles, and a + superstitious adhesion to the forms, of the old exclusive constitution, + carry on your policy by latitudinarian practice? + </p> + <p> + Sir Joseph stared; it was the first time that any inkling of the views of + the New Generation had caught his ear. They were strange and unaccustomed + accents. He was extremely perplexed; could by no means make out what his + companion was driving at; at length, with a rather knowing smile, + expressive as much of compassion as comprehension, he remarked, + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! I see; you are a regular Orangeman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I look upon an Orangeman,’ said Coningsby, ‘as a pure Whig; the only + professor and practiser of unadulterated Whiggism.’ + </p> + <p> + This was too much for Sir Joseph, whose political knowledge did not reach + much further back than the ministry of the Mediocrities; hardly touched + the times of the Corresponding Society. But he was a cautious man, and + never replied in haste. He was about feeling his way, when he experienced + the golden advantage of gaining time, for the ladies entered. + </p> + <p> + The heart of Coningsby throbbed as Edith appeared. She extended to him her + hand; her face radiant with kind expression. Lady Wallinger seemed + gratified also by his visit. She had much elegance in her manner; a calm, + soft address; and she spoke English with a sweet Doric irregularity. They + all sat down, talked of the last night’s ball, of a thousand things. There + was something animating in the frank, cheerful spirit of Edith. She had a + quick eye both for the beautiful and the ridiculous, and threw out her + observations in terse and vivid phrases. An hour, and more than an hour, + passed away, and Coningsby still found some excuse not to depart. It + seemed that on this morning they were about to make an expedition into the + antique city of Paris, to visit some old hotels which retained their + character; especially they had heard much of the hotel of the Archbishop + of Sens, with its fortified courtyard. Coningsby expressed great interest + in the subject, and showed some knowledge. Sir Joseph invited him to join + the party, which of all things in the world was what he most desired. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0051" id="link2HCH0051"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + Not a day elapsed without Coningsby being in the company of Edith. Time + was precious for him, for the spires and pinnacles of Cambridge already + began to loom in the distance, and he resolved to make the most determined + efforts not to lose a day of his liberty. And yet to call every morning in + the Rue de Rivoli was an exploit which surpassed even the audacity of + love! More than once, making the attempt, his courage failed him, and he + turned into the gardens of the Tuileries, and only watched the windows of + the house. Circumstances, however, favoured him: he received a letter from + Oswald Millbank; he was bound to communicate in person this evidence of + his friend’s existence; and when he had to reply to the letter, he must + necessarily inquire whether his friend’s relatives had any message to + transmit to him. These, however, were only slight advantages. What + assisted Coningsby in his plans and wishes was the great pleasure which + Sidonia, with whom he passed a great deal of his time, took in the society + of the Wallingers and their niece. Sidonia presented Lady Wallinger with + his opera-box during her stay at Paris; invited them frequently to his + agreeable dinner-parties; and announced his determination to give a ball, + which Lady Wallinger esteemed a delicate attention to Edith; while Lady + Monmouth flattered herself that the festival sprang from the desire she + had expressed of seeing the celebrated hotel of Sidonia to advantage. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby was very happy. His morning visits to the Rue de Rivoli seemed + always welcome, and seldom an evening elapsed in which he did not find + himself in the society of Edith. She seemed not to wish to conceal that + his presence gave her pleasure, and though she had many admirers, and had + an airy graciousness for all of them, Coningsby sometimes indulged the + exquisite suspicion that there was a flattering distinction in her + carriage to himself. Under the influence of these feelings, he began daily + to be more conscious that separation would be an intolerable calamity; he + began to meditate upon the feasibility of keeping a half term, and of + postponing his departure to Cambridge to a period nearer the time when + Edith would probably return to England. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, the Parisian world talked much of the grand fete which + was about to be given by Sidonia. Coningsby heard much of it one day when + dining at his grandfather’s. Lady Monmouth seemed very intent on the + occasion. Even Lord Monmouth half talked of going, though, for his part, + he wished people would come to him, and never ask him to their houses. + That was his idea of society. He liked the world, but he liked to find it + under his own roof. He grudged them nothing, so that they would not insist + upon the reciprocity of cold-catching, and would eat his good dinners + instead of insisting on his eating their bad ones. + </p> + <p> + ‘But Monsieur Sidonia’s cook is a gem, they say,’ observed an Attaché of + an embassy. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have no doubt of it; Sidonia is a man of sense, almost the only man of + sense I know. I never caught him tripping. He never makes a false move. + Sidonia is exactly the sort of man I like; you know you cannot deceive + him, and that he does not want to deceive you. I wish he liked a rubber + more. Then he would be perfect.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They say he is going to be married,’ said the Attaché. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poh!’ said Lord Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + ‘Married!’ exclaimed Lady Monmouth. ‘To whom?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To your beautiful countrywoman, “la belle Anglaise,” that all the world + talks of,’ said the Attaché. + </p> + <p> + ‘And who may she be, pray?’ said the Marquess. ‘I have so many beautiful + countrywomen.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Mademoiselle Millbank,’ said the Attaché. + </p> + <p> + ‘Millbank!’ said the Marquess, with a lowering brow. ‘There are so many + Millbanks. Do you know what Millbank this is, Harry?’ he inquired of his + grandson, who had listened to the conversation with a rather embarrassed + and even agitated spirit. + </p> + <p> + ‘What, sir; yes, Millbank?’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I say, do you know who this Millbank is?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! Miss Millbank: yes, I believe, that is, I know a daughter of the + gentleman who purchased some property near you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! that fellow! Has he got a daughter here?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The most beautiful girl in Paris,’ said the Attaché. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lady Monmouth, have you seen this beauty, that Sidonia is going to + marry?’ he added, with a fiendish laugh. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have seen the young lady,’ said Lady Monmouth; ‘but I had not heard + that Monsieur Sidonia was about to marry her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is she so very beautiful?’ inquired another gentleman. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes,’ said Lady Monmouth, calm, but pale. + </p> + <p> + ‘Poh!’ said the Marquess again. + </p> + <p> + ‘I assure you that it is a fact,’ said the Attaché, ‘not at least an <i>on-dit</i>. + I have it from a quarter that could not well be mistaken.’ + </p> + <p> + Behold a little snatch of ordinary dinner gossip that left a very painful + impression on the minds of three individuals who were present. + </p> + <p> + The name of Millbank revived in Lord Monmouth’s mind a sense of defeat, + discomfiture, and disgust; Hellingsley, lost elections, and Mr. Rigby; + three subjects which Lord Monmouth had succeeded for a time in expelling + from his sensations. His lordship thought that, in all probability, this + beauty of whom they spoke so highly was not really the daughter of his + foe; that it was some confusion which had arisen from the similarity of + names: nor did he believe that Sidonia was going to marry her, whoever she + might be; but a variety of things had been said at dinner, and a number of + images had been raised in his mind that touched his spleen. He took his + wine freely, and, the usual consequence of that proceeding with Lord + Monmouth, became silent and sullen. As for Lady Monmouth, she had learnt + that Sidonia, whatever might be the result, was paying very marked + attention to another woman, for whom undoubtedly he was giving that very + ball which she had flattered herself was a homage to her wishes, and for + which she had projected a new dress of eclipsing splendour. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby felt quite sure that the story of Sidonia’s marriage with Edith + was the most ridiculous idea that ever entered into the imagination of + man; at least he thought he felt quite sure. But the idlest and wildest + report that the woman you love is about to marry another is not + comfortable. Besides, he could not conceal from himself that, between the + Wallingers and Sidonia there existed a remarkable intimacy, fully extended + to their niece. He had seen her certainly on more than one occasion in + lengthened and apparently earnest conversation with Sidonia, who, + by-the-bye, spoke with her often in Spanish, and never concealed his + admiration of her charms or the interest he found in her society. And + Edith; what, after all, had passed between Edith and himself which should + at all gainsay this report, which he had been particularly assured was not + a mere report, but came from a quarter that could not well be mistaken? + She had received him with kindness. And how should she receive one who was + the friend and preserver of her only brother, and apparently the intimate + and cherished acquaintance of her future husband? Coningsby felt that + sickness of the heart that accompanies one’s first misfortune. The + illusions of life seemed to dissipate and disappear. He was miserable; he + had no confidence in himself, in his future. After all, what was he? A + dependent on a man of very resolute will and passions. Could he forget the + glance with which Lord Monmouth caught the name of Millbank, and received + the intimation of Hellingsley? It was a glance for a Spagnoletto or a + Caravaggio to catch and immortalise. Why, if Edith were not going to marry + Sidonia, how was he ever to marry her, even if she cared for him? Oh! what + a future of unbroken, continuous, interminable misery awaited him! Was + there ever yet born a being with a destiny so dark and dismal? He was the + most forlorn of men, utterly wretched! He had entirely mistaken his own + character. He had no energy, no abilities, not a single eminent quality. + All was over! + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0052" id="link2HCH0052"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + It was fated that Lady Monmouth should not be present at that ball, the + anticipation of which had occasioned her so much pleasure and some pangs. + </p> + <p> + On the morning after that slight conversation, which had so disturbed the + souls, though unconsciously to each other, of herself and Coningsby, the + Marquess was driving Lucretia up the avenue Marigny in his phaeton. About + the centre of the avenue the horses took fright, and started off at a wild + pace. The Marquess was an experienced whip, calm, and with exertion still + very powerful. He would have soon mastered the horses, had not one of the + reins unhappily broken. The horses swerved; the Marquess kept his seat; + Lucretia, alarmed, sprang up, the carriage was dashed against the trunk of + a tree, and she was thrown out of it, at the very instant that one of the + outriders had succeeded in heading the equipage and checking the horses. + </p> + <p> + The Marchioness was senseless. Lord Monmouth had descended from the + phaeton; several passengers had assembled; the door of a contiguous house + was opened; there were offers of service, sympathy, inquiries, a babble of + tongues, great confusion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Get surgeons and send for her maid,’ said Lord Monmouth to one of his + servants. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this distressing tumult, Sidonia, on horseback, followed + by a groom, came up the avenue from the Champs Elysées. The empty phaeton, + reins broken, horses held by strangers, all the appearances of a + misadventure, attracted him. He recognised the livery. He instantly + dismounted. Moving aside the crowd, he perceived Lady Monmouth senseless + and prostrate, and her husband, without assistance, restraining the + injudicious efforts of the bystanders. + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us carry her in, Lord Monmouth,’ said Sidonia, exchanging a + recognition as he took Lucretia in his arms, and bore her into the + dwelling that was at hand. Those who were standing at the door assisted + him. The woman of the house and Lord Monmouth only were present. + </p> + <p> + ‘I would hope there is no fracture,’ said Sidonia, placing her on a sofa, + ‘nor does it appear to me that the percussion of the head, though + considerable, could have been fatally violent. I have caught her pulse. + Keep her in a horizontal position, and she will soon come to herself.’ + </p> + <p> + The Marquess seated himself in a chair by the side of the sofa, which + Sidonia had advanced to the middle of the room. Lord Monmouth was silent + and very serious. Sidonia opened the window, and touched the brow of + Lucretia with water. At this moment M. Villebecque and a surgeon entered + the chamber. + </p> + <p> + ‘The brain cannot be affected, with that pulse,’ said the surgeon; ‘there + is no fracture.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How pale she is!’ said Lord Monmouth, as if he were examining a picture. + </p> + <p> + ‘The colour seems to me to return,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + The surgeon applied some restoratives which he had brought with him. The + face of the Marchioness showed signs of life; she stirred. + </p> + <p> + ‘She revives,’ said the surgeon. + </p> + <p> + The Marchioness breathed with some force; again; then half-opened her + eyes, and then instantly closed them. + </p> + <p> + ‘If I could but get her to take this draught,’ said the surgeon. + </p> + <p> + ‘Stop! moisten her lips first,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + They placed the draught to her mouth; in a moment she put forth her hand + as if to repress them, then opened her eyes again, and sighed. + </p> + <p> + ‘She is herself,’ said the surgeon. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lucretia!’ said the Marquess. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sidonia!’ said the Marchioness. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth looked round to invite his friend to come forward. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lady Monmouth!’ said Sidonia, in a gentle voice. + </p> + <p> + She started, rose a little on the sofa, stared around her. ‘Where am I?’ + she exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + ‘With me,’ said the Marquess; and he bent forward to her, and took her + hand. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sidonia!’ she again exclaimed, in a voice of inquiry. + </p> + <p> + ‘Is here,’ said Lord Monmouth. ‘He carried you in after our accident.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Accident! Why is he going to marry?’ + </p> + <p> + The Marquess took a pinch of snuff. + </p> + <p> + There was an awkward pause in the chamber. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think now,’ said Sidonia to the surgeon, ‘that Lady Monmouth would take + the draught.’ + </p> + <p> + She refused it. + </p> + <p> + ‘Try you, Sidonia,’ said the Marquess, rather dryly. + </p> + <p> + ‘You feel yourself again?’ said Sidonia, advancing. + </p> + <p> + ‘Would I did not!’ said the Marchioness, with an air of stupor. ‘What has + happened? Why am I here? Are you married?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She wanders a little,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + The Marquess took another pinch of snuff. + </p> + <p> + ‘I could have borne even repulsion,’ said Lady Monmouth, in a voice of + desolation, ‘but not for another!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘M. Villebecque!’ said the Marquess. + </p> + <p> + ‘My Lord?’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth looked at him with that irresistible scrutiny which would + daunt a galley-slave; and then, after a short pause, said, ‘The carriage + should have arrived by this time. Let us get home.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0053" id="link2HCH0053"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + After the conversation at dinner which we have noticed, the restless and + disquieted Coningsby wandered about Paris, vainly seeking in the + distraction of a great city some relief from the excitement of his mind. + His first resolution was immediately to depart for England; but when, on + reflection, he was mindful that, after all, the assertion which had so + agitated him might really be without foundation, in spite of many + circumstances that to his regardful fancy seemed to accredit it, his firm + resolution began to waver. + </p> + <p> + These were the first pangs of jealousy that Coningsby had ever + experienced, and they revealed to him the immensity of the stake which he + was hazarding on a most uncertain die. + </p> + <p> + The next morning he called in the Rue Rivoli, and was informed that the + family were not at home. He was returning under the arcades, towards the + Rue St. Florentin, when Sidonia passed him in an opposite direction, on + horseback, and at a rapid rate. Coningsby, who was not observed by him, + could not resist a strange temptation to watch for a moment his progress. + He saw him enter the court of the hotel where the Wallinger family were + staying. Would he come forth immediately? No. Coningsby stood still and + pale. Minute followed minute. Coningsby flattered himself that Sidonia was + only speaking to the porter. Then he would fain believe Sidonia was + writing a note. Then, crossing the street, he mounted by some steps the + terrace of the Tuileries, nearly opposite the Hotel of the Minister of + Finance, and watched the house. A quarter of an hour elapsed; Sidonia did + not come forth. They were at home to him; only to him. Sick at heart, + infinitely wretched, scarcely able to guide his steps, dreading even to + meet an acquaintance, and almost feeling that his tongue would refuse the + office of conversation, he contrived to reach his grandfather’s hotel, and + was about to bury himself in his chamber, when on the staircase he met + Flora. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had not seen her for the last fortnight. Seeing her now, his + heart smote him for his neglect, excusable as it really was. Any one else + at this time he would have hurried by without a recognition, but the + gentle and suffering Flora was too meek to be rudely treated by so kind a + heart as Coningsby’s. + </p> + <p> + He looked at her; she was pale and agitated. Her step trembled, while she + still hastened on. + </p> + <p> + ‘What is the matter?’ inquired Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘My Lord, the Marchioness, are in danger, thrown from their carriage.’ + Briefly she detailed to Coningsby all that had occurred; that M. + Villebecque had already repaired to them; that she herself only this + moment had learned the intelligence that seemed to agitate her to the + centre. Coningsby instantly turned with her; but they had scarcely emerged + from the courtyard when the carriage approached that brought Lord and Lady + Monmouth home. They followed it into the court. They were immediately at + its door. + </p> + <p> + ‘All is right, Harry,’ said the Marquess, calm and grave. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby pressed his grandfather’s hand. Then he assisted Lucretia to + alight. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am quite well,’ she said, ‘now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But you must lean on me, dearest Lady Monmouth,’ Coningsby said in a tone + of tenderness, as he felt Lucretia almost sinking from him. And he + supported her into the hall of the hotel. + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth had lingered behind. Flora crept up to him, and with + unwonted boldness offered her arm to the Marquess. He looked at her with a + glance of surprise, and then a softer expression, one indeed of an almost + winning sweetness, which, though rare, was not a stranger to his + countenance, melted his features, and taking the arm so humbly presented, + he said, + </p> + <p> + ‘Ma Petite, you look more frightened than any of us. Poor child!’ + </p> + <p> + He had reached the top of the flight of steps; he withdrew his arm from + Flora, and thanked her with all his courtesy. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are not hurt, then, sir?’ she ventured to ask with a look that + expressed the infinite solicitude which her tongue did not venture to + convey. + </p> + <p> + ‘By no means, my good little girl;’ and he extended his hand to her, which + she reverently bent over and embraced. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0054" id="link2HCH0054"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + When Coningsby had returned to his grandfather’s hotel that morning, it + was with a determination to leave Paris the next day for England; but the + accident to Lady Monmouth, though, as it ultimately appeared, accompanied + by no very serious consequences, quite dissipated this intention. It was + impossible to quit them so crudely at such a moment. So he remained + another day, and that was the day preceding Sidonia’s fête, which he + particularly resolved not to attend. He felt it quite impossible that he + could again endure the sight of either Sidonia or Edith. He looked upon + them as persons who had deeply injured him; though they really were + individuals who had treated him with invariable kindness. But he felt + their existence was a source of mortification and misery to him. With + these feelings, sauntering away the last hours at Paris, disquieted, + uneasy; no present, no future; no enjoyment, no hope; really, positively, + undeniably unhappy; unhappy too for the first time in his life; the first + unhappiness; what a companion piece for the first love! Coningsby, of all + places in the world, in the gardens of the Luxembourg, encountered Sir + Joseph Wallinger and Edith. + </p> + <p> + To avoid them was impossible; they met face to face; and Sir Joseph + stopped, and immediately reminded him that it was three days since they + had seen him, as if to reproach him for so unprecedented a neglect. And it + seemed that Edith, though she said not as much, felt the same. And + Coningsby turned round and walked with them. He told them he was going to + leave Paris on the morrow. + </p> + <p> + ‘And miss Monsieur de Sidonia’s fête, of which we have all talked so + much!’ said Edith, with unaffected surprise, and an expression of + disappointment which she in vain attempted to conceal. + </p> + <p> + ‘The festival will not be less gay for my absence,’ said Coningsby, with + that plaintive moroseness not unusual to despairing lovers. + </p> + <p> + ‘If we were all to argue from the same premises, and act accordingly,’ + said Edith, ‘the saloons would be empty. But if any person’s absence would + be remarked, I should really have thought it would be yours. I thought you + were one of Monsieur de Sidonia’s great friends?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has no friends,’ said Coningsby. ‘No wise man has. What are friends? + Traitors.’ + </p> + <p> + Edith looked much astonished. And then she said, + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure you have not quarrelled with Monsieur de Sidonia, for we have + just parted with him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have no doubt you have,’ thought Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘And it is impossible to speak of another in higher terms than he spoke of + you.’ Sir Joseph observed how unusual it was for Monsieur de Sidonia to + express himself so warmly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sidonia is a great man, and carries everything before him,’ said + Coningsby. ‘I am nothing; I cannot cope with him; I retire from the + field.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What field?’ inquired Sir Joseph, who did not clearly catch the drift of + these observations. ‘It appears to me that a field for action is exactly + what Sidonia wants. There is no vent for his abilities and intelligence. + He wastes his energy in travelling from capital to capital like a King’s + messenger. The morning after his fête he is going to Madrid.’ + </p> + <p> + This brought some reference to their mutual movements. Edith spoke of her + return to Lancashire, of her hope that Mr. Coningsby would soon see + Oswald; but Mr. Coningsby informed her that though he was going to leave + Paris, he had no intention of returning to England; that he had not yet + quite made up his mind whither he should go; but thought that he should + travel direct to St. Petersburg. He wished to travel overland to + Astrachan. That was the place he was particularly anxious to visit. + </p> + <p> + After this incomprehensible announcement, they walked on for some minutes + in silence, broken only by occasional monosyllables, with which Coningsby + responded at hazard to the sound remarks of Sir Joseph. As they approached + the Palace a party of English who were visiting the Chamber of Peers, and + who were acquainted with the companions of Coningsby, encountered them. + Amid the mutual recognitions, Coningsby, was about to take his leave + somewhat ceremoniously, but Edith held forth her hand, and said, + </p> + <p> + ‘Is this indeed farewell?’ + </p> + <p> + His heart was agitated, his countenance changed; he retained her hand amid + the chattering tourists, too full of their criticisms and their + egotistical commonplaces to notice what was passing. A sentimental + ebullition seemed to be on the point of taking place. Their eyes met. The + look of Edith was mournful and inquiring. + </p> + <p> + ‘We will say farewell at the ball,’ said Coningsby, and she rewarded him + with a radiant smile. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0055" id="link2HCH0055"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + Sidonia lived in the Faubourg St. Germain, in a large hotel that, in old + days, had belonged to the Crillons; but it had received at his hands such + extensive alterations, that nothing of the original decoration, and little + of its arrangement, remained. + </p> + <p> + A flight of marble steps, ascending from a vast court, led into a hall of + great dimensions, which was at the same time an orangery and a gallery of + sculpture. It was illumined by a distinct, yet soft and subdued light, + which harmonised with the beautiful repose of the surrounding forms, and + with the exotic perfume that was wafted about. A gallery led from this + hall to an inner hall of quite a different character; fantastic, + glittering, variegated; full of strange shapes and dazzling objects. + </p> + <p> + The roof was carved and gilt in that honeycomb style prevalent in the + Saracenic buildings; the walls were hung with leather stamped in rich and + vivid patterns; the floor was a flood of mosaic; about were statues of + negroes of human size with faces of wild expression, and holding in their + outstretched hands silver torches that blazed with an almost painful + brilliancy. + </p> + <p> + From this inner hall a double staircase of white marble led to the grand + suite of apartments. + </p> + <p> + These saloons, lofty, spacious, and numerous, had been decorated + principally in encaustic by the most celebrated artists of Munich. The + three principal rooms were only separated from each other by columns, + covered with rich hangings, on this night drawn aside. The decoration of + each chamber was appropriate to its purpose. On the walls of the ball-room + nymphs and heroes moved in measure in Sicilian landscapes, or on the azure + shores of Aegean waters. From the ceiling beautiful divinities threw + garlands on the guests, who seemed surprised that the roses, unwilling to + quit Olympus, would not descend on earth. The general effect of this fair + chamber was heightened, too, by that regulation of the house which did not + permit any benches in the ball-room. That dignified assemblage who are + always found ranged in precise discipline against the wall, did not here + mar the flowing grace of the festivity. The chaperons had no cause to + complain. A large saloon abounded in ottomans and easy chairs at their + service, where their delicate charges might rest when weary, or find + distraction when not engaged. + </p> + <p> + All the world were at this fête of Sidonia. It exceeded in splendour and + luxury every entertainment that had yet been given. The highest rank, even + Princes of the blood, beauty, fashion, fame, all assembled in a + magnificent and illuminated palace, resounding with exquisite melody. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby, though somewhat depressed, was not insensible to the magic of + the scene. Since the passage in the gardens of the Luxembourg, that tone, + that glance, he had certainly felt much relieved, happier. And yet if all + were, with regard to Sidonia, as unfounded as he could possibly desire, + where was he then? Had he forgotten his grandfather, that fell look, that + voice of intense detestation? What was Millbank to him? Where, what was + the mystery? for of some he could not doubt. The Spanish parentage of + Edith had only more perplexed Coningsby. It offered no solution. There + could be no connection between a Catalan family and his mother, the + daughter of a clergyman in a midland county. That there was any + relationship between the Millbank family and his mother was contradicted + by the conviction in which he had been brought up, that his mother had no + relations; that she returned to England utterly friendless; without a + relative, a connection, an acquaintance to whom she could appeal. Her + complete forlornness was stamped upon his brain. Tender as were his years + when he was separated from her, he could yet recall the very phrases in + which she deplored her isolation; and there were numerous passages in her + letters which alluded to it. Coningsby had taken occasion to sound the + Wallingers on this subject; but he felt assured, from the manner in which + his advances were met, that they knew nothing of his mother, and + attributed the hostility of Mr. Millbank to his grandfather, solely to + political emulation and local rivalries. Still there were the portrait and + the miniature. That was a fact; a clue which ultimately, he was persuaded, + must lead to some solution. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had met with great social success at Paris. He was at once a + favourite. The Parisian dames decided in his favour. He was a specimen of + the highest style of English beauty, which is popular in France. His air + was acknowledged as distinguished. The men also liked him; he had not + quite arrived at that age when you make enemies. The moment, therefore, + that he found himself in the saloons of Sidonia, he was accosted by many + whose notice was flattering; but his eye wandered, while he tried to be + courteous and attempted to be sprightly. Where was she? He had nearly + reached the ball-room when he met her. She was on the arm of Lord + Beaumanoir, who had made her acquaintance at Rome, and originally claimed + it as the member of a family who, as the reader may perhaps not forget, + had experienced some kindnesses from the Millbanks. + </p> + <p> + There were mutual and hearty recognitions between the young men; great + explanations where they had been, what they were doing, where they were + going. Lord Beaumanoir told Coningsby he had introduced steeple-chases at + Rome, and had parted with Sunbeam to the nephew of a Cardinal. Coningsby + securing Edith’s hand for the next dance, they all moved on together to + her aunt. + </p> + <p> + Lady Wallinger was indulging in some Roman reminiscences with the + Marquess. + </p> + <p> + ‘And you are not going to Astrachan to-morrow?’ said Edith. + </p> + <p> + ‘Not to-morrow,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘You know that you said once that life was too stirring in these days to + permit travel to a man?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish nothing was stirring,’ said Coningsby. ‘I wish nothing to change. + All that I wish is, that this fête should never end.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Is it possible that you can be capricious? You perplex me very much.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Am I capricious because I dislike change?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But Astrachan?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was the air of the Luxembourg that reminded me of the Desert,’ said + Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + Soon after this Coningsby led Edith to the dance. It was at a ball that he + had first met her at Paris, and this led to other reminiscences; all most + interesting. Coningsby was perfectly happy. All mysteries, all + difficulties, were driven from his recollection; he lived only in the + exciting and enjoyable present. Twenty-one and in love! + </p> + <p> + Some time after this, Coningsby, who was inevitably separated from Edith, + met his host. + </p> + <p> + ‘Where have you been, child,’ said Sidonia, ‘that I have not seen you for + some days? I am going to Madrid tomorrow.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And I must think, I suppose, of Cambridge.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, you have seen something; you will find it more profitable when you + have digested it: and you will have opportunity. That’s the true spring of + wisdom: meditate over the past. Adventure and Contemplation share our + being like day and night.’ + </p> + <p> + The resolute departure for England on the morrow had already changed into + a supposed necessity of thinking of returning to Cambridge. In fact, + Coningsby felt that to quit Paris and Edith was an impossibility. He + silenced the remonstrance of his conscience by the expedient of keeping a + half-term, and had no difficulty in persuading himself that a short delay + in taking his degree could not really be of the slightest consequence. + </p> + <p> + It was the hour for supper. The guests at a French ball are not seen to + advantage at this period. The custom of separating the sexes for this + refreshment, and arranging that the ladies should partake of it by + themselves, though originally founded in a feeling of consideration and + gallantry, and with the determination to secure, under all circumstances, + the convenience and comfort of the fair sex, is really, in its appearance + and its consequences, anything but European, and produces a scene which + rather reminds one of the harem of a sultan than a hall of chivalry. To + judge from the countenances of the favoured fair, they are not themselves + particularly pleased; and when their repast is over they necessarily + return to empty halls, and are deprived of the dance at the very moment + when they may feel most inclined to participate in its graceful + excitement. + </p> + <p> + These somewhat ungracious circumstances, however, were not attendant on + the festival of this night. There was opened in the Hotel of Sidonia for + the first time a banqueting-room which could contain with convenience all + the guests. It was a vast chamber of white marble, the golden panels of + the walls containing festive sculptures by Schwanthaler, relieved by + encaustic tinting. In its centre was a fountain, a group of Bacchantes + encircling Dionysos; and from this fountain, as from a star, diverged the + various tables from which sprang orange-trees in fruit and flower. + </p> + <p> + The banquet had but one fault; Coningsby was separated from Edith. The + Duchess of Grand Cairo, the beautiful wife of the heir of one of the + Imperial illustrations, had determined to appropriate Coningsby as her + cavalier for the moment. Distracted, he made his escape; but his wandering + eye could not find the object of its search; and he fell prisoner to the + charming Princess de Petitpoix, a Carlist chieftain, whose witty words + avenged the cause of fallen dynasties and a cashiered nobility. + </p> + <p> + Behold a scene brilliant in fancy, magnificent in splendour! All the + circumstances of his life at this moment were such as acted forcibly on + the imagination of Coningsby. Separated from Edith, he had still the + delight of seeing her the paragon of that bright company, the consummate + being whom he adored! and who had spoken to him in a voice sweeter than a + serenade, and had bestowed on him a glance softer than moonlight! The lord + of the palace, more distinguished even for his capacity than his boundless + treasure, was his chosen friend; gained under circumstances of romantic + interest, when the reciprocal influence of their personal qualities was + affected by no accessory knowledge of their worldly positions. He himself + was in the very bloom of youth and health; the child of a noble house, + rich for his present wants, and with a future of considerable fortunes. + Entrancing love and dazzling friendship, a high ambition and the pride of + knowledge, the consciousness of a great prosperity, the vague, daring + energies of the high pulse of twenty-one, all combined to stimulate his + sense of existence, which, as he looked around him at the beautiful + objects and listened to the delicious sounds, seemed to him a dispensation + of almost supernatural ecstasy. + </p> + <p> + About an hour after this, the ball-room still full, but the other saloons + gradually emptying, Coningsby entered a chamber which seemed deserted. Yet + he heard sounds, as it were, of earnest conversation. It was the voice + that invited his progress; he advanced another step, then suddenly + stopped. There were two individuals in the room, by whom he was unnoticed. + They were Sidonia and Miss Millbank. They were sitting on a sofa, Sidonia + holding her hand and endeavouring, as it seemed, to soothe her. Her tones + were tremulous; but the expression of her face was fond and confiding. It + was all the work of a moment. Coningsby instantly withdrew, yet could not + escape hearing an earnest request from Edith to her companion that he + would write to her. + </p> + <p> + In a few seconds Coningsby had quitted the hotel of Sidonia, and the next + day found him on his road to England. + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK VI. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0066" id="link2H_4_0066"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK VII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0056" id="link2HCH0056"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + It was one of those gorgeous and enduring sunsets that seemed to linger as + if they wished to celebrate the mid-period of the year. Perhaps the + beautiful hour of impending twilight never exercises a more effective + influence on the soul than when it descends on the aspect of some distant + and splendid city. What a contrast between the serenity and repose of our + own bosoms and the fierce passions and destructive cares girt in the walls + of that multitude whose domes and towers rise in purple lustre against the + resplendent horizon! + </p> + <p> + And yet the disturbing emotions of existence and the bitter inheritance of + humanity should exercise but a modified sway, and entail but a light + burden, within the circle of the city into which the next scene of our + history leads us. For it is the sacred city of study, of learning, and of + faith; and the declining beam is resting on the dome of the Radcliffe, + lingering on the towers of Christchurch and Magdalen, sanctifying the + spires and pinnacles of holy St. Mary’s. + </p> + <p> + A young Oxonian, who had for some time been watching the city in the + sunset, from a rising ground in its vicinity, lost, as it would seem, in + meditation, suddenly rose, and looking at his watch, as if remindful of + some engagement, hastened his return at a rapid pace. He reached the High + Street as the Blenheim light post coach dashed up to the Star Hotel, with + that brilliant precision which even the New Generation can remember, and + yet which already ranks among the traditions of English manners. A + peculiar and most animating spectacle used to be the arrival of a + firstrate light coach in a country town! The small machine, crowded with + so many passengers, the foaming and curvetting leaders, the wheelers more + steady and glossy, as if they had not done their ten miles in the hour, + the triumphant bugle of the guard, and the haughty routine with which the + driver, as he reached his goal, threw his whip to the obedient ostlers in + attendance; and, not least, the staring crowd, a little awestruck, and + looking for the moment at the lowest official of the stable with + considerable respect, altogether made a picture which one recollects with + cheerfulness, and misses now in many a dreary market-town. + </p> + <p> + Our Oxonian was a young man about the middle height, and naturally of a + thoughtful expression and rather reserved mien. The general character of + his countenance was, indeed, a little stern, but it broke into an almost + bewitching smile, and a blush suffused his face, as he sprang forward and + welcomed an individual about the same age, who had jumped off the + Blenheim. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, Coningsby!’ he exclaimed, extending both his hands. + </p> + <p> + ‘By Jove! my dear Millbank, we have met at last,’ said his friend. + </p> + <p> + And here we must for a moment revert to what had occurred to Coningsby + since he so suddenly quitted Paris at the beginning of the year. The wound + he had received was deep to one unused to wounds. Yet, after all, none had + outraged his feelings, no one had betrayed his hopes. He had loved one who + had loved another. Misery, but scarcely humiliation. And yet ‘tis a bitter + pang under any circumstances to find another preferred to yourself. It is + about the same blow as one would probably feel if falling from a balloon. + Your Icarian flight melts into a grovelling existence, scarcely superior + to that of a sponge or a coral, or redeemed only from utter insensibility + by your frank detestation of your rival. It is quite impossible to conceal + that Coningsby had imbibed for Sidonia a certain degree of aversion, + which, in these days of exaggerated phrase, might even be described as + hatred. And Edith was so beautiful! And there had seemed between them a + sympathy so native and spontaneous, creating at once the charm of intimacy + without any of the disenchanting attributes that are occasionally its + consequence. He would recall the tones of her voice, the expression of her + soft dark eye, the airy spirit and frank graciousness, sometimes even the + flattering blush, with which she had ever welcomed one of whom she had + heard so long and so kindly. It seemed, to use a sweet and homely phrase, + that they were made for each other; the circumstances of their mutual + destinies might have combined into one enchanting fate. + </p> + <p> + And yet, had she accorded him that peerless boon, her heart, with what + aspect was he to communicate this consummation of all his hopes to his + grandfather, ask Lord Monmouth for his blessing, and the gracious favour + of an establishment for the daughter of his foe, of a man whose name was + never mentioned except to cloud his visage? Ah! what was that mystery that + connected the haughty house of Coningsby with the humble blood of the + Lancashire manufacturer? Why was the portrait of his mother beneath the + roof of Millbank? Coningsby had delicately touched upon the subject both + with Edith and the Wallingers, but the result of his inquiries only + involved the question in deeper gloom. Edith had none but maternal + relatives: more than once she had mentioned this, and the Wallingers, on + other occasions, had confirmed the remark. Coningsby had sometimes drawn + the conversation to pictures, and he would remind her with playfulness of + their first unconscious meeting in the gallery of the Rue Tronchet; then + he remembered that Mr. Millbank was fond of pictures; then he recollected + some specimens of Mr. Millbank’s collection, and after touching on several + which could not excite suspicion, he came to ‘a portrait, a portrait of a + lady; was it a portrait or an ideal countenance?’ + </p> + <p> + Edith thought she had heard it was a portrait, but she was by no means + certain, and most assuredly was quite unacquainted with the name of the + original, if there were an original. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby addressed himself to the point with Sir Joseph. He inquired of + the uncle explicitly whether he knew anything on the subject. Sir Joseph + was of opinion that it was something that Millbank had somewhere ‘picked + up.’ Millbank used often to ‘pick up’ pictures. + </p> + <p> + Disappointed in his love, Coningsby sought refuge in the excitement of + study, and in the brooding imagination of an aspiring spirit. The softness + of his heart seemed to have quitted him for ever. He recurred to his + habitual reveries of political greatness and public distinction. And as it + ever seemed to him that no preparation could be complete for the career + which he planned for himself, he devoted himself with increased ardour to + that digestion of knowledge which converts it into wisdom. His life at + Cambridge was now a life of seclusion. With the exception of a few Eton + friends, he avoided all society. And, indeed, his acquisitions during this + term were such as few have equalled, and could only have been mastered by + a mental discipline of a severe and exalted character. At the end of the + term Coningsby took his degree, and in a few days was about to quit that + university where, on the whole, he had passed three serene and happy years + in the society of fond and faithful friends, and in ennobling pursuits. He + had many plans for his impending movements, yet none of them very mature + ones. Lord Vere wished Coningsby to visit his family in the north, and + afterwards to go to Scotland together: Coningsby was more inclined to + travel for a year. Amid this hesitation a circumstance occurred which + decided him to adopt neither of these courses. + </p> + <p> + It was Commencement, and coming out of the quadrangle of St. John’s, + Coningsby came suddenly upon Sir Joseph and Lady Wallinger, who were + visiting the marvels and rarities of the university. They were alone. + Coningsby was a little embarrassed, for he could not forget the abrupt + manner in which he had parted from them; but they greeted him with so much + cordiality that he instantly recovered himself, and, turning, became their + companion. He hardly ventured to ask after Edith: at length, in a + depressed tone and a hesitating manner, he inquired whether they had + lately seen Miss Millbank. He was himself surprised at the extreme + light-heartedness which came over him the moment he heard she was in + England, at Millbank, with her family. He always very much liked Lady + Wallinger, but this morning he hung over her like a lover, lavished on her + unceasing and the most delicate attentions, seemed to exist only in the + idea of making the Wallingers enjoy and understand Cambridge; and no one + else was to be their guide at any place or under any circumstances. He + told them exactly what they were to see; how they were to see it; when + they were to see it. He told them of things which nobody did see, but + which they should. He insisted that Sir Joseph should dine with him in + hall; Sir Joseph could not think of leaving Lady Wallinger; Lady Wallinger + could not think of Sir Joseph missing an opportunity that might never + offer again. Besides, they might both join her after dinner. Except to + give her husband a dinner, Coningsby evidently intended never to leave her + side. + </p> + <p> + And the next morning, the occasion favourable, being alone with the lady, + Sir Joseph bustling about a carriage, Coningsby said suddenly, with a + countenance a little disturbed, and in a low voice, ‘I was pleased, I mean + surprised, to hear that there was still a Miss Millbank; I thought by this + time she might have borne another name?’ + </p> + <p> + Lady Wallinger looked at him with an expression of some perplexity, and + then said, ‘Yes, Edith was much admired; but she need not be precipitate + in marrying. Marriage is for a woman <i>the</i> event. Edith is too + precious to be carelessly bestowed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But I understood,’ said Coningsby, ‘when I left Paris,’ and here, he + became very confused, ‘that Miss Millbank was engaged, on the point of + marriage.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘With whom?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Our friend Sidonia.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure that Edith would never marry Monsieur de Sidonia, nor Monsieur + de Sidonia, Edith. ‘Tis a preposterous idea!’ said Lady Wallinger. + </p> + <p> + ‘But he very much admired her?’ said Coningsby with a searching eye. + </p> + <p> + ‘Possibly,’ said Lady Wallinger; ‘but he never even intimated his + admiration.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But he was very attentive to Miss Millbank?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not more than our intimate friendship authorised, and might expect.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have known Sidonia a long time?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was Monsieur de Sidonia’s father who introduced us to the care of Mr. + Wallinger,’ said Lady Wallinger, ‘and therefore I have ever entertained + for his son a sincere regard. Besides, I look upon him as a compatriot. + Recently he has been even more than usually kind to us, especially to + Edith. While we were at Paris he recovered for her a great number of + jewels which had been left to her by her uncle in Spain; and, what she + prized infinitely more, the whole of her mother’s correspondence which she + maintained with this relative since her marriage. Nothing but the + influence of Sidonia could have effected this. Therefore, of course, Edith + is attached to him almost as much as I am. In short, he is our dearest + friend; our counsellor in all our cares. But as for marrying him, the idea + is ridiculous to those who know Monsieur Sidonia. No earthly consideration + would ever induce him to impair that purity of race on which he prides + himself. Besides, there are other obvious objections which would render an + alliance between him and my niece utterly impossible: Edith is quite as + devoted to her religion as Monsieur Sidonia can be to his race.’ + </p> + <p> + A ray of light flashed on the brain of Coningsby as Lady Wallinger said + these words. The agitated interview, which never could be explained away, + already appeared in quite a different point of view. He became pensive, + remained silent, was relieved when Sir Joseph, whose return he had + hitherto deprecated, reappeared. Coningsby learnt in the course of the day + that the Wallingers were about to make, and immediately, a visit to + Hellingsley; their first visit; indeed, this was the first year that Mr. + Millbank had taken up his abode there. He did not much like the change of + life, Sir Joseph told Coningsby, but Edith was delighted with Hellingsley, + which Sir Joseph understood was a very distinguished place, with fine + gardens, of which his niece was particularly fond. + </p> + <p> + When Coningsby returned to his rooms, those rooms which he was soon about + to quit for ever, in arranging some papers preparatory to his removal, his + eye lighted on a too-long unanswered letter of Oswald Millbank. Coningsby + had often projected a visit to Oxford, which he much desired to make, but + hitherto it had been impossible for him to effect it, except in the + absence of Millbank; and he had frequently postponed it that he might + combine his first visit to that famous seat of learning with one to his + old schoolfellow and friend. Now that was practicable. And immediately + Coningsby wrote to apprise Millbank that he had taken his degree, was + free, and prepared to pay him immediately the long-projected visit. Three + years and more had elapsed since they had quitted Eton. How much had + happened in the interval! What new ideas, new feelings, vast and novel + knowledge! Though they had not met, they were nevertheless familiar with + the progress and improvement of each other’s minds. Their suggestive + correspondence was too valuable to both of them to have been otherwise + than cherished. And now they were to meet on the eve of entering that + world for which they had made so sedulous a preparation. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0057" id="link2HCH0057"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + There are few things in life more interesting than an unrestrained + interchange of ideas with a congenial spirit, and there are few things + more rare. How very seldom do you encounter in the world a man of great + abilities, acquirements, experience, who will unmask his mind, unbutton + his brains, and pour forth in careless and picturesque phrase all the + results of his studies and observation; his knowledge of men, books, and + nature. On the contrary, if a man has by any chance what he conceives an + original idea, he hoards it as if it were old gold; and rather avoids the + subject with which he is most conversant, from fear that you may + appropriate his best thoughts. One of the principal causes of our renowned + dulness in conversation is our extreme intellectual jealousy. It must be + admitted that in this respect authors, but especially poets, bear the + palm. They never think they are sufficiently appreciated, and live in + tremor lest a brother should distinguish himself. Artists have the repute + of being nearly as bad. And as for a small rising politician, a clever + speech by a supposed rival or suspected candidate for office destroys his + appetite and disturbs his slumbers. + </p> + <p> + One of the chief delights and benefits of travel is, that one is + perpetually meeting men of great abilities, of original mind, and rare + acquirements, who will converse without reserve. In these discourses the + intellect makes daring leaps and marvellous advances. The tone that + colours our afterlife is often caught in these chance colloquies, and the + bent given that shapes a career. + </p> + <p> + And yet perhaps there is no occasion when the heart is more open, the + brain more quick, the memory more rich and happy, or the tongue more + prompt and eloquent, than when two school-day friends, knit by every + sympathy of intelligence and affection, meet at the close of their college + careers, after a long separation, hesitating, as it were, on the verge of + active life, and compare together their conclusions of the interval; + impart to each other all their thoughts and secret plans and projects; + high fancies and noble aspirations; glorious visions of personal fame and + national regeneration. + </p> + <p> + Ah! why should such enthusiasm ever die! Life is too short to be little. + Man is never so manly as when he feels deeply, acts boldly, and expresses + himself with frankness and with fervour. + </p> + <p> + Most assuredly there never was a congress of friendship wherein more was + said and felt than in this meeting, so long projected, and yet perhaps on + the whole so happily procrastinated, between Coningsby and Millbank. In a + moment they seemed as if they had never parted. Their faithful + correspondence indeed had maintained the chain of sentiment unbroken. But + details are only for conversation. Each poured forth his mind without + stint. Not an author that had influenced their taste or judgment but was + canvassed and criticised; not a theory they had framed or a principle they + had adopted that was not confessed. Often, with boyish glee still + lingering with their earnest purpose, they shouted as they discovered that + they had formed the same opinion or adopted the same conclusion. They + talked all day and late into the night. They condensed into a week the + poignant conclusions of three years of almost unbroken study. And one + night, as they sat together in Millbank’s rooms at Oriel, their + conversation having for some time taken a political colour, Millbank said, + </p> + <p> + ‘Now tell me, Coningsby, exactly what you conceive to be the state of + parties in this country; for it seems to me that if we penetrate the + surface, the classification must be more simple than their many names + would intimate.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The principle of the exclusive constitution of England having been + conceded by the Acts of 1827-8-32,’ said Coningsby, ‘a party has arisen in + the State who demand that the principle of political liberalism shall + consequently be carried to its extent; which it appears to them is + impossible without getting rid of the fragments of the old constitution + that remain. This is the destructive party; a party with distinct and + intelligible principles. They seek a specific for the evils of our social + system in the general suffrage of the population. + </p> + <p> + ‘They are resisted by another party, who, having given up exclusion, would + only embrace as much liberalism as is necessary for the moment; who, + without any embarrassing promulgation of principles, wish to keep things + as they find them as long as they can, and then will manage them as they + find them as well as they can; but as a party must have the semblance of + principles, they take the names of the things that they have destroyed. + Thus they are devoted to the prerogatives of the Crown, although in truth + the Crown has been stripped of every one of its prerogatives; they affect + a great veneration for the constitution in Church and State, though every + one knows that the constitution in Church and State no longer exists; they + are ready to stand or fall with the “independence of the Upper House of + Parliament”, though, in practice, they are perfectly aware that, with + their sanction, “the Upper House” has abdicated its initiatory functions, + and now serves only as a court of review of the legislation of the House + of Commons. Whenever public opinion, which this party never attempts to + form, to educate, or to lead, falls into some violent perplexity, passion, + or caprice, this party yields without a struggle to the impulse, and, when + the storm has passed, attempts to obstruct and obviate the logical and, + ultimately, the inevitable results of the very measures they have + themselves originated, or to which they have consented. This is the + Conservative party. + </p> + <p> + ‘I care not whether men are called Whigs or Tories, Radicals or Chartists, + or by what nickname a bustling and thoughtless race may designate + themselves; but these two divisions comprehend at present the English + nation. + </p> + <p> + ‘With regard to the first school, I for one have no faith in the remedial + qualities of a government carried on by a neglected democracy, who, for + three centuries, have received no education. What prospect does it offer + us of those high principles of conduct with which we have fed our + imaginations and strengthened our will? I perceive none of the elements of + government that should secure the happiness of a people and the greatness + of a realm. + </p> + <p> + ‘But in my opinion, if Democracy be combated only by Conservatism, + Democracy must triumph, and at no distant date. This, then, is our + position. The man who enters public life at this epoch has to choose + between Political Infidelity and a Destructive Creed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘This, then,’ said Millbank, ‘is the dilemma to which we are brought by + nearly two centuries of Parliamentary Monarchy and Parliamentary Church.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis true,’ said Coningsby. ‘We cannot conceal it from ourselves, that + the first has made Government detested, and the second Religion + disbelieved.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Many men in this country,’ said Millbank, ‘and especially in the class to + which I belong, are reconciled to the contemplation of democracy; because + they have accustomed themselves to believe, that it is the only power by + which we can sweep away those sectional privileges and interests that + impede the intelligence and industry of the community.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And yet,’ said Coningsby, ‘the only way to terminate what, in the + language of the present day, is called Class Legislation, is not to + entrust power to classes. You would find a Locofoco majority as much + addicted to Class Legislation as a factitious aristocracy. The only power + that has no class sympathy is the Sovereign.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But suppose the case of an arbitrary Sovereign, what would be your check + against him?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The same as against an arbitrary Parliament.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But a Parliament is responsible.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To whom?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To their constituent body.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Suppose it was to vote itself perpetual?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But public opinion would prevent that.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And is public opinion of less influence on an individual than on a body?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But public opinion may be indifferent. A nation may be misled, may be + corrupt.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If the nation that elects the Parliament be corrupt, the elected body + will resemble it. The nation that is corrupt deserves to fall. But this + only shows that there is something to be considered beyond forms of + government, national character. And herein mainly should we repose our + hopes. If a nation be led to aim at the good and the great, depend upon + it, whatever be its form, the government will respond to its convictions + and its sentiments.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you then declare against Parliamentary government.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Far from it: I look upon political change as the greatest of evils, for + it comprehends all. But if we have no faith in the permanence of the + existing settlement, if the very individuals who established it are, year + after year, proposing their modifications or their reconstructions; so + also, while we uphold what exists, ought we to prepare ourselves for the + change we deem impending? + </p> + <p> + ‘Now I would not that either ourselves, or our fellow-citizens, should be + taken unawares as in 1832, when the very men who opposed the Reform Bill + offered contrary objections to it which destroyed each other, so ignorant + were they of its real character, its historical causes, its political + consequences. We should now so act that, when the occasions arrives, we + should clearly comprehend what we want, and have formed an opinion as to + the best means by which that want can be supplied. + </p> + <p> + ‘For this purpose I would accustom the public mind to the contemplation of + an existing though torpid power in the constitution, capable of removing + our social grievances, were we to transfer to it those prerogatives which + the Parliament has gradually usurped, and used in a manner which has + produced the present material and moral disorganisation. The House of + Commons is the house of a few; the Sovereign is the sovereign of all. The + proper leader of the people is the individual who sits upon the throne.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then you abjure the Representative principle?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why so? Representation is not necessarily, or even in a principal sense, + Parliamentary. Parliament is not sitting at this moment, and yet the + nation is represented in its highest as well as in its most minute + interests. Not a grievance escapes notice and redress. I see in the + newspaper this morning that a pedagogue has brutally chastised his pupil. + It is a fact known over all England. We must not forget that a principle + of government is reserved for our days that we shall not find in our + Aristotles, or even in the forests of Tacitus, nor in our Saxon + Wittenagemotes, nor in our Plantagenet parliaments. Opinion is now + supreme, and Opinion speaks in print. The representation of the Press is + far more complete than the representation of Parliament. Parliamentary + representation was the happy device of a ruder age, to which it was + admirably adapted: an age of semi-civilisation, when there was a leading + class in the community; but it exhibits many symptoms of desuetude. It is + controlled by a system of representation more vigorous and comprehensive; + which absorbs its duties and fulfils them more efficiently, and in which + discussion is pursued on fairer terms, and often with more depth and + information.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And to what power would you entrust the function of Taxation?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To some power that would employ it more discreetly than in creating our + present amount of debt, and in establishing our present system of imposts. + </p> + <p> + ‘In a word, true wisdom lies in the policy that would effect its ends by + the influence of opinion, and yet by the means of existing forms. + Nevertheless, if we are forced to revolutions, let us propose to our + consideration the idea of a free monarchy, established on fundamental + laws, itself the apex of a vast pile of municipal and local government, + ruling an educated people, represented by a free and intellectual press. + Before such a royal authority, supported by such a national opinion, the + sectional anomalies of our country would disappear. Under such a system, + where qualification would not be parliamentary, but personal, even + statesmen would be educated; we should have no more diplomatists who could + not speak French, no more bishops ignorant of theology, no more + generals-in-chief who never saw a field. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now there is a polity adapted to our laws, our institutions, our + feelings, our manners, our traditions; a polity capable of great ends and + appealing to high sentiments; a polity which, in my opinion, would render + government an object of national affection, which would terminate + sectional anomalies, assuage religious heats, and extinguish Chartism.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You said to me yesterday,’ said Millbank after a pause, ‘quoting the + words of another, which you adopted, that Man was made to adore and to + obey. Now you have shown to me the means by which you deem it possible + that government might become no longer odious to the subject; you have + shown how man may be induced to obey. But there are duties and interests + for man beyond political obedience, and social comfort, and national + greatness, higher interests and greater duties. How would you deal with + their spiritual necessities? You think you can combat political infidelity + in a nation by the principle of enlightened loyalty; how would you + encounter religious infidelity in a state? By what means is the principle + of profound reverence to be revived? How, in short, is man to be led to + adore?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! that is a subject which I have not forgotten,’ replied Coningsby. ‘I + know from your letters how deeply it has engaged your thoughts. I confess + to you that it has often filled mine with perplexity and depression. When + we were at Eton, and both of us impregnated with the contrary prejudices + in which we had been brought up, there was still between us one common + ground of sympathy and trust; we reposed with confidence and affection in + the bosom of our Church. Time and thought, with both of us, have only + matured the spontaneous veneration of our boyhood. But time and thought + have also shown me that the Church of our heart is not in a position, as + regards the community, consonant with its original and essential + character, or with the welfare of the nation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The character of a Church is universality,’ replied Millbank. ‘Once the + Church in this country was universal in principle and practice; when + wedded to the State, it continued at least universal in principle, if not + in practice. What is it now? All ties between the State and the Church are + abolished, except those which tend to its danger and degradation. + </p> + <p> + ‘What can be more anomalous than the present connection between State and + Church? Every condition on which it was originally consented to has been + cancelled. That original alliance was, in my view, an equal calamity for + the nation and the Church; but, at least, it was an intelligible compact. + Parliament, then consisting only of members of the Established Church, + was, on ecclesiastical matters, a lay synod, and might, in some points of + view, be esteemed a necessary portion of Church government. But you have + effaced this exclusive character of Parliament; you have determined that a + communion with the Established Church shall no longer be part of the + qualification for sitting in the House of Commons. There is no reason, so + far as the constitution avails, why every member of the House of Commons + should not be a dissenter. But the whole power of the country is + concentrated in the House of Commons. The House of Lords, even the Monarch + himself, has openly announced and confessed, within these ten years, that + the will of the House of Commons is supreme. A single vote of the House of + Commons, in 1832, made the Duke of Wellington declare, in the House of + Lords, that he was obliged to abandon his sovereign in “the most difficult + and distressing circumstances.” The House of Commons is absolute. It is + the State. “L’Etat c’est moi.” The House of Commons virtually appoints the + bishops. A sectarian assembly appoints the bishops of the Established + Church. They may appoint twenty Hoadleys. James II was expelled the throne + because he appointed a Roman Catholic to an Anglican see. A Parliament + might do this to-morrow with impunity. And this is the constitution in + Church and State which Conservative dinners toast! The only consequences + of the present union of Church and State are, that, on the side of the + State, there is perpetual interference in ecclesiastical government, and + on the side of the Church a sedulous avoidance of all those principles on + which alone Church government can be established, and by the influence of + which alone can the Church of England again become universal.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But it is urged that the State protects its revenues?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No ecclesiastical revenues should be safe that require protection. Modern + history is a history of Church spoliation. And by whom? Not by the people; + not by the democracy. No; it is the emperor, the king, the feudal baron, + the court minion. The estate of the Church is the estate of the people, so + long as the Church is governed on its real principles. The Church is the + medium by which the despised and degraded classes assert the native + equality of man, and vindicate the rights and power of intellect. It made, + in the darkest hour of Norman rule, the son of a Saxon pedlar Primate of + England, and placed Nicholas Breakspear, a Hertfordshire peasant, on the + throne of the Caesars. It would do as great things now, if it were + divorced from the degrading and tyrannical connection that enchains it. + You would have other sons of peasants Bishops of England, instead of men + appointed to that sacred office solely because they were the needy scions + of a factitious aristocracy; men of gross ignorance, profligate habits, + and grinding extortion, who have disgraced the episcopal throne, and + profaned the altar.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But surely you cannot justly extend such a description to the present + bench?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Surely not: I speak of the past, of the past that has produced so much + present evil. We live in decent times; frigid, latitudinarian, alarmed, + decorous. A priest is scarcely deemed in our days a fit successor to the + authors of the gospels, if he be not the editor of a Greek play; and he + who follows St. Paul must now at least have been private tutor of some + young nobleman who has taken a good degree! And then you are all + astonished that the Church is not universal! Why! nothing but the + indestructibleness of its principles, however feebly pursued, could have + maintained even the disorganised body that still survives. + </p> + <p> + ‘And yet, my dear Coningsby, with all its past errors and all its present + deficiencies, it is by the Church; I would have said until I listened to + you to-night; by the Church alone that I see any chance of regenerating + the national character. The parochial system, though shaken by the fatal + poor-law, is still the most ancient, the most comprehensive, and the most + popular institution of the country; the younger priests are, in general, + men whose souls are awake to the high mission which they have to fulfil, + and which their predecessors so neglected; there is, I think, a rising + feeling in the community, that parliamentary intercourse in matters + ecclesiastical has not tended either to the spiritual or the material + elevation of the humbler orders. Divorce the Church from the State, and + the spiritual power that struggled against the brute force of the dark + ages, against tyrannical monarchs and barbarous barons, will struggle + again in opposition to influences of a different form, but of a similar + tendency; equally selfish, equally insensible, equally barbarising. The + priests of God are the tribunes of the people. O, ignorant! that with such + a mission they should ever have cringed in the antechambers of ministers, + or bowed before parliamentary committees!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Utilitarian system is dead,’ said Coningsby. ‘It has passed through + the heaven of philosophy like a hailstorm, cold, noisy, sharp, and + peppering, and it has melted away. And yet can we wonder that it found + some success, when we consider the political ignorance and social torpor + which it assailed? Anointed kings turned into chief magistrates, and + therefore much overpaid; estates of the realm changed into parliaments of + virtual representation, and therefore requiring real reform; holy Church + transformed into national establishment, and therefore grumbled at by all + the nation for whom it was not supported. What an inevitable harvest of + sedition, radicalism, infidelity! I really think there is no society, + however great its resources, that could long resist the united influences + of chief magistrate, virtual representation, and Church establishment!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have immense faith in the new generation,’ said Millbank, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is a holy thing to see a state saved by its youth,’ said Coningsby; + and then he added, in a tone of humility, if not of depression, ‘But what + a task! What a variety of qualities, what a combination of circumstances + is requisite! What bright abilities and what noble patience! What + confidence from the people, what favour from the Most High!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But He will favour us,’ said Millbank. ‘And I say to you as Nathan said + unto David, “Thou art the man!” You were our leader at Eton; the friends + of your heart and boyhood still cling and cluster round you! they are all + men whose position forces them into public life. It is a nucleus of + honour, faith, and power. You have only to dare. And will you not dare? It + is our privilege to live in an age when the career of the highest ambition + is identified with the performance of the greatest good. Of the present + epoch it may be truly said, “Who dares to be good, dares to be great.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Heaven is above all,’ said Coningsby. ‘The curtain of our fate is still + undrawn. We are happy in our friends, dear Millbank, and whatever lights, + we will stand together. For myself, I prefer fame to life; and yet, the + consciousness of heroic deeds to the most wide-spread celebrity.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0058" id="link2HCH0058"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + The beautiful light of summer had never shone on a scene and surrounding + landscape which recalled happier images of English nature, and better + recollections of English manners, than that to which we would now + introduce our readers. One of those true old English Halls, now unhappily + so rare, built in the time of the Tudors, and in its elaborate + timber-framing and decorative woodwork indicating, perhaps, the scarcity + of brick and stone at the period of its structure, as much as the + grotesque genius of its fabricator, rose on a terrace surrounded by + ancient and very formal gardens. The hall itself, during many generations, + had been vigilantly and tastefully preserved by its proprietors. There was + not a point which was not as fresh as if it had been renovated but + yesterday. It stood a huge and strange blending of Grecian, Gothic, and + Italian architecture, with a wild dash of the fantastic in addition. The + lantern watch-towers of a baronial castle were placed in juxtaposition + with Doric columns employed for chimneys, while under oriel windows might + be observed Italian doorways with Grecian pediments. Beyond the extensive + gardens an avenue of Spanish chestnuts at each point of the compass + approached the mansion, or led into a small park which was table-land, its + limits opening on all sides to beautiful and extensive valleys, sparkling + with cultivation, except at one point, where the river Darl formed the + boundary of the domain, and then spread in many a winding through the rich + country beyond. + </p> + <p> + Such was Hellingsley, the new home that Oswald Millbank was about to visit + for the first time. Coningsby and himself had travelled together as far as + Darlford, where their roads diverged, and they had separated with an + engagement on the part of Coningsby to visit Hellingsley on the morrow. As + they had travelled along, Coningsby had frequently led the conversation to + domestic topics; gradually he had talked, and talked much of Edith. + Without an obtrusive curiosity, he extracted, unconsciously to his + companion, traits of her character and early days, which filled him with a + wild and secret interest. The thought that in a few hours he was to meet + her again, infused into his being a degree of transport, which the very + necessity of repressing before his companion rendered more magical and + thrilling. How often it happens in life that we have with a grave face to + discourse of ordinary topics, while all the time our heart and memory are + engrossed with some enchanting secret! + </p> + <p> + The castle of his grandfather presented a far different scene on the + arrival of Coningsby from that which it had offered on his first visit. + The Marquess had given him a formal permission to repair to it at his + pleasure, and had instructed the steward accordingly. But he came without + notice, at a season of the year when the absence of all sports made his + arrival unexpected. The scattered and sauntering household roused + themselves into action, and contemplated the conviction that it might be + necessary to do some service for their wages. There was a stir in that + vast, sleepy castle. At last the steward was found, and came forward to + welcome their young master, whose simple wants were limited to the rooms + he had formerly occupied. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby reached the castle a little before sunset, almost the same hour + that he had arrived there more than three years ago. How much had happened + in the interval! Coningsby had already lived long enough to find interest + in pondering over the past. That past too must inevitably exercise a great + influence over his present. He recalled his morning drive with his + grandfather, to the brink of that river which was the boundary between his + own domain and Hellingsley. Who dwelt at Hellingsley now? + </p> + <p> + Restless, excited, not insensible to the difficulties, perhaps the dangers + of his position, yet full of an entrancing emotion in which all thoughts + and feelings seemed to merge, Coningsby went forth into the fair gardens + to muse over his love amid objects as beautiful. A rosy light hung over + the rare shrubs and tall fantastic trees; while a rich yet darker tint + suffused the distant woods. This euthanasia of the day exercises a strange + influence on the hearts of those who love. Who has not felt it? Magical + emotions that touch the immortal part! + </p> + <p> + But as for Coningsby, the mitigating hour that softens the heart made his + spirit brave. Amid the ennobling sympathies of nature, the pursuits and + purposes of worldly prudence and conventional advantage subsided into + their essential nothingness. He willed to blend his life and fate with a + being beautiful as that nature that subdued him, and he felt in his own + breast the intrinsic energies that in spite of all obstacles should mould + such an imagination into reality. + </p> + <p> + He descended the slopes, now growing dimmer in the fleeting light, into + the park. The stillness was almost supernatural; the jocund sounds of day + had died, and the voices of the night had not commenced. His heart too was + still. A sacred calm had succeeded to that distraction of emotion which + had agitated him the whole day, while he had mused over his love and the + infinite and insurmountable barriers that seemed to oppose his will. Now + he felt one of those strong groundless convictions that are the + inspirations of passion, that all would yield to him as to one holding an + enchanted wand. + </p> + <p> + Onward he strolled; it seemed without purpose, yet always proceeding. A + pale and then gleaming tint stole over the masses of mighty timber; and + soon a glittering light flooded the lawns and glades. The moon was high in + her summer heaven, and still Coningsby strolled on. He crossed the broad + lawns, he traversed the bright glades: amid the gleaming and shadowy + woods, he traced his prescient way. + </p> + <p> + He came to the bank of a rushing river, foaming in the moonlight, and + wafting on its blue breast the shadow of a thousand stars. + </p> + <p> + ‘O river!’ he said, ‘that rollest to my mistress, bear her, bear her my + heart!’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0059" id="link2HCH0059"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + Lady Wallinger and Edith were together in the morning room of Hellingsley, + the morrow after the arrival of Oswald. Edith was arranging flowers in a + vase, while her aunt was embroidering a Spanish peasant in correct + costume. The daughter of Millbank looked as bright and fragrant as the + fair creations that surrounded her. Beautiful to watch her as she arranged + their forms and composed their groups; to mark her eye glance with + gratification at some happy combination of colour, or to listen to her + delight as they wafted to her in gratitude their perfume. Oswald and Sir + Joseph were surveying the stables; Mr. Millbank, who had been daily + expected for the last week from the factories, had not yet arrived. + </p> + <p> + ‘I must say he gained my heart from the first,’ said Lady Wallinger. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish the gardener would send us more roses,’ said Edith. + </p> + <p> + ‘He is so very superior to any young man I ever met,’ continued Lady + Wallinger. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think we must have this vase entirely of roses; don’t you think so, + aunt?’ inquired her niece. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am fond of roses,’ said Lady Wallinger. ‘What beautiful bouquets Mr. + Coningsby gave us at Paris, Edith!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Beautiful!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must say, I was very happy when I met Mr. Coningsby again at + Cambridge,’ said Lady Wallinger. ‘It gave me much greater pleasure than + seeing any of the colleges.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How delighted Oswald seems at having Mr. Coningsby for a companion + again!’ said Edith. + </p> + <p> + ‘And very naturally,’ said Lady Wallinger. ‘Oswald ought to deem himself + fortunate in having such a friend. I am sure the kindness of Mr. Coningsby + when we met him at Cambridge is what I never shall forget. But he always + was my favourite from the first time I saw him at Paris. Do you know, + Edith, I liked him best of all your admirers.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! no, aunt,’ said Edith, smiling, ‘not more than Lord Beaumanoir; you + forget your great favourite, Lord Beaumanoir.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But I did not know Mr. Coningsby at Rome,’ said Lady Wallinger; ‘I cannot + agree that anybody is equal to Mr. Coningsby. I cannot tell you how + pleased I am that he is our neighbour!’ + </p> + <p> + As Lady Wallinger gave a finishing stroke to the jacket of her Andalusian, + Edith, vividly blushing, yet speaking in a voice of affected calmness, + said, + </p> + <p> + ‘Here is Mr. Coningsby, aunt.’ + </p> + <p> + And, truly, at this moment our hero might be discerned, approaching the + hall by one of the avenues; and in a few minutes there was a ringing at + the hall bell, and then, after a short pause, the servants announced Mr. + Coningsby, and ushered him into the morning room. + </p> + <p> + Edith was embarrassed; the frankness and the gaiety of her manner had + deserted her; Coningsby was rather earnest than self-possessed. Each felt + at first that the presence of Lady Wallinger was a relief. The ordinary + topics of conversation were in sufficient plenty; reminiscences of Paris, + impressions of Hellingsley, his visit to Oxford, Lady Wallinger’s visit to + Cambridge. In ten minutes their voices seemed to sound to each other as + they did in the Rue de Rivoli, and their mutual perplexity had in a great + degree subsided. + </p> + <p> + Oswald and Sir Joseph now entered the room, and the conversation became + general. Hellingsley was the subject on which Coningsby dwelt; he was + charmed with all that he had seen! wished to see more. Sir Joseph was + quite prepared to accompany him; but Lady Wallinger, who seemed to read + Coningsby’s wishes in his eyes, proposed that the inspection should be + general; and in the course of half an hour Coningsby was walking by the + side of Edith, and sympathising with all the natural charms to which her + quick taste and lively expression called his notice and appreciation. Few + things more delightful than a country ramble with a sweet companion! + Exploring woods, wandering over green commons, loitering in shady lanes, + resting on rural stiles; the air full of perfume, the heart full of bliss! + </p> + <p> + It seemed to Coningsby that he had never been happy before. A thrilling + joy pervaded his being. He could have sung like a bird. His heart was as + sunny as the summer scene. Past and Future were absorbed in the flowing + hour; not an allusion to Paris, not a speculation on what might arrive; + but infinite expressions of agreement, sympathy; a multitude of slight + phrases, that, however couched, had but one meaning, congeniality. He felt + each moment his voice becoming more tender; his heart gushing in soft + expressions; each moment he was more fascinated; her step was grace, her + glance was beauty. Now she touched him by some phrase of sweet simplicity; + or carried him spell-bound by her airy merriment. + </p> + <p> + Oswald assumed that Coningsby remained to dine with them. There was not + even the ceremony of invitation. Coningsby could not but remember his + dinner at Millbank, and the timid hostess whom he then addressed so often + in vain, as he gazed upon the bewitching and accomplished woman whom he + now passionately loved. It was a most agreeable dinner. Oswald, happy in + his friend being his guest, under his own roof, indulged in unwonted + gaiety. + </p> + <p> + The ladies withdrew; Sir Joseph began to talk politics, although the young + men had threatened their fair companions immediately to follow them. This + was the period of the Bed-Chamber Plot, when Sir Robert Peel accepted and + resigned power in the course of three days. Sir Joseph, who had originally + made up his mind to support a Conservative government when he deemed it + inevitable, had for the last month endeavoured to compensate for this + trifling error by vindicating the conduct of his friends, and reprobating + the behaviour of those who would deprive her Majesty of the + ‘friends-of-her-youth.’ Sir Joseph was a most chivalrous champion of the + ‘friends-of-her-youth’ principle. Sir Joseph, who was always moderate and + conciliatory in his talk, though he would go, at any time, any lengths for + his party, expressed himself to-day with extreme sobriety, as he was + determined not to hurt the feelings of Mr. Coningsby, and he principally + confined himself to urging temperate questions, somewhat in the following + fashion:— + </p> + <p> + ‘I admit that, on the whole, under ordinary circumstances, it would + perhaps have been more convenient that these appointments should have + remained with Sir Robert; but don’t you think that, under the peculiar + circumstances, being friends of her Majesty’s youth?’ &c. &c. + </p> + <p> + Sir Joseph was extremely astonished when Coningsby replied that he + thought, under no circumstances, should any appointment in the Royal + Household be dependent on the voice of the House of Commons, though he was + far from admiring the ‘friends-of-her-youth’ principle, which he looked + upon as impertinent. + </p> + <p> + ‘But surely,’ said Sir Joseph, ‘the Minister being responsible to + Parliament, it must follow that all great offices of State should be + filled at his discretion.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But where do you find this principle of Ministerial responsibility?’ + inquired Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘And is not a Minister responsible to his Sovereign?’ inquired Millbank. + </p> + <p> + Sir Joseph seemed a little confused. He had always heard that Ministers + were responsible to Parliament; and he had a vague conviction, + notwithstanding the reanimating loyalty of the Bed-Chamber Plot, that the + Sovereign of England was a nonentity. He took refuge in indefinite + expressions, and observed, ‘The Responsibility of Ministers is surely a + constitutional doctrine.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Ministers of the Crown are responsible to their master; they are not + the Ministers of Parliament.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But then you know virtually,’ said Sir Joseph, ‘the Parliament, that is, + the House of Commons, governs the country.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It did before 1832,’ said Coningsby; ‘but that is all past now. We got + rid of that with the Venetian Constitution.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The Venetian Constitution!’ said Sir Joseph. + </p> + <p> + ‘To be sure,’ said Millbank. ‘We were governed in this country by the + Venetian Constitution from the accession of the House of Hanover. But that + yoke is past. And now I hope we are in a state of transition from the + Italian Dogeship to the English Monarchy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘King, Lords, and Commons, the Venetian Constitution!’ exclaimed Sir + Joseph. + </p> + <p> + ‘But they were phrases,’ said Coningsby, ‘not facts. The King was a Doge; + the Cabinet the Council of Ten. Your Parliament, that you call Lords and + Commons, was nothing more than the Great Council of Nobles.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The resemblance was complete,’ said Millbank, ‘and no wonder, for it was + not accidental; the Venetian Constitution was intentionally copied.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We should have had the Venetian Republic in 1640,’ said Coningsby, ‘had + it not been for the Puritans. Geneva beat Venice.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure these ideas are not very generally known,’ said Sir Joseph, + bewildered. + </p> + <p> + ‘Because you have had your history written by the Venetian party,’ said + Coningsby, ‘and it has been their interest to conceal them.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will venture to say that there are very few men on our side in the + House of Commons,’ said Sir Joseph, ‘who are aware that they were born + under a Venetian Constitution.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Let us go to the ladies,’ said Millbank, smiling. + </p> + <p> + Edith was reading a letter as they entered. + </p> + <p> + ‘A letter from papa,’ she exclaimed, looking up at her brother with great + animation. ‘We may expect him every day; and yet, alas! he cannot fix + one.’ + </p> + <p> + They now all spoke of Millbank, and Coningsby was happy that he was + familiar with the scene. At length he ventured to say to Edith, ‘You once + made me a promise which you never fulfilled. I shall claim it to-night.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And what can that be?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The song that you promised me at Millbank more than three years ago.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Your memory is good.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It has dwelt upon the subject.’ + </p> + <p> + Then they spoke for a while of other recollections, and then Coningsby + appealing to Lady Wallinger for her influence, Edith rose and took up her + guitar. Her voice was rich and sweet; the air she sang gay, even + fantastically frolic, such as the girls of Granada chaunt trooping home + from some country festival; her soft, dark eye brightened with joyous + sympathy; and ever and anon, with an arch grace, she beat the guitar, in + chorus, with her pretty hand. + </p> + <p> + The moon wanes; and Coningsby must leave these enchanted halls. Oswald + walked homeward with him until he reached the domain of his grandfather. + Then mounting his horse, Coningsby bade his friend farewell till the + morrow, and made his best way to the Castle. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0060" id="link2HCH0060"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + There is a romance in every life. The emblazoned page of Coningsby’s + existence was now open. It had been prosperous before, with some moments + of excitement, some of delight; but they had all found, as it were, their + origin in worldly considerations, or been inevitably mixed up with them. + At Paris, for example, he loved, or thought he loved. But there not an + hour could elapse without his meeting some person, or hearing something, + which disturbed the beauty of his emotions, or broke his spell-bound + thoughts. There was his grandfather hating the Millbanks, or Sidonia + loving them; and common people, in the common world, making common + observations on them; asking who they were, or telling who they were; and + brushing the bloom off all life’s fresh delicious fancies with their + coarse handling. + </p> + <p> + But now his feelings were ethereal. He loved passionately, and he loved in + a scene and in a society as sweet, as pure, and as refined as his + imagination and his heart. There was no malicious gossip, no callous + chatter to profane his ear and desecrate his sentiment. All that he heard + or saw was worthy of the summer sky, the still green woods, the gushing + river, the gardens and terraces, the stately and fantastic dwellings, + among which his life now glided as in some dainty and gorgeous masque. + </p> + <p> + All the soft, social, domestic sympathies of his nature, which, however + abundant, had never been cultivated, were developed by the life he was now + leading. It was not merely that he lived in the constant presence, and + under the constant influence of one whom he adored, that made him so + happy. He was surrounded by beings who found felicity in the interchange + of kind feelings and kind words, in the cultivation of happy talents and + refined tastes, and the enjoyment of a life which their own good sense and + their own good hearts made them both comprehend and appreciate. Ambition + lost much of its splendour, even his lofty aspirations something of their + hallowing impulse of paramount duty, when Coningsby felt how much + ennobling delight was consistent with the seclusion of a private station; + and mused over an existence to be passed amid woods and waterfalls with a + fair hand locked in his, or surrounded by his friends in some ancestral + hall. + </p> + <p> + The morning after his first visit to Hellingsley Coningsby rejoined his + friends, as he had promised Oswald at their breakfast-table; and day after + day he came with the early sun, and left them only when the late moon + silvered the keep of Coningsby Castle. Mr. Millbank, who wrote daily, and + was daily to be expected, did not arrive. A week, a week of unbroken + bliss, had vanished away, passed in long rides and longer walks, sunset + saunterings, and sometimes moonlit strolls; talking of flowers, and + thinking of things even sweeter; listening to delicious songs, and + sometimes reading aloud some bright romance or some inspiring lay. + </p> + <p> + One day Coningsby, who arrived at the hall unexpectedly late; indeed it + was some hours past noon, for he had been detained by despatches which + arrived at the Castle from Mr. Rigby, and which required his + interposition; found the ladies alone, and was told that Sir Joseph and + Oswald were at the fishing-cottage where they wished him to join them. He + was in no haste to do this; and Lady Wallinger proposed that when they + felt inclined to ramble they should all walk down to the fishing-cottage + together. So, seating himself by the side of Edith, who was tinting a + sketch which she had made of a rich oriel of Hellingsley, the morning + passed away in that slight and yet subtle talk in which a lover delights, + and in which, while asking a thousand questions, that seem at the first + glance sufficiently trifling, he is indeed often conveying a meaning that + is not expressed, or attempting to discover a feeling that is hidden. And + these are occasions when glances meet and glances are withdrawn: the + tongue may speak idly, the eye is more eloquent, and often more true. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby looked up; Lady Wallinger, who had more than once announced that + she was going to put on her bonnet, was gone. Yet still he continued to + talk trifles; and still Edith listened. + </p> + <p> + ‘Of all that you have told me,’ said Edith, ‘nothing pleases me so much as + your description of St. Geneviève. How much I should like to catch the + deer at sunset on the heights! What a pretty drawing it would make!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You would like Eustace Lyle,’ said Coningsby. ‘He is so shy and yet so + ardent.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have such a band of friends! Oswald was saying this morning there was + no one who had so many devoted friends.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We are all united by sympathy. It is the only bond of friendship; and yet + friendship—’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edith,’ said Lady Wallinger, looking into the room from the garden, with + her bonnet on, ‘you will find me roaming on the terrace.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We come, dear aunt.’ + </p> + <p> + And yet they did not move. There were yet a few pencil touches to be given + to the tinted sketch; Coningsby would cut the pencils. + </p> + <p> + ‘Would you give me,’ he said, ‘some slight memorial of Hellingsley and + your art? I would not venture to hope for anything half so beautiful as + this; but the slightest sketch. It would make me so happy when away to + have it hanging in my room.’ + </p> + <p> + A blush suffused the cheek of Edith; she turned her head a little aside, + as if she were arranging some drawings. And then she said, in a somewhat + hushed and hesitating voice, + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure I will do so; and with pleasure. A view of the Hall itself; I + think that would be the best memorial. Where shall we take it from? We + will decide in our walk?’ and she rose, and promised immediately to + return, left the room. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby leant over the mantel-piece in deep abstraction, gazing vacantly + on a miniature of the father of Edith. A light step roused him; she had + returned. Unconsciously he greeted her with a glance of ineffable + tenderness. + </p> + <p> + They went forth; it was a grey, sultry day. Indeed it was the covered sky + which had led to the fishing scheme of the morning. Sir Joseph was an + expert and accomplished angler, and the Darl was renowned for its sport. + They lingered before they reached the terrace where they were to find Lady + Wallinger, observing the different points of view which the Hall + presented, and debating which was to form the subject of Coningsby’s + drawing; for already it was to be not merely a sketch, but a drawing, the + most finished that the bright and effective pencil of Edith could achieve. + If it really were to be placed in his room, and were to be a memorial of + Hellingsley, her artistic reputation demanded a masterpiece. + </p> + <p> + They reached the terrace: Lady Wallinger was not there, nor could they + observe her in the vicinity. Coningsby was quite certain that she had gone + onward to the fishing-cottage, and expected them to follow her; and he + convinced Edith of the justness of his opinion. To the fishing-cottage, + therefore, they bent their steps. They emerged from the gardens into the + park, sauntering over the table-land, and seeking as much as possible the + shade, in the soft but oppressive atmosphere. At the limit of the + table-land their course lay by a wild but winding path through a gradual + and wooded declivity. While they were yet in this craggy and romantic + woodland, the big fervent drops began to fall. Coningsby urged Edith to + seek at once a natural shelter; but she, who knew the country, assured him + that the fishing-cottage was close by, and that they might reach it before + the rain could do them any harm. + </p> + <p> + And truly, at this moment emerging from the wood, they found themselves in + the valley of the Darl. The river here was narrow and winding, but full of + life; rushing, and clear but for the dark sky it reflected; with high + banks of turf and tall trees; the silver birch, above all others, in + clustering groups; infinitely picturesque. At the turn of the river, about + two hundred yards distant, Coningsby observed the low, dark roof of the + fishing-cottage on its banks. They descended from the woods to the margin + of the stream by a flight of turfen steps, Coningsby holding Edith’s hand + as he guided her progress. + </p> + <p> + The drops became thicker. They reached, at a rapid pace, the cottage. The + absent boat indicated that Sir Joseph and Oswald were on the river. The + cottage was an old building of rustic logs, with a shelving roof, so that + you might obtain sufficient shelter without entering its walls. Coningsby + found a rough garden seat for Edith. The shower was now violent. + </p> + <p> + Nature, like man, sometimes weeps from gladness. It is the joy and + tenderness of her heart that seek relief; and these are summer showers. In + this instance the vehemence of her emotion was transient, though the tears + kept stealing down her cheek for a long time, and gentle sighs and sobs + might for some period be distinguished. The oppressive atmosphere had + evaporated; the grey, sullen tint had disappeared; a soft breeze came + dancing up the stream; a glowing light fell upon the woods and waters; the + perfume of trees and flowers and herbs floated around. There was a + carolling of birds; a hum of happy insects in the air; freshness and stir, + and a sense of joyous life, pervaded all things; it seemed that the heart + of all creation opened. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby, after repeatedly watching the shower with Edith, and + speculating on its progress, which did not much annoy them, had seated + himself on a log almost at her feet. And assuredly a maiden and a youth + more beautiful and engaging had seldom met before in a scene more fresh + and fair. Edith on her rustic seat watched the now blue and foaming river, + and the birch-trees with a livelier tint, and quivering in the sunset air; + an expression of tranquil bliss suffused her beautiful brow, and spoke + from the thrilling tenderness of her soft dark eye. Coningsby gazed on + that countenance with a glance of entranced rapture. His cheek was + flushed, his eye gleamed with dazzling lustre. She turned her head; she + met that glance, and, troubled, she withdrew her own. + </p> + <p> + ‘Edith!’ he said in a tone of tremulous passion, ‘Let me call you Edith! + Yes,’ he continued, gently taking her hand, let me call you my Edith! I + love you!’ + </p> + <p> + She did not withdraw her hand; but turned away a face flushed as the + impending twilight. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0061" id="link2HCH0061"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + It was past the dinner hour when Edith and Coningsby reached the Hall; an + embarrassing circumstance, but mitigated by the conviction that they had + not to encounter a very critical inspection. What, then, were their + feelings when the first servant that they met informed them that Mr. + Millbank had arrived! Edith never could have believed that the return of + her beloved father to his home could ever have been to her other than a + cause of delight. And yet now she trembled when she heard the + announcement. The mysteries of love were fast involving her existence. But + this was not the season of meditation. Her heart was still agitated by the + tremulous admission that she responded to that fervent and adoring love + whose eloquent music still sounded in her ear, and the pictures of whose + fanciful devotion flitted over her agitated vision. Unconsciously she + pressed the arm of Coningsby as the servant spoke, and then, without + looking into his face, whispering him to be quick, she sprang away. + </p> + <p> + As for Coningsby, notwithstanding the elation of his heart, and the + ethereal joy which flowed in all his veins, the name of Mr. Millbank + sounded, something like a knell. However, this was not the time to + reflect. He obeyed the hint of Edith; made the most rapid toilet that ever + was consummated by a happy lover, and in a few minutes entered the + drawing-room of Hellingsley, to encounter the gentleman whom he hoped by + some means or other, quite inconceivable, might some day be transformed + into his father-in-law, and the fulfilment of his consequent duties + towards whom he had commenced by keeping him waiting for dinner. + </p> + <p> + ‘How do you do, sir,’ said Mr. Millbank, extending his hand to Coningsby. + ‘You seem to have taken a long walk.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby looked round to the kind Lady Wallinger, and half addressed his + murmured answer to her, explaining how they had lost her, and their way, + and were caught in a storm or a shower, which, as it terminated about + three hours back, and the fishing-cottage was little more than a mile from + the Hall, very satisfactorily accounted for their not being in time for + dinner. + </p> + <p> + Lady Wallinger then said something about the lowering clouds having + frightened her from the terrace, and Sir Joseph and Oswald talked a little + of their sport, and of their having seen an otter; but there was, or at + least there seemed to Coningsby, a tone of general embarrassment which + distressed him. The fact is, keeping people from dinner under any + circumstances is distressing. They are obliged to talk at the very moment + when they wish to use their powers of expression for a very different + purpose. They are faint, and conversation makes them more exhausted. A + gentleman, too, fond of his family, who in turn are devoted to him, making + a great and inconvenient effort to reach them by dinner time, to please + and surprise them; and finding them all dispersed, dinner so late that he + might have reached home in good time without any great inconvenient + effort; his daughter, whom he had wished a thousand times to embrace, + taking a singularly long ramble with no other companion than a young + gentleman, whom he did not exactly expect to see; all these are + circumstances, individually perhaps slight, and yet, encountered + collectively, it may be doubted they would not a little ruffle even the + sweetest temper. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Millbank, too, had not the sweetest temper, though not a bad one; a + little quick and fiery. But then he had a kind heart. And when Edith, who + had providentially sent down a message to order dinner, entered and + embraced him at the very moment that dinner was announced, her father + forgot everything in his joy in seeing her, and his pleasure in being + surrounded by his friends. He gave his hand to Lady Wallinger, and Sir + Joseph led away his niece. Coningsby put his arm around the astonished + neck of Oswald, as if they were once more in the playing fields of Eton. + </p> + <p> + ‘By Jove! my dear fellow,’ he exclaimed, ‘I am so sorry we kept your + father from dinner.’ + </p> + <p> + As Edith headed her father’s table, according to his rigid rule, Coningsby + was on one side of her. They never spoke so little; Coningsby would have + never unclosed his lips, had he followed his humour. He was in a stupor of + happiness; the dining room took the appearance of the fishing-cottage; and + he saw nothing but the flowing river. Lady Wallinger was however next to + him, and that was a relief; for he felt always she was his friend. Sir + Joseph, a good-hearted man, and on subjects with which he was acquainted + full of sound sense, was invaluable to-day, for he entirely kept up the + conversation, speaking of things which greatly interested Mr. Millbank. + And so their host soon recovered his good temper; he addressed several + times his observations to Coningsby, and was careful to take wine with + him. On the whole, affairs went on flowingly enough. The gentlemen, + indeed, stayed much longer over their wine than on the preceding days, and + Coningsby did not venture on the liberty of quitting the room before his + host. It was as well. Edith required repose. She tried to seek it on the + bosom of her aunt, as she breathed to her the delicious secret of her + life. When the gentlemen returned to the drawing-room the ladies were not + there. + </p> + <p> + This rather disturbed Mr. Millbank again; he had not seen enough of his + daughter; he wished to hear her sing. But Edith managed to reappear; and + even to sing. Then Coningsby went up to her and asked her to sing the song + of the Girls of Granada. She said in a low voice, and with a fond yet + serious look, + </p> + <p> + ‘I am not in the mood for such a song, but if you wish me—’ + </p> + <p> + She sang it, and with inexpressible grace, and with an arch vivacity, that + to a fine observer would have singularly contrasted with the almost solemn + and even troubled expression of her countenance a moment afterwards. + </p> + <p> + The day was about to die; the day the most important, the most precious in + the lives of Harry Coningsby and Edith Millbank. Words had been spoken, + vows breathed, which were to influence their careers for ever. For them + hereafter there was to be but one life, one destiny, one world. Each of + them was still in such a state of tremulous excitement, that neither had + found time or occasion to ponder over the mighty result. They both + required solitude; they both longed to be alone. Coningsby rose to depart. + He pressed the soft hand of Edith, and his glance spoke his soul. + </p> + <p> + ‘We shall see you at breakfast to-morrow, Coningsby!’ said Oswald, very + loud, knowing that the presence of his father would make Coningsby + hesitate about coming. Edith’s heart fluttered; but she said nothing. It + was with delight she heard her father, after a moment’s pause, say, + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I beg we may have that pleasure.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not quite at so early an hour,’ said Coningsby; ‘but if you will permit + me, I hope to have the pleasure of hearing from you to-morrow, sir, that + your journey has not fatigued you.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0062" id="link2HCH0062"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + To be alone; to have no need of feigning a tranquillity he could not feel; + of coining common-place courtesy when his heart was gushing with rapture; + this was a great relief to Coningsby, though gained by a separation from + Edith. + </p> + <p> + The deed was done; he had breathed his long-brooding passion, he had + received the sweet expression of her sympathy, he had gained the + long-coveted heart. Youth, beauty, love, the innocence of unsophisticated + breasts, and the inspiration of an exquisite nature, combined to fashion + the spell that now entranced his life. He turned to gaze upon the moonlit + towers and peaked roofs of Hellingsley. Silent and dreamlike, the + picturesque pile rested on its broad terrace flooded with the silver light + and surrounded by the quaint bowers of its fantastic gardens tipped with + the glittering beam. Half hid in deep shadow, half sparkling in the + midnight blaze, he recognised the oriel window that had been the subject + of the morning’s sketch. Almost he wished there should be some sound to + assure him of his reality. But nothing broke the all-pervading stillness. + Was his life to be as bright and as tranquil? And what was to be his life? + </p> + <p> + Whither was he to bear the beautiful bride he had gained? Were the portals + of Coningsby the proud and hospitable gates that were to greet her? How + long would they greet him after the achievement of the last + four-and-twenty hours was known to their lord? Was this the return for the + confiding kindness of his grandsire? That he should pledge his troth to + the daughter of that grandsire’s foe? + </p> + <p> + Away with such dark and scaring visions! Is it not the noon of a summer + night fragrant with the breath of gardens, bright with the beam that + lovers love, and soft with the breath of Ausonian breezes? Within that + sweet and stately residence, dwells there not a maiden fair enough to + revive chivalry; who is even now thinking of him as she leans on her + pensive hand, or, if perchance she dream, recalls him in her visions? And + himself, is he one who would cry craven with such a lot? What avail his + golden youth, his high blood, his daring and devising spirit, and all his + stores of wisdom, if they help not now? Does not he feel the energy divine + that can confront Fate and carve out fortunes? Besides it is nigh + Midsummer Eve, and what should fairies reign for but to aid such a bright + pair as this? + </p> + <p> + He recalls a thousand times the scene, the moment, in which but a few + hours past he dared to tell her that he loved; he recalls a thousand times + the still, small voice, that murmured her agitated felicity: more than a + thousand times, for his heart clenched the idea as a diver grasps a gem, + he recalls the enraptured yet gentle embrace, that had sealed upon her + blushing cheek his mystical and delicious sovereignty. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0063" id="link2HCH0063"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII + </h2> + <p> + The morning broke lowering and thunderous; small white clouds, dull and + immovable, studded the leaden sky; the waters of the rushing Darl seemed + to have become black and almost stagnant; the terraces of Hellingsley + looked like the hard lines of a model; and the mansion itself had a harsh + and metallic character. Before the chief portal of his Hall, the elder + Millbank, with an air of some anxiety, surveyed the landscape and the + heavens, as if he were speculating on the destiny of the day. + </p> + <p> + Often his eye wandered over the park; often with an uneasy and restless + step he paced the raised walk before him. The clock of Hellingsley church + had given the chimes of noon. His son and Coningsby appeared at the end of + one of the avenues. His eye lightened; his lip became compressed; he + advanced to meet them. + </p> + <p> + ‘Are you going to fish to-day, Oswald?’ he inquired of his son. + </p> + <p> + ‘We had some thoughts of it, sir.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A fine day for sport, I should think,’ he observed, as he turned towards + the Hall with them. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby remarked the fanciful beauty of the portal; its twisted columns, + and Caryatides carved in dark oak. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, it’s very well,’ said Millbank; ‘but I really do not know why I came + here; my presence is an effort. Oswald does not care for the place; none + of us do, I believe.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! I like it now, father; and Edith doats on it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘She was very happy at Millbank,’ said the father, rather sharply. + </p> + <p> + ‘We are all of us happy at Millbank,’ said Oswald. + </p> + <p> + ‘I was much struck with the valley and the whole settlement when I first + saw it,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Suppose you go and see about the tackle, Oswald,’ said Mr. Millbank, ‘and + Mr. Coningsby and I will take a stroll on the terrace in the meantime.’ + </p> + <p> + The habit of obedience, which was supreme in this family, instantly + carried Oswald away, though he was rather puzzled why his father should be + so anxious about the preparation of the fishing-tackle, as he rarely used + it. His son had no sooner departed than Mr. Millbank turned to Coningsby, + and said very abruptly, + </p> + <p> + ‘You have never seen my own room here, Mr. Coningsby; step in, for I wish + to say a word to you.’ And thus speaking, he advanced before the + astonished, and rather agitated Coningsby, and led the way through a door + and long passage to a room of moderate dimensions, partly furnished as a + library, and full of parliamentary papers and blue-books. Shutting the + door with some earnestness and pointing to a chair, he begged his guest to + be seated. Both in their chairs, Mr. Millbank, clearing his throat, said + without preface, ‘I have reason to believe, Mr. Coningsby, that you are + attached to my daughter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been attached to her for a long time most ardently,’ replied + Coningsby, in a calm and rather measured tone, but looking very pale. + </p> + <p> + ‘And I have reason to believe that she returns your attachment?’ said Mr. + Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘I believe she deigns not to disregard it,’ said Coningsby, his white + cheek becoming scarlet. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is then a mutual attachment, which, if cherished, must produce mutual + unhappiness,’ said Mr. Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘I would fain believe the reverse,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why?’ inquired Mr. Millbank. + </p> + <p> + ‘Because I believe she possesses every charm, quality, and virtue, that + can bless man; and because, though I can make her no equivalent return, I + have a heart, if I know myself, that would struggle to deserve her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know you to be a man of sense; I believe you to be a man of honour,’ + replied Mr. Millbank. ‘As the first, you must feel that an union between + you and my daughter is impossible; what then should be your duty as a man + of correct principle is obvious.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I could conceive that our union might be attended with difficulties,’ + said Coningsby, in a somewhat deprecating tone. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sir, it is impossible,’ repeated Mr. Millbank, interrupting him, though + not with harshness; ‘that is to say, there is no conceivable marriage + which could be effected at greater sacrifices, and which would occasion + greater misery.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The sacrifices are more apparent to me than the misery,’ said Coningsby, + ‘and even they may be imaginary.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The sacrifices and the misery are certain and inseparable,’ said Mr. + Millbank. ‘Come now, see how we stand! I speak without reserve, for this + is a subject which cannot permit misconception, but with no feelings + towards you, sir, but fair and friendly ones. You are the grandson of my + Lord Monmouth; at present enjoying his favour, but dependent on his + bounty. You may be the heir of his wealth to-morrow, and to-morrow you may + be the object of his hatred and persecution. Your grandfather and myself + are foes; bitter, irreclaimable, to the death. It is idle to mince + phrases; I do not vindicate our mutual feelings, I may regret that they + have ever arisen; I may regret it especially at this exigency. They are + not the feelings of good Christians; they may be altogether to be deplored + and unjustifiable; but they exist, mutually exist; and have not been + confined to words. Lord Monmouth would crush me, had he the power, like a + worm; and I have curbed his proud fortunes often. Were it not for this + feeling I should not be here; I purchased this estate merely to annoy him, + as I have done a thousand other acts merely for his discomfiture and + mortification. In our long encounter I have done him infinitely more + injury than he could do me; I have been on the spot, I am active, + vigilant, the maker of my fortunes. He is an epicurean, continually in + foreign parts, obliged to leave the fulfilment of his will to others. But, + for these very reasons, his hate is more intense. I can afford to hate him + less than he hates me; I have injured him more. Here are feelings to exist + between human beings! But they do exist; and now you are to go to this + man, and ask his sanction to marry my daughter!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But I would appease these hatreds; I would allay these dark passions, the + origin of which I know not, but which never could justify the end, and + which lead to so much misery. I would appeal to my grandfather; I would + show him Edith.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He has looked upon as fair even as Edith,’ said Mr. Millbank, rising + suddenly from his seat, and pacing the room, ‘and did that melt his heart? + The experience of your own lot should have guarded you from the perils + that you have so rashly meditated encountering, and the misery which you + have been preparing for others besides yourself. Is my daughter to be + treated like your mother? And by the same hand? Your mother’s family were + not Lord Monmouth’s foes. They were simple and innocent people, free from + all the bad passions of our nature, and ignorant of the world’s ways. But + because they were not noble, because they could trace no mystified descent + from a foreign invader, or the sacrilegious minion of some spoliating + despot, their daughter was hunted from the family which should have + exulted to receive her, and the land of which she was the native ornament. + Why should a happier lot await you than fell to your parents? You are in + the same position as your father; you meditate the same act. The only + difference being aggravating circumstances in your case, which, even if I + were a member of the same order as my Lord Monmouth, would prevent the + possibility of a prosperous union. Marry Edith, and you blast all the + prospects of your life, and entail on her a sense of unceasing + humiliation. Would you do this? Should I permit you to do this?’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby, with his head resting on his arm, his face a little shaded, his + eyes fixed on the ground, listened in silence. There was a pause; broken + by Coningsby, as in a low voice, without changing his posture or raising + his glance, he said, ‘It seems, sir, that you were acquainted with my + mother!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I knew sufficient of her,’ replied Mr. Millbank, with a kindling cheek, + ‘to learn the misery that a woman may entail on herself by marrying out of + her condition. I have bred my children in a respect for their class. I + believe they have imbibed my feeling; though it is strange how in the + commerce of the world, chance, in their friendships, has apparently + baffled my designs.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! do not say it is chance, sir,’ said Coningsby, looking up, and + speaking with much fervour. ‘The feelings that animate me towards your + family are not the feelings of chance: they are the creation of sympathy; + tried by time, tested by thought. And must they perish? Can they perish? + They were inevitable; they are indestructible. Yes, sir, it is in vain to + speak of the enmities that are fostered between you and my grandfather; + the love that exists between your daughter and myself is stronger than all + your hatreds.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You speak like a young man, and a young man that is in love,’ said Mr. + Millbank. ‘This is mere rhapsody; it will vanish in an instant before the + reality of life. And you have arrived at that reality,’ he continued, + speaking with emphasis, leaning over the back of his chair, and looking + steadily at Coningsby with his grey, sagacious eye; ‘my daughter and + yourself can meet no more.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is impossible you can be so cruel!’ exclaimed Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘So kind; kind to you both; for I wish to be kind to you as well as to + her. You are entitled to kindness from us all; though I will tell you now, + that, years ago, when the news arrived that my son’s life had been saved, + and had been saved by one who bore the name of Coningsby, I had a + presentiment, great as was the blessing, that it might lead to + unhappiness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can answer for the misery of one,’ said Coningsby, in a tone of great + despondency. ‘I feel as if my sun were set. Oh! why should there be such + wretchedness? Why are there family hatreds and party feuds? Why am I the + most wretched of men?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My good young friend, you will live, I doubt not, to be a happy one. + Happiness is not, as we are apt to fancy, entirely dependent on these + contingencies. It is the lot of most men to endure what you are now + suffering, and they can look back to such conjunctures through the vista + of years with calmness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I may see Edith now?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Frankly, I should say, no. My daughter is in her room; I have had some + conversation with her. Of course she suffers not less than yourself. To + see her again will only aggravate woe. You leave under this roof, sir, + some sad memories, but no unkind ones. It is not likely that I can serve + you, or that you may want my aid; but whatever may be in my power, + remember you may command it; without reserve and without restraint. If I + control myself now, it is not because I do not respect your affliction, + but because, in the course of my life, I have felt too much not to be able + to command my feelings.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You never could have felt what I feel now,’ said Coningsby, in a tone of + anguish. + </p> + <p> + ‘You touch on delicate ground,’ said Millbank; ‘yet from me you may learn + to suffer. There was a being once, not less fair than the peerless girl + that you would fain call your own, and her heart was my proud possession. + There were no family feuds to baffle our union, nor was I dependent on + anything, but the energies which had already made me flourishing. What + happiness was mine! It was the first dream of my life, and it was the + last; my solitary passion, the memory of which softens my heart. Ah! you + dreaming scholars, and fine gentlemen who saunter through life, you think + there is no romance in the loves of a man who lives in the toil and + turmoil of business. You are in deep error. Amid my career of travail, + there was ever a bright form which animated exertion, inspired my + invention, nerved my energy, and to gain whose heart and life I first made + many of those discoveries, and entered into many of those speculations, + that have since been the foundation of my wide prosperity. + </p> + <p> + ‘Her faith was pledged to me; I lived upon her image; the day was even + talked of when I should bear her to the home that I had proudly prepared + for her. + </p> + <p> + ‘There came a young noble, a warrior who had never seen war, glittering + with gewgaws. He was quartered in the town where the mistress of my heart, + who was soon to share my life and my fortunes, resided. The tale is too + bitter not to be brief. He saw her, he sighed; I will hope that he loved + her; she gave him with rapture the heart which perhaps she found she had + never given to me; and instead of bearing the name I had once hoped to + have called her by, she pledged her faith at the altar to one who, like + you, was called, CONINGSBY.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My mother!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You see, I too have had my griefs.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Dear sir,’ said Coningsby, rising and taking Mr. Millbank’s hand, ‘I am + most wretched; and yet I wish to part from you even with affection. You + have explained circumstances that have long perplexed me. A curse, I fear, + is on our families. I have not mind enough at this moment even to ponder + on my situation. My head is a chaos. I go; yes, I quit this Hellingsley, + where I came to be so happy, where I have been so happy. Nay, let me go, + dear sir! I must be alone, I must try to think. And tell her, no, tell her + nothing. God will guard over us!’ + </p> + <p> + Proceeding down the avenue with a rapid and distempered step, his + countenance lost, as it were, in a wild abstraction, Coningsby encountered + Oswald Millbank. He stopped, collected his turbulent thoughts, and + throwing on Oswald one look that seemed at the same time to communicate + woe and to demand sympathy, flung himself into his arms. + </p> + <p> + ‘My friend!’ he exclaimed, and then added, in a broken voice, ‘I need a + friend.’ + </p> + <p> + Then in a hurried, impassioned, and somewhat incoherent strain, leaning on + Oswald’s arm, as they walked on together, he poured forth all that had + occurred, all of which he had dreamed; his baffled bliss, his actual + despair. Alas! there was little room for solace, and yet all that earnest + affection could inspire, and a sagacious brain and a brave spirit, were + offered for his support, if not his consolation, by the friend who was + devoted to him. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this deep communion, teeming with every thought and + sentiment that could enchain and absorb the spirit of man, they came to + one of the park-gates of Coningsby. Millbank stopped. The command of his + father was peremptory, that no member of his family, under any + circumstances, or for any consideration, should set his foot on that + domain. Lady Wallinger had once wished to have seen the Castle, and + Coningsby was only too happy in the prospect of escorting her and Edith + over the place; but Oswald had then at once put his veto on the project, + as a thing forbidden; and which, if put in practice, his father would + never pardon. So it passed off, and now Oswald himself was at the gates of + that very domain with his friend who was about to enter them, his friend + whom he might never see again; that Coningsby who, from their boyish days, + had been the idol of his life; whom he had lived to see appeal to his + affections and his sympathy, and whom Oswald was now going to desert in + the midst of his lonely and unsolaced woe. + </p> + <p> + ‘I ought not to enter here,’ said Oswald, holding the hand of Coningsby as + he hesitated to advance; ‘and yet there are duties more sacred even than + obedience to a father. I cannot leave you thus, friend of my best heart!’ + </p> + <p> + The morning passed away in unceasing yet fruitless speculation on the + future. One moment something was to happen, the next nothing could occur. + Sometimes a beam of hope flashed over the fancy of Coningsby, and jumping + up from the turf, on which they were reclining, he seemed to exult in his + renovated energies; and then this sanguine paroxysm was succeeded by a fit + of depression so dark and dejected that nothing but the presence of Oswald + seemed to prevent Coningsby from flinging himself into the waters of the + Darl. + </p> + <p> + The day was fast declining, and the inevitable moment of separation was at + hand. Oswald wished to appear at the dinner-table of Hellingsley, that no + suspicion might arise in the mind of his father of his having accompanied + Coningsby home. But just as he was beginning to mention the necessity of + his departure, a flash of lightning seemed to transfix the heavens. The + sky was very dark; though studded here and there with dingy spots. The + young men sprang up at the same time. + </p> + <p> + ‘We had better get out of these trees,’ said Oswald. + </p> + <p> + ‘We had better get to the Castle,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + A clap of thunder that seemed to make the park quake broke over their + heads, followed by some thick drops. The Castle was close at hand; Oswald + had avoided entering it; but the impending storm was so menacing that, + hurried on by Coningsby, he could make no resistance; and, in a few + minutes, the companions were watching the tempest from the windows of a + room in Coningsby Castle. + </p> + <p> + The fork-lightning flashed and scintillated from every quarter of the + horizon: the thunder broke over the Castle, as if the keep were rocking + with artillery: amid the momentary pauses of the explosion, the rain was + heard descending like dissolving water-spouts. + </p> + <p> + Nor was this one of those transient tempests that often agitate the + summer. Time advanced, and its fierceness was little mitigated. Sometimes + there was a lull, though the violence of the rain never appeared to + diminish; but then, as in some pitched fight between contending hosts, + when the fervour of the field seems for a moment to allay, fresh squadrons + arrive and renew the hottest strife, so a low moaning wind that was now at + intervals faintly heard bore up a great reserve of electric vapour, that + formed, as it were, into field in the space between the Castle and + Hellingsley, and then discharged its violence on that fated district. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby and Oswald exchanged looks. ‘You must not think of going home at + present, my dear fellow,’ said the first. ‘I am sure your father would not + be displeased. There is not a being here who even knows you, and if they + did, what then?’ + </p> + <p> + The servant entered the room, and inquired whether the gentlemen were + ready for dinner. + </p> + <p> + ‘By all means; come, my dear Millbank, I feel reckless as the tempest; let + us drown our cares in wine!’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby, in fact, was exhausted by all the agitation of the day, and all + the harassing spectres of the future. He found wine a momentary solace. He + ordered the servants away, and for a moment felt a degree of wild + satisfaction in the company of the brother of Edith. + </p> + <p> + Thus they sat for a long time, talking only of one subject, and repeating + almost the same things, yet both felt happier in being together. Oswald + had risen, and opening the window, examined the approaching night. The + storm had lulled, though the rain still fell; in the west was a streak of + light. In a quarter of an hour, he calculated on departing. As he was + watching the wind he thought he heard the sound of wheels, which reminded + him of Coningsby’s promise to lend him a light carriage for his return. + </p> + <p> + They sat down once more; they had filled their glasses for the last time; + to pledge to their faithful friendship, and the happiness of Coningsby and + Edith; when the door of the room opened, and there appeared, MR. RIGBY! + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK VII. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0075" id="link2H_4_0075"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK VIII. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0064" id="link2HCH0064"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + It was the heart of the London season, nearly four years ago, twelve + months having almost elapsed since the occurrence of those painful + passages at Hellingsley which closed the last book of this history, and + long lines of carriages an hour before midnight, up the classic mount of + St. James and along Piccadilly, intimated that the world were received at + some grand entertainment in Arlington Street. + </p> + <p> + It was the town mansion of the noble family beneath whose roof at + Beaumanoir we have more than once introduced the reader, to gain whose + courtyard was at this moment the object of emulous coachmen, and to enter + whose saloons was to reward the martyr-like patience of their lords and + ladies. + </p> + <p> + Among the fortunate who had already succeeded in bowing to their hostess + were two gentlemen, who, ensconced in a good position, surveyed the scene, + and made their observations on the passing guests. They were gentlemen + who, to judge from their general air and the great consideration with + which they were treated by those who were occasionally in their vicinity, + were personages whose criticism bore authority. + </p> + <p> + ‘I say, Jemmy,’ said the eldest, a dandy who had dined with the Regent, + but who was still a dandy, and who enjoyed life almost as much as in the + days when Carlton House occupied the terrace which still bears its name. + ‘I say, Jemmy, what a load of young fellows there are! Don’t know their + names at all. Begin to think fellows are younger than they used to be. + Amazing load of young fellows, indeed!’ + </p> + <p> + At this moment an individual who came under the fortunate designation of a + young fellow, but whose assured carriage hardly intimated that this was + his first season in London, came up to the junior of the two critics, and + said, ‘A pretty turn you played us yesterday at White’s, Melton. We waited + dinner nearly an hour.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear fellow, I am infinitely sorry; but I was obliged to go down to + Windsor, and I missed the return train. A good dinner? Who had you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A capital party, only you were wanted. We had Beaumanoir and Vere, and + Jack Tufton and Spraggs.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was Spraggs rich?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Wasn’t he! I have not done laughing yet. He told us a story about the + little Biron who was over here last year; I knew her at Paris; and an + Indian screen. Killing! Get him to tell it you. The richest thing you ever + heard!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Who’s your friend?’ inquired Mr. Melton’s companion, as the young man + moved away. + </p> + <p> + ‘Sir Charles Buckhurst.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A—h! That is Sir Charles Buckhurst. Glad to have seen him. They say + he is going it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He knows what he is about.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Egad! so they all do. A young fellow now of two or three and twenty knows + the world as men used to do after as many years of scrapes. I wonder where + there is such a thing as a greenhorn. Effie Crabbs says the reason he + gives up his house is, that he has cleaned out the old generation, and + that the new generation would clean him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Buckhurst is not in that sort of way: he swears by Henry Sydney, a + younger son of the Duke, whom you don’t know; and young Coningsby; a sort + of new set; new ideas and all that sort of thing. Beau tells me a good + deal about it; and when I was staying with the Everinghams, at Easter, + they were full of it. Coningsby had just returned from his travels, and + they were quite on the <i>qui vive</i>. Lady Everingham is one of their + set. I don’t know what it is exactly; but I think we shall hear more of + it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A sort of animal magnetism, or unknown tongues, I take it from your + description,’ said his companion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, I don’t know what it is,’ said Mr. Melton; ‘but it has got hold of + all the young fellows who have just come out. Beau is a little bit + himself. I had some idea of giving my mind to it, they made such a fuss + about it at Everingham; but it requires a devilish deal of history, I + believe, and all that sort of thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! that’s a bore,’ said his companion. ‘It is difficult to turn to with + a new thing when you are not in the habit of it. I never could manage + charades.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ormsby, passing by, stopped. ‘They told me you had the gout, + Cassilis?’ he said to Mr. Melton’s companion. + </p> + <p> + ‘So I had; but I have found out a fellow who cures the gout instanter. Tom + Needham sent him to me. A German fellow. Pumicestone pills; sort of a + charm, I believe, and all that kind of thing: they say it rubs the gout + out of you. I sent him to Luxborough, who was very bad; cured him + directly. Luxborough swears by him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Luxborough believes in the Millennium,’ said Mr. Ormsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘But here’s a new thing that Melton has been telling me of, that all the + world is going to believe in,’ said Mr. Cassilis, ‘something patronised by + Lady Everingham.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A very good patroness,’ said Mr. Ormsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Have you heard anything about it?’ continued Mr. Cassilis. ‘Young + Coningsby brought it from abroad; didn’t you you say so, Jemmy?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no, my dear fellow; it is not at all that sort of thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But they say it requires a deuced deal of history,’ continued Mr. + Cassilis. ‘One must brush up one’s Goldsmith. Canterton used to be the + fellow for history at White’s. He was always boring one with William the + Conqueror, Julius Caesar, and all that sort of thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I tell you what,’ said Mr. Ormsby, looking both sly and solemn, ‘I should + not be surprised if, some day or another, we have a history about Lady + Everingham and young Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Poh!’ said Mr. Melton; ‘he is engaged to be married to her sister, Lady + Theresa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The deuce!’ said Mr. Ormsby; ‘well, you are a friend of the family, and I + suppose you know.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is a devilish good-looking fellow, that young Coningsby,’ said Mr. + Cassilis. ‘All the women are in love with him, they say. Lady Eleanor + Ducie quite raves about him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By-the-bye, his grandfather has been very unwell,’ said Mr. Ormsby, + looking mysteriously. + </p> + <p> + ‘I saw Lady Monmouth here just now,’ said Mr. Melton. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! he is quite well again,’ said Mr. Ormsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Got an odd story at White’s that Lord Monmouth was going to separate from + her,’ said Mr. Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + ‘No foundation,’ said Mr. Ormsby, shaking his head. + </p> + <p> + ‘They are not going to separate, I believe,’ said Mr. Melton; ‘but I + rather think there was a foundation for the rumour.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ormsby still shook his head. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ continued Mr. Melton, ‘all I know is, that it was looked upon last + winter at Paris as a settled thing.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There was some story about some Hungarian,’ said Mr. Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, that blew over,’ said Mr. Melton; ‘it was Trautsmansdorff the row was + about.’ + </p> + <p> + All this time Mr. Ormsby, as the friend of Lord and Lady Monmouth, + remained shaking his head; but as a member of society, and therefore + delighting in small scandal, appropriating the gossip with the greatest + avidity. + </p> + <p> + ‘I should think old Monmouth was not the sort of fellow to blow up a + woman,’ said Mr. Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + ‘Provided she would leave him quietly,’ said Mr. Melton. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, Lord Monmouth never could live with a woman more than two years,’ + said Mr. Ormsby, pensively. ‘And that I thought at the time rather an + objection to his marriage.’ + </p> + <p> + We must now briefly revert to what befell our hero after those unhappy + occurrences in the midst of whose first woe we left him. + </p> + <p> + The day after the arrival of Mr. Rigby at the Castle, Coningsby quitted it + for London, and before a week had elapsed had embarked for Cadiz. He felt + a romantic interest in visiting the land to which Edith owed some blood, + and in acquiring the language which he had often admired as she spoke it. + A favourable opportunity permitted him in the autumn to visit Athens and + the AEgean, which he much desired. In the pensive beauties of that + delicate land, where perpetual autumn seems to reign, Coningsby found + solace. There is something in the character of Grecian scenery which + blends with the humour of the melancholy and the feelings of the + sorrowful. Coningsby passed his winter at Rome. The wish of his + grandfather had rendered it necessary for him to return to England + somewhat abruptly. Lord Monmouth had not visited his native country since + his marriage; but the period that had elapsed since that event had + considerably improved the prospects of his party. The majority of the Whig + Cabinet in the House of Commons by 1840 had become little more than + nominal; and though it was circulated among their friends, as if from the + highest authority, that ‘one was enough,’ there seemed daily a better + chance of their being deprived even of that magical unit. For the first + time in the history of this country since the introduction of the system + of parliamentary sovereignty, the Government of England depended on the + fate of single elections; and indeed, by a single vote, it is remarkable + to observe, the fate of the Whig Government was ultimately decided. + </p> + <p> + This critical state of affairs, duly reported to Lord Monmouth, revived + his political passions, and offered him that excitement which he was ever + seeking, and yet for which he had often sighed. The Marquess, too, was + weary of Paris. Every day he found it more difficult to be amused. + Lucretia had lost her charm. He, from whom nothing could be concealed, + perceived that often, while she elaborately attempted to divert him, her + mind was wandering elsewhere. Lord Monmouth was quite superior to all + petty jealousy and the vulgar feelings of inferior mortals, but his + sublime selfishness required devotion. He had calculated that a wife or a + mistress who might be in love with another man, however powerfully their + interests might prompt them, could not be so agreeable or amusing to their + friends and husbands as if they had no such distracting hold upon their + hearts or their fancy. Latterly at Paris, while Lucretia became each day + more involved in the vortex of society, where all admired and some adored + her, Lord Monmouth fell into the easy habit of dining in his private + rooms, sometimes tête-à -tête with Villebecque, whose inexhaustible tales + and adventures about a kind of society which Lord Monmouth had always + preferred infinitely to the polished and somewhat insipid circles in which + he was born, had rendered him the prime favourite of his great patron. + Sometimes Villebecque, too, brought a friend, male or otherwise, whom he + thought invested with the rare faculty of distraction: Lord Monmouth cared + not who or what they were, provided they were diverting. + </p> + <p> + Villebecque had written to Coningsby at Rome, by his grandfather’s desire, + to beg him to return to England and meet Lord Monmouth there. The letter + was couched with all the respect and good feeling which Villebecque really + entertained for him whom he addressed; still a letter on such a subject + from such a person was not agreeable to Coningsby, and his reply to it was + direct to his grandfather; Lord Monmouth, however, had entirely given over + writing letters. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had met at Paris, on his way to England, Lord and Lady + Everingham, and he had returned with them. This revival of an old + acquaintance was both agreeable and fortunate for our hero. The vivacity + of a clever and charming woman pleasantly disturbed the brooding memory of + Coningsby. There is no mortification however keen, no misery however + desperate, which the spirit of woman cannot in some degree lighten or + alleviate. About, too, to make his formal entrance into the great world, + he could not have secured a more valuable and accomplished female friend. + She gave him every instruction, every intimation that was necessary; + cleared the social difficulties which in some degree are experienced on + their entrance into the world even by the most highly connected, unless + they have this benign assistance; planted him immediately in the position + which was expedient; took care that he was invited at once to the right + houses; and, with the aid of her husband, that he should become a member + of the right clubs. + </p> + <p> + ‘And who is to have the blue ribbon, Lord Eskdale?’ said the Duchess to + that nobleman, as he entered and approached to pay his respects. + </p> + <p> + ‘If I were Melbourne, I would keep it open,’ replied his Lordship. ‘It is + a mistake to give away too quickly.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But suppose they go out,’ said her Grace. + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! there is always a last day to clear the House. But they will be in + another year. The cliff will not be sapped before then. We made a mistake + last year about the ladies.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know you always thought so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Quarrels about women are always a mistake. One should make it a rule to + give up to them, and then they are sure to give up to us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have no great faith in our firmness?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Male firmness is very often obstinacy: women have always something + better, worth all qualities; they have tact.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A compliment to the sex from so finished a critic as Lord Eskdale is + appreciated.’ + </p> + <p> + But at this moment the arrival of some guests terminated the conversation, + and Lord Eskdale moved away, and approached a group which Lady Everingham + was enlightening. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear Lord Fitz-booby,’ her Ladyship observed, ‘in politics we require + faith as well as in all other things.’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Fitz-booby looked rather perplexed; but, possessed of considerable + official experience, having held high posts, some in the cabinet, for + nearly a quarter of a century, he was too versed to acknowledge that he + had not understood a single word that had been addressed to him for the + last ten minutes. He looked on with the same grave, attentive stolidity, + occasionally nodding his head, as he was wont of yore when he received a + deputation on sugar duties or joint-stock banks, and when he made, as was + his custom when particularly perplexed, an occasional note on a sheet of + foolscap paper. + </p> + <p> + ‘An Opposition in an age of revolution,’ continued Lady Everingham, ‘must + be founded on principles. It cannot depend on mere personal ability and + party address taking advantage of circumstances. You have not enunciated a + principle for the last ten years; and when you seemed on the point of + acceding to power, it was not on a great question of national interest, + but a technical dispute respecting the constitution of an exhausted sugar + colony.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘If you are a Conservative party, we wish to know what you want to + conserve,’ said Lord Vere. + </p> + <p> + ‘If it had not been for the Whig abolition of slavery,’ said Lord + Fitz-booby, goaded into repartee, ‘Jamaica would not have been an + exhausted sugar colony.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then what you do want to conserve is slavery?’ said Lord Vere. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Lord Fitz-booby, ‘I am never for retracing our steps.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But will you advance, will you move? And where will you advance, and how + will you move?’ said Lady Everingham. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think we have had quite enough of advancing,’ said his Lordship. ‘I had + no idea your Ladyship was a member of the Movement party,’ he added, with + a sarcastic grin. + </p> + <p> + ‘But if it were bad, Lord Fitz-booby, to move where we are, as you and + your friends have always maintained, how can you reconcile it to principle + to remain there?’ said Lord Vere. + </p> + <p> + ‘I would make the best of a bad bargain,’ said Lord Fitz-booby. ‘With a + Conservative government, a reformed Constitution would be less dangerous.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why?’ said Lady Everingham. ‘What are your distinctive principles that + render the peril less?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I appeal to Lord Eskdale,’ said Lord Fitz-booby; ‘there is Lady + Everingham turned quite a Radical, I declare. Is not your Lordship of + opinion that the country must be safer with a Conservative government than + with a Liberal?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I think the country is always tolerably secure,’ said Lord Eskdale. + </p> + <p> + Lady Theresa, leaning on the arm of Mr. Lyle, came up at this moment, and + unconsciously made a diversion in favour of Lord Fitz-booby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Pray, Theresa,’ said Lady Everingham, ‘where is Mr. Coningsby?’ + </p> + <p> + Let us endeavour to ascertain. It so happened that on this day Coningsby + and Henry Sydney dined at Grillion’s, at an university club, where, among + many friends whom Coningsby had not met for a long time, and among + delightful reminiscences, the unconscious hours stole on. It was late when + they quitted Grillion’s, and Coningsby’s brougham was detained for a + considerable time before its driver could insinuate himself into the line, + which indeed he would never have succeeded in doing had not he fortunately + come across the coachman of the Duke of Agincourt, who being of the same + politics as himself, belonging to the same club, and always black-balling + the same men, let him in from a legitimate party feeling; so they arrived + in Arlington Street at a very late hour. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby was springing up the staircase, now not so crowded as it had + been, and met a retiring party; he was about to say a passing word to a + gentleman as he went by, when, suddenly, Coningsby turned deadly pale. The + gentleman could hardly be the cause, for it was the gracious and handsome + presence of Lord Beaumanoir: the lady resting on his arm was Edith. They + moved on while he was motionless; yet Edith and himself had exchanged + glances. His was one of astonishment; but what was the expression of hers? + She must have recognised him before he had observed her. She was + collected, and she expressed the purpose of her mind in a distant and + haughty recognition. Coningsby remained for a moment stupefied; then + suddenly turning back, he bounded downstairs and hurried into the + cloak-room. He met Lady Wallinger; he spoke rapidly, he held her hand, did + not listen to her answers, his eyes wandered about. There were many + persons present, at length he recognised Edith enveloped in her mantle. He + went forward, he looked at her, as if he would have read her soul; he said + something. She changed colour as he addressed her, but seemed instantly by + an effort to rally and regain her equanimity; replied to his inquiries + with extreme brevity, and Lady Wallinger’s carriage being announced, moved + away with the same slight haughty salute as before, on the arm of Lord + Beaumanoir. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0065" id="link2HCH0065"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + Sadness fell over the once happy family of Millbank after the departure of + Coningsby from Hellingsley. When the first pang was over, Edith had found + some solace in the sympathy of her aunt, who had always appreciated and + admired Coningsby; but it was a sympathy which aspired only to soften + sorrow, and not to create hope. But Lady Wallinger, though she lengthened + her visit for the sake of her niece, in time quitted them; and then the + name of Coningsby was never heard by Edith. Her brother, shortly after the + sorrowful and abrupt departure of his friend, had gone to the factories, + where he remained, and of which, in future, it was intended that he should + assume the principal direction. Mr. Millbank himself, sustained at first + by the society of his friend Sir Joseph, to whom he was attached, and + occupied with daily reports from his establishment and the transaction of + the affairs with his numerous and busy constituents, was for a while + scarcely conscious of the alteration which had taken place in the + demeanour of his daughter. But when they were once more alone together, it + was impossible any longer to be blind to the great change. That happy and + equable gaiety of spirit, which seemed to spring from an innocent + enjoyment of existence, and which had ever distinguished Edith, was + wanting. Her sunny glance was gone. She was not indeed always moody and + dispirited, but she was fitful, unequal in her tone. That temper whose + sweetness had been a domestic proverb had become a little uncertain. Not + that her affection for her father was diminished, but there were snatches + of unusual irritability which momentarily escaped her, followed by bursts + of tenderness that were the creatures of compunction. And often, after + some hasty word, she would throw her arms round her father’s neck with the + fondness of remorse. She pursued her usual avocations, for she had really + too well-regulated a mind, she was in truth a person of too strong an + intellect, to neglect any source of occupation and distraction. Her + flowers, her pencil, and her books supplied her with these; and music + soothed, and at times beguiled, her agitated thoughts. But there was no + joy in the house, and in time Mr. Millbank felt it. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Millbank was vexed, irritated, grieved. Edith, his Edith, the pride + and delight of his existence, who had been to him only a source of + exultation and felicity, was no longer happy, was perhaps pining away; and + there was the appearance, the unjust appearance that he, her fond father, + was the cause and occasion of all this wretchedness. It would appear that + the name of Coningsby, to which he now owed a great debt of gratitude, was + still doomed to bear him mortification and misery. Truly had the young man + said that there was a curse upon their two families. And yet, on + reflection, it still seemed to Mr. Millbank that he had acted with as much + wisdom and real kindness as decision. How otherwise was he to have acted? + The union was impossible; the speedier their separation, therefore, + clearly the better. Unfortunate, indeed, had been his absence from + Hellingsley; unquestionably his presence might have prevented the + catastrophe. Oswald should have hindered all this. And yet Mr. Millbank + could not shut his eyes to the devotion of his son to Coningsby. He felt + he could count on no assistance in this respect from that quarter. Yet how + hard upon him that he should seem to figure as a despot or a tyrant to his + own children, whom he loved, when he had absolutely acted in an inevitable + manner! Edith seemed sad, Oswald sullen; all was changed. All the objects + for which this clear-headed, strong-minded, kind-hearted man had been + working all his life, seemed to be frustrated. And why? Because a young + man had made love to his daughter, who was really in no manner entitled to + do so. + </p> + <p> + As the autumn drew on, Mr. Millbank found Hellingsley, under existing + circumstances, extremely wearisome; and he proposed to his daughter that + they should pay a visit to their earlier home. Edith assented without + difficulty, but without interest. And yet, as Mr. Millbank immediately + perceived, the change was a judicious one; for certainly the spirits of + Edith seemed to improve after her return to their valley. There were more + objects of interest: change, too, is always beneficial. If Mr. Millbank + had been aware that Oswald had received a letter from Coningsby, written + before he quitted Spain, perhaps he might have recognised a more + satisfactory reason for the transient liveliness of his daughter which had + so greatly gratified him. + </p> + <p> + About a month after Christmas, the meeting of Parliament summoned Mr. + Millbank up to London; and he had wished Edith to accompany him. But + London in February to Edith, without friends or connections, her father + always occupied and absent from her day and night, seemed to them all, on + reflection, to be a life not very conducive to health or cheerfulness, and + therefore she remained with her brother. Oswald had heard from Coningsby + again from Rome; but at the period he wrote he did not anticipate his + return to England. His tone was affectionate, but dispirited. + </p> + <p> + Lady Wallinger went up to London after Easter for the season, and Mr. + Millbank, now that there was a constant companion for his daughter, took a + house and carried Edith back with him to London. Lady Wallinger, who had + great wealth and great tact, had obtained by degrees a not inconsiderable + position in society. She had a fine house in a fashionable situation, and + gave profuse entertainments. The Whigs were under obligations to her + husband, and the great Whig ladies were gratified to find in his wife a + polished and pleasing person, to whom they could be courteous without any + annoyance. So that Edith, under the auspices of her aunt, found herself at + once in circles which otherwise she might not easily have entered, but + which her beauty, grace, and experience of the most refined society of the + Continent, qualified her to shine in. One evening they met the Marquis of + Beaumanoir, their friend of Rome and Paris, and admirer of Edith, who from + that time was seldom from their side. His mother, the Duchess, immediately + called both on the Millbanks and the Wallingers; glad, not only to please + her son, but to express that consideration for Mr. Millbank which the Duke + always wished to show. It was, however, of no use; nothing would induce + Mr. Millbank ever to enter what he called aristocratic society. He liked + the House of Commons; never paired off; never missed a moment of it; + worked at committees all the morning, listened attentively to debates all + the night; always dined at Bellamy’s when there was a house; and when + there was not, liked dining at the Fishmongers’ Company, the Russia + Company, great Emigration banquets, and other joint-stock festivities. + That was his idea of rational society; business and pleasure combined; a + good dinner, and good speeches afterwards. + </p> + <p> + Edith was aware that Coningsby had returned to England, for her brother + had heard from him on his arrival; but Oswald had not heard since. A + season in London only represented in the mind of Edith the chance, perhaps + the certainty, of meeting Coningsby again; of communing together over the + catastrophe of last summer; of soothing and solacing each other’s + unhappiness, and perhaps, with the sanguine imagination of youth, + foreseeing a more felicitous future. She had been nearly a fortnight in + town, and though moving frequently in the same circles as Coningsby, they + had not yet met. It was one of those results which could rarely occur; but + even chance enters too frequently in the league against lovers. The + invitation to the assembly at —— House was therefore + peculiarly gratifying to Edith, since she could scarcely doubt that if + Coningsby were in town, which her casual inquiries of Lord Beaumanoir + induced her to believe was the case, he would be present. Never, + therefore, had she repaired to an assembly with such a flattering spirit; + and yet there was a fascinating anxiety about it that bewilders the young + heart. + </p> + <p> + In vain Edith surveyed the rooms to catch the form of that being, whom for + a moment she had never ceased to cherish and muse over. He was not there; + and at the very moment when, disappointed and mortified, she most required + solace, she learned from Mr. Melton that Lady Theresa Sydney, whom she + chanced to admire, was going to be married, and to Mr. Coningsby! + </p> + <p> + What a revelation! His silence, perhaps his shunning of her were no longer + inexplicable. What a return for all her romantic devotion in her sad + solitude at Hellingsley. Was this the end of their twilight rambles, and + the sweet pathos of their mutual loves? There seemed to be no truth in + man, no joy in life! All the feelings that she had so generously lavished, + all returned upon herself. She could have burst into a passion of tears + and buried herself in a cloister. + </p> + <p> + Instead of that, civilisation made her listen with a serene though + tortured countenance; but as soon as it was in her power, pleading a + headache to Lady Wallinger, she effected, or thought she had effected, her + escape from a scene which harrowed her heart. + </p> + <p> + As for Coningsby, he passed a sleepless night, agitated by the unexpected + presence of Edith and distracted by the manner in which she had received + him. To say that her appearance had revived all his passionate affection + for her would convey an unjust impression of the nature of his feelings. + His affection had never for a moment swerved; it was profound and firm. + But unquestionably this sudden vision had brought before him, in startling + and more vivid colours, the relations that subsisted between them. There + was the being whom he loved and who loved him; and whatever were the + barriers which the circumstances of life placed against their union, they + were partakers of the solemn sacrament of an unpolluted heart. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby, as we have mentioned, had signified to Oswald his return to + England: he had hitherto omitted to write again; not because his spirit + faltered, but he was wearied of whispering hope without foundation, and + mourning over his chagrined fortunes. Once more in England, once more + placed in communication with his grandfather, he felt with increased + conviction the difficulties which surrounded him. The society of Lady + Everingham and her sister, who had been at the same time her visitor, had + been a relaxation, and a beneficial one, to a mind suffering too much from + the tension of one idea. But Coningsby had treated the matrimonial project + of his gay-minded hostess with the courteous levity in which he believed + it had first half originated. He admired and liked Lady Theresa; but there + was a reason why he should not marry her, even had his own heart not been + absorbed by one of those passions from which men of deep and earnest + character never emancipate themselves. + </p> + <p> + After musing and meditating again and again over everything that had + occurred, Coningsby fell asleep when the morning had far advanced, + resolved to rise when a little refreshed and find out Lady Wallinger, who, + he felt sure, would receive him with kindness. + </p> + <p> + Yet it was fated that this step should not be taken, for while he was at + breakfast, his servant brought him a letter from Monmouth House, apprising + him that his grandfather wished to see him as soon as possible on urgent + business. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0066" id="link2HCH0066"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + Lord Monmouth was sitting in the same dressing-room in which he was first + introduced to the reader; on the table were several packets of papers that + were open and in course of reference; and he dictated his observations to + Monsieur Villebecque, who was writing at his left hand. + </p> + <p> + Thus were they occupied when Coningsby was ushered into the room. + </p> + <p> + ‘You see, Harry,’ said Lord Monmouth, ‘that I am much occupied to-day, yet + the business on which I wish to communicate with you is so pressing that + it could not be postponed.’ He made a sign to Villebecque, and his + secretary instantly retired. + </p> + <p> + ‘I was right in pressing your return to England,’ continued Lord Monmouth + to his grandson, who was a little anxious as to the impending + communication, which he could not in any way anticipate. ‘These are not + times when young men should be out of sight. Your public career will + commence immediately. The Government have resolved on a dissolution. My + information is from the highest quarter. You may be astonished, but it is + a fact. They are going to dissolve their own House of Commons. + Notwithstanding this and the Queen’s name, we can beat them; but the race + requires the finest jockeying. We can’t give a point. Tadpole has been + here to me about Darlford; he came specially with a message, I may say an + appeal, from one to whom I can refuse nothing; the Government count on the + seat, though with the new Registration ‘tis nearly a tie. If we had a good + candidate we could win. But Rigby won’t do. He is too much of the old + clique; used up; a hack; besides, a beaten horse. We are assured the name + of Coningsby would be a host; there is a considerable section who support + the present fellow who will not vote against a Coningsby. They have + thought of you as a fit person, and I have approved of the suggestion. You + will, therefore, be the candidate for Darlford with my entire sanction and + support, and I have no doubt you will be successful. You may be sure I + shall spare nothing: and it will be very gratifying to me, after being + robbed of all our boroughs, that the only Coningsby who cares to enter + Parliament, should nevertheless be able to do so as early as I could + fairly desire.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby the rival of Mr. Millbank on the hustings of Darlford! + Vanquished or victorious, equally a catastrophe! The fierce passions, the + gross insults, the hot blood and the cool lies, the ruffianism and the + ribaldry, perhaps the domestic discomfiture and mortification, which he + was about to be the means of bringing on the roof he loved best in the + world, occurred to him with anguish. The countenance of Edith, haughty and + mournful last night, rose to him again. He saw her canvassing for her + father, and against him. Madness! And for what was he to make this + terrible and costly sacrifice For his ambition? Not even for that Divinity + or Daemon for which we all immolate so much! Mighty ambition, forsooth, to + succeed to the Rigbys! To enter the House of Commons a slave and a tool; + to move according to instructions, and to labour for the low designs of + petty spirits, without even the consolation of being a dupe. What sympathy + could there exist between Coningsby and the ‘great Conservative party,’ + that for ten years in an age of revolution had never promulgated a + principle; whose only intelligible and consistent policy seemed to be an + attempt, very grateful of course to the feelings of an English Royalist, + to revive Irish Puritanism; who when in power in 1835 had used that power + only to evince their utter ignorance of Church principles; and who were at + this moment, when Coningsby was formally solicited to join their ranks, in + open insurrection against the prerogatives of the English Monarchy? + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you anticipate then an immediate dissolution, sir?’ inquired Coningsby + after a moment’s pause. + </p> + <p> + ‘We must anticipate it; though I think it doubtful. It may be next month; + it may be in the autumn; they may tide over another year, as Lord Eskdale + thinks, and his opinion always weighs with me. He is very safe. Tadpole + believes they will dissolve at once. But whether they dissolve now, or in + a month’s time, or in the autumn, or next year, our course is clear. We + must declare our intentions immediately. We must hoist our flag. Monday + next, there is a great Conservative dinner at Darlford. You must attend + it; that will be the finest opportunity in the world for you to announce + yourself.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Don’t you think, sir,’ said Coningsby, ‘that such an announcement would + be rather premature? It is, in fact, embarking in a contest which may last + a year; perhaps more.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What you say is very true,’ said Lord Monmouth; ‘no doubt it is very + troublesome; very disgusting; any canvassing is. But we must take things + as we find them. You cannot get into Parliament now in the good old + gentlemanlike way; and we ought to be thankful that this interest has been + fostered for our purpose.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby looked on the carpet, cleared his throat as if about to speak, + and then gave something like a sigh. + </p> + <p> + ‘I think you had better be off the day after to-morrow,’ said Lord + Monmouth. ‘I have sent instructions to the steward to do all he can in so + short a time, for I wish you to entertain the principal people.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are most kind, you are always most kind to me, dear sir,’ said + Coningsby, in a hesitating tone, and with an air of great embarrassment, + ‘but, in truth, I have no wish to enter Parliament.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What?’ said Lord Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + ‘I feel that I am not sufficiently prepared for so great a responsibility + as a seat in the House of Commons,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Responsibility!’ said Lord Monmouth, smiling. ‘What responsibility is + there? How can any one have a more agreeable seat? The only person to whom + you are responsible is your own relation, who brings you in. And I don’t + suppose there can be any difference on any point between us. You are + certainly still young; but I was younger by nearly two years when I first + went in; and I found no difficulty. There can be no difficulty. All you + have got to do is to vote with your party. As for speaking, if you have a + talent that way, take my advice; don’t be in a hurry. Learn to know the + House; learn the House to know you. If a man be discreet, he cannot enter + Parliament too soon.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is not exactly that, sir,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then what is it, my dear Harry? You see to-day I have much to do; yet as + your business is pressing, I would not postpone seeing you an hour. I + thought you would have been very much gratified.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You mentioned that I had nothing to do but to vote with my party, sir,’ + replied Coningsby. ‘You mean, of course, by that term what is understood + by the Conservative party.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Of course; our friends.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sorry,’ said Coningsby, rather pale, but speaking with firmness, ‘I + am sorry that I could not support the Conservative party.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘By ——!’ exclaimed Lord Monmouth, starting in his seat, ‘some + woman has got hold of him, and made him a Whig!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No, my dear grandfather,’ said Coningsby, scarcely able to repress a + smile, serious as the interview was becoming, ‘nothing of the kind, I + assure you. No person can be more anti-Whig.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know what you are driving at, sir,’ said Lord Monmouth, in a + hard, dry tone. + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish to be frank, sir,’ said Coningsby, ‘and am very sensible of your + goodness in permitting me to speak to you on the subject. What I mean to + say is, that I have for a long time looked upon the Conservative party as + a body who have betrayed their trust; more from ignorance, I admit, than + from design; yet clearly a body of individuals totally unequal to the + exigencies of the epoch, and indeed unconscious of its real character.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You mean giving up those Irish corporations?’ said Lord Monmouth. ‘Well, + between ourselves, I am quite of the same opinion. But we must mount + higher; we must go to ‘28 for the real mischief. But what is the use of + lamenting the past? Peel is the only man; suited to the times and all + that; at least we must say so, and try to believe so; we can’t go back. + And it is our own fault that we have let the chief power out of the hands + of our own order. It was never thought of in the time of your + great-grandfather, sir. And if a commoner were for a season permitted to + be the nominal Premier to do the detail, there was always a secret + committee of great 1688 nobles to give him his instructions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should be very sorry to see secret committees of great 1688 nobles + again,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then what the devil do you want to see?’ said Lord Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + ‘Political faith,’ said Coningsby, ‘instead of political infidelity.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hem!’ said Lord Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + ‘Before I support Conservative principles,’ continued Coningsby, ‘I merely + wish to be informed what those principles aim to conserve. It would not + appear to be the prerogative of the Crown, since the principal portion of + a Conservative oration now is an invective against a late royal act which + they describe as a Bed-chamber plot. Is it the Church which they wish to + conserve? What is a threatened Appropriation Clause against an actual + Church Commission in the hands of Parliamentary Laymen? Could the Long + Parliament have done worse? Well, then, if it is neither the Crown nor the + Church, whose rights and privileges this Conservative party propose to + vindicate, is it your House, the House of Lords, whose powers they are + prepared to uphold? Is it not notorious that the very man whom you have + elected as your leader in that House, declares among his Conservative + adherents, that henceforth the assembly that used to furnish those very + Committees of great revolution nobles that you mention, is to initiate + nothing; and, without a struggle, is to subside into that undisturbed + repose which resembles the Imperial tranquillity that secured the + frontiers by paying tribute?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘All this is vastly fine,’ said Lord Monmouth; ‘but I see no means by + which I can attain my object but by supporting Peel. After all, what is + the end of all parties and all politics? To gain your object. I want to + turn our coronet into a ducal one, and to get your grandmother’s barony + called out of abeyance in your favour. It is impossible that Peel can + refuse me. I have already purchased an ample estate with the view of + entailing it on you and your issue. You will make a considerable alliance; + you may marry, if you please, Lady Theresa Sydney. I hear the report with + pleasure. Count on my at once entering into any arrangement conducive to + your happiness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear grandfather, you have ever been to me only too kind and + generous.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To whom should I be kind but to you, my own blood, that has never crossed + me, and of whom I have reason to be proud? Yes, Harry, it gratifies me to + hear you admired and to learn your success. All I want now is to see you + in Parliament. A man should be in Parliament early. There is a sort of + stiffness about every man, no matter what may be his talents, who enters + Parliament late in life; and now, fortunately, the occasion offers. You + will go down on Friday; feed the notabilities well; speak out; praise + Peel; abuse O’Connell and the ladies of the Bed-chamber; anathematise all + waverers; say a good deal about Ireland; stick to the Irish Registration + Bill, that’s a good card; and, above all, my dear Harry, don’t spare that + fellow Millbank. Remember, in turning him out you not only gain a vote for + the Conservative cause and our coronet, but you crush my foe. Spare + nothing for that object; I count on you, boy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should grieve to be backward in anything that concerned your interest + or your honour, sir,’ said Coningsby, with an air of great embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure you would, I am sure you would,’ said Lord Monmouth, in a tone + of some kindness. + </p> + <p> + ‘And I feel at this moment,’ continued Coningsby, ‘that there is no + personal sacrifice which I am not prepared to make for them, except one. + My interests, my affections, they should not be placed in the balance, if + yours, sir, were at stake, though there are circumstances which might + involve me in a position of as much mental distress as a man could well + endure; but I claim for my convictions, my dear grandfather, a generous + tolerance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I can’t follow you, sir,’ said Lord Monmouth, again in his hard tone. + ‘Our interests are inseparable, and therefore there can never be any + sacrifice of conduct on your part. What you mean by sacrifice of + affections, I don’t comprehend; but as for your opinions, you have no + business to have any other than those I uphold. You are too young to form + opinions.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure I wish to express them with no unbecoming confidence,’ replied + Coningsby; ‘I have never intruded them on your ear before; but this being + an occasion when you yourself said, sir, I was about to commence my public + career, I confess I thought it was my duty to be frank; I would not entail + on myself long years of mortification by one of those ill-considered + entrances into political life which so many public men have cause to + deplore.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You go with your family, sir, like a gentleman; you are not to consider + your opinions, like a philosopher or a political adventurer.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes, sir,’ said Coningsby, with animation, ‘but men going with their + families like gentlemen, and losing sight of every principle on which the + society of this country ought to be established, produced the Reform + Bill.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘D—— the Reform Bill!’ said Lord Monmouth; ‘if the Duke had + not quarrelled with Lord Grey on a Coal Committee, we should never have + had the Reform Bill. And Grey would have gone to Ireland.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are in as great peril now as you were in 1830,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no, no,’ said Lord Monmouth; ‘the Tory party is organised now; they + will not catch us napping again: these Conservative Associations have done + the business.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But what are they organised for?’ said Coningsby. ‘At the best to turn + out the Whigs. And when you have turned out the Whigs, what then? You may + get your ducal coronet, sir. But a duke now is not so great a man as a + baron was but a century back. We cannot struggle against the irresistible + stream of circumstances. Power has left our order; this is not an age for + factitious aristocracy. As for my grandmother’s barony, I should look upon + the termination of its abeyance in my favour as the act of my political + extinction. What we want, sir, is not to fashion new dukes and furbish up + old baronies, but to establish great principles which may maintain the + realm and secure the happiness of the people. Let me see authority once + more honoured; a solemn reverence again the habit of our lives; let me see + property acknowledging, as in the old days of faith, that labour is his + twin brother, and that the essence of all tenure is the performance of + duty; let results such as these be brought about, and let me participate, + however feebly, in the great fulfilment, and public life then indeed + becomes a noble career, and a seat in Parliament an enviable distinction.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I tell you what it is, Harry,’ said Lord Monmouth, very drily, ‘members + of this family may think as they like, but they must act as I please. You + must go down on Friday to Darlford and declare yourself a candidate for + the town, or I shall reconsider our mutual positions. I would say, you + must go to-morrow; but it is only courteous to Rigby to give him a + previous intimation of your movement. And that cannot be done to-day. I + sent for Rigby this morning on other business which now occupies me, and + find he is out of town. He will return to-morrow; and will be here at + three o’clock, when you can meet him. You will meet him, I doubt not, like + a man of sense,’ added Lord Monmouth, looking at Coningsby with a glance + such as he had never before encountered, ‘who is not prepared to sacrifice + all the objects of life for the pursuit of some fantastical puerilities.’ + </p> + <p> + His Lordship rang a bell on his table for Villebecque; and to prevent any + further conversation, resumed his papers. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0067" id="link2HCH0067"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + It would have been difficult for any person, unconscious of crime, to have + felt more dejected than Coningsby when he rode out of the court-yard of + Monmouth House. The love of Edith would have consoled him for the + destruction of his prosperity; the proud fulfilment of his ambition might + in time have proved some compensation for his crushed affections; but his + present position seemed to offer no single source of solace. There came + over him that irresistible conviction that is at times the dark doom of + all of us, that the bright period of our life is past; that a future + awaits us only of anxiety, failure, mortification, despair; that none of + our resplendent visions can ever be realised: and that we add but one more + victim to the long and dreary catalogue of baffled aspirations. + </p> + <p> + Nor could he indeed by any combination see the means to extricate himself + from the perils that were encompassing him. There was something about his + grandfather that defied persuasion. Prone as eloquent youth generally is + to believe in the resistless power of its appeals, Coningsby despaired at + once of ever moving Lord Monmouth. There had been a callous dryness in his + manner, an unswerving purpose in his spirit, that at once baffled all + attempts at influence. Nor could Coningsby forget the look he received + when he quitted the room. There was no possibility of mistaking it; it + said at once, without periphrasis, ‘Cross my purpose, and I will crush + you!’ + </p> + <p> + This was the moment when the sympathy, if not the counsels, of friendship + might have been grateful. A clever woman might have afforded even more + than sympathy; some happy device that might have even released him from + the mesh in which he was involved. And once Coningsby had turned his + horse’s head to Park Lane to call on Lady Everingham. But surely if there + were a sacred secret in the world, it was the one which subsisted between + himself and Edith. No, that must never be violated. Then there was Lady + Wallinger; he could at least speak with freedom to her. He resolved to + tell her all. He looked in for a moment at a club to take up the ‘Court + Guide’ and find her direction. A few men were standing in a bow window. He + heard Mr. Cassilis say, + </p> + <p> + ‘So Beau, they say, is booked at last; the new beauty, have you heard?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I saw him very sweet on her last night,’ rejoined his companion. ‘Has she + any tin?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Deuced deal, they say,’ replied Mr. Cassilis.’ The father is a cotton + lord, and they all have loads of tin, you know. Nothing like them now.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is in Parliament, is not he?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘’Gad, I believe he is,’ said Mr. Cassilis; ‘I never know who is in + Parliament in these days. I remember when there were only ten men in the + House of Commons who were not either members of Brookes’ or this place. + Everything is so deuced changed.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hear ‘tis an old affair of Beau,’ said another gentleman. ‘It was all + done a year ago at Rome or Paris.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘They say she refused him then,’ said Mr. Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, that is tolerably cool for a manufacturer’s daughter,’ said his + friend. ‘What next?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I wonder how the Duke likes it?’ said Mr. Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + ‘Or the Duchess?’ added one of his friends. + </p> + <p> + ‘Or the Everinghams?’ added the other. + </p> + <p> + ‘The Duke will be deuced glad to see Beau settled, I take it,’ said Mr. + Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + ‘A good deal depends on the tin,’ said his friend. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby threw down the ‘Court Guide’ with a sinking heart. In spite of + every insuperable difficulty, hitherto the end and object of all his + aspirations and all his exploits, sometimes even almost unconsciously to + himself, was Edith. It was over. The strange manner of last night was + fatally explained. The heart that once had been his was now another’s. To + the man who still loves there is in that conviction the most profound and + desolate sorrow of which our nature is capable. All the recollection of + the past, all the once-cherished prospects of the future, blend into one + bewildering anguish. Coningsby quitted the club, and mounting his horse, + rode rapidly out of town, almost unconscious of his direction. He found + himself at length in a green lane near Willesden, silent and undisturbed; + he pulled up his horse, and summoned all his mind to the contemplation of + his prospects. + </p> + <p> + Edith was lost. Now, should he return to his grandfather, accept his + mission, and go down to Darlford on Friday? Favour and fortune, power, + prosperity, rank, distinction would be the consequence of this step; might + not he add even vengeance? Was there to be no term to his endurance? Might + not he teach this proud, prejudiced manufacturer, with all his virulence + and despotic caprices, a memorable lesson? And his daughter, too, this + betrothed, after all, of a young noble, with her flush futurity of + splendour and enjoyment, was she to hear of him only, if indeed she heard + of him at all, as of one toiling or trifling in the humbler positions of + existence; and wonder, with a blush, that he ever could have been the hero + of her romantic girlhood? What degradation in the idea? His cheek burnt at + the possibility of such ignominy! + </p> + <p> + It was a conjuncture in his life that required decision. He thought of his + companions who looked up to him with such ardent anticipations of his + fame, of delight in his career, and confidence in his leading; were all + these high and fond fancies to be balked? On the very threshold of life + was he to blunder? ‘Tis the first step that leads to all, and his was to + be a wilful error. He remembered his first visit to his grandfather, and + the delight of his friends at Eton at his report on his return. After + eight years of initiation was he to lose that favour then so highly + prized, when the results which they had so long counted on were on the + very eve of accomplishment? Parliament and riches, and rank and power; + these were facts, realities, substances, that none could mistake. Was he + to sacrifice them for speculations, theories, shadows, perhaps the vapours + of a green and conceited brain? No, by heaven, no! He was like Caesar by + the starry river’s side, watching the image of the planets on its fatal + waters. The die was cast. + </p> + <p> + The sun set; the twilight spell fell upon his soul; the exaltation of his + spirit died away. Beautiful thoughts, full of sweetness and tranquillity + and consolation, came clustering round his heart like seraphs. He thought + of Edith in her hours of fondness; he thought of the pure and solemn + moments when to mingle his name with the heroes of humanity was his + aspiration, and to achieve immortal fame the inspiring purpose of his + life. What were the tawdry accidents of vulgar ambition to him? No + domestic despot could deprive him of his intellect, his knowledge, the + sustaining power of an unpolluted conscience. If he possessed the + intelligence in which he had confidence, the world would recognise his + voice even if not placed upon a pedestal. If the principles of his + philosophy were true, the great heart of the nation would respond to their + expression. Coningsby felt at this moment a profound conviction which + never again deserted him, that the conduct which would violate the + affections of the heart, or the dictates of the conscience, however it may + lead to immediate success, is a fatal error. Conscious that he was perhaps + verging on some painful vicissitude of his life, he devoted himself to a + love that seemed hopeless, and to a fame that was perhaps a dream. + </p> + <p> + It was under the influence of these solemn resolutions that he wrote, on + his return home, a letter to Lord Monmouth, in which he expressed all that + affection which he really felt for his grandfather, and all the pangs + which it cost him to adhere to the conclusions he had already announced. + In terms of tenderness, and even humility, he declined to become a + candidate for Darlford, or even to enter Parliament, except as the master + of his own conduct. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0068" id="link2HCH0068"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + Lady Monmouth was reclining on a sofa in that beautiful boudoir which had + been fitted up under the superintendence of Mr. Rigby, but as he then + believed for the Princess Colonna. The walls were hung with amber satin, + painted by Delaroche with such subjects as might be expected from his + brilliant and picturesque pencil. Fair forms, heroes and heroines in + dazzling costume, the offspring of chivalry merging into what is commonly + styled civilisation, moved in graceful or fantastic groups amid palaces + and gardens. The ceiling, carved in the deep honeycomb fashion of the + Saracens, was richly gilt and picked out in violet. Upon a violet carpet + of velvet was represented the marriage of Cupid and Psyche. + </p> + <p> + It was about two hours after Coningsby had quitted Monmouth House, and + Flora came in, sent for by Lady Monmouth as was her custom, to read to her + as she was employed with some light work. + </p> + <p> + ‘’Tis a new book of Sue,’ said Lucretia. ‘They say it is good.’ + </p> + <p> + Flora, seated by her side, began to read. Reading was an accomplishment + which distinguished Flora; but to-day her voice faltered, her expression + was uncertain; she seemed but imperfectly to comprehend her page. More + than once Lady Monmouth looked round at her with an inquisitive glance. + Suddenly Flora stopped and burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + ‘O! madam,’ she at last exclaimed, ‘if you would but speak to Mr. + Coningsby, all might be right!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What is this?’ said Lady Monmouth, turning quickly on the sofa; then, + collecting herself in an instant, she continued with less abruptness, and + more suavity than usual, ‘Tell me, Flora, what is it; what is the matter?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My Lord,’ sobbed Flora, ‘has quarrelled with Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + An expression of eager interest came over the countenance of Lucretia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why have they quarrelled?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I do not know they have quarrelled; it is not, perhaps, a right term; but + my Lord is very angry with Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not very angry, I should think, Flora; and about what?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! very angry, madam,’ said Flora, shaking her head mournfully. ‘My Lord + told M. Villebecque that perhaps Mr. Coningsby would never enter the house + again.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Was it to-day?’ asked Lucretia. + </p> + <p> + ‘This morning. Mr. Coningsby has only left this hour or two. He will not + do what my Lord wishes, about some seat in the Chamber. I do not know + exactly what it is; but my Lord is in one of his moods of terror: my + father is frightened even to go into his room when he is so.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Has Mr. Rigby been here to-day?’ asked Lucretia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Mr. Rigby is not in town. My father went for Mr. Rigby this morning + before Mr. Coningsby came, and he found that Mr. Rigby was not in town. + That is why I know it.’ + </p> + <p> + Lady Monmouth rose from her sofa, and walked once or twice up and down the + room. Then turning to Flora, she said, ‘Go away now: the book is stupid; + it does not amuse me. Stop: find out all you can for me about the quarrel + before I speak to Mr. Coningsby.’ + </p> + <p> + Flora quitted the room. Lucretia remained for some time in meditation; + then she wrote a few lines, which she despatched at once to Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0069" id="link2HCH0069"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + What a great man was the Right Honourable Nicholas Rigby! Here was one of + the first peers of England, and one of the finest ladies in London, both + waiting with equal anxiety his return to town; and unable to transact two + affairs of vast importance, yet wholly unconnected, without his + interposition! What was the secret of the influence of this man, confided + in by everybody, trusted by none? His counsels were not deep, his + expedients were not felicitous; he had no feeling, and he could create no + sympathy. It is that, in most of the transactions of life, there is some + portion which no one cares to accomplish, and which everybody wishes to be + achieved. This was always the portion of Mr. Rigby. In the eye of the + world he had constantly the appearance of being mixed up with high + dealings, and negotiations and arrangements of fine management, whereas in + truth, notwithstanding his splendid livery and the airs he gave himself in + the servants’ hall, his real business in life had ever been, to do the + dirty work. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby had been shut up much at his villa of late. He was concocting, + you could not term it composing, an article, a ‘very slashing article,’ + which was to prove that the penny postage must be the destruction of the + aristocracy. It was a grand subject, treated in his highest style. His + parallel portraits of Rowland Hill the conqueror of Almarez and Rowland + Hill the deviser of the cheap postage were enormously fine. It was full of + passages in italics, little words in great capitals, and almost drew + tears. The statistical details also were highly interesting and novel. + Several of the old postmen, both twopenny and general, who had been in + office with himself, and who were inspired with an equal zeal against that + spirit of reform of which they had alike been victims, supplied him with + information which nothing but a breach of ministerial duty could have + furnished. The prophetic peroration as to the irresistible progress of + democracy was almost as powerful as one of Rigby’s speeches on Aldborough + or Amersham. There never was a fellow for giving a good hearty kick to the + people like Rigby. Himself sprung from the dregs of the populace, this was + disinterested. What could be more patriotic and magnanimous than his + Jeremiads over the fall of the Montmorencis and the Crillons, or the + possible catastrophe of the Percys and the Manners! The truth of all this + hullabaloo was that Rigby had a sly pension which, by an inevitable + association of ideas, he always connected with the maintenance of an + aristocracy. All his rigmarole dissertations on the French revolution were + impelled by this secret influence; and when he wailed over ‘la guerre aux + châteaux,’ and moaned like a mandrake over Nottingham Castle in flames, + the rogue had an eye all the while to quarter-day! + </p> + <p> + Arriving in town the day after Coningsby’s interview with his grandfather, + Mr. Rigby found a summons to Monmouth House waiting him, and an urgent + note from Lucretia begging that he would permit nothing to prevent him + seeing her for a few minutes before he called on the Marquess. + </p> + <p> + Lucretia, acting on the unconscious intimation of Flora, had in the course + of four-and-twenty hours obtained pretty ample and accurate details of the + cause of contention between Coningsby and her husband. She could inform + Mr. Rigby not only that Lord Monmouth was highly incensed against his + grandson, but that the cause of their misunderstanding arose about a seat + in the House of Commons, and that seat too the one which Mr. Rigby had + long appropriated to himself, and over whose registration he had watched + with such affectionate solicitude. + </p> + <p> + Lady Monmouth arranged this information like a firstrate artist, and gave + it a grouping and a colour which produced the liveliest effect upon her + confederate. The countenance of Rigby was almost ghastly as he received + the intelligence; a grin, half of malice, half of terror, played over his + features. + </p> + <p> + ‘I told you to beware of him long ago,’ said Lady Monmouth. ‘He is, he has + ever been, in the way of both of us.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is in my power,’ said Rigby. ‘We can crush him!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘How?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He is in love with the daughter of Millbank, the man who bought + Hellingsley.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hah!’ exclaimed Lady Monmouth, in a prolonged tone. + </p> + <p> + ‘He was at Coningsby all last summer, hanging about her. I found the + younger Millbank quite domiciliated at the Castle; a fact which, of + itself, if known to Lord Monmouth, would ensure the lad’s annihilation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you kept this fine news for a winter campaign, my good Mr. Rigby,’ + said Lady Monmouth, with a subtle smile. ‘It was a weapon of service. I + give you my compliments.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The time is not always ripe,’ said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘But it is now most mature. Let us not conceal it from ourselves that, + since his first visit to Coningsby, we have neither of us really been in + the same position which we then occupied, or believed we should occupy. My + Lord, though you would scarcely believe it, has a weakness for this boy; + and though I by my marriage, and you by your zealous ability, have + apparently secured a permanent hold upon his habits, I have never doubted + that when the crisis comes we shall find that the golden fruit is plucked + by one who has not watched the garden. You take me? There is no reason why + we two should clash together: we can both of us find what we want, and + more securely if we work in company.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I trust my devotion to you has never been doubted, dear madam.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Nor to yourself, dear Mr. Rigby. Go now: the game is before you. Rid me + of this Coningsby, and I will secure you all that you want. Doubt not me. + There is no reason. I want a firm ally. There must be two.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It shall be done,’ said Rigby; ‘it must be done. If once the notion gets + wind that one of the Castle family may perchance stand for Darlford, all + the present combinations will be disorganised. It must be done at once. I + know that the Government will dissolve.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘So I hear for certain,’ said Lucretia. ‘Be sure there is no time to lose. + What does he want with you to-day?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I know not: there are so many things.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘To be sure; and yet I cannot doubt he will speak of this quarrel. Let not + the occasion be lost. Whatever his mood, the subject may be introduced. If + good, you will guide him more easily; if dark, the love for the + Hellingsley girl, the fact of the brother being in his castle, drinking + his wine, riding his horses, ordering about his servants; you will omit no + details: a Millbank quite at home at Coningsby will lash him to madness! + ‘Tis quite ripe. Not a word that you have seen me. Go, go, or he may hear + that you have arrived. I shall be at home all the morning. It will be but + gallant that you should pay me a little visit when you have transacted + your business. You understand. <i>Au revoir!</i>’ + </p> + <p> + Lady Monmouth took up again her French novel; but her eyes soon glanced + over the page, unattached by its contents. Her own existence was too + interesting to find any excitement in fiction. It was nearly three years + since her marriage; that great step which she ever had a conviction was to + lead to results still greater. Of late she had often been filled with a + presentiment that they were near at hand; never more so than on this day. + Irresistible was the current of associations that led her to meditate on + freedom, wealth, power; on a career which should at the same time dazzle + the imagination and gratify her heart. Notwithstanding the gossip of + Paris, founded on no authentic knowledge of her husband’s character or + information, based on the haphazard observations of the floating + multitude, Lucretia herself had no reason to fear that her influence over + Lord Monmouth, if exerted, was materially diminished. But satisfied that + he had formed no other tie, with her ever the test of her position, she + had not thought it expedient, and certainly would have found it irksome, + to maintain that influence by any ostentatious means. She knew that Lord + Monmouth was capricious, easily wearied, soon palled; and that on men who + have no affections, affection has no hold. Their passions or their + fancies, on the contrary, as it seemed to her, are rather stimulated by + neglect or indifference, provided that they are not systematic; and the + circumstance of a wife being admired by one who is not her husband + sometimes wonderfully revives the passion or renovates the respect of him + who should be devoted to her. + </p> + <p> + The health of Lord Monmouth was the subject which never was long absent + from the vigilance or meditation of Lucretia. She was well assured that + his life was no longer secure. She knew that after their marriage he had + made a will, which secured to her a large portion of his great wealth in + case of their having no issue, and after the accident at Paris all hope in + that respect was over. Recently the extreme anxiety which Lord Monmouth + had evinced about terminating the abeyance of the barony to which his + first wife was a co-heiress in favour of his grandson, had alarmed + Lucretia. To establish in the land another branch of the house of + Coningsby was evidently the last excitement of Lord Monmouth, and perhaps + a permanent one. If the idea were once accepted, notwithstanding the limit + to its endowment which Lord Monmouth might at the first start contemplate, + Lucretia had sufficiently studied his temperament to be convinced that all + his energies and all his resources would ultimately be devoted to its + practical fulfilment. Her original prejudice against Coningsby and + jealousy of his influence had therefore of late been considerably + aggravated; and the intelligence that for the first time there was a + misunderstanding between Coningsby and her husband filled her with + excitement and hope. She knew her Lord well enough to feel assured that + the cause for displeasure in the present instance could not be a light + one; she resolved instantly to labour that it should not be transient; and + it so happened that she had applied for aid in this endeavour to the very + individual in whose power it rested to accomplish all her desire, while in + doing so he felt at the same time he was defending his own position and + advancing his own interests. + </p> + <p> + Lady Monmouth was now waiting with some excitement the return of Mr. + Rigby. His interview with his patron was of unusual length. An hour, and + more than an hour, had elapsed. Lady Monmouth again threw aside the book + which more than once she had discarded. She paced the room, restless + rather than disquieted. She had complete confidence in Rigby’s ability for + the occasion; and with her knowledge of Lord Monmouth’s character, she + could not contemplate the possibility of failure, if the circumstances + were adroitly introduced to his consideration. Still time stole on: the + harassing and exhausting process of suspense was acting on her nervous + system. She began to think that Rigby had not found the occasion + favourable for the catastrophe; that Lord Monmouth, from apprehension of + disturbing Rigby and entailing explanations on himself, had avoided the + necessary communication; that her skilful combination for the moment had + missed. Two hours had now elapsed, and Lucretia, in a state of + considerable irritation, was about to inquire whether Mr. Rigby were with + his Lordship when the door of her boudoir opened, and that gentleman + appeared. + </p> + <p> + ‘How long you have been!’ exclaimed Lady Monmouth. ‘Now sit down and tell + me what has passed.’ + </p> + <p> + Lady Monmouth pointed to the seat which Flora had occupied. + </p> + <p> + ‘I thank your Ladyship,’ said Mr. Rigby, with a somewhat grave and yet + perplexed expression of countenance, and seating himself at some little + distance from his companion, ‘but I am very well here.’ + </p> + <p> + There was a pause. Instead of responding to the invitation of Lady + Monmouth to communicate with his usual readiness and volubility, Mr. Rigby + was silent, and, if it were possible to use such an expression with regard + to such a gentleman, apparently embarrassed. + </p> + <p> + ‘Well,’ said Lady Monmouth, ‘does he know about the Millbanks?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Everything,’ said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘And what did he say?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘His Lordship was greatly shocked,’ replied Mr. Rigby, with a pious + expression of features. ‘Such monstrous ingratitude! As his Lordship very + justly observed, “It is impossible to say what is going on under my own + roof, or to what I can trust.”’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But he made an exception in your favour, I dare say, my dear Mr. Rigby,’ + said Lady Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + ‘Lord Monmouth was pleased to say that I possessed his entire confidence,’ + said Mr. Rigby, ‘and that he looked to me in his difficulties.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Very sensible of him. And what is to become of Mr. Coningsby?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The steps which his Lordship is about to take with reference to the + establishment generally,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘will allow the connection that + at present subsists between that gentleman and his noble relative, now + that Lord Monmouth’s eyes are open to his real character, to terminate + naturally, without the necessity of any formal explanation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But what do you mean by the steps he is going to take in his + establishment generally?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lord Monmouth thinks he requires change of scene.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Oh! is he going to drag me abroad again?’ exclaimed Lady Monmouth, with + great impatience. + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, not exactly,’ said Mr. Rigby, rather demurely. + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope he is not going again to that dreadful castle in Lancashire.’ + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +‘Lord Monmouth was thinking that, as you were tired of Paris, you might +find some of the German Baths agreeable.’ + + ‘Why, there is nothing that Lord Monmouth dislikes so much as a German +bathing-place!’ +</pre> + <p> + ‘Exactly,’ said Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Then how capricious in him wanting to go to them?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘He does not want to go to them!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What do you mean, Mr. Rigby?’ said Lady Monmouth, in a lower voice, and + looking him full in the face with a glance seldom bestowed. + </p> + <p> + There was a churlish and unusual look about Rigby. It was as if malignant, + and yet at the same time a little frightened, he had screwed himself into + doggedness. + </p> + <p> + ‘I mean what Lord Monmouth means. He suggests that if your Ladyship were + to pass the summer at Kissengen, for example, and a paragraph in the <i>Morning + Post</i> were to announce that his Lordship was about to join you there, + all awkwardness would be removed; and no one could for a moment take the + liberty of supposing, even if his Lordship did not ultimately reach you, + that anything like a separation had occurred.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘A separation!’ said Lady Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + ‘Quite amicable,’ said Mr. Rigby. ‘I would never have consented to + interfere in the affair, but to secure that most desirable point.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I will see Lord Monmouth at once,’ said Lucretia, rising, her natural + pallor aggravated into a ghoul-like tint. + </p> + <p> + ‘His Lordship has gone out,’ said Mr. Rigby, rather stubbornly. + </p> + <p> + ‘Our conversation, sir, then finishes; I wait his return.’ She bowed + haughtily. + </p> + <p> + ‘His Lordship will never return to Monmouth House again.’ + </p> + <p> + Lucretia sprang from the sofa. + </p> + <p> + ‘Miserable craven!’ she exclaimed. ‘Has the cowardly tyrant fled? And he + really thinks that I am to be crushed by such an instrument as this! Pah! + He may leave Monmouth House, but I shall not. Begone, sir!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Still anxious to secure an amicable separation,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘your + Ladyship must allow me to place the circumstances of the case fairly + before your excellent judgment. Lord Monmouth has decided upon a course: + you know as well as I that he never swerves from his resolutions. He has + left peremptory instructions, and he will listen to no appeal. He has + empowered me to represent to your Ladyship that he wishes in every way to + consider your convenience. He suggests that everything, in short, should + be arranged as if his Lordship were himself unhappily no more; that your + Ladyship should at once enter into your jointure, which shall be made + payable quarterly to your order, provided you can find it convenient to + live upon the Continent,’ added Mr. Rigby, with some hesitation. + </p> + <p> + ‘And suppose I cannot?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, then, we will leave your Ladyship to the assertion of your rights.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg your Ladyship’s pardon. I speak as the friend of the family, the + trustee of your marriage settlement, well known also as Lord Monmouth’s + executor,’ said Mr. Rigby, his countenance gradually regaining its usual + callous confidence, and some degree of self-complacency, as he remembered + the good things which he enumerated. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have decided,’ said Lady Monmouth. ‘I will assert my rights. Your + master has mistaken my character and his own position. He shall rue the + day that he assailed me.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I should be sorry if there were any violence,’ said Mr. Rigby, + ‘especially as everything is left to my management and control. An office, + indeed, which I only accepted for your mutual advantage. I think, upon + reflection, I might put before your Ladyship some considerations which + might induce you, on the whole, to be of opinion that it will be better + for us to draw together in this business, as we have hitherto, indeed, + throughout an acquaintance now of some years.’ Rigby was assuming all his + usual tone of brazen familiarity. + </p> + <p> + ‘Your self-confidence exceeds even Lord Monmouth’s estimate of it,’ said + Lucretia. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, now, you are unkind. Your Ladyship mistakes my position. I am + interfering in this business for your sake. I might have refused the + office. It would have fallen to another, who would have fulfilled it + without any delicacy and consideration for your feelings. View my + interposition in that light, my dear Lady Monmouth, and circumstances will + assume altogether a new colour.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I beg that you will quit the house, sir.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby shook his head. ‘I would with pleasure, to oblige you, were it + in my power; but Lord Monmouth has particularly desired that I should take + up my residence here permanently. The servants are now my servants. It is + useless to ring the bell. For your Ladyship’s sake, I wish everything to + be accomplished with tranquillity, and, if possible, friendliness and good + feeling. You can have even a week for the preparations for your departure, + if necessary. I will take that upon myself. Any carriages, too, that you + desire; your jewels, at least all those that are not at the bankers’. The + arrangement about your jointure, your letters of credit, even your + passport, I will attend to myself; only too happy if, by this painful + interference, I have in any way contributed to soften the annoyance which, + at the first blush, you may naturally experience, but which, like + everything else, take my word, will wear off.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall send for Lord Eskdale,’ said Lady Monmouth. ‘He is a gentleman.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am quite sure,’ said Mr. Rigby, ‘that Lord Eskdale will give you the + same advice as myself, if he only reads your Ladyship’s letters,’ he added + slowly, ‘to Prince Trautsmansdorff.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘My letters?’ said Lady Monmouth. + </p> + <p> + ‘Pardon me,’ said Rigby, putting his hand in his pocket, as if to guard + some treasure, ‘I have no wish to revive painful associations; but I have + them, and I must act upon them, if you persist in treating me as a foe, + who am in reality your best friend; which indeed I ought to be, having the + honour of acting as trustee under your marriage settlement, and having + known you so many years.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Leave me for the present alone,’ said Lady Monmouth. ‘Send me my servant, + if I have one. I shall not remain here the week which you mention, but + quit at once this house, which I wish I had never entered. Adieu! Mr. + Rigby, you are now lord of Monmouth House, and yet I cannot help feeling + you too will be discharged before he dies.’ + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rigby made Lady Monmouth a bow such as became the master of the house, + and then withdrew. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0070" id="link2HCH0070"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + A paragraph in the <i>Morning Post</i>, a few days after his interview + with his grandfather, announcing that Lord and Lady Monmouth had quitted + town for the baths of Kissengen, startled Coningsby, who called the same + day at Monmouth House in consequence. There he learnt more authentic + details of their unexpected movements. It appeared that Lady Monmouth had + certainly departed; and the porter, with a rather sceptical visage, + informed Coningsby that Lord Monmouth was to follow; but when, he could + not tell. At present his Lordship was at Brighton, and in a few days was + about to take possession of a villa at Richmond, which had for some time + been fitting up for him under the superintendence of Mr. Rigby, who, as + Coningsby also learnt, now permanently resided at Monmouth House. All this + intelligence made Coningsby ponder. He was sufficiently acquainted with + the parties concerned to feel assured that he had not learnt the whole + truth. What had really taken place, and what was the real cause of the + occurrences, were equally mystical to him: all he was convinced of was, + that some great domestic revolution had been suddenly effected. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby entertained for his grandfather a sincere affection. With the + exception of their last unfortunate interview, he had experienced from + Lord Monmouth nothing but kindness both in phrase and deed. There was also + something in Lord Monmouth, when he pleased it, rather fascinating to + young men; and as Coningsby had never occasioned him any feelings but + pleasurable ones, he was always disposed to make himself delightful to his + grandson. The experience of a consummate man of the world, advanced in + life, detailed without rigidity to youth, with frankness and facility, is + bewitching. Lord Monmouth was never garrulous: he was always pithy, and + could be picturesque. He revealed a character in a sentence, and detected + the ruling passion with the hand of a master. Besides, he had seen + everybody and had done everything; and though, on the whole, too indolent + for conversation, and loving to be talked to, these were circumstances + which made his too rare communications the more precious. + </p> + <p> + With these feelings, Coningsby resolved, the moment that he learned that + his grandfather was established at Richmond, to pay him a visit. He was + informed that Lord Monmouth was at home, and he was shown into a + drawing-room, where he found two French ladies in their bonnets, whom he + soon discovered to be actresses. They also had come down to pay a visit to + his grandfather, and were by no means displeased to pass the interval that + must elapse before they had that pleasure in chatting with his grandson. + Coningsby found them extremely amusing; with the finest spirits in the + world, imperturbable good temper, and an unconscious practical philosophy + that defied the devil Care and all his works. And well it was that he + found such agreeable companions, for time flowed on, and no summons + arrived to call him to his grandfather’s presence, and no herald to + announce his grandfather’s advent. The ladies and Coningsby had exhausted + badinage; they had examined and criticised all the furniture, had rifled + the vases of their prettiest flowers; and Clotilde, who had already sung + several times, was proposing a duet to Ermengarde, when a servant entered, + and told the ladies that a carriage was in attendance to give them an + airing, and after that Lord Monmouth hoped they would return and dine with + him; then turning to Coningsby, he informed him, with his lord’s + compliments, that Lord Monmouth was sorry he was too much engaged to see + him. + </p> + <p> + Nothing was to be done but to put a tolerably good face upon it. ‘Embrace + Lord Monmouth for me,’ said Coningsby to his fair friends, ‘and tell him I + think it very unkind that he did not ask me to dinner with you.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby said this with a gay air, but really with a depressed spirit. He + felt convinced that his grandfather was deeply displeased with him; and as + he rode away from the villa, he could not resist the strong impression + that he was destined never to re-enter it. Yet it was decreed otherwise. + It so happened that the idle message which Coningsby had left for his + grandfather, and which he never seriously supposed for a moment that his + late companions would have given their host, operated entirely in his + favour. Whatever were the feelings with respect to Coningsby at the bottom + of Lord Monmouth’s heart, he was actuated in his refusal to see him not + more from displeasure than from an anticipatory horror of something like a + scene. Even a surrender from Coningsby without terms, and an offer to + declare himself a candidate for Darlford, or to do anything else that his + grandfather wished, would have been disagreeable to Lord Monmouth in his + present mood. As in politics a revolution is often followed by a season of + torpor, so in the case of Lord Monmouth the separation from his wife, + which had for a long period occupied his meditation, was succeeded by a + vein of mental dissipation. He did not wish to be reminded by anything or + any person that he had still in some degree the misfortune of being a + responsible member of society. He wanted to be surrounded by individuals + who were above or below the conventional interests of what is called ‘the + World.’ He wanted to hear nothing of those painful and embarrassing + influences which from our contracted experience and want of enlightenment + we magnify into such undue importance. For this purpose he wished to have + about him persons whose knowledge of the cares of life concerned only the + means of existence, and whose sense of its objects referred only to the + sources of enjoyment; persons who had not been educated in the idolatry of + Respectability; that is to say, of realising such an amount of what is + termed character by a hypocritical deference to the prejudices of the + community as may enable them, at suitable times, and under convenient + circumstances and disguises, to plunder the public. This was the Monmouth + Philosophy. + </p> + <p> + With these feelings, Lord Monmouth recoiled at this moment from grandsons + and relations and ties of all kinds. He did not wish to be reminded of his + identity, but to swim unmolested and undisturbed in his Epicurean dream. + When, therefore, his fair visitors; Clotilde, who opened her mouth only to + breathe roses and diamonds, and Ermengarde, who was so good-natured that + she sacrificed even her lovers to her friends; saw him merely to exclaim + at the same moment, and with the same voices of thrilling joyousness,— + </p> + <p> + ‘Why did not you ask him to dinner?’ + </p> + <p> + And then, without waiting for his reply, entered with that rapidity of + elocution which Frenchwomen can alone command into the catalogue of his + charms and accomplishments, Lord Monmouth began to regret that he really + had not seen Coningsby, who, it appeared, might have greatly contributed + to the pleasure of the day. The message, which was duly given, however, + settled the business. Lord Monmouth felt that any chance of explanations, + or even allusions to the past, was out of the question; and to defend + himself from the accusations of his animated guests, he said, + </p> + <p> + ‘Well, he shall come to dine with you next time.’ + </p> + <p> + There is no end to the influence of woman on our life. It is at the bottom + of everything that happens to us. And so it was, that, in spite of all the + combinations of Lucretia and Mr. Rigby, and the mortification and + resentment of Lord Monmouth, the favourable impression he casually made on + a couple of French actresses occasioned Coningsby, before a month had + elapsed since his memorable interview at Monmouth House, to receive an + invitation again to dine with his grandfather. + </p> + <p> + The party was agreeable. Clotilde and Ermengarde had wits as sparkling as + their eyes. There was a manager of the Opera, a great friend of + Villebecque, and his wife, a splendid lady, who had been a prima donna of + celebrity, and still had a commanding voice for a chamber; a Carlist + nobleman who lived upon his traditions, and who, though without a sou, + could tell of a festival given by his family, before the revolution, which + had cost a million of francs; and a Neapolitan physician, in whom Lord + Monmouth had great confidence, and who himself believed in the elixir + vitae, made up the party, with Lucian Gay, Coningsby, and Mr. Rigby. Our + hero remarked that Villebecque on this occasion sat at the bottom of the + table, but Flora did not appear. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, the month which brought about this satisfactory and at + one time unexpected result was fruitful also in other circumstances still + more interesting. Coningsby and Edith met frequently, if to breathe the + same atmosphere in the same crowded saloons can be described as meeting; + ever watching each other’s movements, and yet studious never to encounter + each other’s glance. The charms of Miss Millbank had become an universal + topic, they were celebrated in ball-rooms, they were discussed at clubs: + Edith was the beauty of the season. All admired her, many sighed even to + express their admiration; but the devotion of Lord Beaumanoir, who always + hovered about her, deterred them from a rivalry which might have made the + boldest despair. As for Coningsby, he passed his life principally with the + various members of the Sydney family, and was almost daily riding with + Lady Everingham and her sister, generally accompanied by Lord Henry and + his friend Eustace Lyle, between whom, indeed, and Coningsby there were + relations of intimacy scarcely less inseparable. Coningsby had spoken to + Lady Everingham of the rumoured marriage of her elder brother, and found, + although the family had not yet been formally apprised of it, she + entertained little doubt of its ultimate occurrence. She admired Miss + Millbank, with whom her acquaintance continued slight; and she wished, of + course, that her brother should marry and be happy. ‘But Percy is often in + love,’ she would add, ‘and never likes us to be very intimate with his + inamoratas. He thinks it destroys the romance; and that domestic + familiarity may compromise his heroic character. However,’ she added, ‘I + really believe that will be a match.’ + </p> + <p> + On the whole, though he bore a serene aspect to the world, Coningsby + passed this month in a state of restless misery. His soul was brooding on + one subject, and he had no confidant: he could not resist the spell that + impelled him to the society where Edith might at least be seen, and the + circle in which he lived was one in which her name was frequently + mentioned. Alone, in his solitary rooms in the Albany, he felt all his + desolation; and often a few minutes before he figured in the world, + apparently followed and courted by all, he had been plunged in the darkest + fits of irremediable wretchedness. + </p> + <p> + He had, of course, frequently met Lady Wallinger, but their salutations, + though never omitted, and on each side cordial, were brief. There seemed + to be a tacit understanding between them not to refer to a subject + fruitful in painful reminiscences. + </p> + <p> + The season waned. In the fulfilment of a project originally formed in the + playing-fields of Eton, often recurred to at Cambridge, and cherished with + the fondness with which men cling to a scheme of early youth, Coningsby, + Henry Sydney, Vere, and Buckhurst had engaged some moors together this + year; and in a few days they were about to quit town for Scotland. They + had pressed Eustace Lyle to accompany them, but he, who in general seemed + to have no pleasure greater than their society, had surprised them by + declining their invitation, with some vague mention that he rather thought + he should go abroad. + </p> + <p> + It was the last day of July, and all the world were at a breakfast given, + at a fanciful cottage situate in beautiful gardens on the banks of the + Thames, by Lady Everingham. The weather was as bright as the romances of + Boccaccio; there were pyramids of strawberries, in bowls colossal enough + to hold orange-trees; and the choicest band filled the air with enchanting + strains, while a brilliant multitude sauntered on turf like velvet, or + roamed in desultory existence amid the quivering shades of winding walks. + </p> + <p> + ‘My fête was prophetic,’ said Lady Everingham, when she saw Coningsby. ‘I + am glad it is connected with an incident. It gives it a point.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are mystical as well as prophetic. Tell me what we are to celebrate.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Theresa is going to be married.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Then I, too, will prophesy, and name the hero of the romance, Eustace + Lyle.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have been more prescient than I,’ said Lady Everingham, ‘perhaps + because I was thinking too much of some one else.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It seems to me an union which all must acknowledge perfect. I hardly know + which I love best. I have had my suspicions a long time; and when Eustace + refused to go to the moors with us, though I said nothing, I was + convinced.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘At any rate,’ said Lady Everingham, sighing, with a rather smiling face, + ‘we are kinsfolk, Mr. Coningsby; though I would gladly have wished to have + been more.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Were those your thoughts, dear lady? Ever kind to me! Happiness,’ he + added, in a mournful tone, ‘I fear can never be mine.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And why?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! ‘tis a tale too strange and sorrowful for a day when, like Seged, we + must all determine to be happy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have already made me miserable.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Here comes a group that will make you gay,’ said Coningsby as he moved + on. Edith and the Wallingers, accompanied by Lord Beaumanoir, Mr. Melton, + and Sir Charles Buckhurst, formed the party. They seemed profuse in their + congratulations to Lady Everingham, having already learnt the intelligence + from her brother. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby stopped to speak to Lady St. Julians, who had still a daughter + to marry. Both Augustina, who was at Coningsby Castle, and Clara Isabella, + who ought to have been there, had each secured the right man. But Adelaide + Victoria had now appeared, and Lady St. Julians had a great regard for the + favourite grandson of Lord Monmouth, and also for the influential friend + of Lord Vere and Sir Charles Buckhurst. In case Coningsby did not + determine to become her son-in-law himself, he might counsel either of his + friends to a judicious decision on an inevitable act. + </p> + <p> + ‘Strawberries and cream?’ said Lord Eskdale to Mr. Ormsby, who seemed + occupied with some delicacies. + </p> + <p> + ‘Egad! no, no, no; those days are passed. I think there is a little + easterly wind with all this fine appearance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am for in-door nature myself,’ said Lord Eskdale. ‘Do you know, I do + not half like the way Monmouth is going on? He never gets out of that + villa of his. He should change his air more. Tell him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is no use telling him anything. Have you heard anything of Miladi?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I had a letter from her to-day: she writes in good spirits. I am sorry it + broke up, and yet I never thought it would last so long.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I gave them two years,’ said Mr. Ormsby. ‘Lord Monmouth lived with his + first wife two years. And afterwards with the Mirandola at Milan, at least + nearly two years; it was a year and ten months. I must know, for he called + me in to settle affairs. I took the lady to the baths at Lucca, on the + pretence that Monmouth would meet us there. He went to Paris. All his + great affairs have been two years. I remember I wanted to bet Cassilis, at + White’s, on it when he married; but I thought, being his intimate friend; + the oldest friend he has, indeed, and one of his trustees; it was perhaps + as well not to do it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You should have made the bet with himself,’ said Lord Eskdale, ‘and then + there never would have been a separation.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Hah, hah, hah! Do you know, I feel the wind?’ + </p> + <p> + About an hour after this, Coningsby, who had just quitted the Duchess, + met, on a terrace by the river, Lady Wallinger, walking with Mrs. Guy + Flouncey and a Russian Prince, whom that lady was enchanting. Coningsby + was about to pass with some slight courtesy, but Lady Wallinger stopped + and would speak to him, on slight subjects, the weather and the fête, but + yet adroitly enough managed to make him turn and join her. Mrs. Guy + Flouncey walked on a little before with her Russian admirer. Lady + Wallinger followed with Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘The match that has been proclaimed to-day has greatly surprised me,’ said + Lady Wallinger. + </p> + <p> + ‘Indeed!’ said Coningsby: ‘I confess I was long prepared for it. And it + seems to me the most natural alliance conceivable, and one that every one + must approve.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Lady Everingham seems much surprised at it.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! Lady Everingham is a brilliant personage, and cannot deign to observe + obvious circumstances.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Do you know, Mr. Coningsby, that I always thought you were engaged to + Lady Theresa?’ + </p> + <h3> + ‘I!’ + </h3> + <p> + ‘Indeed, we were informed more than a month ago that you were positively + going to be married to her.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am not one of those who can shift their affections with such rapidity, + Lady Wallinger.’ + </p> + <p> + Lady Wallinger looked distressed. ‘You remember our meeting you on the + stairs at —— House, Mr. Coningsby?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Painfully. It is deeply graven on my brain.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Edith had just been informed that you were going to be married to Lady + Theresa.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Not surely by him to whom she is herself going to be married?’ said + Coningsby, reddening. + </p> + <p> + ‘I am not aware that she is going to be married to any one. Lord + Beaumanoir admires her, has always admired her. But Edith has given him no + encouragement, at least gave him no encouragement as long as she believed; + but why dwell on such an unhappy subject, Mr. Coningsby? I am to blame; I + have been to blame perhaps before, but indeed I think it cruel, very + cruel, that Edith and you are kept asunder.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have always been my best, my dearest friend, and are the most amiable + and admirable of women. But tell me, is it indeed true that Edith is not + going to be married?’ + </p> + <p> + At this moment Mrs. Guy Flouncey turned round, and assuring Lady Wallinger + that the Prince and herself had agreed to refer some point to her about + the most transcendental ethics of flirtation, this deeply interesting + conversation was arrested, and Lady Wallinger, with becoming suavity, was + obliged to listen to the lady’s lively appeal of exaggerated nonsense and + the Prince’s affected protests, while Coningsby walked by her side, pale + and agitated, and then offered his arm to Lady Wallinger, which she + accepted with an affectionate pressure. At the end of the terrace they met + some other guests, and soon were immersed in the multitude that thronged + the lawn. + </p> + <p> + ‘There is Sir Joseph,’ said Lady Wallinger, and Coningsby looked up, and + saw Edith on his arm. They were unconsciously approaching them. Lord + Beaumanoir was there, but he seemed to shrink into nothing to-day before + Buckhurst, who was captivated for the moment by Edith, and hearing that no + knight was resolute enough to try a fall with the Marquess, was impelled + by his talent for action to enter the lists. He had talked down everybody, + unhorsed every cavalier. Nobody had a chance against him: he answered all + your questions before you asked them; contradicted everybody with the + intrepidity of a Rigby; annihilated your anecdotes by historiettes + infinitely more piquant; and if anybody chanced to make a joke which he + could not excel, declared immediately that it was a Joe Miller. He was + absurd, extravagant, grotesque, noisy; but he was young, rattling, and + interesting, from his health and spirits. Edith was extremely amused by + him, and was encouraging by her smile his spiritual excesses, when they + all suddenly met Lady Wallinger and Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + The eyes of Edith and Coningsby met for the first time since they so + cruelly encountered on the staircase of —— House. A deep, + quick blush suffused her face, her eyes gleamed with a sudden coruscation; + suddenly and quickly she put forth her hand. + </p> + <p> + Yes! he presses once more that hand which permanently to retain is the + passion of his life, yet which may never be his! It seemed that for the + ravishing delight of that moment he could have borne with cheerfulness all + the dark and harrowing misery of the year that had passed away since he + embraced her in the woods of Hellingsley, and pledged his faith by the + waters of the rushing Darl. + </p> + <p> + He seized the occasion which offered itself, a moment to walk by her side, + and to snatch some brief instants of unreserved communion. + </p> + <p> + ‘Forgive me!’ she said. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! how could you ever doubt me?’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I was unhappy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And now we are to each other as before?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And will be, come what come may.’ + </p> + <h3> + END OF BOOK VIII. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0083" id="link2H_4_0083"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + BOOK IX. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0071" id="link2HCH0071"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + It was merry Christmas at St. Geneviève. There was a yule log blazing on + every hearth in that wide domain, from the hall of the squire to the + peasant’s roof. The Buttery Hatch was open for the whole week from noon to + sunset; all comers might take their fill, and each carry away as much bold + beef, white bread, and jolly ale as a strong man could bear in a basket + with one hand. For every woman a red cloak, and a coat of broadcloth for + every man. All day long, carts laden with fuel and warm raiment were + traversing the various districts, distributing comfort and dispensing + cheer. For a Christian gentleman of high degree was Eustace Lyle. + </p> + <p> + Within his hall, too, he holds his revel, and his beauteous bride welcomes + their guests, from her noble parents to the faithful tenants of the house. + All classes are mingled in the joyous equality that becomes the season, at + once sacred and merry. There are carols for the eventful eve, and mummers + for the festive day. + </p> + <p> + The Duke and Duchess, and every member of the family, had consented this + year to keep their Christmas with the newly-married couple. Coningsby, + too, was there, and all his friends. The party was numerous, gay, hearty, + and happy; for they were all united by sympathy. + </p> + <p> + They were planning that Henry Sydney should be appointed Lord of Misrule, + or ordained Abbot of Unreason at the least, so successful had been his + revival of the Mummers, the Hobby-horse not forgotten. Their host had + entrusted to Lord Henry the restoration of many old observances; and the + joyous feeling which this celebration of Christmas had diffused throughout + an extensive district was a fresh argument in favour of Lord Henry’s + principle, that a mere mechanical mitigation of the material necessities + of the humbler classes, a mitigation which must inevitably be limited, can + never alone avail sufficiently to ameliorate their condition; that their + condition is not merely ‘a knife and fork question,’ to use the coarse and + shallow phrase of the Utilitarian school; that a simple satisfaction of + the grosser necessities of our nature will not make a happy people; that + you must cultivate the heart as well as seek to content the belly; and + that the surest means to elevate the character of the people is to appeal + to their affections. + </p> + <p> + There is nothing more interesting than to trace predisposition. An + indefinite, yet strong sympathy with the peasantry of the realm had been + one of the characteristic sensibilities of Lord Henry at Eton. Yet a + schoolboy, he had busied himself with their pastimes and the details of + their cottage economy. As he advanced in life the horizon of his views + expanded with his intelligence and his experience; and the son of one of + the noblest of our houses, to whom the delights of life are offered with + fatal facility, on the very threshold of his career he devoted his time + and thought, labour and life, to one vast and noble purpose, the elevation + of the condition of the great body of the people. + </p> + <p> + ‘I vote for Buckhurst being Lord of Misrule,’ said Lord Henry: ‘I will be + content with being his gentleman usher.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It shall be put to the vote,’ said Lord Vere. + </p> + <p> + ‘No one has a chance against Buckhurst,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, Sir Charles,’ said Lady Everingham, ‘your absolute sway is about to + commence. And what is your will?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The first thing must be my formal installation,’ said Buckhurst. ‘I vote + the Boar’s head be carried in procession thrice round the hall, and Beau + shall be the champion to challenge all who may question my right. Duke, + you shall be my chief butler, the Duchess my herb-woman. She is to walk + before me, and scatter rosemary. Coningsby shall carry the Boar’s head; + Lady Theresa and Lady Everingham shall sing the canticle; Lord Everingham + shall be marshal of the lists, and put all in the stocks who are found + sober and decorous; Lyle shall be the palmer from the Holy Land, and Vere + shall ride the Hobby-horse. Some must carry cups of Hippocras, some + lighted tapers; all must join in chorus.’ + </p> + <p> + He ceased his instructions, and all hurried away to carry them into + effect. Some hastily arrayed themselves in fanciful dresses, the ladies in + robes of white, with garlands of flowers; some drew pieces of armour from + the wall, and decked themselves with helm and hauberk; others waved + ancient banners. They brought in the Boar’s head on a large silver dish, + and Coningsby raised it aloft. They formed into procession, the Duchess + distributing rosemary; Buckhurst swaggering with all the majesty of + Tamerlane, his mock court irresistibly humorous with their servility; and + the sweet voice of Lady Everingham chanting the first verse of the + canticle, followed in the second by the rich tones of Lady Theresa: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I. + Caput Apri defero + Reddens laudes Domino. + The Boar’s heade in hande bring I, + With garlandes gay and rosemary: + I pray you all singe merrily, + Qui estis in convivio. + + II. + Caput Apri defero + Reddens laudes Domino. + The Boar’s heade I understande + Is the chief servyce in this lande + Loke whereever it be fande, + Servite cum cantico. +</pre> + <p> + The procession thrice paraded the hall. Then they stopped; and the Lord of + Misrule ascended his throne, and his courtiers formed round him in circle. + Behind him they held the ancient banners and waved their glittering arms, + and placed on a lofty and illuminated pedestal the Boar’s head covered + with garlands. It was a good picture, and the Lord of Misrule sustained + his part with untiring energy. He was addressing his court in a pompous + rhapsody of merry nonsense, when a servant approached Coningsby, and told + him that he was wanted without. + </p> + <p> + Our hero retired unperceived. A despatch had arrived for him from London. + Without any prescience of its purpose, he nevertheless broke the seal with + a trembling hand. His presence was immediately desired in town: Lord + Monmouth was dead. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0072" id="link2HCH0072"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + This was a crisis in the life of Coningsby; yet, like many critical + epochs, the person most interested in it was not sufficiently aware of its + character. The first feeling which he experienced at the intelligence was + sincere affliction. He was fond of his grandfather; had received great + kindness from him, and at a period of life when it was most welcome. The + neglect and hardships of his early years, instead of leaving a prejudice + against one who, by some, might be esteemed their author, had by their + contrast only rendered Coningsby more keenly sensible of the solicitude + and enjoyment which had been lavished on his happy youth. + </p> + <p> + The next impression on his mind was undoubtedly a natural and reasonable + speculation on the effect of this bereavement on his fortunes. Lord + Monmouth had more than once assured Coningsby that he had provided for him + as became a near relative to whom he was attached, and in a manner which + ought to satisfy the wants and wishes of an English gentleman. The + allowance which Lord Monmouth had made him, as considerable as usually + accorded to the eldest sons of wealthy peers, might justify him in + estimating his future patrimony as extremely ample. He was aware, indeed, + that at a subsequent period his grandfather had projected for him fortunes + of a still more elevated character. He looked to Coningsby as the future + representative of an ancient barony, and had been purchasing territory + with the view of supporting the title. But Coningsby did not by any means + firmly reckon on these views being realised. He had a suspicion that in + thwarting the wishes of his grandfather in not becoming a candidate for + Darlford, he had at the moment arrested arrangements which, from the tone + of Lord Monmouth’s communication, he believed were then in progress for + that purpose; and he thought it improbable, with his knowledge of his + grandfather’s habits, that Lord Monmouth had found either time or + inclination to resume before his decease the completion of these plans. + Indeed there was a period when, in adopting the course which he pursued + with respect to Darlford, Coningsby was well aware that he perilled more + than the large fortune which was to accompany the barony. Had not a + separation between Lord Monmouth and his wife taken place simultaneously + with Coningsby’s difference with his grandfather, he was conscious that + the consequences might have been even altogether fatal to his prospects; + but the absence of her evil influence at such a conjuncture, its permanent + removal, indeed, from the scene, coupled with his fortunate though not + formal reconciliation with Lord Monmouth, had long ago banished from his + memory all those apprehensions to which he had felt it impossible at the + time to shut his eyes. Before he left town for Scotland he had made a + farewell visit to his grandfather, who, though not as cordial as in old + days, had been gracious; and Coningsby, during his excursion to the moors, + and his various visits to the country, had continued at intervals to write + to his grandfather, as had been for some years his custom. On the whole, + with an indefinite feeling which, in spite of many a rational effort, did + nevertheless haunt his mind, that this great and sudden event might + exercise a vast and beneficial influence on his worldly position, + Coningsby could not but feel some consolation in the affliction which he + sincerely experienced, in the hope that he might at all events now offer + to Edith a home worthy of her charms, her virtues, and her love. + </p> + <p> + Although he had not seen her since their hurried yet sweet reconciliation + in the gardens of Lady Everingham, Coningsby was never long without + indirect intelligence of the incidents of her life; and the correspondence + between Lady Everingham and Henry Sydney, while they were at the moors, + had apprised him that Lord Beaumanoir’s suit had terminated unsuccessfully + almost immediately after his brother had quitted London. + </p> + <p> + It was late in the evening when Coningsby arrived in town: he called at + once on Lord Eskdale, who was one of Lord Monmouth’s executors; and he + persuaded Coningsby, whom he saw depressed, to dine with him alone. + </p> + <p> + ‘You should not be seen at a club,’ said the good-natured peer; ‘and I + remember myself in old days what was the wealth of an Albanian larder.’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Eskdale, at dinner, talked frankly of the disposition of Lord + Monmouth’s property. He spoke as a matter of course that Coningsby was his + grandfather’s principal heir. + </p> + <p> + ‘I don’t know whether you will be happier with a large fortune?’ said Lord + Eskdale. ‘It is a troublesome thing: nobody is satisfied with what you do + with it; very often not yourself. To maintain an equable expenditure; not + to spend too much on one thing, too little on another, is an art. There + must be a harmony, a keeping, in disbursement, which very few men have. + Great wealth wearies. The thing to have is about ten thousand a year, and + the world to think you have only five. There is some enjoyment then; one + is let alone. But the instant you have a large fortune, duties commence. + And then impudent fellows borrow your money; and if you ask them for it + again, they go about town saying you are a screw.’ + </p> + <p> + Lord Monmouth had died suddenly at his Richmond villa, which latterly he + never quitted, at a little supper, with no persons near him but those who + were amusing. He suddenly found he could not lift his glass to his lips, + and being extremely polite, waited a few minutes before he asked Clotilde, + who was singing a sparkling drinking-song, to do him that service. When, + in accordance with his request, she reached him, it was too late. The + ladies shrieked, being frightened: at first they were in despair, but, + after reflection, they evinced some intention of plundering the house. + Villebecque, who was absent at the moment, arrived in time; and everybody + became orderly and broken-hearted. + </p> + <p> + The body had been removed to Monmouth House, where it had been embalmed + and laid in state. The funeral was not numerously attended. There was + nobody in town; some distinguished connections, however, came up from the + country, though it was a period inconvenient for such movements. After the + funeral, the will was to be read in the principal saloon of Monmouth + House, one of those gorgeous apartments that had excited the boyish wonder + of Coningsby on his first visit to that paternal roof, and now hung in + black, adorned with the escutcheon of the deceased peer. + </p> + <p> + The testamentary dispositions of the late lord were still unknown, though + the names of his executors had been announced by his family solicitor, in + whose custody the will and codicils had always remained. The executors + under the will were Lord Eskdale, Mr. Ormsby, and Mr. Rigby. By a + subsequent appointment Sidonia had been added. All these individuals were + now present. Coningsby, who had been chief mourner, stood on the right + hand of the solicitor, who sat at the end of a long table, round which, in + groups, were ranged all who had attended the funeral, including several of + the superior members of the household, among them M. Villebecque. + </p> + <p> + The solicitor rose and explained that though Lord Monmouth had been in the + habit of very frequently adding codicils to his will, the original will, + however changed or modified, had never been revoked; it was therefore + necessary to commence by reading that instrument. So saying, he sat down, + and breaking the seals of a large packet, he produced the will of Philip + Augustus, Marquess of Monmouth, which had been retained in his custody + since its execution. + </p> + <p> + By this will, of the date of 1829, the sum of 10,000<i>l.</i> was left to + Coningsby, then unknown to his grandfather; the same sum to Mr. Rigby. + There was a great number of legacies, none of superior amount, most of + them of less: these were chiefly left to old male companions, and women in + various countries. There was an almost inconceivable number of small + annuities to faithful servants, decayed actors, and obscure foreigners. + The residue of his personal estate was left to four gentlemen, three of + whom had quitted this world before the legator; the bequests, therefore, + had lapsed. The fourth residuary legatee, in whom, according to the terms + of the will, all would have consequently centred, was Mr. Rigby. + </p> + <p> + There followed several codicils which did not materially affect the + previous disposition; one of them leaving a legacy of 20,000<i>l.</i> to + the Princess Colonna; until they arrived at the latter part of the year + 1832, when a codicil increased the 10,000<i>l.</i> left under the will to + Coningsby to 50,000<i>l.</i>. + </p> + <p> + After Coningsby’s visit to the Castle in 1836 a very important change + occurred in the disposition of Lord Monmouth’s estate. The legacy of + 50,000<i>l.</i> in his favour was revoked, and the same sum left to the + Princess Lucretia. A similar amount was bequeathed to Mr. Rigby; and + Coningsby was left sole residuary legatee. + </p> + <p> + The marriage led to a considerable modification. An estate of about nine + thousand a year, which Lord Monmouth had himself purchased, and was + therefore in his own disposition, was left to Coningsby. The legacy to Mr. + Rigby was reduced to 20,000<i>l.</i>, and the whole of his residue left to + his issue by Lady Monmouth. In case he died without issue, the estate + bequeathed to Coningsby to be taken into account, and the residue then to + be divided equally between Lady Monmouth and his grandson. It was under + this instrument that Sidonia had been appointed an executor and to whom + Lord Monmouth left, among others, the celebrated picture of the Holy + Family by Murillo, as his friend had often admired it. To Lord Eskdale he + left all his female miniatures, and to Mr. Ormsby his rare and splendid + collection of French novels, and all his wines, except his Tokay, which he + left, with his library, to Sir Robert Peel; though this legacy was + afterwards revoked, in consequence of Sir Robert’s conduct about the Irish + corporations. + </p> + <p> + The solicitor paused and begged permission to send for a glass of water. + While this was arranging there was a murmur at the lower part of the room, + but little disposition to conversation among those in the vicinity of the + lawyer. Coningsby was silent, his brow a little knit. Mr. Rigby was pale + and restless, but said nothing. Mr. Ormsby took a pinch of snuff, and + offered his box to Lord Eskdale, who was next to him. They exchanged + glances, and made some observation about the weather. Sidonia stood apart, + with his arms folded. He had not, of course attended the funeral, nor had + he as yet exchanged any recognition with Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘Now, gentlemen,’ said the solicitor, ‘if you please, I will proceed.’ + </p> + <p> + They came to the year 1839, the year Coningsby was at Hellingsley. This + appeared to be a critical period in the fortunes of Lady Monmouth; while + Coningsby’s reached to the culminating point. Mr. Rigby was reduced to his + original legacy under the will of 10,000<i>l.</i>; a sum of equal amount + was bequeathed to Armand Villebecque, in acknowledgment of faithful + services; all the dispositions in favour of Lady Monmouth were revoked, + and she was limited to her moderate jointure of 3,000<i>l.</i> per annum, + under the marriage settlement; while everything, without reserve, was left + absolutely to Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + A subsequent codicil determined that the 10,000<i>l.</i> left to Mr. Rigby + should be equally divided between him and Lucian Gay; but as some + compensation Lord Monmouth left to the Right Honourable Nicholas Rigby the + bust of that gentleman, which he had himself presented to his Lordship, + and which, at his desire, had been placed in the vestibule at Coningsby + Castle, from the amiable motive that after Lord Monmouth’s decease Mr. + Rigby might wish, perhaps, to present it to some other friend. + </p> + <p> + Lord Eskdale and Mr. Ormsby took care not to catch the eye of Mr. Rigby. + As for Coningsby, he saw nobody. He maintained, during the extraordinary + situation in which he was placed, a firm demeanour; but serene and + regulated as he appeared to the spectators, his nerves were really strung + to a high pitch. + </p> + <p> + There was yet another codicil. It bore the date of June 1840, and was made + at Brighton, immediately after the separation with Lady Monmouth. It was + the sight of this instrument that sustained Rigby at this great emergency. + He had a wild conviction that, after all, it must set all right. He felt + assured that, as Lady Monmouth had already been disposed of, it must + principally refer to the disinheritance of Coningsby, secured by Rigby’s + well-timed and malignant misrepresentations of what had occurred in + Lancashire during the preceding summer. And then to whom could Lord + Monmouth leave his money? However he might cut and carve up his fortunes, + Rigby, and especially at a moment when he had so served him, must come in + for a considerable slice. + </p> + <p> + His prescient mind was right. All the dispositions in favour of ‘my + grandson Harry Coningsby’ were revoked; and he inherited from his + grandfather only the interest of the sum of 10,000<i>l.</i> which had been + originally bequeathed to him in his orphan boyhood. The executors had the + power of investing the principal in any way they thought proper for his + advancement in life, provided always it was not placed in ‘the capital + stock of any manufactory.’ + </p> + <p> + Coningsby turned pale; he lost his abstracted look; he caught the eye of + Rigby; he read the latent malice of that nevertheless anxious countenance. + What passed through the mind and being of Coningsby was thought and + sensation enough for a year; but it was as the flash that reveals a whole + country, yet ceases to be ere one can say it lightens. There was a + revelation to him of an inward power that should baffle these conventional + calamities, a natural and sacred confidence in his youth and health, and + knowledge and convictions. Even the recollection of Edith was not + unaccompanied with some sustaining associations. At least the mightiest + foe to their union was departed. + </p> + <p> + All this was the impression of an instant, simultaneous with the reading + of the words of form with which the last testamentary disposition of the + Marquess of Monmouth left the sum of 30,000<i>l.</i> to Armand + Villebecque; and all the rest, residue, and remainder of his unentailed + property, wheresoever and whatsoever it might be, amounting in value to + nearly a million sterling, was given, devised, and bequeathed to Flora, + commonly called Flora Villebecque, the step-child of the said Armand + Villebecque, ‘but who is my natural daughter by Marie Estelle Matteau, an + actress at the Théâtre Français in the years 1811-15, by the name of + Stella.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0073" id="link2HCH0073"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + ‘This is a crash!’ said Coningsby, with a grave rather than agitated + countenance, to Sidonia, as his friend came up to greet him, without, + however, any expression of condolence. + </p> + <p> + ‘This time next year you will not think so,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + ‘The principal annoyance of this sort of miscarriage,’ said Sidonia, ‘is + the condolence of the gentle world. I think we may now depart. I am going + home to dine. Come, and discuss your position. For the present we will not + speak of it.’ So saying, Sidonia good-naturedly got Coningsby out of the + room. + </p> + <p> + They walked together to Sidonia’s house in Carlton Gardens, neither of + them making the slightest allusion to the catastrophe; Sidonia inquiring + where he had been, what he had been doing, since they last met, and + himself conversing in his usual vein, though with a little more feeling in + his manner than was his custom. When they had arrived there, Sidonia + ordered their dinner instantly, and during the interval between the + command and its appearance, he called Coningsby’s attention to an old + German painting he had just received, its brilliant colouring and quaint + costumes. + </p> + <p> + ‘Eat, and an appetite will come,’ said Sidonia, when he observed Coningsby + somewhat reluctant. ‘Take some of that Chablis: it will put you right; you + will find it delicious.’ + </p> + <p> + In this way some twenty minutes passed; their meal was over, and they were + alone together. + </p> + <p> + ‘I have been thinking all this time of your position,’ said Sidonia. + </p> + <p> + ‘A sorry one, I fear,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘I really cannot see that,’ said his friend. ‘You have experienced this + morning a disappointment, but not a calamity. If you had lost your eye it + would have been a calamity: no combination of circumstances could have + given you another. There are really no miseries except natural miseries; + conventional misfortunes are mere illusions. What seems conventionally, in + a limited view, a great misfortune, if subsequently viewed in its results, + is often the happiest incident in one’s life.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I hope the day may come when I may feel this.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Now is the moment when philosophy is of use; that is to say, now is the + moment when you should clearly comprehend the circumstances which surround + you. Holiday philosophy is mere idleness. You think, for example, that you + have just experienced a great calamity, because you have lost the fortune + on which you counted?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I must say I do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I ask you again, which would you have rather lost, your grandfather’s + inheritance or your right leg?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Most certainly my inheritance,’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Or your left arm?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Still the inheritance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Would you have received the inheritance on condition that your front + teeth should be knocked out?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Would you have given up a year of your life for that fortune trebled?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Even at twenty-three I would have refused the terms.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Come, come, Coningsby, the calamity cannot be very great.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Why, you have put it in an ingenious point of view; and yet it is not so + easy to convince a man, that he should be content who has lost + everything.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You have a great many things at this moment that you separately prefer to + the fortune that you have forfeited. How then can you be said to have lost + everything?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘What have I?’ said Coningsby, despondingly. + </p> + <p> + ‘You have health, youth, good looks, great abilities, considerable + knowledge, a fine courage, a lofty spirit, and no contemptible experience. + With each of these qualities one might make a fortune; the combination + ought to command the highest.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You console me,’ said Coningsby, with a faint blush and a fainter smile. + </p> + <p> + ‘I teach you the truth. That is always solacing. I think you are a most + fortunate young man; I should not have thought you more fortunate if you + had been your grandfather’s heir; perhaps less so. But I wish you to + comprehend your position: if you understand it you will cease to lament.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But what should I do?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Bring your intelligence to bear on the right object. I make you no offers + of fortune, because I know you would not accept them, and indeed I have no + wish to see you a lounger in life. If you had inherited a great patrimony, + it is possible your natural character and previous culture might have + saved you from its paralysing influence; but it is a question, even with + you. Now you are free; that is to say, you are free, if you are not in + debt. A man who has not seen the world, whose fancy is harassed with + glittering images of pleasures he has never experienced, cannot live on + 300<i>l.</i> per annum; but you can. You have nothing to haunt your + thoughts, or disturb the abstraction of your studies. You have seen the + most beautiful women; you have banqueted in palaces; you know what heroes, + and wits, and statesmen are made of: and you can draw on your memory + instead of your imagination for all those dazzling and interesting objects + that make the inexperienced restless, and are the cause of what are called + scrapes. But you can do nothing if you be in debt. You must be free. + Before, therefore, we proceed, I must beg you to be frank on this head. If + you have any absolute or contingent incumbrances, tell me of them without + reserve, and permit me to clear them at once to any amount. You will + sensibly oblige me in so doing: because I am interested in watching your + career, and if the racer start with a clog my psychological observations + will be imperfect.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are, indeed, a friend; and had I debts I would ask you to pay them. I + have nothing of the kind. My grandfather was so lavish in his allowance to + me that I never got into difficulties. Besides, there are horses and + things without end which I must sell, and money at Drummonds’.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘That will produce your outfit, whatever the course you adopt. I conceive + there are two careers which deserve your consideration. In the first place + there is Diplomacy. If you decide upon that, I can assist you. There exist + between me and the Minister such relations that I can at once secure you + that first step which is so difficult to obtain. After that, much, if not + all, depends on yourself. But I could advance you, provided you were + capable. You should, at least, not languish for want of preferment. In an + important post, I could throw in your way advantages which would soon + permit you to control cabinets. Information commands the world. I doubt + not your success, and for such a career, speedy. Let us assume it as a + fact. Is it a result satisfactory? Suppose yourself in a dozen years a + Plenipotentiary at a chief court, or at a critical post, with a red ribbon + and the Privy Council in immediate perspective; and, after a lengthened + career, a pension and a peerage. Would that satisfy you? You don’t look + excited. I am hardly surprised. In your position it would not satisfy me. + A Diplomatist is, after all, a phantom. There is a want of nationality + about his being. I always look upon Diplomatists as the Hebrews of + politics; without country, political creeds, popular convictions, that + strong reality of existence which pervades the career of an eminent + citizen in a free and great country.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You read my thoughts,’ said Coningsby. ‘I should be sorry to sever myself + from England.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There remains then the other, the greater, the nobler career,’ said + Sidonia, ‘which in England may give you all, the Bar. I am absolutely + persuaded that with the requisite qualifications, and with perseverance, + success at the Bar is certain. It may be retarded or precipitated by + circumstances, but cannot be ultimately affected. You have a right to + count with your friends on no lack of opportunities when you are ripe for + them. You appear to me to have all the qualities necessary for the Bar; + and you may count on that perseverance which is indispensable, for the + reason I have before mentioned, because it will be sustained by your + experience.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have resolved,’ said Coningsby; ‘I will try for the Great Seal.’ + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0074" id="link2HCH0074"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <p> + Alone in his chambers, no longer under the sustaining influence of + Sidonia’s converse and counsel, the shades of night descending and bearing + gloom to the gloomy, all the excitement of his spirit evaporated, the + heart of Coningsby sank. All now depended on himself, and in that self he + had no trust. Why should he succeed? Success was the most rare of results. + Thousands fail; units triumph. And even success could only be conducted to + him by the course of many years. His career, even if prosperous, was now + to commence by the greatest sacrifice which the heart of man could be + called upon to sustain. Upon the stern altar of his fortunes he must + immolate his first and enduring love. Before, he had a perilous position + to offer Edith; now he had none. The future might then have aided them; + there was no combination which could improve his present. Under any + circumstances he must, after all his thoughts and studies, commence a new + novitiate, and before he could enter the arena must pass years of silent + and obscure preparation. ‘Twas very bitter. He looked up, his eye caught + that drawing of the towers of Hellingsley which she had given him in the + days of their happy hearts. That was all that was to remain of their + loves. He was to bear it to the future scene of his labours, to remind him + through revolving years of toil and routine, that he too had had his + romance, had roamed in fair gardens, and whispered in willing ears the + secrets of his passion. That drawing was to become the altar-piece of his + life. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby passed an agitated night of broken sleep, waking often with a + consciousness of having experienced some great misfortune, yet with an + indefinite conception of its nature. He woke exhausted and dispirited. It + was a gloomy day, a raw north-easter blowing up the cloisters of the + Albany, in which the fog was lingering, the newspaper on his + breakfast-table, full of rumoured particulars of his grandfather’s will, + which had of course been duly digested by all who knew him. What a + contrast to St. Geneviève! To the bright, bracing morn of that merry + Christmas! That radiant and cheerful scene, and those gracious and beaming + personages, seemed another world and order of beings to the one he now + inhabited, and the people with whom he must now commune. The Great Seal + indeed! It was the wild excitement of despair, the frenzied hope that + blends inevitably with absolute ruin, that could alone have inspired such + a hallucination! His unstrung heart deserted him. His energies could rally + no more. He gave orders that he was at home to no one; and in his morning + gown and slippers, with his feet resting on the fireplace, the once + high-souled and noble-hearted Coningsby delivered himself up to despair. + </p> + <p> + The day passed in a dark trance rather than a reverie. Nothing rose to his + consciousness. He was like a particle of chaos; at the best, a glimmering + entity of some shadowy Hades. Towards evening the wind changed, the fog + dispersed, there came a clear starry night, brisk and bright. Coningsby + roused himself, dressed, and wrapping his cloak around him, sallied forth. + Once more in the mighty streets, surrounded by millions, his petty griefs + and personal fortunes assumed their proper position. Well had Sidonia + taught him, view everything in its relation to the rest. ‘Tis the secret + of all wisdom. Here was the mightiest of modern cities; the rival even of + the most celebrated of the ancient. Whether he inherited or forfeited + fortunes, what was it to the passing throng? They would not share his + splendour, or his luxury, or his comfort. But a word from his lip, a + thought from his brain, expressed at the right time, at the right place, + might turn their hearts, might influence their passions, might change + their opinions, might affect their destiny. Nothing is great but the + personal. As civilisation advances, the accidents of life become each day + less important. The power of man, his greatness and his glory, depend on + essential qualities. Brains every day become more precious than blood. You + must give men new ideas, you must teach them new words, you must modify + their manners, you must change their laws, you must root out prejudices, + subvert convictions, if you wish to be great. Greatness no longer depends + on rentals, the world is too rich; nor on pedigrees, the world is too + knowing. + </p> + <p> + ‘The greatness of this city destroys my misery,’ said Coningsby, ‘and my + genius shall conquer its greatness.’ + </p> + <p> + This conviction of power in the midst of despair was a revelation of + intrinsic strength. It is indeed the test of a creative spirit. From that + moment all petty fears for an ordinary future quitted him. He felt that he + must be prepared for great sacrifices, for infinite suffering; that there + must devolve on him a bitter inheritance of obscurity, struggle, envy, and + hatred, vulgar prejudice, base criticism, petty hostilities, but the dawn + would break, and the hour arrive, when the welcome morning hymn of his + success and his fame would sound and be re-echoed. + </p> + <p> + He returned to his rooms; calm, resolute. He slept the deep sleep of a man + void of anxiety, that has neither hope nor fear to haunt his visions, but + is prepared to rise on the morrow collected for the great human struggle. + </p> + <p> + And the morning came. Fresh, vigorous, not rash or precipitate, yet + determined to lose no time in idle meditation, Coningsby already resolved + at once to quit his present residence, was projecting a visit to some + legal quarter, where he intended in future to reside, when his servant + brought him a note. The handwriting was feminine. The note was from Flora. + The contents were brief. She begged Mr. Coningsby, with great earnestness, + to do her the honour and the kindness of calling on her at his earliest + convenience, at the hotel in Brook Street where she now resided. + </p> + <p> + It was an interview which Coningsby would rather have avoided; yet it + seemed to him, after a moment’s reflection, neither just, nor kind, nor + manly, to refuse her request. Flora had not injured him. She was, after + all, his kin. Was it for a moment to be supposed that he was envious of + her lot? He replied, therefore, that in an hour he would wait upon her. + </p> + <p> + In an hour, then, two individuals are to be brought together whose first + meeting was held under circumstances most strangely different. Then + Coningsby was the patron, a generous and spontaneous one, of a being + obscure, almost friendless, and sinking under bitter mortification. His + favour could not be the less appreciated because he was the chosen + relative of a powerful noble. That noble was no more; his vast inheritance + had devolved on the disregarded, even despised actress, whose suffering + emotions Coningsby had then soothed, and whose fortune had risen on the + destruction of all his prospects, and the balk of all his aspirations. + </p> + <p> + Flora was alone when Coningsby was ushered into the room. The extreme + delicacy of her appearance was increased by her deep mourning; and seated + in a cushioned chair, from which she seemed to rise with an effort, she + certainly presented little of the character of a fortunate and prosperous + heiress. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are very good to come to me,’ she said, faintly smiling. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby extended his hand to her affectionately, in which she placed her + own, looking down much embarrassed. + </p> + <p> + ‘You have an agreeable situation here,’ said Coningsby, trying to break + the first awkwardness of their meeting. + </p> + <p> + ‘Yes; but I hope not to stop here long?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are going abroad?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘No; I hope never to leave England!’ + </p> + <p> + There was a slight pause; and then Flora sighed and said, + </p> + <p> + ‘I wish to speak to you on a subject that gives me pain; yet of which I + must speak. You think I have injured you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I am sure,’ said Coningsby, in a tone of great kindness, ‘that you could + injure no one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I have robbed you of your inheritance.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It was not mine by any right, legal or moral. There were others who might + have urged an equal claim to it; and there are many who will now think + that you might have preferred a superior one.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You had enemies; I was not one. They sought to benefit themselves by + injuring you. They have not benefited themselves; let them not say that + they have at least injured you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘We will not care what they say,’ said Coningsby; ‘I can sustain my lot.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Would that I could mine!’ said Flora. She sighed again with a downcast + glance. Then looking up embarrassed and blushing deeply, she added, ‘I + wish to restore to you that fortune of which I have unconsciously and + unwillingly deprived you.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The fortune is yours, dear Flora, by every right,’ said Coningsby, much + moved; ‘and there is no one who wishes more fervently that it may + contribute to your happiness than I do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘It is killing me,’ said Flora, mournfully; then speaking with unusual + animation, with a degree of excitement, she continued, ‘I must tell what I + feel. This fortune is yours. I am happy in the inheritance, if you + generously receive it from me, because Providence has made me the means of + baffling your enemies. I never thought to be so happy as I shall be if you + will generously accept this fortune, always intended for you. I have lived + then for a purpose; I have not lived in vain; I have returned to you some + service, however humble, for all your goodness to me in my unhappiness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You are, as I have ever thought you, the kindest and most tender-hearted + of beings. But you misconceive our mutual positions, my gentle Flora. The + custom of the world does not permit such acts to either of us as you + contemplate. The fortune is yours. It is left you by one on whose + affections you had the highest claim. I will not say that so large an + inheritance does not bring with it an alarming responsibility; but you are + not unequal to it. Have confidence in yourself. You have a good heart; you + have good sense; you have a well-principled being. Your spirit will mount + with your fortunes, and blend with them. You will be happy.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘And you?’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I shall soon learn to find content, if not happiness, from other + sources,’ said Coningsby; ‘and mere riches, however vast, could at no time + have secured my felicity.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘But they may secure that which brings felicity,’ said Flora, speaking in + a choking voice, and not meeting the glance of Coningsby. ‘You had some + views in life which displeased him who has done all this; they may be, + they must be, affected by this fatal caprice. Speak to me, for I cannot + speak, dear Mr. Coningsby; do not let me believe that I, who would + sacrifice my life for your happiness, am the cause of such calamities!’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Whatever be my lot, I repeat I can sustain it,’ said Coningsby, with a + cheek of scarlet. + </p> + <p> + ‘Ah! he is angry with me,’ exclaimed Flora; ‘he is angry with me!’ and the + tears stole down her pale cheek. + </p> + <p> + ‘No, no, no! dear Flora; I have no other feelings to you than those of + affection and respect,’ and Coningsby, much agitated, drew his chair + nearer to her, and took her hand. ‘I am gratified by these kind wishes, + though they are utterly impracticable; but they are the witnesses of your + sweet disposition and your noble spirit. There never shall exist between + us, under any circumstances, other feelings than those of kin and + kindness.’ + </p> + <p> + He rose as if to depart. When she saw that, she started, and seemed to + summon all her energies. + </p> + <p> + ‘You are going,’ she exclaimed, ‘and I have said nothing, I have said + nothing; and I shall never see you again. Let me tell you what I mean. + This fortune is yours; it must be yours. It is an arrow in my heart. Do + not think I am speaking from a momentary impulse. I know myself. I have + lived so much alone, I have had so little to deceive or to delude me, that + I know myself. If you will not let me do justice you declare my doom. I + cannot live if my existence is the cause of all your prospects being + blasted, and the sweetest dreams of your life being defeated. When I die, + these riches will be yours; that you cannot prevent. Refuse my present + offer, and you seal the fate of that unhappy Flora whose fragile life has + hung for years on the memory of your kindness.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘You must not say these words, dear Flora; you must not indulge in these + gloomy feelings. You must live, and you must live happily. You have every + charm and virtue which should secure happiness. The duties and the + affections of existence will fall to your lot. It is one that will always + interest me, for I shall ever be your friend. You have conferred on me one + of the most delightful of feelings, gratitude, and for that I bless you. I + will soon see you again.’ Mournfully he bade her farewell. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0075" id="link2HCH0075"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + About a week after this interview with Flora, as Coningsby one morning was + about to sally forth from the Albany to visit some chambers in the Temple, + to which his notice had been attracted, there was a loud ring, a bustle in + the hall, and Henry Sydney and Buckhurst were ushered in. + </p> + <p> + There never was such a cordial meeting; and yet the faces of his friends + were serious. The truth is, the paragraphs in the newspapers had + circulated in the country, they had written to Coningsby, and after a + brief delay he had confirmed their worst apprehensions. Immediately they + came up to town. Henry Sydney, a younger son, could offer little but + sympathy, but he declared it was his intention also to study for the bar, + so that they should not be divided. Buckhurst, after many embraces and + some ordinary talk, took Coningsby aside, and said, ‘My dear fellow, I + have no objection to Henry Sydney hearing everything I say, but still + these are subjects which men like to be discussed in private. Of course I + expect you to share my fortune. There is enough for both. We will have an + exact division.’ + </p> + <p> + There was something in Buckhurst’s fervent resolution very lovable and a + little humorous, just enough to put one in good temper with human nature + and life. If there were any fellow’s fortune in the world that Coningsby + would share, Buckhurst’s would have had the preference; but while he + pressed his hand, and with a glance in which a tear and a smile seemed to + contend for mastery, he gently indicated why such arrangements were, with + our present manners, impossible. + </p> + <p> + ‘I see,’ said Buckhurst, after a moment’s thought, ‘I quite agree with + you. The thing cannot be done; and, to tell you the truth, a fortune is a + bore. What I vote that we three do at once is, to take plenty of + ready-money, and enter the Austrian service. By Jove! it is the only thing + to do.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘There is something in that,’ said Coningsby. ‘In the meantime, suppose + you two fellows walk with me to the Temple, for I have an appointment to + look at some chambers.’ + </p> + <p> + It was a fine day, and it was by no means a gloomy walk. Though the two + friends had arrived full of indignation against Lord Monmouth, and + miserable about their companion, once more in his society, and finding + little difference in his carriage, they assumed unconsciously their + habitual tone. As for Buckhurst, he was delighted with the Temple, which + he visited for the first time. The name enchanted him. The tombs in the + church convinced him that the Crusades were the only career. He would have + himself become a law student if he might have prosecuted his studies in + chain armour. The calmer Henry Sydney was consoled for the misfortunes of + Coningsby by a fanciful project himself to pass a portion of his life amid + these halls and courts, gardens and terraces, that maintain in the heart + of a great city in the nineteenth century, so much of the grave romance + and picturesque decorum of our past manners. Henry Sydney was sanguine; he + was reconciled to the disinheritance of Coningsby by the conviction that + it was a providential dispensation to make him a Lord Chancellor. + </p> + <p> + These faithful friends remained in town with Coningsby until he was + established in Paper Buildings, and had become a pupil of a celebrated + special pleader. They would have remained longer had not he himself + suggested that it was better that they should part. It seemed a terrible + catastrophe after all the visions of their boyish days, their college + dreams, and their dazzling adventures in the world. + </p> + <p> + ‘And this is the end of Coningsby, the brilliant Coningsby, that we all + loved, that was to be our leader!’ said Buckhurst to Lord Henry as they + quitted him. ‘Well, come what may, life has lost something of its bloom.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘The great thing now,’ said Lord Henry, ‘is to keep up the chain of our + friendship. We must write to him very often, and contrive to be frequently + together. It is dreadful to think that in the ways of life our hearts may + become estranged. I never felt more wretched than I do at this moment, and + yet I have faith that we shall not lose him.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘Amen!’ said Buckhurst; ‘but I feel my plan about the Austrian service + was, after all, the only thing. The Continent offers a career. He might + have been prime minister; several strangers have been; and as for war, + look at Brown and Laudohn, and half a hundred others. I had a much better + chance of being a field-marshal than he has of being a Lord Chancellor.’ + </p> + <p> + ‘I feel quite convinced that Coningsby will be Lord Chancellor,’ said + Henry Sydney, gravely. + </p> + <p> + This change of life for Coningsby was a great social revolution. It was + sudden and complete. Within a month after the death of his grandfather his + name had been erased from all his fashionable clubs, and his horses and + carriages sold, and he had become a student of the Temple. He entirely + devoted himself to his new pursuit. His being was completely absorbed in + it. There was nothing to haunt his mind; no unexperienced scene or + sensation of life to distract his intelligence. One sacred thought alone + indeed there remained, shrined in the innermost sanctuary of his heart and + consciousness. But it was a tradition, no longer a hope. The moment that + he had fairly recovered from the first shock of his grandfather’s will; + had clearly ascertained the consequences to himself, and had resolved on + the course to pursue; he had communicated unreservedly with Oswald + Millbank, and had renounced those pretensions to the hand of his sister + which it ill became the destitute to prefer. + </p> + <p> + His letter was answered in person. Millbank met Henry Sydney and Buckhurst + at the chambers of Coningsby. Once more they were all four together; but + under what different circumstances, and with what different prospects from + those which attended their separation at Eton! Alone with Coningsby, + Millbank spoke to him things which letters could not convey. He bore to + him all the sympathy and devotion of Edith; but they would not conceal + from themselves that, at this moment, and in the present state of affairs, + all was hopeless. In no way did Coningsby ever permit himself to intimate + to Oswald the cause of his disinheritance. He was, of course, silent on it + to his other friends; as any communication of the kind must have touched + on a subject that was consecrated in his inmost soul. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0076" id="link2HCH0076"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + The state of political parties in England in the spring of 1841 offered a + most remarkable contrast to their condition at the period commemorated in + the first chapter of this work. The banners of the Conservative camp at + this moment lowered on the Whig forces, as the gathering host of the + Norman invader frowned on the coast of Sussex. The Whigs were not yet + conquered, but they were doomed; and they themselves knew it. The mistake + which was made by the Conservative leaders in not retaining office in + 1839; and, whether we consider their conduct in a national and + constitutional light, or as a mere question of political tactics and party + prudence, it was unquestionably a great mistake; had infused into the + corps of Whig authority a kind of galvanic action, which only the + superficial could mistake for vitality. Even to form a basis for their + future operations, after the conjuncture of ‘39, the Whigs were obliged to + make a fresh inroad on the revenue, the daily increasing debility of which + was now arresting attention and exciting public alarm. It was clear that + the catastrophe of the government would be financial. + </p> + <p> + Under all the circumstances of the case, the conduct of the Whig Cabinet, + in their final propositions, cannot be described as deficient either in + boldness or prudence. The policy which they recommended was in itself a + sagacious and spirited policy; but they erred in supposing that, at the + period it was brought forward, any measure promoted by the Whigs could + have obtained general favour in the country. The Whigs were known to be + feeble; they were looked upon as tricksters. The country knew they were + opposed by a powerful party; and though there certainly never was any + authority for the belief, the country did believe that that powerful party + were influenced by great principles; had in their view a definite and + national policy; and would secure to England, instead of a feeble + administration and fluctuating opinions, energy and a creed. + </p> + <p> + The future effect of the Whig propositions of ‘41 will not be detrimental + to that party, even if in the interval they be appropriated piecemeal, as + will probably be the case, by their Conservative successors. But for the + moment, and in the plight in which the Whig party found themselves, it was + impossible to have devised measures more conducive to their precipitate + fall. Great interests were menaced by a weak government. The consequence + was inevitable. Tadpole and Taper saw it in a moment. They snuffed the + factious air, and felt the coming storm. Notwithstanding the extreme + congeniality of these worthies, there was a little latent jealousy between + them. Tadpole worshipped Registration: Taper, adored a Cry. Tadpole always + maintained that it was the winnowing of the electoral lists that could + alone gain the day; Taper, on the contrary, faithful to ancient + traditions, was ever of opinion that the game must ultimately be won by + popular clamour. It always seemed so impossible that the Conservative + party could ever be popular; the extreme graciousness and personal + popularity of the leaders not being sufficiently apparent to be esteemed + an adequate set-off against the inveterate odium that attached to their + opinions; that the Tadpole philosophy was the favoured tenet in high + places; and Taper had had his knuckles well rapped more than once for + manoeuvring too actively against the New Poor-law, and for hiring several + link-boys to bawl a much-wronged lady’s name in the Park when the Court + prorogued Parliament. + </p> + <p> + And now, after all, in 1841, it seemed that Taper was right. There was a + great clamour in every quarter, and the clamour was against the Whigs and + in favour of Conservative principles. What Canadian timber-merchants meant + by Conservative principles, it is not difficult to conjecture; or West + Indian planters. It was tolerably clear on the hustings what squires and + farmers, and their followers, meant by Conservative principles. What they + mean by Conservative principles now is another question: and whether + Conservative principles mean something higher than a perpetuation of + fiscal arrangements, some of them impolitic, none of them important. But + no matter what different bodies of men understood by the cry in which they + all joined, the Cry existed. Taper beat Tadpole; and the great + Conservative party beat the shattered and exhausted Whigs. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the abstraction of his legal studies, Coningsby could not + be altogether insensible to the political crisis. In the political world + of course he never mixed, but the friends of his boyhood were deeply + interested in affairs, and they lost no opportunity which he would permit + them, of cultivating his society. Their occasional fellowship, a visit now + and then to Sidonia, and a call sometimes on Flora, who lived at Richmond, + comprised his social relations. His general acquaintance did not desert + him, but he was out of sight, and did not wish to be remembered. Mr. + Ormsby asked him to dinner, and occasionally mourned over his fate in the + bow window of White’s; while Lord Eskdale even went to see him in the + Temple, was interested in his progress, and said, with an encouraging + look, that, when he was called to the bar, all his friends must join and + get up the steam. Coningsby had once met Mr. Rigby, who was walking with + the Duke of Agincourt, which was probably the reason he could not notice a + lawyer. Mr. Rigby cut Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + Lord Eskdale had obtained from Villebecque accurate details as to the + cause of Coningsby being disinherited. Our hero, if one in such fallen + fortunes may still be described as a hero, had mentioned to Lord Eskdale + his sorrow that his grandfather had died in anger with him; but Lord + Eskdale, without dwelling on the subject, had assured him that he had + reason to believe that if Lord Monmouth had lived, affairs would have been + different. He had altered the disposition of his property at a moment of + great and general irritation and excitement; and had been too indolent, + perhaps really too indisposed, which he was unwilling ever to acknowledge, + to recur to a calmer and more equitable settlement. Lord Eskdale had been + more frank with Sidonia, and had told him all about the refusal to become + a candidate for Darlford against Mr. Millbank; the communication of Rigby + to Lord Monmouth, as to the presence of Oswald Millbank at the castle, and + the love of Coningsby for his sister; all these details, furnished by + Villebecque to Lord Eskdale, had been truly transferred by that nobleman + to his co-executor; and Sidonia, when he had sufficiently digested them, + had made Lady Wallinger acquainted with the whole history. + </p> + <p> + The dissolution of the Whig Parliament by the Whigs, the project of which + had reached Lord Monmouth a year before, and yet in which nobody believed + to the last moment, at length took place. All the world was dispersed in + the heart of the season, and our solitary student of the Temple, in his + lonely chambers, notwithstanding all his efforts, found his eye rather + wander over the pages of Tidd and Chitty as he remembered that the great + event to which he had so looked forward was now occurring, and he, after + all, was no actor in the mighty drama. It was to have been the epoch of + his life; when he was to have found himself in that proud position for + which all the studies, and meditations, and higher impulses of his nature + had been preparing him. It was a keen trial of a man. Every one of his + friends and old companions were candidates, and with sanguine prospects. + Lord Henry was certain for a division of his county; Buckhurst harangued a + large agricultural borough in his vicinity; Eustace Lyle and Vere stood in + coalition for a Yorkshire town; and Oswald Millbank solicited the + suffrages of an important manufacturing constituency. They sent their + addresses to Coningsby. He was deeply interested as he traced in them the + influence of his own mind; often recognised the very expressions to which + he had habituated them. Amid the confusion of a general election, no + unimpassioned critic had time to canvass the language of an address to an + isolated constituency; yet an intelligent speculator on the movements of + political parties might have detected in these public declarations some + intimation of new views, and of a tone of political feeling that has + unfortunately been too long absent from the public life of this country. + </p> + <p> + It was the end of a sultry July day, the last ray of the sun shooting down + Pall Mall sweltering with dust; there was a crowd round the doors of the + Carlton and the Reform Clubs, and every now and then an express arrived + with the agitating bulletin of a fresh defeat or a new triumph. Coningsby + was walking up Pall Mall. He was going to dine at the Oxford and Cambridge + Club, the only club on whose list he had retained his name, that he might + occasionally have the pleasure of meeting an Eton or Cambridge friend + without the annoyance of encountering any of his former fashionable + acquaintances. He lighted in his walk on Mr. Tadpole and Mr. Taper, both + of whom he knew. The latter did not notice him, but Mr. Tadpole, more + good-natured, bestowed on him a rough nod, not unmarked by a slight + expression of coarse pity. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby ordered his dinner, and then took up the evening papers, where + he learnt the return of Vere and Lyle; and read a speech of Buckhurst + denouncing the Venetian Constitution, to the amazement of several thousand + persons, apparently not a little terrified by this unknown danger, now + first introduced to their notice. Being true Englishmen, they were all + against Buckhurst’s opponent, who was of the Venetian party, and who ended + by calling out Buckhurst for his personalities. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby had dined, and was reading in the library, when a waiter brought + up a third edition of the <i>Sun</i>, with electioneering bulletins from + the manufacturing districts to the very latest hour. Some large letters + which expressed the name of Darlford caught his eye. There seemed great + excitement in that borough; strange proceedings had happened. The column + was headed, ‘Extraordinary Affair! Withdrawal of the Liberal Candidate! + Two Tory Candidates in the field!!!’ + </p> + <p> + His eye glanced over an animated speech of Mr. Millbank, his countenance + changed, his heart palpitated. Mr. Millbank had resigned the + representation of the town, but not from weakness; his avocations demanded + his presence; he had been requested to let his son supply his place, but + his son was otherwise provided for; he should always take a deep interest + in the town and trade of Darlford; he hoped that the link between the + borough and Hellingsley would be ever cherished; loud cheering; he wished + in parting from them to take a step which should conciliate all parties, + put an end to local heats and factious contentions, and secure the town an + able and worthy representative. For these reasons he begged to propose to + them a gentleman who bore a name which many of them greatly honoured; for + himself, he knew the individual, and it was his firm opinion that whether + they considered his talents, his character, or the ancient connection of + his family with the district, he could not propose a candidate more worthy + of their confidence than HARRY CONINGSBY, ESQ. + </p> + <p> + This proposition was received with that wild enthusiasm which occasionally + bursts out in the most civilised communities. The contest between Millbank + and Rigby was equally balanced, neither party was over-confident. The + Conservatives were not particularly zealous in behalf of their champion; + there was no Marquess of Monmouth and no Coningsby Castle now to back him; + he was fighting on his own resources, and he was a beaten horse. The + Liberals did not like the prospect of a defeat, and dreaded the + mortification of Rigby’s triumph. The Moderate men, who thought more of + local than political circumstances, liked the name of Coningsby. Mr. + Millbank had dexterously prepared his leading supporters for the + substitution. Some traits of the character and conduct of Coningsby had + been cleverly circulated. Thus there was a combination of many favourable + causes in his favour. In half an hour’s time his image was stamped on the + brain of every inhabitant of the borough as an interesting and + accomplished youth, who had been wronged, and who deserved to be rewarded. + It was whispered that Rigby was his enemy. Magog Wrath and his mob offered + Mr. Millbank’s committee to throw Mr. Rigby into the river, or to burn + down his hotel, in case he was prudent enough not to show. Mr. Rigby + determined to fight to the last. All his hopes were now staked on the + successful result of this contest. It were impossible if he were returned + that his friends could refuse him high office. The whole of Lord + Monmouth’s reduced legacy was devoted to this end. The third edition of + the <i>Sun</i> left Mr. Rigby in vain attempting to address an infuriated + populace. + </p> + <p> + Here was a revolution in the fortunes of our forlorn Coningsby! When his + grandfather first sent for him to Monmouth House, his destiny was not + verging on greater vicissitudes. He rose from his seat, and was surprised + that all the silent gentlemen who were about him did not mark his + agitation. Not an individual there that he knew. It was now an hour to + midnight, and to-morrow the almost unconscious candidate was to go to the + poll. In a tumult of suppressed emotion, Coningsby returned to his + chambers. He found a letter in his box from Oswald Millbank, who had been + twice at the Temple. Oswald had been returned without a contest, and had + reached Darlford in time to hear Coningsby nominated. He set off instantly + to London, and left at his friend’s chambers a rapid narrative of what had + happened, with information that he should call on him again on the morrow + at nine o’clock, when they were to repair together immediately to Darlford + in time for Coningsby to be chaired, for no one entertained a doubt of his + triumph. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby did not sleep a wink that night, and yet when he rose early felt + fresh enough for any exploit, however difficult or hazardous. He felt as + an Egyptian does when the Nile rises after its elevation had been + despaired of. At the very lowest ebb of his fortunes, an event had + occurred which seemed to restore all. He dared not contemplate the + ultimate result of all these wonderful changes. Enough for him, that when + all seemed dark, he was about to be returned to Parliament by the father + of Edith, and his vanquished rival who was to bite the dust before him was + the author of all his misfortunes. Love, Vengeance, Justice, the glorious + pride of having acted rightly, the triumphant sense of complete and + absolute success, here were chaotic materials from which order was at + length evolved; and all subsided in an overwhelming feeling of gratitude + to that Providence that had so signally protected him. + </p> + <p> + There was a knock at the door. It was Oswald. They embraced. It seemed + that Oswald was as excited as Coningsby. His eye sparkled, his manner was + energetic. + </p> + <p> + ‘We must talk it all over during our journey. We have not a minute to + spare.’ + </p> + <p> + During that journey Coningsby learned something of the course of affairs + which gradually had brought about so singular a revolution in his favour. + We mentioned that Sidonia had acquired a thorough knowledge of the + circumstances which had occasioned and attended the disinheritance of + Coningsby. These he had told to Lady Wallinger, first by letter, + afterwards in more detail on her arrival in London. Lady Wallinger had + conferred with her husband. She was not surprised at the goodness of + Coningsby, and she sympathised with all his calamities. He had ever been + the favourite of her judgment, and her romance had always consisted in + blending his destinies with those of her beloved Edith. Sir Joseph was a + judicious man, who never cared to commit himself; a little selfish, but + good, just, and honourable, with some impulses, only a little afraid of + them; but then his wife stepped in like an angel, and gave them the right + direction. They were both absolutely impressed with Coningsby’s admirable + conduct, and Lady Wallinger was determined that her husband should express + to others the convictions which he acknowledged in unison with herself. + Sir Joseph spoke to Mr. Millbank, who stared; but Sir Joseph spoke feebly. + Lady Wallinger conveyed all this intelligence, and all her impressions, to + Oswald and Edith. The younger Millbank talked with his father, who, making + no admissions, listened with interest, inveighed against Lord Monmouth, + and condemned his will. + </p> + <p> + After some time, Mr. Millbank made inquiries about Coningsby, took an + interest in his career, and, like Lord Eskdale, declared that when he was + called to the bar, his friends would have an opportunity to evince their + sincerity. Affairs remained in this state, until Oswald thought that + circumstances were sufficiently ripe to urge his father on the subject. + The position which Oswald had assumed at Millbank had necessarily made him + acquainted with the affairs and fortune of his father. When he computed + the vast wealth which he knew was at his parent’s command, and recalled + Coningsby in his humble chambers, toiling after all his noble efforts + without any results, and his sister pining in a provincial solitude, + Oswald began to curse wealth, and to ask himself what was the use of all + their marvellous industry and supernatural skill? He addressed his father + with that irresistible frankness which a strong faith can alone inspire. + What are the objects of wealth, if not to bless those who possess our + hearts? The only daughter, the friend to whom the only son was indebted + for his life, here are two beings surely whom one would care to bless, and + both are unhappy. Mr. Millbank listened without prejudice, for he was + already convinced. But he felt some interest in the present conduct of + Coningsby. A Coningsby working for his bread was a novel incident for him. + He wished to be assured of its authenticity. He was resolved to convince + himself of the fact. And perhaps he would have gone on yet for a little + time, and watched the progress of the experiment, already interested and + delighted by what had reached him, had not the dissolution brought affairs + to a crisis. The misery of Oswald at the position of Coningsby, the silent + sadness of Edith, his own conviction, which assured him that he could do + nothing wiser or better than take this young man to his heart, so ordained + it that Mr. Millbank, who was after all the creature of impulse, decided + suddenly, and decided rightly. Never making a single admission to all the + representations of his son, Mr. Millbank in a moment did all that his son + could have dared to desire. + </p> + <p> + This is a very imperfect and crude intimation of what had occurred at + Millbank and Hellingsley; yet it conveys a faint sketch of the enchanting + intelligence that Oswald conveyed to Coningsby during their rapid travel. + When they arrived at Birmingham, they found a messenger and a despatch, + informing Coningsby, that at mid-day, at Darlford, he was at the head of + the poll by an overwhelming majority, and that Mr. Rigby had resigned. He + was, however, requested to remain at Birmingham, as they did not wish him + to enter Darlford, except to be chaired, so he was to arrive there in the + morning. At Birmingham, therefore, they remained. + </p> + <p> + There was Oswald’s election to talk of as well as Coningsby’s. They had + hardly had time for this. Now they were both Members of Parliament. Men + must have been at school together, to enjoy the real fun of meeting thus, + and realising boyish dreams. Often, years ago, they had talked of these + things, and assumed these results; but those were words and dreams, these + were positive facts; after some doubts and struggles, in the freshness of + their youth, Oswald Millbank and Harry Coningsby were members of the + British Parliament; public characters, responsible agents, with a career. + </p> + <p> + This afternoon, at Birmingham, was as happy an afternoon as usually falls + to the lot of man. Both of these companions were labouring under that + degree of excitement which is necessary to felicity. They had enough to + talk about. Edith was no longer a forbidden or a sorrowful subject. There + was rapture in their again meeting under such circumstances. Then there + were their friends; that dear Buckhurst, who had just been called out for + styling his opponent a Venetian, and all their companions of early days. + What a sudden and marvellous change in all their destinies! Life was a + pantomime; the wand was waved, and it seemed that the schoolfellows had of + a sudden become elements of power, springs of the great machine. + </p> + <p> + A train arrived; restless they sallied forth, to seek diversion in the + dispersion of the passengers. Coningsby and Millbank, with that glance, a + little inquisitive, even impertinent, if we must confess it, with which + one greets a stranger when he emerges from a public conveyance, were + lounging on the platform. The train arrived; stopped; the doors were + thrown open, and from one of them emerged Mr. Rigby! Coningsby, who had + dined, was greatly tempted to take off his hat and make him a bow, but he + refrained. Their eyes met. Rigby was dead beat. He was evidently used up; + a man without a resource; the sight of Coningsby his last blow; he had met + his fate. + </p> + <p> + ‘My dear fellow,’ said Coningsby, ‘I remember I wanted you to dine with my + grandfather at Montem, and that fellow would not ask you. Such is life!’ + </p> + <p> + About eleven o’clock the next morning they arrived at the Darlford + station. Here they were met by an anxious deputation, who received + Coningsby as if he were a prophet, and ushered him into a car covered with + satin and blue ribbons, and drawn by six beautiful grey horses, + caparisoned in his colours, and riden by postilions, whose very whips were + blue and white. Triumphant music sounded; banners waved; the multitude + were marshalled; the Freemasons, at the first opportunity, fell into the + procession; the Odd Fellows joined it at the nearest corner. Preceded and + followed by thousands, with colours flying, trumpets sounding, and endless + huzzas, flags and handkerchiefs waving from every window, and every + balcony filled with dames and maidens bedecked with his colours, Coningsby + was borne through enthusiastic Darlford like Paulus Emilius returning from + Macedon. Uncovered, still in deep mourning, his fine figure, and graceful + bearing, and his intelligent brow, at once won every female heart. + </p> + <p> + The singularity was, that all were of the same opinion: everybody cheered + him, every house was adorned with his colours. His triumphal return was no + party question. Magog Wrath and Bully Bluck walked together like lambs at + the head of his procession. + </p> + <p> + The car stopped before the principal hotel in the High Street. It was Mr. + Millbank’s committee. The broad street was so crowded, that, as every one + declared, you might have walked on the heads of the people. Every window + was full; the very roofs were peopled. The car stopped, and the populace + gave three cheers for Mr. Millbank. Their late member, surrounded by his + friends, stood in the balcony, which was fitted up with Coningsby’s + colours, and bore his name on the hangings in gigantic letters formed of + dahlias. The flashing and inquiring eye of Coningsby caught the form of + Edith, who was leaning on her father’s arm. + </p> + <p> + The hustings were opposite the hotel, and here, after a while, Coningsby + was carried, and, stepping from his car, took up his post to address, for + the first time, a public assembly. Anxious as the people were to hear him, + it was long before their enthusiasm could subside into silence. At length + that silence was deep and absolute. He spoke; his powerful and rich tones + reached every ear. In five minutes’ time every one looked at his + neighbour, and without speaking they agreed that there never was anything + like this heard in Darlford before. + </p> + <p> + He addressed them for a considerable time, for he had a great deal to say; + not only to express his gratitude for the unprecedented manner in which he + had become their representative, and for the spirit in which they had + greeted him, but he had to offer them no niggard exposition of the views + and opinions of the member whom they had so confidingly chosen, without + even a formal declaration of his sentiments. + </p> + <p> + He did this with so much clearness, and in a manner so pointed and + popular, that the deep attention of the multitude never wavered. His + lively illustrations kept them often in continued merriment. But when, + towards his close, he drew some picture of what he hoped might be the + character of his future and lasting connection with the town, the vast + throng was singularly affected. There were a great many present at that + moment who, though they had never seen Coningsby before, would willingly + have then died for him. Coningsby had touched their hearts, for he had + spoken from his own. His spirit had entirely magnetised them. Darlford + believed in Coningsby: and a very good creed. + </p> + <p> + And now Coningsby was conducted to the opposite hotel. He walked through + the crowd. The progress was slow, as every one wished to shake hands with + him. His friends, however, at last safely landed him. He sprang up the + stairs; he was met by Mr. Millbank, who welcomed him with the greatest + warmth, and offered his hearty congratulations. + </p> + <p> + ‘It is to you, dear sir, that I am indebted for all this,’ said Coningsby. + </p> + <p> + ‘No,’ said Mr. Millbank, ‘it is to your own high principles, great + talents, and good heart.’ + </p> + <p> + After he had been presented by the late member to the principal personages + in the borough, Mr. Millbank said, + </p> + <p> + ‘I think we must now give Mr. Coningsby a little rest. Come with me,’ he + added, ‘here is some one who will be very glad to see you.’ + </p> + <p> + Speaking thus, he led our hero a little away, and placing his arm in + Coningsby’s with great affection opened the door of an apartment. There + was Edith, radiant with loveliness and beaming with love. Their agitated + hearts told at a glance the tumult of their joy. The father joined their + hands, and blessed them with words of tenderness. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0077" id="link2HCH0077"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + The marriage of Coningsby and Edith took place early in the autumn. It was + solemnised at Millbank, and they passed their first moon at Hellingsley, + which place was in future to be the residence of the member for Darlford. + The estate was to devolve to Coningsby after the death of Mr. Millbank, + who in the meantime made arrangements which permitted the newly-married + couple to reside at the Hall in a manner becoming its occupants. All these + settlements, as Mr. Millbank assured Coningsby, were effected not only + with the sanction, but at the express instance, of his son. + </p> + <p> + An event, however, occurred not very long after the marriage of Coningsby, + which rendered this generous conduct of his father-in-law no longer + necessary to his fortunes, though he never forgot its exercise. The gentle + and unhappy daughter of Lord Monmouth quitted a scene with which her + spirit had never greatly sympathised. Perhaps she might have lingered in + life for yet a little while, had it not been for that fatal inheritance + which disturbed her peace and embittered her days, haunting her heart with + the recollection that she had been the unconscious instrument of injuring + the only being whom she loved, and embarrassing and encumbering her with + duties foreign to her experience and her nature. The marriage of Coningsby + had greatly affected her, and from that day she seemed gradually to + decline. She died towards the end of the autumn, and, subject to an ample + annuity to Villebecque, she bequeathed the whole of her fortune to the + husband of Edith. Gratifying as it was to him to present such an + inheritance to his wife, it was not without a pang that he received the + intelligence of the death of Flora. Edith sympathised in his affectionate + feelings, and they raised a monument to her memory in the gardens of + Hellingsley. + </p> + <p> + Coningsby passed his next Christmas in his own hall with his beautiful and + gifted wife by his side, and surrounded by the friends of his heart and + his youth. + </p> + <p> + They stand now on the threshold of public life. They are in the leash, but + in a moment they will be slipped. What will be their fate? Will they + maintain in august assemblies and high places the great truths which, in + study and in solitude, they have embraced? Or will their courage exhaust + itself in the struggle, their enthusiasm evaporate before hollow-hearted + ridicule, their generous impulses yield with a vulgar catastrophe to the + tawdry temptations of a low ambition? Will their skilled intelligence + subside into being the adroit tool of a corrupt party? Will Vanity + confound their fortunes, or Jealousy wither their sympathies? Or will they + remain brave, single, and true; refuse to bow before shadows and worship + phrases; sensible of the greatness of their position, recognise the + greatness of their duties; denounce to a perplexed and disheartened world + the frigid theories of a generalising age that have destroyed the + individuality of man, and restore the happiness of their country by + believing in their own energies, and daring to be great? + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Coningsby, by Benjamin Disraeli + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK CONINGSBY *** + +***** This file should be named 7412-h.htm or 7412-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/7/4/1/7412/ + + +Text file produced by Anne Soulard, Tiffany Vergon, and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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