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diff --git a/7926-h/7926-h.htm b/7926-h/7926-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d109c8b --- /dev/null +++ b/7926-h/7926-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,21506 @@ +<?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> + Endymion, by Benjamin Disraeli, Earl of Beaconsfield, K.G. + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd7; 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; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Endymion, 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: Endymion + +Author: Benjamin Disraeli + +Release Date: April 27, 2006 [EBook #7926] +Last Updated: August 26, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ENDYMION *** + + + + +Produced by John Bickers; Dagny; David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h1> + ENDYMION + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + by Benjamin Disraeli, Earl Of Beaconsfield, K.G. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + First Published 1880 + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </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 class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER XXXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER XXXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0040"> CHAPTER XL </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0041"> CHAPTER XLI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0042"> CHAPTER XLII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0043"> CHAPTER XLIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0044"> CHAPTER XLIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0045"> CHAPTER XLV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0046"> CHAPTER XLVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0047"> CHAPTER XLVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0048"> CHAPTER XLVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0049"> CHAPTER XLIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0050"> CHAPTER L </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0051"> CHAPTER LI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0052"> CHAPTER LII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0053"> CHAPTER LIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0054"> CHAPTER LIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0055"> CHAPTER LV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0056"> CHAPTER LVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0057"> CHAPTER LVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0058"> CHAPTER LVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0059"> CHAPTER LIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0060"> CHAPTER LX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0061"> CHAPTER LXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0062"> CHAPTER LXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0063"> CHAPTER LXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0064"> CHAPTER LXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0065"> CHAPTER LXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0066"> CHAPTER LXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0067"> CHAPTER LXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0068"> CHAPTER LXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0069"> CHAPTER LXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0070"> CHAPTER LXX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0071"> CHAPTER LXXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0072"> CHAPTER LXXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0073"> CHAPTER LXXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0074"> CHAPTER LXXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0075"> CHAPTER LXXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0076"> CHAPTER LXXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0077"> CHAPTER LXXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0078"> CHAPTER LXXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0079"> CHAPTER LXXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0080"> CHAPTER LXXX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0081"> CHAPTER LXXXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0082"> CHAPTER LXXXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0083"> CHAPTER LXXXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0084"> CHAPTER LXXXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0085"> CHAPTER LXXXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0086"> CHAPTER LXXXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0087"> CHAPTER LXXXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0088"> CHAPTER LXXXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0089"> CHAPTER LXXXXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0090"> CHAPTER XC </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0091"> CHAPTER XCI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0092"> CHAPTER XCII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0093"> CHAPTER XCIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0094"> CHAPTER XCIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0095"> CHAPTER XCV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0096"> CHAPTER XCVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0097"> CHAPTER XCVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0098"> CHAPTER XCVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0099"> CHAPTER XCIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0100"> CHAPTER C </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0101"> CHAPTER CI </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER I + </h2> + <p> + It was a rich, warm night, at the beginning of August, when a gentleman + enveloped in a cloak, for he was in evening dress, emerged from a + club-house at the top of St. James’ Street, and descended that celebrated + eminence. He had not proceeded more than half way down the street when, + encountering a friend, he stopped with some abruptness. + </p> + <p> + “I have been looking for you everywhere,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “We can hardly talk about it here.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall we go to White’s?” + </p> + <p> + “I have just left it, and, between ourselves, I would rather we should be + more alone. ‘Tis as warm as noon. Let us cross the street and get into St. + James’ Place. That is always my idea of solitude.” + </p> + <p> + So they crossed the street, and, at the corner of St. James’ Place, met + several gentlemen who had just come out of Brookes’ Club-house. These + saluted the companions as they passed, and said, “Capital account from + Chiswick—Lord Howard says the chief will be in Downing Street on + Monday.” + </p> + <p> + “It is of Chiswick that I am going to speak to you,” said the gentleman in + the cloak, putting his arm in that of his companion as they walked on. + “What I am about to tell you is known only to three persons, and is the + most sacred of secrets. Nothing but our friendship could authorise me to + impart it to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope it is something to your advantage,” said his companion. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of that sort; it is of yourself that I am thinking. Since our + political estrangement, I have never had a contented moment. From Christ + Church, until that unhappy paralytic stroke, which broke up a government + that had lasted fifteen years, and might have continued fifteen more, we + seemed always to have been working together. That we should again unite is + my dearest wish. A crisis is at hand. I want you to use it to your + advantage. Know then, that what they were just saying about Chiswick is + moonshine. His case is hopeless, and it has been communicated to the + King.” + </p> + <p> + “Hopeless!” + </p> + <p> + “Rely upon it; it came direct from the Cottage to my friend.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought he had a mission?” said his companion, with emotion; “and men + with missions do not disappear till they have fulfilled them.” + </p> + <p> + “But why did you think so? How often have I asked you for your grounds for + such a conviction! There are none. The man of the age is clearly the Duke, + the saviour of Europe, in the perfection of manhood, and with an iron + constitution.” + </p> + <p> + “The salvation of Europe is the affair of a past generation,” said his + companion. “We want something else now. The salvation of England should be + the subject rather of our present thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + “England! why when were things more sound? Except the split among our own + men, which will be now cured, there is not a cause of disquietude.” + </p> + <p> + “I have much,” said his friend. + </p> + <p> + “You never used to have any, Sidney. What extraordinary revelations can + have been made to you during three months of office under a semi-Whig + Ministry?” + </p> + <p> + “Your taunt is fair, though it pains me. And I confess to you that when I + resolved to follow Canning and join his new allies, I had many a twinge. I + was bred in the Tory camp; the Tories put me in Parliament and gave me + office; I lived with them and liked them; we dined and voted together, and + together pasquinaded our opponents. And yet, after Castlereagh’s death, to + whom like yourself I was much attached, I had great misgivings as to the + position of our party, and the future of the country. I tried to drive + them from my mind, and at last took refuge in Canning, who seemed just the + man appointed for an age of transition.” + </p> + <p> + “But a transition to what?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, his foreign policy was Liberal.” + </p> + <p> + “The same as the Duke’s; the same as poor dear Castlereagh’s. Nothing more + unjust than the affected belief that there was any difference between them—a + ruse of the Whigs to foster discord in our ranks. And as for domestic + affairs, no one is stouter against Parliamentary Reform, while he is for + the Church and no surrender, though he may make a harmless speech now and + then, as many of us do, in favour of the Catholic claims.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we will not now pursue this old controversy, my dear Ferrars, + particularly if it be true, as you say, that Mr. Canning now lies upon his + deathbed.” + </p> + <p> + “If! I tell you at this very moment it may be all over.” + </p> + <p> + “I am shaken to my very centre.” + </p> + <p> + “It is doubtless a great blow to you,” rejoined Mr. Ferrars, “and I wish + to alleviate it. That is why I was looking for you. The King will, of + course, send for the Duke, but I can tell you there will be a disposition + to draw back our friends that left us, at least the younger ones of + promise. If you are awake, there is no reason why you should not retain + your office.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not so sure the King will send for the Duke.” + </p> + <p> + “It is certain.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said his companion musingly, “it may be fancy, but I cannot resist + the feeling that this country, and the world generally, are on the eve of + a great change—and I do not think the Duke is the man for the + epoch.” + </p> + <p> + “I see no reason why there should be any great change; certainly not in + this country,” said Mr. Ferrars. “Here we have changed everything that was + required. Peel has settled the criminal law, and Huskisson the currency, + and though I am prepared myself still further to reduce the duties on + foreign imports, no one can deny that on this subject the Government is in + advance of public opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “The whole affair rests on too contracted a basis,” said his companion. + “We are habituated to its exclusiveness, and, no doubt, custom in England + is a power; but let some event suddenly occur which makes a nation feel or + think, and the whole thing might vanish like a dream.” + </p> + <p> + “What can happen? Such affairs as the Luddites do not occur twice in a + century, and as for Spafields riots, they are impossible now with Peel’s + new police. The country is employed and prosperous, and were it not so, + the landed interest would always keep things straight.” + </p> + <p> + “It is powerful, and has been powerful for a long time; but there are + other interests besides the landed interest now.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there is the colonial interest, and the shipping interest,” said + Mr. Ferrars, “and both of them thoroughly with us.” + </p> + <p> + “I was not thinking of them,” said his companion. “It is the increase of + population, and of a population not employed in the cultivation of the + soil, and all the consequences of such circumstances that were passing + over my mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you be too doctrinaire, my dear Sidney; you and I are practical + men. We must deal with the existing, the urgent; and there is nothing more + pressing at this moment than the formation of a new government. What I + want is to see you as a member of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said his companion with a sigh, “do you really think it so near as + that?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what have we been talking of all this time, my dear Sidney? Clear + your head of all doubt, and, if possible, of all regrets; we must deal + with the facts, and we must deal with them to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I still think he had a mission,” said Sidney with a sigh, “if it were + only to bring hope to a people.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not see he could have done anything more,” said Mr. Ferrars, + “nor do I believe his government would have lasted during the session. + However, I must now say good-night, for I must look in at the Square. + Think well of what I have said, and let me hear from you as soon as you + can.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II + </h2> + <p> + Zenobia was the queen of London, of fashion, and of the Tory party. When + she was not holding high festivals, or attending them, she was always at + home to her intimates, and as she deigned but rarely to honour the + assemblies of others with her presence, she was generally at her evening + post to receive the initiated. To be her invited guest under such + circumstances proved at once that you had entered the highest circle of + the social Paradise. + </p> + <p> + Zenobia was leaning back on a brilliant sofa, supported by many cushions, + and a great personage, grey-headed and blue-ribboned, who was permitted to + share the honours of the high place, was hanging on her animated and + inspiring accents. An ambassador, in an armed chair which he had placed + somewhat before her, while he listened with apparent devotion to the + oracle, now and then interposed a remark, polished and occasionally + cynical. More remote, some dames of high degree were surrounded by a + chosen band of rank and fashion and celebrity; and now and then was heard + a silver laugh, and now and then was breathed a gentle sigh. Servants + glided about the suite of summer chambers, occasionally with sherbets and + ices, and sometimes a lady entered and saluted Zenobia, and then retreated + to the general group, and sometimes a gentleman entered, and pressed the + hand of Zenobia to his lips, and then vanished into air. + </p> + <p> + “What I want you to see,” said Zenobia, “is that reaction is the law of + life, and that we are on the eve of a great reaction. Since Lord + Castlereagh’s death we have had five years of revolution—nothing but + change, and every change has been disastrous. Abroad we are in league with + all the conspirators of the Continent, and if there were a general war we + should not have an ally; at home our trade, I am told, is quite ruined, + and we are deluged with foreign articles; while, thanks to Mr. Huskisson, + the country banks, which enabled Mr. Pitt to carry on the war and saved + England, are all broken. There was one thing, of which I thought we should + always be proud, and that was our laws and their administration; but now + our most sacred enactments are questioned, and people are told to call out + for the reform of our courts of judicature, which used to be the glory of + the land. This cannot last. I see, indeed, many signs of national disgust; + people would have borne a great deal from poor Lord Liverpool—for + they knew he was a good man, though I always thought a weak one; but when + it was found that his boasted Liberalism only meant letting the Whigs into + office—who, if they had always been in office, would have made us + the slaves of Bonaparte—their eyes were opened. Depend upon it, the + reaction has commenced.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall have some trouble with France,” said the ambassador, “unless + there is a change here.” + </p> + <p> + “The Church is weary of the present men,” said the great personage. “No + one really knows what they are after.” + </p> + <p> + “And how can the country be governed without the Church?” exclaimed + Zenobia. “If the country once thinks the Church is in danger, the affair + will soon be finished. The King ought to be told what is going on.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing is going on,” said the ambassador; “but everybody is afraid of + something.” + </p> + <p> + “The King’s friends should impress upon him never to lose sight of the + landed interest,” said the great personage. + </p> + <p> + “How can any government go on without the support of the Church and the + land?” exclaimed Zenobia. “It is quite unnatural.” + </p> + <p> + “That is the mystery,” remarked the ambassador. “Here is a government, + supported by none of the influences hitherto deemed indispensable, and yet + it exists.” + </p> + <p> + “The newspapers support it,” said the great personage, “and the + Dissenters, who are trying to bring themselves into notice, and who are + said to have some influence in the northern counties, and the Whigs, who + are in a hole, are willing to seize the hand of the ministry to help them + out of it; and then there is always a number of people who will support + any government—and so the thing works.” + </p> + <p> + “They have got a new name for this hybrid sentiment,” said the ambassador. + “They call it public opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “How very absurd!” said Zenobia; “a mere nickname. As if there could be + any opinion but that of the Sovereign and the two Houses of Parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “They are trying to introduce here the continental Liberalism,” said the + great personage. “Now we know what Liberalism means on the continent. It + means the abolition of property and religion. Those ideas would not suit + this country; and I often puzzle myself to foresee how they will attempt + to apply Liberal opinions here.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall always think,” said Zenobia, “that Lord Liverpool went much too + far, though I never said so in his time; for I always uphold my friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we shall see what Canning will do about the Test and Corporation + Acts,” said the great personage. “I understand they mean to push him.” + </p> + <p> + “By the by, how is he really?” said the ambassador. “What are the accounts + this afternoon?” + </p> + <p> + “Here is a gentleman who will tell us,” said Zenobia, as Mr. Ferrars + entered and saluted her. + </p> + <p> + “And what is your news from Chiswick?” she inquired. + </p> + <p> + “They say at Brookes’, that he will be at Downing Street on Monday.” + </p> + <p> + “I doubt it,” said Zenobia, but with an expression of disappointment. + </p> + <p> + Zenobia invited Mr. Ferrars to join her immediate circle. The great + personage and the ambassador were confidentially affable to one whom + Zenobia so distinguished. Their conversation was in hushed tones, as + become the initiated. Even Zenobia seemed subdued, and listened; and to + listen, among her many talents, was perhaps her rarest. Mr. Ferrars was + one of her favourites, and Zenobia liked young men who she thought would + become Ministers of State. + </p> + <p> + An Hungarian Princess who had quitted the opera early that she might look + in at Zenobia’s was now announced. The arrival of this great lady made a + stir. Zenobia embraced her, and the great personage with affectionate + homage yielded to her instantly the place of honour, and then soon + retreated to the laughing voices in the distance that had already more + than once attracted and charmed his ear. + </p> + <p> + “Mind; I see you to-morrow,” said Zenobia to Mr. Ferrars as he also + withdrew. “I shall have something to tell you.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III + </h2> + <p> + The father of Mr. Ferrars had the reputation of being the son of a once + somewhat celebrated statesman, but the only patrimony he inherited from + his presumed parent was a clerkship in the Treasury, where he found + himself drudging at an early age. Nature had endowed him with considerable + abilities, and peculiarly adapted to the scene of their display. It was + difficult to decide which was most remarkable, his shrewdness or his + capacity of labour. His quickness of perception and mastery of details + made him in a few years an authority in the office, and a Secretary of the + Treasury, who was quite ignorant of details, but who was a good judge of + human character, had the sense to appoint Ferrars his private secretary. + This happy preferment in time opened the whole official world to one not + only singularly qualified for that kind of life, but who possessed the + peculiar gifts that were then commencing to be much in demand in those + circles. We were then entering that era of commercial and financial reform + which had been, if not absolutely occasioned, certainly precipitated, by + the revolt of our colonies. Knowledge of finance and acquaintance with + tariffs were then rare gifts, and before five years of his private + secretaryship had expired, Ferrars was mentioned to Mr. Pitt as the man at + the Treasury who could do something that the great minister required. This + decided his lot. Mr. Pitt found in Ferrars the instrument he wanted, and + appreciating all his qualities placed him in a position which afforded + them full play. The minister returned Ferrars to Parliament, for the + Treasury then had boroughs of its own, and the new member was preferred to + an important and laborious post. So long as Pitt and Grenville were in the + ascendant, Mr. Ferrars toiled and flourished. He was exactly the man they + liked; unwearied, vigilant, clear and cold; with a dash of natural sarcasm + developed by a sharp and varied experience. He disappeared from the active + world in the latter years of the Liverpool reign, when a newer generation + and more bustling ideas successfully asserted their claims; but he retired + with the solace of a sinecure, a pension, and a privy-councillorship. The + Cabinet he had never entered, nor dared to hope to enter. It was the + privilege of an inner circle even in our then contracted public life. It + was the dream of Ferrars to revenge in this respect his fate in the person + of his son, and only child. He was resolved that his offspring should + enjoy all those advantages of education and breeding and society of which + he himself had been deprived. For him was to be reserved a full initiation + in those costly ceremonies which, under the names of Eton and Christ + Church, in his time fascinated and dazzled mankind. His son, William Pitt + Ferrars, realised even more than his father’s hopes. Extremely + good-looking, he was gifted with a precocity of talent. He was the marvel + of Eton and the hope of Oxford. As a boy, his Latin verses threw + enraptured tutors into paroxysms of praise, while debating societies + hailed with acclamation clearly another heaven-born minister. He went up + to Oxford about the time that the examinations were reformed and rendered + really efficient. This only increased his renown, for the name of Ferrars + figured among the earliest double-firsts. Those were days when a crack + university reputation often opened the doors of the House of Commons to a + young aspirant; at least, after a season. But Ferrars had not to wait. His + father, who watched his career with the passionate interest with which a + Newmarket man watches the development of some gifted yearling, took care + that all the odds should be in his favour in the race of life. An old + colleague of the elder Mr. Ferrars, a worthy peer with many boroughs, + placed a seat at the disposal of the youthful hero, the moment he was + prepared to accept it, and he might be said to have left the University + only to enter the House of Commons. + </p> + <p> + There, if his career had not yet realised the dreams of his youthful + admirers, it had at least been one of progress and unbroken prosperity. + His first speech was successful, though florid, but it was on foreign + affairs, which permit rhetoric, and in those days demanded at least one + Virgilian quotation. In this latter branch of oratorical adornment Ferrars + was never deficient. No young man of that time, and scarcely any old one, + ventured to address Mr. Speaker without being equipped with a Latin + passage. Ferrars, in this respect, was triply armed. Indeed, when he + entered public life, full of hope and promise, though disciplined to a + certain extent by his mathematical training, he had read very little more + than some Latin writers, some Greek plays, and some treatises of + Aristotle. These with a due course of Bampton Lectures and some dipping + into the “Quarterly Review,” then in its prime, qualified a man in those + days, not only for being a member of Parliament, but becoming a candidate + for the responsibility of statesmanship. Ferrars made his way; for two + years he was occasionally asked by the minister to speak, and then Lord + Castlereagh, who liked young men, made him a Lord of the Treasury. He was + Under-Secretary of State, and “very rising,” when the death of Lord + Liverpool brought about the severance of the Tory party, and Mr. Ferrars, + mainly under the advice of zealots, resigned his office when Mr. Canning + was appointed Minister, and cast in his lot with the great destiny of the + Duke of Wellington. + </p> + <p> + The elder Ferrars had the reputation of being wealthy. It was supposed + that he had enjoyed opportunities of making money, and had availed himself + of them, but this was not true. Though a cynic, and with little respect + for his fellow-creatures, Ferrars had a pride in official purity, and when + the Government was charged with venality and corruption, he would observe, + with a dry chuckle, that he had seen a great deal of life, and that for + his part he would not much trust any man out of Downing Street. He had + been unable to resist the temptation of connecting his life with that of + an individual of birth and rank; and in a weak moment, perhaps his only + one, he had given his son a stepmother in a still good-looking and very + expensive Viscountess-Dowager. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars was anxious that his son should make a great alliance, but he + was so distracted between prudential considerations and his desire that in + the veins of his grand-children there should flow blood of undoubted + nobility, that he could never bring to his purpose that clear and + concentrated will which was one of the causes of his success in life; and, + in the midst of his perplexities, his son unexpectedly settled the + question himself. Though naturally cold and calculating, William Ferrars, + like most of us, had a vein of romance in his being, and it asserted + itself. There was a Miss Carey, who suddenly became the beauty of the + season. She was an orphan, and reputed to be no inconsiderable heiress, + and was introduced to the world by an aunt who was a duchess, and who + meant that her niece should be the same. Everybody talked about them, and + they went everywhere—among other places to the House of Commons, + where Miss Carey, spying the senators from the old ventilator in the + ceiling of St. Stephen’s Chapel, dropped in her excitement her + opera-glass, which fell at the feet of Mr. Under-Secretary Ferrars. He + hastened to restore it to its beautiful owner, whom he found accompanied + by several of his friends, and he was not only thanked, but invited to + remain with them; and the next day he called, and he called very often + afterwards, and many other things happened, and at the end of July the + beauty of the season was married not to a Duke, but to a rising man, who + Zenobia, who at first disapproved of the match—for Zenobia never + liked her male friends to marry—was sure would one day be Prime + Minister of England. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars was of the same opinion as Zenobia, for she was ambitious, + and the dream was captivating. And Mrs. Ferrars soon gained Zenobia’s good + graces, for she had many charms, and, though haughty to the multitude, was + a first-rate flatterer. Zenobia liked flattery, and always said she did. + Mr. Under-Secretary Ferrars took a mansion in Hill Street, and furnished + it with befitting splendour. His dinners were celebrated, and Mrs. Ferrars + gave suppers after the opera. The equipages of Mrs. Ferrars were + distinguished, and they had a large retinue of servants. They had only two + children, and they were twins, a brother and a sister, who were brought up + like the children of princes. Partly for them, and partly because a + minister should have a Tusculum, the Ferrars soon engaged a magnificent + villa at Wimbledon, which had the advantage of admirable stables, + convenient, as Mrs. Ferrars was fond of horses, and liked the children + too, with their fancy ponies, to be early accustomed to riding. All this + occasioned expenditure, but old Mr. Ferrars made his son a liberal + allowance, and young Mrs. Ferrars was an heiress, or the world thought so, + which is nearly the same, and then, too, young Mr. Ferrars was a rising + man, in office, and who would always be in office for the rest of his + life; at least, Zenobia said so, because he was on the right side and the + Whigs were nowhere, and never would be anywhere, which was quite right, as + they had wished to make us the slaves of Bonaparte. + </p> + <p> + When the King, after much hesitation, sent for Mr. Canning, on the + resignation of Lord Liverpool, the Zenobian theory seemed a little at + fault, and William Ferrars absolutely out of office had more than one + misgiving; but after some months of doubt and anxiety, it seemed after all + the great lady was right. The unexpected disappearance of Mr. Canning from + the scene, followed by the transient and embarrassed phantom of Lord + Goderich, seemed to indicate an inexorable destiny that England should be + ruled by the most eminent men of the age, and the most illustrious of her + citizens. William Ferrars, under the inspiration of Zenobia, had thrown in + his fortunes with the Duke, and after nine months of disquietude found his + due reward. In the January that succeeded the August conversation in St. + James’ Street with Sidney Wilton, William Ferrars was sworn of the Privy + Council, and held high office, on the verge of the Cabinet. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars had a dinner party in Hill Street on the day he had returned + from Windsor with the seals of his new office. The catastrophe of the + Goderich Cabinet, almost on the eve of the meeting of Parliament, had been + so sudden, that, not anticipating such a state of affairs, Ferrars, among + his other guests, had invited Sidney Wilton. He was rather regretting this + when, as his carriage stopped at his own door, he observed that very + gentleman on his threshold. + </p> + <p> + Wilton greeted him warmly, and congratulated him on his promotion. “I do + so at once,” he added, “because I shall not have the opportunity this + evening. I was calling here in the hope of seeing Mrs. Ferrars, and asking + her to excuse me from being your guest to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is rather awkward,” said Ferrars, “but I could have no idea of + this when you were so kind as to say you would come.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nothing of that sort,” said Sidney. “I am out and you are in, and I + hope you may be in for a long, long time. I dare say it may be so, and the + Duke is the man of the age, as you always said he was. I hope your being + in office is not to deprive me of your pleasant dinners; it would be too + bad to lose my place both at Whitehall and in Hill Street.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust that will never happen, my dear fellow; but to-day I thought it + might be embarrassing.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all; I could endure without wincing even the triumphant glances of + Zenobia. The fact is, I have some business of the most pressing nature + which has suddenly arisen, and which demands my immediate attention.” + </p> + <p> + Ferrars expressed his regret, though in fact he was greatly relieved, and + they parted. + </p> + <p> + Zenobia did dine with the William Ferrars to-day, and her handsome husband + came with her, a knight of the garter, and just appointed to a high office + in the household by the new government. Even the excitement of the hour + did not disturb his indigenous repose. It was a dignified serenity, quite + natural, and quite compatible with easy and even cordial manners, and an + address always considerate even when not sympathetic. He was not a loud or + a long talker, but his terse remarks were full of taste and a just + appreciation of things. If they were sometimes trenchant, the blade was of + fine temper. Old Mr. Ferrars was there and the Viscountess Edgware. His + hair had become quite silvered, and his cheek rosy as a December apple. + His hazel eyes twinkled with satisfaction as he remembered the family had + now produced two privy councillors. Lord Pomeroy was there, the great lord + who had returned William Ferrars to Parliament, a little man, quite, shy, + rather insignificant in appearance, but who observed everybody and + everything; a conscientious man, who was always doing good, in silence and + secrecy, and denounced as a boroughmonger, had never sold a seat in his + life, and was always looking out for able men of character to introduce + them to public affairs. It was not a formal party, but had grown up in + great degree out of the circumstances of the moment. There were more men + than women, and all men in office or devoted supporters of the new + ministry. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars, without being a regular beauty, had a voluptuous face and + form. Her complexion was brilliant, with large and long-lashed eyes of + blue. Her mouth was certainly too large, but the pouting richness of her + lips and the splendour of her teeth baffled criticism. She was a woman who + was always gorgeously or fantastically attired. + </p> + <p> + “I never can understand,” would sometimes observe Zenobia’s husband to his + brilliant spouse, “how affairs are carried on in this world. Now we have, + my dear, fifty thousand per annum; and I do not see how Ferrars can have + much more than five; and yet he lives much as we do, perhaps better. I + know Gibson showed me a horse last week that I very much wanted, but I + would not give him two hundred guineas for it. I called there to-day to + look after it again, for it would have suited me exactly, but I was told I + was too late, and it was sold to Mrs. Ferrars.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear, you know I do not understand money matters,” Zenobia said in + reply. “I never could; but you should remember that old Ferrars must be + very rich, and that William Ferrars is the most rising man of the day, and + is sure to be in the Cabinet before he is forty.” + </p> + <p> + Everybody had an appetite for dinner to-day, and the dinner was worthy of + the appetites. Zenobia’s husband declared to himself that he never dined + so well, though he gave his <i>chef</i> 500 pounds a year, and old Lord + Pomeroy, who had not yet admitted French wines to his own table, seemed + quite abashed with the number of his wine-glasses and their various + colours, and, as he tasted one succulent dish after another, felt a proud + satisfaction in having introduced to public life so distinguished a man as + William Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + With the dessert, not without some ceremony, were introduced the two most + remarkable guests of the entertainment, and these were the twins; children + of singular beauty, and dressed, if possible, more fancifully and + brilliantly than their mamma. They resembled each other, and had the same + brilliant complexion, rich chestnut hair, delicately arched brows, and + dark blue eyes. Though only eight years of age, a most unchildlike + self-possession distinguished them. The expression of their countenances + was haughty, disdainful, and supercilious. Their beautiful features seemed + quite unimpassioned, and they moved as if they expected everything to + yield to them. The girl, whose long ringlets were braided with pearls, was + ushered to a seat next to her father, and, like her brother, who was + placed by Mrs. Ferrars, was soon engaged in negligently tasting + delicacies, while she seemed apparently unconscious of any one being + present, except when she replied to those who addressed her with a stare + and a haughty monosyllable. The boy, in a black velvet jacket with large + Spanish buttons of silver filagree, a shirt of lace, and a waistcoat of + white satin, replied with reserve, but some condescension, to the + good-natured but half-humorous inquiries of the husband of Zenobia. + </p> + <p> + “And when do you go to school?” asked his lordship in a kind voice and + with a laughing eye. + </p> + <p> + “I shall go to Eton in two years,” replied the child without the slightest + emotion, and not withdrawing his attention from the grapes he was tasting, + or even looking at his inquirer, “and then I shall go to Christ Church, + and then I shall go into Parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “Myra,” said an intimate of the family, a handsome private secretary of + Mr. Ferrars, to the daughter of the house, as he supplied her plate with + some choicest delicacies, “I hope you have not forgotten your engagement + to me which you made at Wimbledon two years ago?” + </p> + <p> + “What engagement?” she haughtily inquired. + </p> + <p> + “To marry me.” + </p> + <p> + “I should not think of marrying any one who was not in the House of + Lords,” she replied, and she shot at him a glance of contempt. + </p> + <p> + The ladies rose. As they were ascending the stairs, one of them said to + Mrs. Ferrars, “Your son’s name is very pretty, but it is very uncommon, is + it not?” + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis a family name. The first Carey who bore it was a courtier of Charles + the First, and we have never since been without it. William wanted our boy + to be christened Pomeroy but I was always resolved, if I ever had a son, + that he should be named ENDYMION.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV + </h2> + <p> + About the time that the ladies rose from the dinner-table in Hill Street, + Mr. Sidney Wilton entered the hall of the Clarendon Hotel, and murmured an + inquiry of the porter. Whereupon a bell was rung, and soon a foreign + servant appeared, and bowing, invited Mr. Wilton to ascend the staircase + and follow him. Mr. Wilton was ushered through an ante-chamber into a room + of some importance, lofty and decorated, and obviously adapted for + distinguished guests. On a principal table a desk was open and many papers + strewn about. Apparently some person had only recently been writing there. + There were in the room several musical instruments; the piano was open, + there was a harp and a guitar. The room was rather dimly lighted, but + cheerful from the steady blaze of the fire, before which Mr. Wilton stood, + not long alone, for an opposite door opened, and a lady advanced leading + with her left hand a youth of interesting mien, and about twelve years of + age. The lady was fair and singularly thin. It seemed that her delicate + hand must really be transparent. Her cheek was sunk, but the expression of + her large brown eyes was inexpressibly pleasing. She wore her own hair, + once the most celebrated in Europe, and still uncovered. Though the + prodigal richness of the tresses had disappeared, the arrangement was + still striking from its grace. That rare quality pervaded the being of + this lady, and it was impossible not to be struck with her carriage as she + advanced to greet her guest; free from all affectation and yet full of + movement and gestures, which might have been the study of painters. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” she exclaimed as she gave him her hand, which he pressed to his + lips, “you are ever faithful.” + </p> + <p> + Seating themselves, she continued, “You have not seen my boy since he sate + upon your knee. Florestan, salute Mr. Wilton, your mother’s most cherished + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a sudden arrival,” said Mr. Wilton. + </p> + <p> + “Well, they would not let us rest,” said the lady. “Our only refuge was + Switzerland, but I cannot breathe among the mountains, and so, after a + while, we stole to an obscure corner of the south, and for a time we were + tranquil. But soon the old story: representations, remonstrances, + warnings, and threats, appeals to Vienna, and lectures from Prince + Metternich, not the less impressive because they were courteous, and even + gallant.” + </p> + <p> + “And had nothing occurred to give a colour to such complaints? Or was it + sheer persecution?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you know,” replied the lady, “we wished to remain quiet and + obscure; but where the lad is, they will find him out. It often astonishes + me. I believe if we were in the centre of a forest in some Indian isle, + with no companions but monkeys and elephants, a secret agent would appear—some + devoted victim of our family, prepared to restore our fortunes and + renovate his own. I speak the truth to you always. I have never + countenanced these people; I have never encouraged them; but it is + impossible rudely to reject the sympathy of those who, after all, are your + fellow-sufferers, and some of who have given proof of even disinterested + devotion. For my own part, I have never faltered in my faith, that + Florestan would some day sit on the throne of his father, dark as appears + to be our life; but I have never much believed that the great result could + be occasioned or precipitated by intrigues, but rather by events more + powerful than man, and led on by that fatality in which his father + believed.” + </p> + <p> + “And now you think of remaining here?” said Mr. Wilton. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the lady, “that I cannot do. I love everything in this country + except its climate and, perhaps, its hotels. I think of trying the south + of Spain, and fancy, if quite alone, I might vegetate there unnoticed. I + cannot bring myself altogether to quit Europe. I am, my dear Sidney, + intensely European. But Spain is not exactly the country I should fix upon + to form kings and statesmen. And this is the point on which I wish to + consult you. I want Florestan to receive an English education, and I want + you to put me in the way of accomplishing this. It might be convenient, + under such circumstances, that he should not obtrude his birth—perhaps, + that it should be concealed. He has many honourable names besides the one + which indicates the state to which he was born. But, on all these points, + we want your advice.” And she seemed to appeal to her son, who bowed his + head with a slight smile, but did not speak. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilton expressed his deep interest in her wishes, and promised to + consider how they might best be accomplished, and then the conversation + took a more general tone. + </p> + <p> + “This change of government in your country,” said the lady, “so + unexpected, so utterly unforeseen, disturbs me; in fact, it decided my + hesitating movements. I cannot but believe that the accession of the Duke + of Wellington to power must be bad, at least, for us. It is essentially + reactionary. They are triumphing at Vienna.” + </p> + <p> + “Have they cause?” said Mr. Wilton. “I am an impartial witness, for I have + no post in the new administration; but the leading colleagues of Mr. + Canning form part of it, and the conduct of foreign affairs remains in the + same hands.” + </p> + <p> + “That is consoling,” said the lady. “I wonder if Lord Dudley would see me. + Perhaps not. Ministers do not love pretenders. I knew him when I was not a + pretender,” added the lady, with the sweetest of smiles, “and thought him + agreeable. He was witty. Ah! Sidney, those were happy days. I look back to + the past with regret, but without remorse. One might have done more good, + but one did some;” and she sighed. + </p> + <p> + “You seemed to me,” said Sidney with emotion, “to diffuse benefit and + blessings among all around you.” + </p> + <p> + “And I read,” said the lady, a little indignant, “in some memoirs the + other day, that our court was a corrupt and dissolute court. It was a + court of pleasure, if you like; but of pleasure that animated and refined, + and put the world in good humour, which, after all, is good government. + The most corrupt and dissolute courts on the continent of Europe that I + have known,” said the lady, “have been outwardly the dullest and most + decorous.” + </p> + <p> + “My memory of those days,” said Mr. Wilton, “is of ceaseless grace and + inexhaustible charm.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the lady, “if I sinned I have at least suffered. And I hope + they were only sins of omission. I wanted to see everybody happy, and + tried to make them so. But let us talk no more of ourselves. The + unfortunate are always egotistical. Tell me something of Mr. Wilton; and, + above all, tell me why you are not in the new government.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not been invited,” said Mr. Wilton. “There are more claimants than + can be satisfied, and my claims are not very strong. It is scarcely a + disappointment to me. I shall continue in public life; but, so far as + political responsibility is concerned, I would rather wait. I have some + fancies on that head, but I will not trouble you with them. My time, + therefore, is at my command; and so,” he added smilingly, “I can attend to + the education of Prince Florestan.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear that, Florestan?” said the lady to her son; “I told you we + had a friend. Thank Mr. Wilton.” + </p> + <p> + And the young Prince bowed as before, but with a more serious expression. + He, however, said nothing. + </p> + <p> + “I see you have not forgotten your most delightful pursuit,” said Mr. + Wilton, and he looked towards the musical instruments. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the lady; “throned or discrowned, music has ever been the charm + or consolation of my life.” + </p> + <p> + “Pleasure should follow business,” said Mr. Wilton, “and we have + transacted ours. Would it be too bold if I asked again to hear those tones + which have so often enchanted me?” + </p> + <p> + “My voice has not fallen off,” said the lady, “for you know it was never + first-rate. But they were kind enough to say it had some expression, + probably because I generally sang my own words to my own music. I will + sing you my farewell to Florestan,” she added gaily, and took up her + guitar, and then in tones of melancholy sweetness, breaking at last into a + gushing burst of long-controlled affection, she expressed the agony and + devotion of a mother’s heart. Mr. Wilton was a little agitated; her son + left the room. The mother turned round with a smiling face, and said, “The + darling cannot bear to hear it, but I sing it on purpose, to prepare him + for the inevitable.” + </p> + <p> + “He is soft-hearted,” said Mr. Wilton. + </p> + <p> + “He is the most affectionate of beings,” replied the mother. “Affectionate + and mysterious. I can say no more. I ought to tell you his character. I + cannot. You may say he may have none. I do not know. He has abilities, for + he acquires knowledge with facility, and knows a great deal for a boy. But + he never gives an opinion. He is silent and solitary. Poor darling! he has + rarely had companions, and that may be the cause. He seems to me always to + be thinking.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, a public school will rouse him from his reveries,” said Mr. Wilton. + </p> + <p> + “As he is away at this moment, I will say that which I should not care to + say before his face,” said the lady. “You are about to do me a great + service, not the first; and before I leave this, we may—we must—meet + again more than once, but there is no time like the present. The + separation between Florestan and myself may be final. It is sad to think + of such things, but they must be thought of, for they are probable. I + still look in a mirror, Sidney; I am not so frightened by what has + occurred since we first met, to be afraid of that—but I never + deceive myself. I do not know what may be the magical effect of the + raisins of Malaga, but if it saves my life the grape cure will indeed + achieve a miracle. Do not look gloomy. Those who have known real grief + seldom seem sad. I have been struggling with sorrow for ten years, but I + have got through it with music and singing, and my boy. See now—he + will be a source of expense, and it will not do for you to be looking to a + woman for supplies. Women are generous, but not precise in money matters. + I have some excuse, for the world has treated me not very well. I never + got my pension regularly; now I never get it at all. So much for the + treaties, but everybody laughs at them. Here is the fortune of Florestan, + and I wish it all to be spent on his education,” and she took a case from + her bosom. “They are not the crown jewels, though. The memoirs I was + reading the other day say I ran away with them. That is false, like most + things said of me. But these are gems of Golconda, which I wish you to + realise and expend for his service. They were the gift of love, and they + were worn in love.” + </p> + <p> + “It is unnecessary,” said Mr. Wilton, deprecating the offer by his + attitude. + </p> + <p> + “Hush!” said the lady. “I am still a sovereign to you, and I must be + obeyed.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilton took the case of jewels, pressed it to his lips, and then + placed it in the breast pocket of his coat. He was about to retire, when + the lady added, “I must give you this copy of my song.” + </p> + <p> + “And you will write my name on it?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” replied the lady, as she went to the table and wrote, “For + Mr. Sidney Wilton, from AGRIPPINA.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V + </h2> + <p> + In the meantime, power and prosperity clustered round the roof and family + of Ferrars. He himself was in the prime of manhood, with an exalted + position in the world of politics, and with a prospect of the highest. The + Government of which he was a member was not only deemed strong, but + eternal. The favour of the Court and the confidence of the country were + alike lavished upon it. The government of the Duke could only be measured + by his life, and his influence was irresistible. It was a dictatorship of + patriotism. The country, long accustomed to a strong and undisturbed + administration, and frightened by the changes and catastrophes which had + followed the retirement of Lord Liverpool, took refuge in the powerful + will and splendid reputation of a real hero. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars was as ambitious of social distinction as her husband was of + political power. She was a woman of taste, but of luxurious taste. She had + a passion for splendour, which, though ever regulated by a fine perception + of the fitness of things, was still costly. Though her mien was in general + haughty, she flattered Zenobia, and consummately. Zenobia, who liked + handsome people, even handsome women, and persons who were dressed + beautifully, was quite won by Mrs. Ferrars, against whom at first she was + inclined to be a little prejudiced. There was an entire alliance between + them, and though Mrs. Ferrars greatly influenced and almost ruled Zenobia, + the wife of the minister was careful always to acknowledge the Queen of + Fashion as her suzerain. + </p> + <p> + The great world then, compared with the huge society of the present + period, was limited in its proportions, and composed of elements more + refined though far less various. It consisted mainly of the great landed + aristocracy, who had quite absorbed the nabobs of India, and had nearly + appropriated the huge West Indian fortunes. Occasionally, an eminent + banker or merchant invested a large portion of his accumulations in land, + and in the purchase of parliamentary influence, and was in time duly + admitted into the sanctuary. But those vast and successful invasions of + society by new classes which have since occurred, though impending, had + not yet commenced. The manufacturers, the railway kings, the colossal + contractors, the discoverers of nuggets, had not yet found their place in + society and the senate. There were then, perhaps, more great houses open + than at the present day, but there were very few little ones. The + necessity of providing regular occasions for the assembling of the + miscellaneous world of fashion led to the institution of Almack’s, which + died out in the advent of the new system of society, and in the fierce + competition of its inexhaustible private entertainments. + </p> + <p> + The season then was brilliant and sustained, but it was not flurried. + People did not go to various parties on the same night. They remained + where they were assembled, and, not being in a hurry, were more agreeable + than they are at the present day. Conversation was more cultivated; + manners, though unconstrained, were more stately; and the world, being + limited, knew itself much better. On the other hand, the sympathies of + society were more contracted than they are at present. The pressure of + population had not opened the heart of man. The world attended to its poor + in its country parishes, and subscribed and danced for the Spitalfields + weavers when their normal distress had overflowed, but their knowledge of + the people did not exceed these bounds, and the people knew very little + more about themselves. They were only half born. + </p> + <p> + The darkest hour precedes the dawn, and a period of unusual stillness + often, perhaps usually, heralds the social convulsion. At this moment the + general tranquillity and even content were remarkable. In politics the + Whigs were quite prepared to extend to the Duke the same provisional + confidence that had been accepted by Mr. Caning, and conciliation began to + be an accepted phrase, which meant in practice some share on their part of + the good things of the State. The country itself required nothing. There + was a general impression, indeed, that they had been advancing at a rather + rapid rate, and that it was as well that the reins should be entrusted to + a wary driver. Zenobia, who represented society, was enraptured that the + career of revolution had been stayed. She still mourned over the + concession of the Manchester and Liverpool Railway in a moment of Liberal + infatuation, but flattered herself that any extension of the railway + system might certainly be arrested, and on this head the majority of + society, perhaps even of the country, was certainly on her side. + </p> + <p> + “I have some good news for you,” said one of her young favourites as he + attended her reception. “We have prevented this morning the lighting of + Grosvenor Square by gas by a large majority.” + </p> + <p> + “I felt confident that disgrace would never occur,” said Zenobia, + triumphant. “And by a large majority! I wonder how Lord Pomeroy voted.” + </p> + <p> + “Against us.” + </p> + <p> + “How can one save this country?” exclaimed Zenobia. “I believe now the + story that he has ordered Lady Pomeroy not to go to the Drawing Room in a + sedan chair.” + </p> + <p> + One bright May morning in the spring that followed the formation of the + government that was to last for ever, Mrs. Ferrars received the world at a + fanciful entertainment in the beautiful grounds of her Wimbledon villa. + The day was genial, the scene was flushed with roses and pink thorns, and + brilliant groups, amid bursts of music, clustered and sauntered on the + green turf of bowery lawns. Mrs. Ferrars, on a rustic throne, with the + wondrous twins in still more wonderful attire, distributed alternate + observations of sympathetic gaiety to a Russian Grand Duke and to the + serene heir of a German principality. And yet there was really an + expression on her countenance of restlessness, not to say anxiety, which + ill accorded with the dulcet tones and the wreathed smiles which charmed + her august companions. Zenobia, the great Zenobia, had not arrived, and + the hours were advancing. The Grand Duke played with the beautiful and + haughty infants, and the German Prince inquired of Endymion whether he + were destined to be one of His Majesty’s guards; but still Zenobia did not + come, and Mrs. Ferrars could scarcely conceal her vexation. But there was + no real occasion for it. For even at this moment, with avant-courier and + outriders and badged postillions on her four horses of race, the + lodge-gates were opening for the great lady, who herself appeared in the + distance; and Mrs. Ferrars, accompanied by her distinguished guests, + immediately rose and advanced to receive the Queen of Fashion. No one + appreciated a royal presence more highly than Zenobia. It was her habit to + impress upon her noble fellows of both sexes that there were relations of + intimacy between herself and the royal houses of Europe, which were not + shared by her class. She liked to play the part of a social mediator + between the aristocracy and royal houses. A German Serenity was her + delight, but a Russian Grand Duke was her embodiment of power and pomp, + and sound principles in their most authentic and orthodox form. And yet + though she addressed their highnesses with her usual courtly vivacity, and + poured forth inquiries which seemed to indicate the most familiar + acquaintance with the latest incidents from Schonbrunn or the Rhine, + though she embraced her hostess, and even kissed the children, the + practised eye of Mrs. Ferrars, whose life was a study of Zenobia, detected + that her late appearance had been occasioned by an important cause, and, + what was more, that Zenobia was anxious to communicate it to her. With + feminine tact Mrs. Ferrars moved on with her guests until the occasion + offered when she could present some great ladies to the princes; and then + dismissing the children on appropriate missions, she was not surprised + when Zenobia immediately exclaimed: “Thank heaven, we are at last alone! + You must have been surprised I was so late. Well, guess what has + happened?” and then as Mrs. Ferrars shook her head, she continued: “They + are all four out!” + </p> + <p> + “All four!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; Lord Dudley, Lord Palmerston, and Charles Grant follow Huskisson. I + do not believe the first ever meant to go, but the Duke would not listen + to his hypocritical explanations, and the rest have followed. I am + surprised about Lord Dudley, as I know he loved his office.” + </p> + <p> + “I am alarmed,” said Mrs. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “Not the slightest cause for fear,” exclaimed the intrepid Zenobia. “It + must have happened sooner or later. I am delighted at it. We shall now + have a cabinet of our own. They never would have rested till they had + brought in some Whigs, and the country hates the Whigs. No wonder, when we + remember that if they had had their way we should have been wearing sabots + at this time, with a French prefect probably in Holland House.” + </p> + <p> + “And whom will they put in the cabinet?” inquired Mrs. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “Our good friends, I hope,” said Zenobia, with an inspiring smile; “but I + have heard nothing about that yet. I am a little sorry about Lord Dudley, + as I think they have drawn him into their mesh; but as for the other + three, especially Huskisson and Lord Palmerston, I can tell you the Duke + has never had a quiet moment since they joined him. We shall now begin to + reign. The only mistake was ever to have admitted them. I think now we + have got rid of Liberalism for ever.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars did not become a cabinet minister, but this was a vexation + rather than a disappointment, and transient. The unexpected vacancies were + filled by unexpected personages. So great a change in the frame of the + ministry, without any promotion for himself, was on the first impression + not agreeable, but reflection and the sanguine wisdom of Zenobia soon + convinced him that all was for the best, that the thought of such rapid + preferment was unreasonable, and that time and the due season must + inevitably bring all that he could desire, especially as any term to the + duration of the ministry was not now to be foreseen: scarcely indeed + possible. In short, it was shown to him that the Tory party, renovated and + restored, had entered upon a new lease of authority, which would stamp its + character on the remainder of the nineteenth century, as Mr. Pitt and his + school had marked its earlier and memorable years. + </p> + <p> + And yet this very reconstruction of the government necessarily led to an + incident which, in its consequences, changed the whole character of + English politics, and commenced a series of revolutions which has not yet + closed. + </p> + <p> + One of the new ministers who had been preferred to a place which Mr. + Ferrars might have filled was an Irish gentleman, and a member for one of + the most considerable counties in his country. He was a good speaker, and + the government was deficient in debating power in the House of Commons; he + was popular and influential. + </p> + <p> + The return of a cabinet minister by a large constituency was more + appreciated in the days of close boroughs than at present. There was a + rumour that the new minister was to be opposed, but Zenobia laughed the + rumour to scorn. As she irresistibly remarked at one of her evening + gatherings, “Every landowner in the county is in his favour; therefore it + is impossible.” The statistics of Zenobia were quite correct, yet the + result was different from what she anticipated. An Irish lawyer, a + professional agitator, himself a Roman Catholic and therefore ineligible, + announced himself as a candidate in opposition to the new minister, and on + the day of election, thirty thousand peasants, setting at defiance all the + landowners of the county, returned O’Connell at the head of the poll, and + placed among not the least memorable of historical events—the Clare + election. + </p> + <p> + This event did not, however, occur until the end of the year 1828, for the + state of the law then prevented the writ from being moved until that time, + and during the whole of that year the Ferrars family had pursued a course + of unflagging display. Courage, expenditure, and tact combined, had + realised almost the height of that social ambition to which Mrs. Ferrars + soared. Even in the limited and exclusive circle which then prevailed, she + began to be counted among the great dames. As for the twins, they seemed + quite worthy of their beautiful and luxurious mother. Proud, wilful, and + selfish, they had one redeeming quality, an intense affection for each + other. The sister seemed to have the commanding spirit, for Endymion was + calm, but if he were ruled by his sister, she was ever willing to be his + slave, and to sacrifice every consideration to his caprice and his + convenience. + </p> + <p> + The year 1829 was eventful, but to Ferrars more agitating than anxious. + When it was first known that the head of the cabinet, whose colleague had + been defeated at Clare, was himself about to propose the emancipation of + the Roman Catholics, there was a thrill throughout the country; but after + a time the success of the operation was not doubted, and was anticipated + as a fresh proof of the irresistible fortunes of the heroic statesman. + There was some popular discontent in the country at the proposal, but it + was mainly organised and stimulated by the Dissenters, and that section of + Churchmen who most resembled them. The High Church party, the descendants + of the old connection which had rallied round Sacheverell, had subsided + into formalism, and shrank from any very active co-operation with their + evangelical brethren. + </p> + <p> + The English Church had no competent leaders among the clergy. The spirit + that has animated and disturbed our latter times seemed quite dead, and no + one anticipated its resurrection. The bishops had been selected from + college dons, men profoundly ignorant of the condition and the wants of + the country. To have edited a Greek play with second-rate success, or to + have been the tutor of some considerable patrician, was the qualification + then deemed desirable and sufficient for an office, which at this day is + at least reserved for eloquence and energy. The social influence of the + episcopal bench was nothing. A prelate was rarely seen in the saloons of + Zenobia. It is since the depths of religious thought have been probed, and + the influence of woman in the spread and sustenance of religious feeling + has again been recognised, that fascinating and fashionable prelates have + become favoured guests in the refined saloons of the mighty, and, while + apparently indulging in the vanities of the hour, have re-established the + influence which in old days guided a Matilda or the mother of Constantine. + </p> + <p> + The end of the year 1829, however, brought a private event of moment to + the Ferrars family. The elder Mr. Ferrars died. The world observed at the + time how deeply affected his son was at this event. The relations between + father and son had always been commendable, but the world was hardly + prepared for Mr. Ferrars, junior, being so entirely overwhelmed. It would + seem that nothing but the duties of public life could have restored him to + his friends, and even these duties he relinquished for an unusual time. + The world was curious to know the amount of his inheritance, but the proof + of the will was unusually delayed, and public events soon occurred which + alike consigned the will and the will-maker to oblivion. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII + </h2> + <p> + The Duke of Wellington applied himself to the treatment of the critical + circumstances of 1830 with that blended patience and quickness of + perception to which he owed the success of so many campaigns. Quite + conscious of the difficulties he had to encounter, he was nevertheless + full of confidence in his ability to control them. It is probable that the + paramount desire of the Duke in his effort to confirm his power was to + rally and restore the ranks of the Tory party, disturbed rather than + broken up by the passing of the Relief Bill. During the very heat of the + struggle it was significantly observed that the head of the powerful + family of Lowther, in the House of Commons, was never asked to resign his + office, although he himself and his following voted invariably against the + Government measure. The order of the day was the utmost courtesy to the + rebels, who were treated, as some alleged, with more consideration than + the compliant. At the same time the desire of the Whigs to connect, + perhaps even to merge themselves with the ministerial ranks, was not + neglected. A Whig had been appointed to succeed the eccentric and too + uncompromising Wetherell in the office of attorney-general, other posts + had been placed at their disposal, and one even, an old companion in arms + of the Duke, had entered the cabinet. The confidence in the Duke’s star + was not diminished, and under ordinary circumstances this balanced + strategy would probably have been successful. But it was destined to cope + with great and unexpected events. + </p> + <p> + The first was the unexpected demise of the crown. The death of King George + the Fourth at the end of the month of June, according to the then existing + constitution, necessitated a dissolution of parliament, and so deprived + the minister of that invaluable quality of time, necessary to soften and + win back his estranged friends. Nevertheless, it is not improbable, that + the Duke might still have succeeded, had it not been for the occurrence of + the French insurrection of 1830, in the very heat of the preparations for + the general election in England. The Whigs who found the Duke going to the + country without that reconstruction of his ministry on which they had + counted, saw their opportunity and seized it. The triumphant riots of + Paris were dignified into “the three glorious days,” and the three + glorious days were universally recognised as the triumph of civil and + religious liberty. The names of Polignac and Wellington were adroitly + connected together, and the phrase Parliamentary Reform began to + circulate. + </p> + <p> + It was Zenobia’s last reception for the season; on the morrow she was + about to depart for her county, and canvass for her candidates. She was + still undaunted, and never more inspiring. The excitement of the times was + reflected in her manner. She addressed her arriving guests as they made + their obeisance to her, asked for news and imparted it before she could be + answered, declared that nothing had been more critical since ‘93, that + there was only one man who was able to deal with the situation, and + thanked Heaven that he was not only in England, but in her drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + Ferrars, who had been dining with his patron, Lord Pomeroy, and had the + satisfaction of feeling, that at any rate his return to the new parliament + was certain, while helping himself to coffee could not refrain from saying + in a low tone to a gentleman who was performing the same office, “Our Whig + friends seem in high spirits, baron.” + </p> + <p> + The gentleman thus addressed was Baron Sergius, a man of middle age. His + countenance was singularly intelligent, tempered with an expression mild + and winning. He had attended the Congress of Vienna to represent a fallen + party, a difficult and ungracious task, but he had shown such high + qualities in the fulfilment of his painful duties—so much knowledge, + so much self-control, and so much wise and unaffected conciliation—that + he had won universal respect, and especially with the English + plenipotentiaries, so that when he visited England, which he did + frequently, the houses of both parties were open to him, and he was as + intimate with the Whigs as he was with the great Duke, by whom he was + highly esteemed. + </p> + <p> + “As we have got our coffee, let us sit down,” said the baron, and they + withdrew to a settee against the wall. + </p> + <p> + “You know I am a Liberal, and have always been a Liberal,” said the baron; + “I know the value of civil and religious liberty, for I was born in a + country where we had neither, and where we have since enjoyed either very + fitfully. Nothing can be much drearier than the present lot of my country, + and it is probable that these doings at Paris may help my friends a + little, and they may again hold up their heads for a time; but I have seen + too much, and am too old, to indulge in dreams. You are a young man and + will live to see what I can only predict. The world is thinking of + something else than civil and religious liberty. Those are phrases of the + eighteenth century. The men who have won these ‘three glorious days’ at + Paris, want neither civilisation nor religion. They will not be content + till they have destroyed both. It is possible that they may be parried for + a time; that the adroit wisdom of the house of Orleans, guided by + Talleyrand, may give this movement the resemblance, and even the + character, of a middle-class revolution. It is no such thing; the + barricades were not erected by the middle class. I know these people; it + is a fraternity, not a nation. Europe is honeycombed with their secret + societies. They are spread all over Spain. Italy is entirely mined. I know + more of the southern than the northern nations; but I have been assured by + one who should know that the brotherhood are organised throughout Germany + and even in Russia. I have spoken to the Duke about these things. He is + not indifferent, or altogether incredulous, but he is so essentially + practical that he can only deal with what he sees. I have spoken to the + Whig leaders. They tell me that there is only one specific, and that a + complete one—constitutional government; that with representative + institutions, secret societies cannot co-exist. I may be wrong, but it + seems to me that with these secret societies representative institutions + rather will disappear.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII + </h2> + <p> + What unexpectedly took place in the southern part of England, and + especially in the maritime counties, during the autumn of 1830, seemed + rather to confirm the intimations of Baron Sergius. The people in the + rural districts had become disaffected. Their discontent was generally + attributed to the abuses of the Poor Law, and to the lowness of their + wages. But the abuses of the Poor Law, though intolerable, were generally + in favour of the labourer, and though wages in some parts were + unquestionably low, it was observed that the tumultuous assemblies, ending + frequently in riot, were held in districts where this cause did not + prevail. The most fearful feature of the approaching anarchy was the + frequent acts of incendiaries. The blazing homesteads baffled the feeble + police and the helpless magistrates; and the government had reason to + believe that foreign agents were actively promoting these mysterious + crimes. + </p> + <p> + Amid partial discontent and general dejection came the crash of the + Wellington ministry, and it required all the inspiration of Zenobia to + sustain William Ferrars under the trial. But she was undaunted and + sanguine as a morning in spring. Nothing could persuade her that the Whigs + could ever form a government, and she was quite sure that the clerks in + the public offices alone could turn them out. When the Whig government was + formed, and its terrible programme announced, she laughed it to scorn, and + derided with inexhaustible merriment the idea of the House of Commons + passing a Reform Bill. She held a great assembly the night that General + Gascoyne defeated the first measure, and passed an evening of ecstasy in + giving and receiving congratulations. The morrow brought a graver brow, + but still an indomitable spirit, and through all these tempestuous times + Zenobia never quailed, though mobs burnt the castles of dukes and the + palaces of bishops. + </p> + <p> + Serious as was the state of affairs to William Ferrars, his condition was + not so desperate as that of some of his friends. His seat at least was + safe in the new parliament that was to pass a Reform Bill. As for the + Tories generally, they were swept off the board. Scarcely a constituency, + in which was a popular element, was faithful to them. The counties in + those days were the great expounders of popular principles, and whenever + England was excited, which was rare, she spoke through her freeholders. In + this instance almost every Tory knight of the shire lost his seat except + Lord Chandos, the member for Buckinghamshire, who owed his success + entirely to his personal popularity. “Never mind,” said Zenobia, “what + does it signify? The Lords will throw it out.” + </p> + <p> + And bravely and unceasingly she worked for this end. To assist this + purpose it was necessary that a lengthened and powerful resistance to the + measure should be made in the Commons; that the public mind should be + impressed with its dangerous principles, and its promoters cheapened by + the exposure of their corrupt arrangements and their inaccurate details. + It must be confessed that these objects were resolutely kept in view, and + that the Tory opposition evinced energy and abilities not unworthy of a + great parliamentary occasion. Ferrars particularly distinguished himself. + He rose immensely in the estimation of the House, and soon the public + began to talk of him. His statistics about the condemned boroughs were + astounding and unanswerable: he was the only man who seemed to know + anything of the elements of the new ones. He was as eloquent too as exact,—sometimes + as fervent as Burke, and always as accurate as Cocker. + </p> + <p> + “I never thought it was in William Ferrars,” said a member, musingly, to a + companion as they walked home one night; “I always thought him a good man + of business, and all that sort of thing—but, somehow or other, I did + not think this was in him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he has a good deal at stake, and that brings it out of a fellow,” + said his friend. + </p> + <p> + It was, however, pouring water upon sand. Any substantial resistance to + the measure was from the first out of the question. Lord Chandos + accomplished the only important feat, and that was the enfranchisement of + the farmers. This perpetual struggle, however, occasioned a vast deal of + excitement, and the actors in it often indulged in the wild credulity of + impossible expectations. The saloon of Zenobia was ever thronged, and she + was never more confident than when the bill passed the Commons. She knew + that the King would never give his assent to the bill. His Majesty had had + quite enough of going down in hackney coaches to carry revolutions. After + all, he was the son of good King George, and the court would save the + country, as it had often done before. “But it will not come to that,” she + added. “The Lords will do their duty.” + </p> + <p> + “But Lord Waverley tells me,” said Ferrars, “that there are forty of them + who were against the bill last year who will vote for the second reading.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind Lord Waverley and such addlebrains,” said Zenobia, with a + smile of triumphant mystery. “So long as we have the court, the Duke, and + Lord Lyndhurst on our side, we can afford to laugh at such conceited + poltroons. His mother was my dearest friend, and I know he used to have + fits. Look bright,” she continued; “things never were better. Before a + week has passed these people will be nowhere.” + </p> + <p> + “But how it is possible?” + </p> + <p> + “Trust me.” + </p> + <p> + “I always do—and yet”—— + </p> + <p> + “You never were nearer being a cabinet minister,” she said, with a radiant + glance. + </p> + <p> + And Zenobia was right. Though the government, with the aid of the + waverers, carried the second reading of the bill, a week afterwards, on + May 7, Lord Lyndhurst rallied the waverers again to his standard and + carried his famous resolution, that the enfranchising clauses should + precede the disenfranchisement in the great measure. Lord Grey and his + colleagues resigned, and the King sent for Lord Lyndhurst. The bold chief + baron advised His Majesty to consult the Duke of Wellington, and was + himself the bearer of the King’s message to Apsley House. The Duke found + the King “in great distress,” and he therefore did not hesitate in + promising to endeavour to form a ministry. + </p> + <p> + “Who was right?” said Zenobia to Mr. Ferrars. “He is so busy he could not + write to you, but he told me to tell you to call at Apsley House at twelve + to-morrow. You will be in the cabinet.” + </p> + <p> + “I have got it at last!” said Ferrars to himself. “It is worth living for + and at any peril. All the cares of life sink into insignificance under + such circumstances. The difficulties are great, but their very greatness + will furnish the means of their solution. The Crown cannot be dragged in + the mud, and the Duke was born for conquest.” + </p> + <p> + A day passed, and another day, and Ferrars was not again summoned. The + affair seemed to hang fire. Zenobia was still brave, but Ferrars, who knew + her thoroughly, could detect her lurking anxiety. Then she told him in + confidence that Sir Robert made difficulties, “but there is nothing in + it,” she added. “The Duke has provided for everything, and he means Sir + Robert to be Premier. He could not refuse that; it would be almost an act + of treason.” Two days after she sent for Mr. Ferrars, early in the + morning, and received him in her boudoir. Her countenance was excited, but + serious. “Don’t be alarmed,” she said; “nothing will prevent a government + being formed, but Sir Robert has thrown us over; I never had confidence in + him. It is most provoking, as Mr. Baring had joined us, and it was such a + good name for the City. But the failure of one man is the opportunity of + another. We want a leader in the House of Commons. He must be a man who + can speak; of experience, who knows the House, its forms, and all that. + There is only one man indicated. You cannot doubt about him. I told you + honours would be tumbling on your head. You are the man; you are to have + one of the highest offices in the cabinet, and lead the House of Commons.” + </p> + <p> + “Peel declines,” said Ferrars, speaking slowly and shaking his head. “That + is very serious.” + </p> + <p> + “For himself,” said Zenobia, “not for you. It makes your fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “The difficulties seem too great to contend with.” + </p> + <p> + “What difficulties are there? You have got the court, and you have got the + House of Lords. Mr. Pitt was not nearly so well off, for he had never been + in office, and had at the same time to fight Lord North and that wicked + Mr. Fox, the orator of the day, while you have only got Lord Althorp, who + can’t order his own dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “I am in amazement,” said Ferrars, and he seemed plunged in thought. + </p> + <p> + “But you do not hesitate?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” he said, looking up dreamily, for he had been lost in abstraction; + and speaking in a measured and hollow voice, “I do not hesitate.” Then + resuming a brisk tone he said, “This is not an age for hesitation; if + asked, I will do the deed.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment there was a tap at the door, and the groom of the chambers + brought in a note for Mr. Ferrars, which had been forwarded from his own + residence, and which requested his presence at Apsley House. Having read + it, he gave it to Zenobia, who exclaimed with delight, “Do not lose a + moment. I am so glad to have got rid of Sir Robert with his doubts and his + difficulties. We want new blood.” + </p> + <p> + That was a wonderful walk for William Ferrars, from St. James’ Square to + Apsley House. As he moved along, he was testing his courage and capacity + for the sharp trials that awaited him. He felt himself not unequal to + conjectures in which he had never previously indulged even in imagination. + His had been an ambitious, rather than a soaring spirit. He had never + contemplated the possession of power except under the aegis of some + commanding chief. Now it was for him to control senates and guide + councils. He screwed himself up to the sticking-point. Desperation is + sometimes as powerful an inspirer as genius. + </p> + <p> + The great man was alone,—calm, easy, and courteous. He had sent for + Mr. Ferrars, because having had one interview with him, in which his + co-operation had been requested in the conduct of affairs, the Duke + thought it was due to him to give him the earliest intimation of the + change of circumstances. The vote of the house of Commons on the motion of + Lord Ebrington had placed an insurmountable barrier to the formation of a + government, and his Grace had accordingly relinquished the commission with + which he had been entrusted by the King. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX + </h2> + <p> + Availing himself of his latch-key, Ferrars re-entered his home unnoticed. + He went at once to his library, and locked the door of the apartment. + There sitting before his desk, he buried his face in his hands and + remained in that posture for a considerable time. + </p> + <p> + They were tumultuous and awful thoughts that passed over his brain. The + dreams of a life were dissipated, and he had to encounter the stern + reality of his position—and that was Ruin. He was without hope and + without resource. His debts were vast; his patrimony was a fable; and the + mysterious inheritance of his wife had been tampered with. The elder + Ferrars had left an insolvent estate; he had supported his son liberally, + but latterly from his son’s own resources. The father had made himself the + principal trustee of the son’s marriage settlement. His colleague, a + relative of the heiress, had died, and care was taken that no one should + be substituted in his stead. All this had been discovered by Ferrars on + his father’s death, but ambition, and the excitement of a life of blended + elation and peril, had sustained him under the concussion. One by one + every chance had vanished: first his private means and then his public + prospects; he had lost office, and now he was about to lose parliament. + His whole position, so long, and carefully, and skilfully built up, seemed + to dissolve and dissipate into insignificant fragments. And now he had to + break the situation to his wife. She was to become the unprepared partner + of the secret which had gnawed at his heart for years, during which to her + his mien had often been smiling and always serene. Mrs. Ferrars was at + home, and alone, in her luxurious boudoir, and he went to her at once. + After years of dissimulation, now that all was over, Ferrars could not + bear the suspense of four-and-twenty hours. + </p> + <p> + It was difficult to bring her into a mood of mind capable of comprehending + a tithe of what she had to learn; and yet the darkest part of the tale + she was never to know. Mrs. Ferrars, though singularly intuitive, shrank + from controversy, and settled everything by contradiction and assertion. + She maintained for a long time that what her husband communicated to her + could not be; that it was absurd and even impossible. After a while, she + talked of selling her diamonds and reducing her equipage, sacrificing + which she assumed would put everything right. And when she found her + husband still grave and still intimating that the sacrifices must be + beyond all this, and that they must prepare for the life and habits of + another social sphere, she became violent, and wept and declared her + wrongs; that she had been deceived and outraged and infamously treated. + </p> + <p> + Remembering how long and with what apparent serenity in her presence he + had endured his secret woes, and how one of the principal objects of his + life had ever been to guard her even from a shade of solicitude, even the + restrained Ferrars was affected; his countenance changed and his eyes + became suffused. When she observed this, she suddenly threw her arms round + his neck and with many embraces, amid sighs and tears, exclaimed, “O + William! if we love each other, what does anything signify?” + </p> + <p> + And what could anything signify under such circumstances and on such + conditions? As Ferrars pressed his beautiful wife to his heart, he + remembered only his early love, which seemed entirely to revive. + Unconsciously to himself, too, he was greatly relieved by this burst of + tenderness on her part, for the prospect of this interview had been most + distressful to him. “My darling,” he said, “ours is not a case of common + imprudence or misfortune. We are the victims of a revolution, and we must + bear our lot as becomes us under such circumstances. Individual + misfortunes are merged in the greater catastrophe of the country.” + </p> + <p> + “That is the true view,” said his wife; “and, after all, the poor King of + France is much worse off than we are. However, I cannot now buy the + Duchesse of Sevres’ lace, which I had promised her to do. It is rather + awkward. However, the best way always is to speak the truth. I must tell + the duchess I am powerless, and that we are the victims of a revolution, + like herself.” + </p> + <p> + Then they began to talk quite cosily together over their prospects, he + sitting on the sofa by her side and holding her hand. Mrs. Ferrars would + not hear of retiring to the continent. “No,” she said, with all her + sanguine vein returning, “you always used to say I brought you luck, and I + will bring you luck yet. There must be a reaction. The wheel will turn and + bring round our friends again. Do not let us then be out of the way. Your + claims are immense. They must do something for you. They ought to give you + India, and if we only set our mind upon it, we shall get it. Depend upon + it, things are not so bad as they seem. What appear to be calamities are + often the sources of fortune. I would much sooner that you should be + Governor-General than a cabinet minister. That odious House of Commons is + very wearisome. I am not sure any constitution can bear it very long. I am + not sure whether I would not prefer being Governor-General of India even + to being Prime-Minister.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X + </h2> + <p> + In consequence of the registration under the Reform Act it was not + possible for parliament to be dissolved, and an appeal made to the new + constituency, until the end of the year. This was advantageous to Mr. + Ferrars, and afforded him six months of personal security to arrange his + affairs. Both husband and wife were proud, and were anxious to quit the + world with dignity. All were so busy about themselves at that period, and + the vicissitudes of life between continental revolutions and English + reform so various and extensive, that it was not difficult to avoid the + scrutiny of society. Mrs. Ferrars broke to Zenobia that, as her husband + was no longer to be in parliament, they had resolved to retire for some + time to a country life, though, as Mr. Ferrars had at length succeeded in + impressing on his wife that their future income was to be counted by + hundreds, rather than thousands, it was difficult for her to realise a + rural establishment that should combine dignity and economy. Without, + however, absolutely alleging the cause, she contrived to baffle the + various propositions of this kind which the energetic Zenobia made to her, + and while she listened with apparent interest to accounts of deer parks, + and extensive shooting, and delightful neighbourhoods, would just exclaim, + “Charming! but rather more, I fancy, than we require, for we mean to be + very quiet till my girl is presented.” + </p> + <p> + That young lady was now thirteen, and though her parents were careful to + say nothing in her presence which would materially reveal their real + situation, for which they intended very gradually to prepare her, the + scrutinising powers with which nature had prodigally invested their + daughter were not easily baffled. She asked no questions, but nothing + seemed to escape the penetrative glance of that large dark blue eye, calm + amid all the mystery, and tolerating rather than sharing the frequent + embrace of her parents. After a while her brother came home from Eton, to + which he was never to return. A few days before this event she became + unusually restless, and even agitated. When he arrived, neither Mr. nor + Mrs. Ferrars was at home. He knocked gaily at the door, a schoolboy’s + knock, and was hardly in the hall when his name was called, and he caught + the face of his sister, leaning over the balustrade of the landing-place. + He ran upstairs with wondrous speed, and was in an instant locked in her + arms. She kissed him and kissed him again, and when he tried to speak, she + stopped his mouth with kisses. And then she said, “Something has happened. + What it is I cannot make out, but we are to have no more ponies.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI + </h2> + <p> + At the foot of the Berkshire downs, and itself on a gentle elevation, + there is an old hall with gable ends and lattice windows, standing in + grounds which once were stately, and where there are yet glade-like + terraces of yew trees, which give an air of dignity to a neglected scene. + In the front of the hall huge gates of iron, highly wrought, and bearing + an ancient date as well as the shield of a noble house, opened on a + village green, round which were clustered the cottages of the parish with + only one exception, and that was the vicarage house, a modern building, + not without taste, and surrounded by a small but brilliant garden. The + church was contiguous to the hall, and had been raised by the lord on a + portion of his domain. Behind the hall and its enclosure, the country was + common land but picturesque. It had once been a beech forest, and though + the timber had been greatly cleared, the green land was still occasionally + dotted, sometimes with groups and sometimes with single trees, while the + juniper which here abounded, and rose to a great height, gave a rich + wildness to the scene, and sustained its forest character. + </p> + <p> + Hurstley had for many years been deserted by the family to which it + belonged. Indeed, it was rather difficult to say to whom it did belong. A + dreary fate had awaited an ancient, and, in its time, even not immemorable + home. It had fallen into chancery, and for the last half-century had + either been uninhabited or let to strangers. Mr. Ferrars’ lawyer was in + the chancery suit, and knew all about it. The difficulty of finding a + tenant for such a place, never easy, was increased by its remoteness from + any railway communication, which was now beginning to figure as an + important element in such arrangements. The Master in Chancery would be + satisfied with a nominal rent, provided only he could obtain a family of + consideration to hold under him. Mr. Ferrars was persuaded to go down + alone to reconnoitre the place. It pleased him. It was aristocratic, yet + singularly inexpensive. The house contained an immense hall, which reached + the roof, and which would have become a baronial mansion, and a vast + staircase in keeping; but the living rooms were moderate, even small, in + dimensions, and not numerous. The land he was expected to take consisted + only of a few meadows, which he could let if necessary, and a single + labourer could manage the garden. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars was so delighted with the description of the galleried hall, + that she resolved on their taking Hurstley without even her previously + visiting it. The only things she cared for in the country were a hall and + a pony-chair. + </p> + <p> + All the carriages were sold, and all the servants discharged. Two or three + maid-servants and a man who must be found in the country, who could attend + them at table, and valet alike his master and the pony, was the + establishment which was to succeed the crowd of retainers who had so long + lounged away their lives in the saloons of Hill Street, and the groves and + gardens of Wimbledon. + </p> + <p> + Mr. and Mrs. Ferrars and their daughter travelled down to Hurstley in a + post-chaise; Endymion, with the servants, was sent by the stage-coach, + which accomplished the journey of sixty miles in ten hours. Myra said + little during the journey, but an expression of ineffable contempt and + disgust seemed permanent on her countenance. Sometimes she shrugged her + shoulders, sometimes she raised her eyebrows, and sometimes she turned up + her nose. And then she gave a sigh; but it was a sigh not of sorrow, but + of impatience. Her parents lavished attentions on her which she accepted + without recognition, only occasionally observing that she wished she had + gone with Endymion. + </p> + <p> + It was dusk when they arrived at Hurstley, and the melancholy hour did not + tend to raise their spirits. However, the gardener’s wife had lit a good + fire of beechwood in the drawing-room, and threw as they entered a pannier + of cones upon the logs, which crackled and cheerfully blazed away. Even + Myra seemed interested by the novelty of the wood fire and the iron dogs. + She remained by their side, looking abstractedly on the expiring logs, + while her parents wandered about the house and examined or prepared the + requisite arrangements. While they were yet absent, there was some noise + and a considerable bustle in the hall. Endymion and his retinue had + arrived. Then Myra immediately roused herself, and listened like a + startled deer. But the moment she caught his voice, an expression of + rapture suffused her countenance. It beamed with vivacity and delight. She + rushed away, pushed through the servants and the luggage, embraced him and + said, “We will go over the house and see our rooms together.” + </p> + <p> + Wandering without a guide and making many mistakes, fortunately they soon + met their parents. Mrs. Ferrars good-naturedly recommenced her labours of + inspection, and explained all her plans. There was a very pretty room for + Endymion, and to-morrow it was to be very comfortable. He was quite + pleased. Then they were shown Myra’s room, but she said nothing, standing + by with a sweet scoff, as it were, lingering on her lips, while her mother + disserted on all the excellences of the chamber. Then they were summoned + to tea. The gardener’s wife was quite a leading spirit, and had prepared + everything; the curtains were drawn, and the room lighted; an urn hissed; + there were piles of bread and butter and a pyramid of buttered toast. It + was wonderful what an air of comfort had been conjured up in this dreary + mansion, and it was impossible for the travellers, however wearied or + chagrined, to be insensible to the convenience and cheerfulness of all + around them. + </p> + <p> + When the meal was over, the children sate together in whispering tattle. + Mrs. Ferrars had left the room to see if all was ready for their hour of + retirement, and Mr. Ferrars was walking up and down the room, absorbed in + thought. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of it all, Endymion?” whispered Myra to her twin. + </p> + <p> + “I rather like it,” he said. + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with a glance of blended love and mockery, and then she + said in his ear, “I feel as if we had fallen from some star.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII + </h2> + <p> + The morrow brought a bright autumnal morn, and every one woke, if not + happy, interested. There was much to see and much to do. The dew was so + heavy that the children were not allowed to quit the broad gravel walk + that bounded one side of the old house, but they caught enticing vistas of + the gleamy glades, and the abounding light and shade softened and adorned + everything. Every sight and sound too was novel, and from the rabbit that + started out of the grove, stared at them and then disappeared, to the jays + chattering in the more distant woods, all was wonderment at least for a + week. They saw squirrels for the first time, and for the first time beheld + a hedgehog. Their parents were busy in the house; Mr. Ferrars unpacking + and settling his books, and his wife arranging some few articles of + ornamental furniture that had been saved from the London wreck, and + rendering their usual room of residence as refined as was in her power. It + is astonishing how much effect a woman of taste can produce with a pretty + chair or two full of fancy and colour, a table clothed with a few books, + some family miniatures, a workbag of rich material, and some toys that we + never desert. “I have not much to work with,” said Mrs. Ferrars, with a + sigh, “but I think the colouring is pretty.” + </p> + <p> + On the second day after their arrival, the rector and his wife made them a + visit. Mr. Penruddock was a naturalist, and had written the history of his + parish. He had escaped being an Oxford don by being preferred early to + this college living, but he had married the daughter of a don, who + appreciated the grand manners of their new acquaintances, and who, when + she had overcome their first rather awe-inspiring impression, became + communicative and amused them much with her details respecting the little + world in which they were now to live. She could not conceal her wonderment + at the beauty of the twins, though they were no longer habited in those + dresses which had once astonished even Mayfair. + </p> + <p> + Part of the scheme of the new life was the education of the children by + their parents. Mr. Ferrars had been a distinguished scholar, and was still + a good one. He was patient and methodical, and deeply interested in his + contemplated task. So far as disposition was concerned the pupil was not + disappointing. Endymion was of an affectionate disposition and inclined to + treat his father with deference. He was gentle and docile; but he did not + acquire knowledge with facility, and was remarkably deficient in that + previous information on which his father counted. The other pupil was of a + different temperament. She learned with a glance, and remembered with + extraordinary tenacity everything she had acquired. But she was neither + tender nor deferential, and to induce her to study you could not depend on + the affections, but only on her intelligence. So she was often fitful, + capricious, or provoking, and her mother, who, though accomplished and + eager, had neither the method nor the self-restraint of Mr. Ferrars, was + often annoyed and irritable. Then there were scenes, or rather ebullitions + on one side, for Myra was always unmoved and enraging from her total want + of sensibility. Sometimes it became necessary to appeal to Mr. Ferrars, + and her manner to her father, though devoid of feeling, was at least not + contemptuous. Nevertheless, on the whole the scheme, as time went on, + promised to be not unsuccessful. Endymion, though not rapidly, advanced + surely, and made some amends for the years that had been wasted in + fashionable private schools and the then frivolity of Eton. Myra, who, + notwithstanding her early days of indulgence, had enjoyed the advantage of + admirable governesses, was well grounded in more than one modern language, + and she soon mastered them. And in due time, though much after the period + on which we are now touching, she announced her desire to become + acquainted with German, in those days a much rarer acquirement than at + present. Her mother could not help her in this respect, and that was + perhaps an additional reason for the study of this tongue, for Myra was + impatient of tuition, and not unjustly full of self-confidence. She took + also the keenest interest in the progress of her brother, made herself + acquainted with all his lessons, and sometimes helped him in their + achievement. + </p> + <p> + Though they had absolutely no acquaintance of any kind except the rector + and his family, life was not dull. Mr. Ferrars was always employed, for + besides the education of his children, he had systematically resumed a + habit in which he had before occasionally indulged, and that was political + composition. He had in his lofty days been the author of more than one + essay, in the most celebrated political publication of the Tories, which + had commanded attention and obtained celebrity. Many a public man of high + rank and reputation, and even more than one Prime Minister, had + contributed in their time to its famous pages, but never without being + paid. It was the organic law of this publication, that gratuitous + contributions should never be admitted. And in this principle there was as + much wisdom as pride. Celebrated statesmen would point with complacency to + the snuff-box or the picture which had been purchased by their literary + labour, and there was more than one bracelet on the arm of Mrs. Ferrars, + and more than one genet in her stable, which had been the reward of a + profound or a slashing article by William. + </p> + <p> + What had been the occasional diversion of political life was now to be the + source of regular income. Though living in profound solitude, Ferrars had + a vast sum of political experience to draw upon, and though his training + and general intelligence were in reality too exclusive and academical for + the stirring age which had now opened, and on which he had unhappily + fallen, they nevertheless suited the audience to which they were + particularly addressed. His Corinthian style, in which the Maenad of Mr. + Burke was habited in the last mode of Almack’s, his sarcasms against the + illiterate and his invectives against the low, his descriptions of the + country life of the aristocracy contrasted with the horrors of the + guillotine, his Horatian allusions and his Virgilian passages, combined to + produce a whole which equally fascinated and alarmed his readers. + </p> + <p> + These contributions occasioned some communications with the editor or + publisher of the Review, which were not without interest. Parcels came + down by the coach, enclosing not merely proof sheets, but frequently new + books—the pamphlet of the hour before it was published, or a volume + of discoveries in unknown lands. It was a link to the world they had + quitted without any painful associations. Otherwise their communications + with the outside world were slight and rare. It is difficult for us, who + live in an age of railroads, telegraphs, penny posts and penny newspapers, + to realise how uneventful, how limited in thought and feeling, as well as + in incident, was the life of an English family of retired habits and + limited means, only forty years ago. The whole world seemed to be morally, + as well as materially, “adscripti glebae.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. and Mrs. Ferrars did not wish to move, but had they so wished, it + would have been under any circumstances for them a laborious and costly + affair. The only newspaper they saw was the “Evening Mail,” which arrived + three times a week, and was the “Times” newspaper with all its contents + except its advertisements. As the “Times” newspaper had the credit of + mainly contributing to the passing of Lord Grey’s Reform Bill, and was + then whispered to enjoy the incredible sale of twelve thousand copies + daily, Mr. Ferrars assumed that in its columns he would trace the most + authentic intimations of coming events. The cost of postage was then so + heavy, that domestic correspondence was necessarily very restricted. But + this vexatious limitation hardly applied to the Ferrars. They had never + paid postage. They were born and had always lived in the franking world, + and although Mr. Ferrars had now himself lost the privilege, both official + and parliamentary, still all their correspondents were frankers, and they + addressed their replies without compunction to those who were free. + Nevertheless, it was astonishing how little in their new life they cared + to avail themselves of this correspondence. At first Zenobia wrote every + week, almost every day, to Mrs. Ferrars, but after a time Mrs. Ferrars, + though at first pleased by the attention, felt its recognition a burthen. + Then Zenobia, who at length, for the first time in her life, had taken a + gloomy view of affairs, relapsed into a long silence, and in fact had + nearly forgotten the Ferrars, for as she herself used to say, “How can one + recollect people whom one never meets?” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, for we have been a little anticipating in our last + remarks, the family at Hurstley were much pleased with the country they + now inhabited. They made excursions of discovery into the interior of + their world, Mrs. Ferrars and Myra in the pony-chair, her husband and + Endymion walking by their side, and Endymion sometimes taking his sister’s + seat against his wish, but in deference to her irresistible will. Even + Myra could hardly be insensible to the sylvan wildness of the old chase, + and the romantic villages in the wooded clefts of the downs. As for + Endymion he was delighted, and it seemed to him, perhaps he unconsciously + felt it, that this larger and more frequent experience of nature was a + compensation for much which they had lost. + </p> + <p> + After a time, when they had become a little acquainted with simple + neighbourhood, and the first impression of wildness and novelty had worn + out, the twins were permitted to walk together alone, though within + certain limits. The village and its vicinity was quite free, but they were + not permitted to enter the woods, and not to wander on the chase out of + sight of the mansion. These walks alone with Endymion were the greatest + pleasure of his sister. She delighted to make him tell her of his life at + Eton, and if she ever sighed it was when she lamented that his residence + there had been so short. Then they found an inexhaustible fund of interest + and sympathy in the past. They wondered if they ever should have ponies + again. “I think not,” said Myra, “and yet how merry to scamper together + over this chase!” + </p> + <p> + “But they would not let us go,” said Endymion, “without a groom.” + </p> + <p> + “A groom!” exclaimed Myra, with an elfish laugh; “I believe, if the truth + were really known, we ought to be making our own beds and washing our own + dinner plates.” + </p> + <p> + “And are you sorry, Myra, for all that has happened?” asked Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “I hardly know what has happened. They keep it very close. But I am too + astonished to be sorry. Besides, what is the use of whimpering?” + </p> + <p> + “I cried very much one day,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you are soft, dear darling. I never cried in my life, except once + with rage.” + </p> + <p> + At Christmas a new character appeared on the stage, the rector’s son, + Nigel. He had completed a year with a private tutor, and was on the eve of + commencing his first term at Oxford, being eighteen, nearly five years + older than the twins. He was tall, with a countenance of remarkable + intelligence and power, though still softened by the innocence and bloom + of boyhood. He was destined to be a clergyman. The twins were often thrown + into his society, for though too old to be their mere companion, his + presence was an excuse for Mrs. Penruddock more frequently joining them in + their strolls, and under her auspices their wanderings had no limit, + except the shortness of the days; but they found some compensation for + this in their frequent visits to the rectory, which was a cheerful and + agreeable home, full of stuffed birds, and dried plants, and marvellous + fishes, and other innocent trophies and triumphs over nature. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII + </h2> + <p> + The tenant of the Manor Farm was a good specimen of his class; a thorough + Saxon, ruddy and bright visaged, with an athletic though rather bulky + frame, hardened by exposure to the seasons and constant exercise. Although + he was the tenant of several hundred acres, he had an eye to the main + chance in little things, which is a characteristic of farmers, but he was + good-natured and obliging, and while he foraged their pony, furnished + their woodyard with logs and faggots, and supplied them from his dairy, he + gratuitously performed for the family at the hall many other offices which + tended to their comfort and convenience, but which cost him nothing. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars liked to have a chat every now and then with Farmer + Thornberry, who had a shrewd and idiomatic style of expressing his + limited, but in its way complete, experience of men and things, which was + amusing and interesting to a man of the world whose knowledge of rural + life was mainly derived from grand shooting parties at great houses. + </p> + <p> + The pride and torment of Farmer Thornberry’s life was his only child, Job. + </p> + <p> + “I gave him the best of educations,” said the farmer; “he had a much + better chance than I had myself, for I do not pretend to be a scholar, and + never was; and yet I cannot make head or tail of him. I wish you would + speak to him some day, sir. He goes against the land, and yet we have been + on it for three generations, and have nothing to complain of; and he is a + good farmer, too, is Job, none better; a little too fond of experimenting, + but then he is young. But I am very much afraid he will leave me. I think + it is this new thing the big-wigs have set up in London that has put him + wrong, for he is always reading their papers.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is that?” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “Well, they call themselves the Society for the Diffusion of Knowledge, + and Lord Brougham is at the head of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! he is a dangerous man,” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know, I think he is,” said Farmer Thornberry, very seriously, “and + by this token, he says a knowledge of chemistry is necessary for the + cultivation of the soil.” + </p> + <p> + “Brougham is a man who would say anything,” said Mr. Ferrars, “and of one + thing you may be quite certain, that there is no subject which Lord + Brougham knows thoroughly. I have proved that, and if you ever have time + some winter evening to read something on the matter, I will lend you a + number of the ‘Quarterly Review,’ which might interest you.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would lend it to Job,” said the farmer. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars found Job not quite so manageable in controversy as his + father. His views were peculiar, and his conclusions certain. He had more + than a smattering too of political economy, a kind of knowledge which Mr. + Ferrars viewed with suspicion; for though he had himself been looked upon + as enlightened in this respect in the last years of Lord Liverpool, when + Lord Wallace and Mr. Huskisson were astonishing the world, he had + relapsed, after the schism of the Tory party, into orthodoxy, and was + satisfied that the tenets of the economists were mere theories, or could + only be reduced into practice by revolution. + </p> + <p> + “But it is a pleasant life, that of a farmer,” said Mr. Ferrars to Job. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but life should be something more than pleasant,” said Job, who + always looked discontented; “an ox in a pasture has a pleasant life.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and why should it not be a profitable one, too?” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “I do not see my way to that,” said Job moodily; “there is not much to be + got out of the land at any time, and still less on the terms we hold it.” + </p> + <p> + “But you are not high-rented!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, rent is nothing, if everything else were right, but nothing is + right,” said Job. “In the first place, a farmer is the only trader who has + no security for his capital.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you want a lease?” + </p> + <p> + “I should be very sorry to have a lease like any that I have seen,” + replied Job. “We had one once in our family, and we keep it as a + curiosity. It is ten skins long, and more tyrannical nonsense was never + engrossed by man.” + </p> + <p> + “But your family, I believe, has been on this estate for generations now,” + said Ferrars, “and they have done well.” + </p> + <p> + “They have done about as well as their stock. They have existed,” said + Job; “nothing more.” + </p> + <p> + “Your father always gives me quite the idea of a prosperous man,” said Mr. + Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “Whether he be or not I am sure I cannot say,” said Job; “for as neither + he nor any of his predecessors ever kept any accounts, it is rather + difficult to ascertain their exact condition. So long as he has money + enough in his pocket to pay his labourers and buy a little stock, my + father, like every British farmer, is content. The fact is, he is a serf + as much as his men, and until we get rid of feudalism he will remain so.” + </p> + <p> + “These are strong opinions,” said Mr. Ferrars, drawing himself up and + looking a little cold. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but they will make their way,” said Job. “So far as I myself am + concerned, I do not much care what happens to the land, for I do not mean + to remain on it; but I care for the country. For the sake of the country I + should like to see the whole thing upset.” + </p> + <p> + “What thing?” asked Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “Feudalism,” said Job. “I should like to see this estate managed on the + same principles as they do their great establishments in the north of + England. Instead of feudalism, I would substitute the commercial + principle. I would have long leases without covenants; no useless timber, + and no game.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you would destroy the country,” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “We owe everything to the large towns,” said Job. + </p> + <p> + “The people in the large towns are miserable,” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “They cannot be more miserable than the people in the country,” said Job. + </p> + <p> + “Their wretchedness is notorious,” said Mr. Ferrars. “Look at their + riots.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we had Swing in the country only two or three years ago.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars looked sad. The reminiscence was too near and too fatal. After + a pause he said with an air of decision, and as if imparting a state + secret, “If it were not for the agricultural districts, the King’s army + could not be recruited.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that would not break my heart,” said Job. + </p> + <p> + “Why, my good fellow, you are a Radical!” + </p> + <p> + “They may call me what they like,” said Job; “but it will not alter + matters. However, I am going among the Radicals soon, and then I shall + know what they are.” + </p> + <p> + “And can you leave your truly respectable parent?” said Mr. Ferrars rather + solemnly, for he remembered his promise to Farmer Thornberry to speak + seriously to his son. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! my respectable parent will do very well without me, sir. Only let him + be able to drive into Bamford on market day, and get two or three + linendrapers to take their hats off to him, and he will be happy enough, + and always ready to die for our glorious Constitution.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV + </h2> + <p> + Eighteen hundred and thirty-two, the darkest and most distressing year in + the life of Mr. Ferrars, closed in comparative calm and apparent content. + He was himself greatly altered, both in manner and appearance. He was kind + and gentle, but he was silent and rarely smiled. His hair was grizzled, + and he began to stoop. But he was always employed, and was interested in + his labours. + </p> + <p> + His sanguine wife bore up against their misfortunes with far more + animation. She was at first amused with her new life, and when she was + accustomed to it, she found a never-failing resource in her conviction of + a coming reaction. Mrs. Ferrars possessed most feminine qualities, and + many of them in excess. She could not reason, but her intuition was + remarkable. She was of opinion that “these people never could go on,” and + that they must necessarily be succeeded by William and his friends. In + vain her husband, when she pressed her views and convictions on him, would + shake his head over the unprecedented majority of the government, and sigh + while he acknowledged that the Tories absolutely did not now command one + fifth of the House of Commons; his shakes and sighs were equally + disregarded by her, and she persisted in her dreams of riding upon + elephants. + </p> + <p> + After all Mrs. Ferrars was right. There is nothing more remarkable in + political history than the sudden break-up of the Whig party after their + successful revolution of 1832. It is one of the most striking instances on + record of all the elements of political power being useless without a + commanding individual will. During the second year of their exile in the + Berkshire hills, affairs looked so black that it seemed no change could + occur except further and more calamitous revolution. Zenobia went to + Vienna that she might breathe the atmosphere of law and order, and hinted + to Mrs. Ferrars that probably she should never return—at least not + until Parliament met, when she trusted the House of Lords, if they were + not abolished in the interval, would save the country. And yet at the + commencement of the following year an old colleague of Mr. Ferrars + apprised him, in the darkest and deepest confidence, that “there was a + screw loose,” and he must “look out for squalls.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Mr. Ferrars increased and established his claims on his + party, if they ever did rally, by his masterly articles in their great + Review, which circumstances favoured and which kept up that increasing + feeling of terror and despair which then was deemed necessary for the + advancement of Conservative opinions. + </p> + <p> + At home a year or more had elapsed without change. The occasional + appearance of Nigel Penruddock was the only event. It was to all a + pleasing, and to some of the family a deeply interesting one. Nigel, + though a student and devoted to the holy profession for which he was + destined, was also a sportsman. His Christianity was muscular, and + Endymion, to whom he had taken a fancy, became the companion of his + pastimes. All the shooting of the estate was at Nigel’s command, but as + there were no keepers, it was of course very rough work. Still it was a + novel and animating life for Endymion; and though the sport was slight, + the pursuit was keen. Then Nigel was a great fisherman, and here their + efforts had a surer return, for they dwelt in a land of trout streams, and + in their vicinity was a not inconsiderable river. It was an adventure of + delight to pursue some of these streams to their source, throwing, as they + rambled on, the fly in the rippling waters. Myra, too, took some pleasure + in these fishing expeditions, carrying their luncheon and a German book in + her wallet, and sitting quietly on the bank for hours, when they had fixed + upon some favoured pool for a prolonged campaign. + </p> + <p> + Every time that Nigel returned home, a difference, and a striking + difference, was observed in him. His person, of course, became more manly, + his manner more assured, his dress more modish. It was impossible to deny + that he was extremely good-looking, interesting in his discourse, and + distinguished in his appearance. Endymion idolised him. Nigel was his + model. He imitated his manner, caught the tone of his voice, and began to + give opinions on subjects, sacred and profane. + </p> + <p> + After a hard morning’s march, one day, as they were lolling on the turf + amid the old beeches and the juniper, Nigel said— + </p> + <p> + “What does Mr. Ferrars mean you to be, Endymion?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know,” said Endymion, looking perplexed. + </p> + <p> + “But I suppose you are to be something?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I suppose I must be something; because papa has lost his fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “And what would you like to be?” + </p> + <p> + “I never thought about it,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “In my opinion there is only one thing for a man to be in this age,” said + Nigel peremptorily; “he should go into the Church.” + </p> + <p> + “The Church!” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “There will soon be nothing else left,” said Nigel. “The Church must last + for ever. It is built upon a rock. It was founded by God; all other + governments have been founded by men. When they are destroyed, and the + process of destruction seems rapid, there will be nothing left to govern + mankind except the Church.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Endymion; “papa is very much in favour of the Church, and, + I know, is writing something about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but Mr. Ferrars is an Erastian,” said Nigel; “you need not tell him + I said so, but he is one. He wants the Church to be the servant of the + State, and all that sort of thing, but that will not do any longer. This + destruction of the Irish bishoprics has brought affairs to a crisis. No + human power has the right to destroy a bishopric. It is a + divinely-ordained office, and when a diocese is once established, it is + eternal.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said Endymion, much interested. + </p> + <p> + “I wish,” continued Nigel, “you were two or three years older, and Mr. + Ferrars could send you to Oxford. That is the place to understand these + things, and they will soon be the only things to understand. The rector + knows nothing about them. My father is thoroughly high and dry, and has + not the slightest idea of Church principles.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “It is quite a new set even at Oxford,” continued Nigel; “but their + principles are as old as the Apostles, and come down from them, straight.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a long time ago,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “I have a great fancy,” continued Nigel, without apparently attending to + him, “to give you a thorough Church education. It would be the making of + you. You would then have a purpose in life, and never be in doubt or + perplexity on any subject. We ought to move heaven and earth to induce Mr. + Ferrars to send you to Oxford.” + </p> + <p> + “I will speak to Myra about it,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “I said something of this to your sister the other day,” said Nigel, “but + I fear she is terribly Erastian. However, I will give you something to + read. It is not very long, but you can read it at your leisure, and then + we will talk over it afterwards, and perhaps I may give you something + else.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion did not fail to give a report of this conversation and similar + ones to his sister, for he was in the habit of telling her everything. She + listened with attention, but not with interest, to his story. Her + expression was kind, but hardly serious. Her wondrous eyes gave him a + glance of blended mockery and affection. “Dear darling,” she said, “if you + are to be a clergyman, I should like you to be a cardinal.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV + </h2> + <p> + The dark deep hints that had reached Mr. Ferrars at the beginning of 1834 + were the harbingers of startling events. In the spring it began to be + rumoured among the initiated, that the mighty Reform Cabinet with its + colossal majority, and its testimonial goblets of gold, raised by the + penny subscriptions of the grateful people, was in convulsions, and before + the month of July had elapsed Lord Grey had resigned, under circumstances + which exhibited the entire demoralisation of his party. Except Zenobia, + every one was of the opinion that the King acted wisely in entrusting the + reconstruction of the Whig ministry to his late Secretary of State, Lord + Melbourne. Nevertheless, it could no longer be concealed, nay, it was + invariably admitted, that the political situation had been largely and + most unexpectedly changed, and that there was a prospect, dim, perhaps, + yet not undefinable, of the conduct of public affairs again falling to the + alternate management of two rival constitutional parties. + </p> + <p> + Zenobia was so full of hope, and almost of triumph, that she induced her + lord in the autumn to assemble their political friends at one of his great + seats, and Mr. and Mrs. Ferrars were urgently invited to join the party. + But, after some hesitation, they declined this proposal. Had Mr. Ferrars + been as sanguine as his wife, he would perhaps have overcome his strong + disinclination to re-enter the world, but though no longer despairing of a + Tory revival, he was of opinion that a considerable period, even several + years, must elapse before its occurrence. Strange to say, he found no + difficulty in following his own humour through any contrary disposition on + the part of Mrs. Ferrars. With all her ambition and passionate love of + society, she was unwilling to return to that stage, where she once had + blazed, in a subdued and almost subordinate position. In fact, it was an + affair of the wardrobe. The queen of costumes, whose fanciful and gorgeous + attire even Zenobia was wont to praise, could not endure a reappearance in + old dresses. “I do not so much care about my jewels, William,” she said to + her husband, “but one must have new dresses.” + </p> + <p> + It was a still mild day in November, a month which in the country, and + especially on the light soils, has many charms, and the whole Ferrars + family were returning home after an afternoon ramble on the chase. The + leaf had changed but had not fallen, and the vast spiral masses of the + dark green juniper effectively contrasted with the rich brown foliage of + the beech, varied occasionally by the scarlet leaves of the wild cherry + tree, that always mingles with these woods. Around the house were some + lime trees of large size, and at this period of the year their foliage, + still perfect, was literally quite golden. They seemed like trees in some + fairy tale of imprisoned princesses or wandering cavaliers, and such they + would remain, until the fatal night that brings the first frost. + </p> + <p> + “There is a parcel from London,” said the servant to Mr. Ferrars, as they + entered the house. “It is on your desk.” + </p> + <p> + A parcel from London was one of the great events of their life. What could + it be? Perhaps some proofs, probably some books. Mr. Ferrars entered his + room alone. It was a very small brown paper parcel, evidently not books. + He opened it hastily, and disencumbered its contents of several coverings. + The contents took the form of a letter—a single letter. + </p> + <p> + The handwriting was recognised, and he read the letter with an agitated + countenance, and then he opened the door of his room, and called loudly + for his wife, who was by his side in a few moments. + </p> + <p> + “A letter, my love, from Barron,” he cried. “The King has dismissed Lord + Melbourne and sent for the Duke of Wellington, who has accepted the + conduct of affairs.” + </p> + <p> + “You must go to town directly,” said his wife. “He offered you the Cabinet + in 1832. No person has such a strong claim on him as you have.” + </p> + <p> + “It does not appear that he is exactly prime minister,” said Mr. Ferrars, + looking again at the letter. “They have sent for Peel, who is at Rome, but + the Duke is to conduct the government till he arrives.” + </p> + <p> + “You must go to town immediately,” repeated Mrs. Ferrars. “There is not a + moment to be lost. Send down to the Horse Shoe and secure an inside place + in the Salisbury coach. It reaches this place at nine to-morrow morning. I + will have everything ready. You must take a portmanteau and a carpet-bag. + I wonder if you could get a bedroom at the Rodneys’. It would be so nice + to be among old friends; they must feel for you. And then it will be near + the Carlton, which is a great thing. I wonder how he will form his + cabinet. What a pity he is not here!” + </p> + <p> + “It is a wonderful event, but the difficulties must be immense,” observed + Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you always see difficulties. I see none. The King is with us, the + country is disgusted. It is what I always said would be; the reaction is + complete.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we had better now go and tell the children,” said Ferrars. “I leave + you all here for the first time,” and he seemed to sigh. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I hope we shall soon join you,” said Mrs. Ferrars. “It is the very + best time for hiring a house. What I have set my heart upon is the Green + Park. It will be near your office and not too near. I am sure I could not + live again in a street.” + </p> + <p> + The children were informed that public events of importance had occurred, + that the King had changed his ministry, and that papa must go up to town + immediately and see the Duke of Wellington. The eyes of Mrs. Ferrars + danced with excitement as she communicated to them all this intelligence, + and much more, with a volubility in which of late years she had rarely + indulged. Mr. Ferrars looked grave and said little. Then he patted + Endymion on the head, and kissed Myra, who returned his embrace with a + warmth unusual with her. + </p> + <p> + The whole household soon became in a state of bustle with the preparations + for the early departure of Mr. Ferrars. It seemed difficult to comprehend + how filling a portmanteau and a carpet-bag could induce such excited and + continuous exertions. But then there was so much to remember, and then + there was always something forgotten. Mrs. Ferrars was in her bedroom + surrounded by all her maids; Mr. Ferrars was in his study looking out some + papers which it was necessary to take with him. The children were alone. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder if we shall be restored to our greatness,” said Myra to + Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I shall be sorry to leave the old place; I have been happy here.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not,” said Myra; “and I do not think I could have borne this life + had it not been for you.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be a wonderful change,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “If it comes; I fear papa is not daring enough. However, if we get out of + this hole, it will be something.” + </p> + <p> + Tea-time brought them all together again, but when the meal was over, none + of the usual occupations of the evening were pursued; no work, no books, + no reading aloud. Mr. Ferrars was to get up very early, and that was a + reason for all retiring soon. And yet neither the husband nor the wife + really cared to sleep. Mrs. Ferrars sate by the fire in his dressing-room, + speculating on all possible combinations, and infusing into him all her + suggestions and all her schemes. She was still prudent, and still would + have preferred a great government—India if possible; but had made up + her mind that he must accept the cabinet. Considering what had occurred in + 1832, she thought he was bound in honour to do so. Her husband listened + rather than conversed, and seemed lost in thought. At last he rose, and, + embracing her with much affection, said, “You forget I am to rise with the + lark. I shall write to you every day. Best and dearest of women, you have + always been right, and all my good fortune has come from you.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI + </h2> + <p> + It was a very tedious journey, and it took the whole day to accomplish a + distance which a rapid express train now can achieve in an hour. The coach + carried six inside passengers, and they had to dine on the road. All the + passengers were strangers to Mr. Ferrars, and he was by them unknown; one + of them purchased, though with difficulty, a second edition of the “Times” + as they approached London, and favoured his fellow-travellers with the + news of the change of ministry. There was much excitement, and the + purchaser of the paper gave it as his opinion, “that it was an intrigue of + the Court and the Tories, and would never do.” Another modestly intimated + that he thought there was a decided reaction. A third announced that + England would never submit to be governed by O’Connell. + </p> + <p> + As the gloom of evening descended, Mr. Ferrars felt depressed. Though his + life at Hurstley had been pensive and melancholy, he felt now the charm + and the want of that sweet domestic distraction which had often prevented + his mind from over-brooding, and had softened life by sympathy in little + things. Nor was it without emotion that he found himself again in London, + that proud city where once he had himself been so proud. The streets were + lighted, and seemed swarming with an infinite population, and the coach + finally stopped at a great inn in the Strand, where Mr. Ferrars thought it + prudent to secure accommodation for the night. It was too late to look + after the Rodneys, but in deference to the strict injunction of Mrs. + Ferrars, he paid them a visit next morning on his way to his political + chief. + </p> + <p> + In the days of the great modistes, when an English lady might absolutely + be dressed in London, the most celebrated mantua-maker in that city was + Madame Euphrosyne. She was as fascinating as she was fashionable. She was + so graceful, her manners were so pretty, so natural, and so insinuating! + She took so lively an interest in her clients—her very heart was in + their good looks. She was a great favourite of Mrs. Ferrars, and that lady + of Madame Euphrosyne. She assured Mrs. Ferrars that she was prouder of + dressing Mrs. Ferrars than all the other fine ladies in London together, + and Mrs. Ferrars believed her. Unfortunately, while in the way of making a + large fortune, Madame Euphrosyne, who was romantic, fell in love with, and + married, a very handsome and worthless husband, whose good looks had + obtained for him a position in the company of Drury Lane Theatre, then a + place of refined resort, which his abilities did not justify. After + pillaging and plundering his wife for many years, he finally involved her + in such engagements, that she had to take refuge in the Bankruptcy Court. + Her business was ruined, and her spirit was broken, and she died shortly + after of adversity and chagrin. Her daughter Sylvia was then eighteen, and + had inherited with the grace of her mother the beauty of her less + reputable parent. Her figure was slight and undulating, and she was always + exquisitely dressed. A brilliant complexion set off to advantage her + delicate features, which, though serene, were not devoid of a certain + expression of archness. Her white hands were delicate, her light eyes + inclined to merriment, and her nose quite a gem, though a little turned + up. + </p> + <p> + After their ruin, her profligate father told her that her face was her + fortune, and that she must provide for herself, in which she would find no + difficulty. But Sylvia, though she had never enjoyed the advantage of any + training, moral or religious, had no bad impulses even if she had no good + ones, was of a rather cold character, and extremely prudent. She recoiled + from the life of riot, and disorder, and irregularity, in which she had + unwittingly passed her days, and which had terminated so tragically, and + she resolved to make an effort to secure for herself a different career. + She had heard that Mrs. Ferrars was in want of an attendant, and she + determined to apply for the post. As one of the chief customers of her + mother, Sylvia had been in the frequent habit of waiting on that lady, + with whom she had become a favourite. She was so pretty, and the only + person who could fit Mrs. Ferrars. Her appeal, therefore, was not in vain; + it was more than successful. Mrs. Ferrars was attracted by Sylvia. Mrs. + Ferrars was magnificent, generous, and she liked to be a patroness and + surrounded by favourites. She determined that Sylvia should not sink into + a menial position; she adopted her as a humble friend, and one who every + day became more regarded by her. Sylvia arranged her invitations to her + receptions, a task which required finish and precision; sometimes wrote + her notes. She spoke and wrote French too, and that was useful, was a + musician, and had a pretty voice. Above all, she was a first-rate + counsellor in costume; and so, looking also after Mrs. Ferrars’ dogs and + birds, she became almost one of the family; dined with them often when + they were alone, and was frequently Mrs. Ferrars’ companion in her + carriage. + </p> + <p> + Sylvia, though not by nature impulsive, really adored her patroness. She + governed her manners and she modelled her dress on that great original, + and, next to Mrs. Ferrars, Sylvia in time became nearly the finest lady in + London. There was, indeed, much in Mrs. Ferrars to captivate a person like + Sylvia. Mrs. Ferrars was beautiful, fashionable, gorgeous, wonderfully + expensive, and, where her taste was pleased, profusely generous. Her + winning manner was not less irresistible because it was sometimes + uncertain, and she had the art of being intimate without being familiar. + </p> + <p> + When the crash came, Sylvia was really broken-hearted, or believed she + was, and implored that she might attend the deposed sovereigns into exile; + but that was impossible, however anxious they might be as to the future of + their favourite. Her destiny was sooner decided than they could have + anticipated. There was a member of the household, or rather family, in + Hill Street, who bore almost the same relation to Mr. Ferrars as Sylvia to + his wife. This was Mr. Rodney, a remarkably good-looking person, by nature + really a little resembling his principal, and completing the resemblance + by consummate art. The courtiers of Alexander of Macedonia could not study + their chief with more devotion, or more sedulously imitate his mien and + carriage, than did Mr. Rodney that distinguished individual of whom he was + the humble friend, and who he was convinced was destined to be Prime + Minister of England. Mr. Rodney was the son of the office-keeper of old + Mr. Ferrars, and it was the ambition of the father that his son, for whom + he had secured a sound education, should become a member of the civil + service. It had become an apothegm in the Ferrars family that something + must be done for Rodney, and whenever the apparent occasion failed, which + was not unfrequent, old Mr. Ferrars used always to add, “Never mind; so + long as I live, Rodney shall never want a home.” The object of all this + kindness, however, was little distressed by their failures in his + preferment. He had implicit faith in the career of his friend and master, + and looked forward to the time when it might not be impossible that he + himself might find a haven in a commissionership. Recently Mr. Ferrars had + been able to confer on him a small post with duties not too engrossing, + and which did not prevent his regular presence in Hill Street, where he + made himself generally useful. + </p> + <p> + If there were anything confidential to be accomplished in their domestic + life, everything might be trusted to his discretion and entire devotion. + He supervised the establishment without injudiciously interfering with the + house-steward, copied secret papers for Mr. Ferrars, and when that + gentleman was out of office acted as his private secretary. Mr. Rodney was + the most official person in the ministerial circle. He considered human + nature only with reference to office. No one was so intimately acquainted + with all the details of the lesser patronage as himself, and his hours of + study were passed in the pages of the “Peerage” and in penetrating the + mysteries of the “Royal Calendar.” + </p> + <p> + The events of 1832, therefore, to this gentleman were scarcely a less + severe blow than to the Ferrars family itself. Indeed, like his chief, he + looked upon himself as the victim of a revolution. Mr. Rodney had always + been an admirer of Sylvia, but no more. He had accompanied her to the + theatre, and had attended her to the park, but this was quite understood + on both sides only to be gallantry; both, perhaps, in their prosperity, + with respect to the serious step of life, had indulged in higher dreams. + But the sympathy of sorrow is stronger than the sympathy of prosperity. In + the darkness of their lives, each required comfort: he murmured some + accents of tender solace, and Sylvia agreed to become Mrs. Rodney. + </p> + <p> + When they considered their position, the prospect was not free from + anxiety. To marry and then separate is, where there is affection, trying. + His income would secure them little more than a roof, but how to live + under that roof was a mystery. For her to become a governess, and for him + to become a secretary, and to meet only on an occasional Sunday, was a + sorry lot. And yet both possessed accomplishments or acquirements which + ought in some degree to be productive. Rodney had a friend, and he + determined to consult him. + </p> + <p> + That friend was no common person; he was Mr. Vigo, by birth a + Yorkshireman, and gifted with all the attributes, physical and + intellectual, of that celebrated race. At present he was the most + fashionable tailor in London, and one whom many persons consulted. Besides + being consummate in his art, Mr. Vigo had the reputation of being a man of + singularly good judgment. He was one who obtained influence over all with + whom he came in contact, and as his business placed him in contact with + various classes, but especially with the class socially most + distinguished, his influence was great. The golden youth who repaired to + his counters came there not merely to obtain raiment of the best material + and the most perfect cut, but to see and talk with Mr. Vigo, and to ask + his opinion on various points. There was a spacious room where, if they + liked, they might smoke a cigar, and “Vigo’s cigars” were something which + no one could rival. If they liked to take a glass of hock with their + tobacco, there was a bottle ready from the cellars of Johannisberg. Mr. + Vigo’s stable was almost as famous as its master; he drove the finest + horses in London, and rode the best hunters in the Vale of Aylesbury. With + all this, his manners were exactly what they should be. He was neither + pretentious nor servile, but simple, and with becoming respect for others + and for himself. He never took a liberty with any one, and such treatment, + as is generally the case, was reciprocal. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Vigo was much attached to Mr. Rodney, and was proud of his intimate + acquaintance with him. He wanted a friend not of his own order, for that + would not increase or improve his ideas, but one conversant with the + habits and feelings of a superior class, and yet he did not want a fine + gentleman for an intimate, who would have been either an insolent patron + or a designing parasite. Rodney had relations with the aristocracy, with + the political world, and could feel the pulse of public life. His + appearance was engaging, his manners gentle if not gentlemanlike, and he + had a temper never disturbed. This is a quality highly appreciated by men + of energy and fire, who may happen not to have a complete self-control. + </p> + <p> + When Rodney detailed to his friend the catastrophe that had occurred and + all its sad consequences, Mr. Vigo heard him in silence, occasionally + nodding his head in sympathy or approbation, or scrutinising a statement + with his keen hazel eye. When his visitor had finished, he said— + </p> + <p> + “When there has been a crash, there is nothing like a change of scene. I + propose that you and Mrs. Rodney should come and stay with me a week at my + house at Barnes, and there a good many things may occur to us.” + </p> + <p> + And so, towards the end of the week, when the Rodneys had exhausted their + whole programme of projects, against every one of which there seemed some + invincible objection, their host said, “You know I rather speculate in + houses. I bought one last year in Warwick Street. It is a large roomy + house in a quiet situation, though in a bustling quarter, just where + members of parliament would like to lodge. I have put it in thorough + repair. What I propose is that you should live there, let the first and + second floors—they are equally good—and live on the ground + floor yourselves, which is amply convenient. We will not talk about rent + till the year is over and we see how it answers. The house is unfurnished, + but that is nothing. I will introduce you to a friend of mine who will + furnish it for you solidly and handsomely, you paying a percentage on the + amount expended. He will want a guarantee, but of course I will be that. + It is an experiment, but try it. Try it for a year; at any rate you will + be a householder, and you will have the opportunity of thinking of + something else.” + </p> + <p> + Hitherto the Rodneys had been successful in their enterprise, and the + soundness of Mr. Vigo’s advice had been proved. Their house was full, and + of the best tenants. Their first floor was taken by a distinguished M.P., + a county member of repute whom Mr. Rodney had known before the + “revolution,” and who was so pleased with his quarters, and the comfort + and refinement of all about him, that to ensure their constant enjoyment + he became a yearly tenant. Their second floor, which was nearly as good as + their first, was inhabited by a young gentleman of fashion, who took them + originally only by the week, and who was always going to give them up, but + never did. The weekly lodger went to Paris, and he went to German baths, + and he went to country houses, and he was frequently a long time away, but + he never gave up his lodgings. When therefore Mr. Ferrars called in + Warwick Street, the truth is the house was full and there was no vacant + room for him. But this the Rodneys would not admit. Though they were + worldly people, and it seemed impossible that anything more could be + gained from the ruined house of Hurstley, they had, like many other + people, a superstition, and their superstition was an adoration of the + family of Ferrars. The sight of their former master, who, had it not been + for the revolution, might have been Prime Minister of England, and the + recollection of their former mistress and all her splendour, and all the + rich dresses which she used to give so profusely to her dependent, quite + overwhelmed them. Without consultation this sympathising couple leapt to + the same conclusion. They assured Mr. Ferrars they could accommodate him, + and that he should find everything prepared for him when he called again, + and they resigned to him, without acknowledging it, their own commodious + and well-furnished chamber, which Mrs. Rodney prepared for him with the + utmost solicitude, arranging his writing-table and materials as he used to + have them in Hill Street, and showing by a variety of modes she remembered + all his ways. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII + </h2> + <p> + After securing his room in Warwick Street, Mr. Ferrars called on his + political chiefs. Though engrossed with affairs, the moment his card was + exhibited he was seen, cordially welcomed, and addressed in confidence. + Not only were his claims acknowledged without being preferred, but an + evidently earnest hope was expressed that they might be fully satisfied. + No one had suffered more for the party and no one had worked harder or + more effectively for it. But at present nothing could be done and nothing + more could be said. All depended on Peel. Until he arrived nothing could + be arranged. Their duties were limited to provisionally administering the + affairs of the country until his appearance. + </p> + <p> + It was many days, even weeks, before that event could happen. The + messenger would travel to Rome night and day, but it was calculated that + nearly three weeks must elapse before his return. Mr. Ferrars then went to + the Carlton Club, which he had assisted in forming three or four years + before, and had established in a house of modern dimensions in Charles + Street, St. James. It was called then the Charles Street gang, and none + but the thoroughgoing cared to belong to it. Now he found it flourishing + in a magnificent mansion on Carlton Terrace, while in very sight of its + windows, on a plot of ground in Pall Mall, a palace was rising to receive + it. It counted already fifteen hundred members, who had been selected by + an omniscient and scrutinising committee, solely with reference to their + local influence throughout the country, and the books were overflowing + with impatient candidates of rank, and wealth, and power. + </p> + <p> + Three years ago Ferrars had been one of the leading spirits of this great + confederacy, and now he entered the superb chamber, and it seemed to him + that he did not recognise a human being. Yet it was full to overflowing, + and excitement and anxiety and bustle were impressed on every countenance. + If he had heard some of the whispers and remarks, as he entered and moved + about, his self-complacency would scarcely have been gratified. + </p> + <p> + “Who is that?” inquired a young M.P. of a brother senator not much more + experienced. + </p> + <p> + “Have not the remotest idea; never saw him before. Barron is speaking to + him; he will tell us. I say, Barron, who is your friend?” + </p> + <p> + “That is Ferrars!” + </p> + <p> + “Ferrars! who is he?” + </p> + <p> + “One of our best men. If all our fellows had fought like him against the + Reform Bill, that infernal measure would never have been carried.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! ah! I remember something now,” said the young M.P., “but anything + that happened before the election of ‘32 I look upon as an old almanack.” + </p> + <p> + However, notwithstanding the first and painful impression of strangers and + strangeness, when a little time had elapsed Ferrars found many friends, + and among the most distinguished present. Nothing could be more hearty + than their greeting, and he had not been in the room half an hour before + he had accepted an invitation to dine that very day with Lord Pomeroy. + </p> + <p> + It was a large and rather miscellaneous party, but all of the right + kidney. Some men who had been cabinet ministers, and some who expected to + be; several occupiers in old days of the secondary offices; both the + whips, one noisy and the other mysterious; several lawyers of repute who + must be brought into parliament, and some young men who had distinguished + themselves in the reformed house and whom Ferrars had never seen before. + “It is like old days,” said the husband of Zenobia to Ferrars, who sate + next to him; “I hope it will float, but we shall know nothing till Peel + comes.” + </p> + <p> + “He will have difficulty with his cabinet so far as the House of Commons + is concerned,” said an old privy councillor “They must have seats, and his + choice is very limited.” + </p> + <p> + “He will dissolve,” said the husband of Zenobia. “He must.” + </p> + <p> + “Wheugh!” said the privy councillor, and he shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “The old story will not do,” said the husband of Zenobia. “We must have + new blood. Peel must reconstruct on a broad basis.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, they say there is no lack of converts,” said the old privy + councillor. + </p> + <p> + All this, and much more that he heard, made Ferrars ponder, and anxiously. + No cabinet without parliament. It was but reasonable. A dissolution was + therefore in his interest. And yet, what a prospect! A considerable + expenditure, and yet with a considerable expenditure a doubtful result. + Then reconstruction on a broad basis—what did that mean? Neither + more nor less than rival candidates for office. There was no lack of + converts. He dare say not. A great deal had developed since his exile at + Hurstley—things which are not learned by newspapers, or even private + correspondence. He spoke to Barron after dinner. He had reason to believe + Barron was his friend. Barron could give no opinion about dissolution; all + depended on Peel. But they were acting, and had been acting for some time, + as if dissolution were on the cards. Ferrars had better call upon him + to-morrow, and go over the list, and see what would be done for him. He + had every claim. + </p> + <p> + The man with every claim called on Barron on the morrow, and saw his + secret list, and listened to all his secret prospects and secret plans. + There was more than one manufacturing town where there was an opening; + decided reaction, and a genuine Conservative feeling. Barron had no doubt + that, although a man might not get in the first time he stood, he would + ultimately. Ultimately was not a word which suited Mr. Ferrars. There were + several old boroughs where the freemen still outnumbered the ten-pounders, + and where the prospects were more encouraging; but the expense was equal + to the goodness of the chance, and although Ferrars had every claim, and + would no doubt be assisted, still one could not shut one’s eyes to the + fact that the personal expenditure must be considerable. The agricultural + boroughs must be fought, at least this time, by local men. Something might + be done with an Irish borough; expense, comparatively speaking + inconsiderable, but the politics deeply Orange. + </p> + <p> + Gloom settled on the countenance of this spoiled child of politics, who + had always sate for a close borough, and who recoiled from a contest like + a woman, when he pictured to himself the struggle and exertion and + personal suffering he would have to encounter and endure, and then with no + certainty of success. The trained statesman, who had anticipated the mass + of his party on Catholic emancipation, to become an Orange candidate! It + was worse than making speeches to ten-pounders and canvassing freemen! + </p> + <p> + “I knew things were difficult,” said Ferrars; “but I was in hopes that + there were yet some seats that we might command.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt there are,” said Mr. Barron; “but they are few, and they are + occupied—at least at present. But, after all, a thousand things may + turn up, and you may consider nothing definitely arranged until Sir Robert + arrives. The great thing is to be on the spot.” + </p> + <p> + Ferrars wrote to his wife daily, and kept her minutely acquainted with the + course of affairs. She agreed with Barron that the great thing was to be + on the spot. She felt sure that something would turn up. She was convinced + that Sir Robert would send for him, offer him the cabinet, and at the same + time provide him with a seat. Her own inclination was still in favour of a + great colonial or foreign appointment. She still hankered after India; but + if the cabinet were offered, as was certain, she did not consider that + William, as a man of honour, could refuse to accept the trust and share + the peril. + </p> + <p> + So Ferrars remained in London under the roof of the Rodneys. The feverish + days passed in the excitement of political life in all its manifold forms, + grave council and light gossip, dinners with only one subject of + conversation, and that never palling, and at last, even evenings spent + again under the roof of Zenobia, who, the instant her winter apartments + were ready to receive the world, had hurried up to London and raised her + standard in St. James’ Square. “It was like old days,” as her husband had + said to Ferrars when they met after a long separation. + </p> + <p> + Was it like old days? he thought to himself when he was alone. Old days, + when the present had no care, and the future was all hope; when he was + proud, and justly proud, of the public position he had achieved, and of + all the splendid and felicitous circumstances of life that had clustered + round him. He thought of those away, and with whom during the last three + years he had so continuously and intimately lived. And his hired home that + once had been associated only in his mind with exile, imprisonment, + misfortune, almost disgrace, became hallowed by affection, and in the + agony of the suspense which now involved him, and to encounter which he + began to think his diminished nerve unequal, he would have bargained for + the rest of his life to pass undisturbed in that sweet solitude, in the + delights of study and the tranquillity of domestic love. + </p> + <p> + A little not unamiable weakness this, but it passed off in the morning + like a dream, when Mr. Ferrars heard that Sir Robert had arrived. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII + </h2> + <p> + It was a dark December night when Mr. Ferrars returned to Hurstley. His + wife, accompanied by the gardener with a lantern, met him on the green. + She embraced him, and whispered, “Is it very bad, love? I fear you have + softened it to me?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means bad, and I told you the truth: not all, for had I, my letter + would have been too late. He said nothing about the cabinet, but offered + me a high post in his government, provided I could secure my seat. That + was impossible. During the month I was in town I had realised that. I + thought it best, therefore, at once to try the other tack, and nothing + could be more satisfactory.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you say anything about India?” she said in a very low voice. + </p> + <p> + “I did not. He is an honourable man, but he is cold, and my manner is not + distinguished for <i>abandon</i>. I thought it best to speak generally, + and leave it to him. He acknowledged my claim, and my fitness for such + posts, and said if his government lasted it would gratify him to meet my + wishes. Barron says the government will last. They will have a majority, + and if Stanley and Graham had joined them, they would have had not an + inconsiderable one. But in that case I should probably not have had the + cabinet, if indeed he meant to offer it to me now.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course he did,” said his wife. “Who has such claims as you have? Well, + now we must hope and watch. Look cheerful to the children, for they have + been very anxious.” + </p> + <p> + With this hint the meeting was not unhappy, and the evening passed with + amusement and interest. Endymion embraced his father with warmth, and Myra + kissed him on both cheeks. Mr. Ferrars had a great deal of gossip which + interested his wife, and to a certain degree his children. The latter of + course remembered Zenobia, and her sayings and doings were always amusing. + There were anecdotes, too, of illustrious persons which always interest, + especially when in the personal experience of those with whom we are + intimately connected. What the Duke, or Sir Robert, or Lord Lyndhurst said + to papa seemed doubly wiser or brighter than if it had been said to a + third person. Their relations with the world of power, and fashion, and + fame, seemed not to be extinct, at least reviving from their torpid + condition. Mr. Ferrars had also brought a German book for Myra; and “as + for you, Endymion,” he said, “I have been much more successful for you + than for your father, though I hope I shall not have myself in the long + run to complain. Our friends are faithful to us, and I have got you put + down on the private list for a clerkship both in the Foreign Office and + the Treasury. They are the two best things, and you will have one of the + first vacancies that will occur in either department. I know your mother + wishes you to be in the Foreign Office. Let it be so if it come. I + confess, myself, remembering your grandfather’s career, I have always a + weakness for the Treasury, but so long as I see you well planted in + Whitehall, I shall be content. Let me see, you will be sixteen in March. I + could have wished you to wait another year, but we must be ready when the + opening occurs.” + </p> + <p> + The general election in 1834-5, though it restored the balance of parties, + did not secure to Sir Robert Peel a majority, and the anxiety of the + family at Hurstley was proportionate to the occasion. Barron was always + sanguine, but the vote on the Speakership could not but alarm them. Barron + said it did not signify, and that Sir Robert had resolved to go on and had + confidence in his measures. His measures were excellent, and Sir Robert + never displayed more resource, more energy, and more skill, than he did in + the spring of 1835. But knowledge of human nature was not Sir Robert + Peel’s strong point, and it argued some deficiency in that respect, to + suppose that the fitness of his measures could disarm a vindictive + opposition. On the contrary, they rather whetted their desire of revenge, + and they were doubly loth that he should increase his reputation by + availing himself of an opportunity which they deemed the Tory party had + unfairly acquired. + </p> + <p> + After the vote on the Speakership, Mr. Ferrars was offered a second-class + West Indian government. His wife would not listen to it. If it were + Jamaica, the offer might be considered, though it could scarcely be + accepted without great sacrifice. The children, for instance, must be left + at home. Strange to say, Mr. Ferrars was not disinclined to accept the + inferior post. Endymion he looked upon as virtually provided for, and + Myra, he thought, might accompany them; if only for a year. But he + ultimately yielded, though not without a struggle, to the strong feeling + of his wife. + </p> + <p> + “I do not see why I also should not be left behind,” said Myra to her + brother in one of their confidential walks. “I should like to live in + London in lodgings with you.” + </p> + <p> + The approaching appointment of her brother filled her from the first with + the greatest interest. She was always talking of it when they were alone—fancying + his future life, and planning how it might be happier and more easy. “My + only joy in life is seeing you,” she sometimes said, “and yet this + separation does not make me unhappy. It seems a chance from heaven for + you. I pray every night it may be the Foreign Office.” + </p> + <p> + The ministry were still sanguine as to their prospects in the month of + March, and they deemed that public opinion was rallying round Sir Robert. + Perhaps Lord John Russell, who was the leader of the opposition, felt + this, in some degree, himself, and he determined to bring affairs to a + crisis by notice of a motion respecting the appropriation of the revenues + of the Irish Church. Then Barron wrote to Mr. Ferrars that affairs did not + look so well, and advised him to come up to town, and take anything that + offered. “It is something,” he remarked, “to have something to give up. We + shall not, I suppose, always be out of office, and they get preferred more + easily whose promotion contributes to patronage, even while they claim its + exercise.” + </p> + <p> + The ministry were in a minority on the Irish Church on April 2, the day on + which Mr. Ferrars arrived in town. They did not resign, but the attack was + to be repeated in another form on the 6th. During the terrible interval + Mr. Ferrars made distracted visits to Downing Street, saw secretaries of + state, who sympathised with him not withstanding their own chagrin, and + was closeted daily and hourly with under-secretaries, parliamentary and + permanent, who really alike wished to serve him. But there was nothing to + be had. He was almost meditating taking Sierra Leone, or the Gold Coast, + when the resignation of Sir Robert Peel was announced. At the last moment, + there being, of course, no vacancy in the Foreign Office, or the Treasury, + he obtained from Barron an appointment for Endymion, and so, after having + left Hurstley five months before to become Governor-General of India, this + man, “who had claims,” returned to his mortified home with a clerkship for + his son in a second-rate government office. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX + </h2> + <p> + Disappointment and distress, it might be said despair, seemed fast + settling again over the devoted roof of Hurstley, after a three years’ + truce of tranquillity. Even the crushing termination of her worldly hopes + was forgotten for the moment by Mrs. Ferrars in her anguish at the + prospect of separation from Endymion. Such a catastrophe she had never for + a moment contemplated. True it was she had been delighted with the scheme + of his entering the Foreign Office, but that was on the assumption that + she was to enter office herself, and that, whatever might be the scene of + the daily labours of her darling child, her roof should be his home, and + her indulgent care always at his command. But that she was absolutely to + part with Endymion, and that, at his tender age, he was to be launched + alone into the wide world, was an idea that she could not entertain, or + even comprehend. Who was to clothe him, and feed him, and tend him, and + save him from being run over, and guide and guard him in all the + difficulties and dangers of this mundane existence? It was madness, it was + impossible. But Mr. Ferrars, though gentle, was firm. No doubt it was to + be wished that the event could have been postponed for a year; but its + occurrence, unless all prospect of establishment in life were surrendered, + was inevitable, and a slight delay would hardly render the conditions + under which it happened less trying. Though Endymion was only sixteen, he + was tall and manly beyond his age, and during the latter years of his + life, his naturally sweet temper and genial disposition had been schooled + in self-discipline and self-sacrifice. He was not to be wholly left to + strangers; Mr. Ferrars had spoken to Rodney about receiving him, at least + for the present, and steps would be taken that those who presided over his + office would be influenced in his favour. The appointment was certainly + not equal to what had been originally anticipated; but still the + department, though not distinguished, was highly respectable, and there + was no reason on earth, if the opportunity offered, that Endymion should + not be removed from his present post to one in the higher departments of + the state. But if this opening were rejected, what was to be the future of + their son? They could not afford to send him to the University, nor did + Mr. Ferrars wish him to take refuge in the bosom of the Church. As for the + army, they had now no interest to acquire commissions, and if they could + succeed so far, they could not make him an allowance, which would permit + him to maintain himself as became his rank. The civil service remained, in + which his grandfather had been eminent, and in which his own parent, at + any rate, though the victim of a revolution, had not disgraced himself. It + seemed, under the circumstances, the natural avenue for their child. At + least, he thought it ought to be tried. He wished nothing to be settled + without the full concurrence of Endymion himself. The matter should be put + fairly and clearly before him, “and for this purpose,” concluded Mr. + Ferrars, “I have just sent for him to my room;” and he retired. + </p> + <p> + The interview between the father and the son was long. When Endymion left + the room his countenance was pale, but its expression was firm and + determined. He went forth into the garden, and there he saw Myra. “How + long you have been!” she said; “I have been watching for you. What is + settled?” + </p> + <p> + He took her arm, and in silence led her away into one of the glades Then + he said: “I have settled to go, and I am resolved, so long as I live, that + I will never cost dear papa another shilling. Things here are very bad, + quite as bad as you have sometimes fancied. But do not say anything to + poor mamma about them.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ferrars resolved that Endymion should go to London immediately, and + the preparations for his departure were urgent. Myra did everything. If + she had been the head of a family she could not have been more thoughtful + or apparently more experienced. If she had a doubt, she stepped over to + Mrs. Penruddock and consulted her. As for Mrs. Ferrars, she had become + very unwell, and unable to attend to anything. Her occasional + interference, fitful and feverish, and without adequate regard to + circumstances, only embarrassed them. But, generally speaking, she kept to + her own room, and was always weeping. + </p> + <p> + The last day came. No one pretended not to be serious and grave. Mrs. + Ferrars did not appear, but saw Endymion alone. She did not speak, but + locked him in her arms for many minutes, and then kissed him on the + forehead, and, by a gentle motion, intimating that he should retire, she + fell back on her sofa with closed eyes. He was alone for a short time with + his father after dinner. Mr. Ferrars said to him: “I have treated you in + this matter as a man, and I have entire confidence in you. Your business + in life is to build up again a family which was once honoured.” + </p> + <p> + Myra was still copying inventories when he returned to the drawing-room. + “These are for myself,” she said, “so I shall always know what you ought + to have. Though you go so early, I shall make your breakfast to-morrow,” + and, leaning back on the sofa, she took his hand. “Things are dark, and I + fancy they will be darker; but brightness will come, somehow or other, to + you, darling, for you are born for brightness. You will find friends in + life, and they will be women.” + </p> + <p> + It was nearly three years since Endymion had travelled down to Hurstley by + the same coach that was now carrying him to London. Though apparently so + uneventful, the period had not been unimportant in the formation, + doubtless yet partial, of his character. And all its influences had been + beneficial to him. The crust of pride and selfishness with which large + prosperity and illimitable indulgence had encased a kind, and far from + presumptuous, disposition had been removed; the domestic sentiments in + their sweetness and purity had been developed; he had acquired some skills + in scholarship and no inconsiderable fund of sound information; and the + routine of religious thought had been superseded in his instance by an + amount of knowledge and feeling on matters theological, unusual at his + time of life. Though apparently not gifted with any dangerous vivacity, or + fatal facility of acquisition, his mind seemed clear and painstaking, and + distinguished by common sense. He was brave and accurate. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rodney was in waiting for him at the inn. He seemed a most + distinguished gentleman. A hackney coach carried them to Warwick Street, + where he was welcomed by Mrs. Rodney, who was exquisitely dressed. There + was also her sister, a girl not older than Endymion, the very image of + Mrs. Rodney, except that she was a brunette—a brilliant brunette. + This sister bore the romantic name of Imogene, for which she was indebted + to her father performing the part of the husband of the heroine in + Maturin’s tragedy of the “Castle of St. Aldobrand,” and which, under the + inspiration of Kean, had set the town in a blaze about the time of her + birth. Tea was awaiting him, and there was a mixture in their several + manners of not ungraceful hospitality and the remembrance of past + dependence, which was genuine and not uninteresting, though Endymion was + yet too inexperienced to observe all this. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Rodney talked very much of Endymion’s mother; her wondrous beauty, + her more wondrous dresses; the splendour of her fetes and equipages. As + she dilated on the past, she seemed to share its lustre and its triumphs. + “The first of the land were always in attendance on her,” and for Mrs. + Rodney’s part, she never saw a real horsewoman since her dear lady. Her + sister did not speak, but listened with rapt attention to the gorgeous + details, occasionally stealing a glance at Endymion—a glance of deep + interest, of admiration mingled as it were both with reverence and pity. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rodney took up the conversation if his wife paused. He spoke of all + the leading statesmen who had been the habitual companions of Mr. Ferrars, + and threw out several anecdotes respecting them from personal experience. + “I knew them all,” continued Mr. Rodney, “I might say intimately;” and + then he told his great anecdote, how he had been so fortunate as perhaps + even to save the Duke’s life during the Reform Bill riots. “His Grace has + never forgotten it, and only the day before yesterday I met him in St. + James’ Street walking with Mr. Arbuthnot, and he touched his hat to me.” + </p> + <p> + All this gossip and good nature, and the kind and lively scene, saved + Endymion from the inevitable pang, or at least greatly softened it, which + accompanies our first separation from home. In due season, Mrs. Rodney + observed that she doubted not Mr. Endymion, for so they ever called him, + must be wearied with his journey, and would like to retire to his room; + and her husband, immediately lighting a candle, prepared to introduce + their new lodger to his quarters. + </p> + <p> + It was a tall house, which had recently been renovated, with a story added + to it, and on this story was Endymion’s chamber; not absolutely a garret, + but a modern substitute for that sort of apartment. “It is rather high,” + said Mr. Rodney, half apologising for the ascent, “but Mr. Ferrars himself + chose the room. We took the liberty of lighting a fire to-night.” + </p> + <p> + And the cheerful blaze was welcome. It lit up a room clean and not + uncomfortable. Feminine solicitude had fashioned a toilette-table for him, + and there was a bunch of geraniums in a blue vase on its sparkling dimity + garniture. “I suppose you have in your bag all that you want at present?” + said Mr. Rodney. “To-morrow we will unpack your trunks and arrange your + things in their drawers; and after breakfast, if you please, I will show + you your way to Somerset House.” + </p> + <p> + Somerset House! thought Endymion, as he stood before the fire alone. Is it + so near as that? To-morrow, and I am to be at Somerset House! And then he + thought of what they were doing at Hurstley—of that terrible parting + with his mother, which made him choke—and of his father’s last + words. And then he thought of Myra, and the tears stole down his cheek. + And then he knelt down by his bedside and prayed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Rodney would have accompanied Endymion to Somerset House under any + circumstances, but it so happened that he had reasons of his own for a + visit to that celebrated building. He had occasion to see a gentleman who + was stationed there. “Not,” as he added to Endymion, “that I know many + here, but at the Treasury and in Downing Street I have several + acquaintances.” + </p> + <p> + They separated at the door in the great quadrangle which led to the + department to which Endymion was attached, and he contrived in due time to + deliver to a messenger a letter addressed to his future chief. He was kept + some time in a gloomy and almost unfurnished waiting-room, and his + thoughts in a desponding mood were gathering round the dear ones who were + distant, when he was summoned, and, following the messenger down a + passage, was ushered into a lively apartment on which the sun was shining, + and which, with its well-lined book-shelves, and tables covered with + papers, and bright noisy clock, and general air of habitation and + business, contrasted favourably with the room he had just quitted. A + good-natured-looking man held out his hand and welcomed him cordially, and + said at once, “I served, Mr. Ferrars, under your grandfather at the + Treasury, and I am glad to see you here.” Then he spoke of the duties + which Endymion would have at present to discharge. His labours at first + would be somewhat mechanical; they would require only correctness and + diligence; but the office was a large one, and promotion not only sure, + but sometimes rapid, and as he was so young, he might with attention count + on attaining, while yet in the prime of life, a future of very responsible + duties and of no inconsiderable emolument. And while he was speaking he + rang the bell and commanded the attendance of a clerk, under whose care + Endymion was specially placed. This was a young man of pleasant address, + who invited Endymion with kindness to accompany him, and leading him + through several chambers, some capacious, and all full of clerks seated on + high stools and writing at desks, finally ushered him into a smaller + chamber where there were not above six or eight at work, and where there + was a vacant seat. “This is your place,” he said, “and now I will + introduce you to your future comrades. This is Mr. Jawett, the greatest + Radical of the age, and who, when he is President of the Republic, will, I + hope, do a job for his friends here. This is Mr. St. Barbe, who, when the + public taste has improved, will be the most popular author of the day. In + the meantime he will give you a copy of his novel, which has not sold as + it ought to have done, and in which we say he has quizzed all his friends. + This is Mr. Seymour Hicks, who, as you must perceive, is a man of + fashion.” And so he went on, with what was evidently accustomed raillery. + All laughed, and all said something courteous to Endymion, and then after + a few minutes they resumed their tasks, Endymion’s work being to copy long + lists of figures, and routine documents of public accounts. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, Mr. St. Barbe was busy in drawing up a public document of + a different but important character, and which was conceived something in + this fashion:— + </p> + <p> + “We, the undersigned, highly approving of the personal appearance and + manners of our new colleague, are unanimously of opinion that he should be + invited to join our symposium to-day at the immortal Joe’s.” + </p> + <p> + This was quietly passed round and signed by all present, and then given to + Mr. Trenchard, who, all unconsciously to the copying Endymion, wrote upon + it, like a minister of state, “Approved,” with his initial. + </p> + <p> + Joe’s, more technically known as “The Blue Posts,” was a celebrated + chop-house in Naseby Street, a large, low-ceilinged, wainscoted room, with + the floor strewn with sawdust, and a hissing kitchen in the centre, and + fitted up with what were called boxes, these being of various sizes, and + suitable to the number of the guests requiring them. About this time the + fashionable coffee-houses, George’s and the Piazza, and even the + coffee-rooms of Stevens’ or Long’s, had begun to feel the injurious + competition of the new clubs that of late years had been established; but + these, after all, were limited, and, comparatively speaking, exclusive + societies. Their influence had not touched the chop-houses, and it + required another quarter of a century before their cheerful and hospitable + roofs and the old taverns of London, so full, it ever seemed, of merriment + and wisdom, yielded to the gradually increasing but irresistible influence + of those innumerable associations, which, under classic names, or + affecting to be the junior branches of celebrated confederacies, have + since secured to the million, at cost price, all the delicacies of the + season, and substituted for the zealous energy of immortal JOES the + inexorable but frigid discipline of managing committees. + </p> + <p> + “You are our guest to-day,” said Mr. Trenchard to Endymion. “Do not be + embarrassed. It is a custom with us, but not a ruinous one. We dine off + the joint, but the meat is first-rate, and you may have as much as you + like, and our tipple is half-and-half. Perhaps you do not know it. Let me + drink to your health.” + </p> + <p> + They ate most heartily; but when their well-earned meal was despatched, + their conversation, assisted by a moderate portion of some celebrated + toddy, became animated, various, and interesting. Endymion was highly + amused; but being a stranger, and the youngest present, his silence was + not unbecoming, and his manner indicated that it was not occasioned by + want of sympathy. The talk was very political. They were all what are + called Liberals, having all of them received their appointments since the + catastrophe of 1830; but the shades in the colour of their opinions were + various and strong. Jawett was uncompromising; ruthlessly logical, his + principles being clear, he was for what he called “carrying them out” to + their just conclusions. Trenchard, on the contrary, thought everything + ought to be a compromise, and that a public man ceased to be practical the + moment he was logical. St. Barbe believed that literature and the arts, + and intellect generally, had as little to hope for from one party as from + the other; while Seymour Hicks was of opinion that the Tories never would + rally, owing to their deficiency in social influences. Seymour Hicks + sometimes got an invitation to a ministerial soiree. + </p> + <p> + The vote of the House of Commons in favour of an appropriation of the + surplus revenues of the Irish Church to the purposes of secular education—a + vote which had just changed the government and expelled the Tories—was + much discussed. Jawett denounced it as a miserable subterfuge, but with a + mildness of manner and a mincing expression, which amusingly contrasted + with the violence of his principles and the strength of his language. + </p> + <p> + “The whole of the revenues of the Protestant Church should be at once + appropriated to secular education, or to some other purpose of general + utility,” he said. “And it must come to this.” + </p> + <p> + Trenchard thought the ministry had gone as far in this matter as they well + could, and Seymour Hicks remarked that any government which systematically + attacked the Church would have “society” against it. Endymion, who felt + very nervous, but who on Church questions had strong convictions, ventured + to ask why the Church should be deprived of its property. + </p> + <p> + “In the case of Ireland,” replied Jawett, quite in a tone of conciliatory + condescension, “because it does not fulfil the purpose for which it was + endowed. It has got the property of the nation, and it is not the Church + of the people. But I go further than that. I would disendow every Church. + They are not productive institutions. There is no reason why they should + exist. There is no use in them.” + </p> + <p> + “No use in the Church!” said Endymion, reddening; but Mr. Trenchard, who + had tact, here interfered, and said, “I told you our friend Jawett is a + great Radical; but he is in a minority among us on these matters. + Everybody, however, says what he likes at Joe’s.” + </p> + <p> + Then they talked of theatres, and critically discussed the articles in the + daily papers and the last new book, and there was much discussion + respecting a contemplated subscription boat; but still, in general, it was + remarkable how they relapsed into their favourite subject—speculation + upon men in office, both permanent and parliamentary, upon their + characters and capacity, their habits and tempers. One was a good + administrator, another did nothing; one had no detail, another too much; + one was a screw, another a spendthrift; this man could make a set speech, + but could not reply; his rival, capital at a reply but clumsy in a formal + oration. + </p> + <p> + At this time London was a very dull city, instead of being, as it is now, + a very amusing one. Probably there never was a city in the world, with so + vast a population, which was so melancholy. The aristocracy probably have + always found amusements adapted to the manners of the time and the age in + which they lived. The middle classes, half a century ago, had little + distraction from their monotonous toil and melancholy anxieties, except, + perhaps, what they found in religious and philanthropic societies. Their + general life must have been very dull. Some traditionary merriment always + lingered among the working classes of England. Both in town and country + they had always their games and fairs and junketing parties, which have + developed into excursion trains and colossal pic-nics. But of all classes + of the community, in the days of our fathers, there was none so + unfortunate in respect of public amusements as the bachelors about town. + There were, one might almost say, only two theatres, and they so huge, + that it was difficult to see or hear in either. Their monopolies, no + longer redeemed by the stately genius of the Kembles, the pathos of Miss + O’Neill, or the fiery passion of Kean, were already menaced, and were soon + about to fall; but the crowd of diminutive but sparkling substitutes, + which have since taken their place, had not yet appeared, and half-price + at Drury Lane or Covent Garden was a dreary distraction after a morning of + desk work. There were no Alhambras then, and no Cremornes, no palaces of + crystal in terraced gardens, no casinos, no music-halls, no aquaria, no + promenade concerts. Evans’ existed, but not in the fulness of its modern + development; and the most popular place of resort was the barbarous + conviviality of the Cider Cellar. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trenchard had paid the bill, collected his quotas and rewarded the + waiter, and then, as they all rose, said to Endymion, “We are going to the + Divan. Do you smoke?” + </p> + <p> + Endymion shook his head; but Trenchard added, “Well, you will some day; + but you had better come with us. You need not smoke; you can order a cup + of coffee, and then you may read all the newspapers and magazines. It is a + nice lounge.” + </p> + <p> + So, emerging from Naseby Street into the Strand, they soon entered a + tobacconist’s shop, and passing through it were admitted into a capacious + saloon, well lit and fitted up with low, broad sofas, fixed against the + walls, and on which were seated, or reclining, many persons, chiefly + smoking cigars, but some few practising with the hookah and other oriental + modes. In the centre of the room was a table covered with newspapers and + publications of that class. The companions from Joe’s became separated + after their entrance, and St. Barbe, addressing Endymion, said, “I am not + inclined to smoke to-day. We will order some coffee, and you will find + some amusement in this;” and he placed in his hands a number of + “SCARAMOUCH.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will like your new life,” said St. Barbe, throwing down a + review on the Divan, and leaning back sipping his coffee. “One thing may + be said in favour of it: you will work with a body of as true-hearted + comrades as ever existed. They are always ready to assist one. Thorough + good-natured fellows, that I will say for them. I suppose it is + adversity,” he continued, “that develops the kindly qualities of our + nature. I believe the sense of common degradation has a tendency to make + the degraded amiable—at least among themselves. I am told it is + found so in the plantations in slave-gangs.” + </p> + <p> + “But I hope we are not a slave-gang,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “It is horrible to think of gentlemen, and men of education, and perhaps + first-rate talents—who knows?—reduced to our straits,” said + St. Barbe. “I do not follow Jawett in all his views, for I hate political + economy, and never could understand it; and he gives it you pure and + simple, eh? eh?—but, I say, it is something awful to think of the + incomes that some men are making, who could no more write an article in + ‘SCARAMOUCH’ than fly.” + </p> + <p> + “But our incomes may improve,” said Endymion. “I was told to-day that + promotion was even rapid in our office.” + </p> + <p> + “Our incomes may improve when we are bent and grey,” said St. Barbe, “and + we may even retire on a pension about as good as a nobleman leaves to his + valet. Oh, it is a horrid world! Your father is a privy councillor, is not + he?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and so was my grandfather, but I do not think I shall ever be one.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a great thing to have a father a privy councillor,” said St. Barbe, + with a glance of envy. “If I were the son of a privy councillor, those + demons, Shuffle and Screw, would give me 500 pounds for my novel, which + now they put in their beastly magazine and print in small type, and do not + pay me so much as a powdered flunkey has in St. James’ Square. I agree + with Jawett: the whole thing is rotten.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Jawett seems to have very strange opinions,” said Endymion. “I did + not like to hear what he said at dinner about the Church, but Mr. + Trenchard turned the conversation, and I thought it best to let it pass.” + </p> + <p> + “Trenchard is a sensible man, and a good fellow,” said St. Barbe; “you + like him?” + </p> + <p> + “I find him kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know,” said St. Barbe, in a whisper, and with a distressed and + almost vindictive expression of countenance, “that man may come any day + into four thousand a year. There is only one life between him and the + present owner. I believe it is a good life,” he added, in a more cheerful + voice, “but still it might happen. Is it not horrible? Four thousand a + year! Trenchard with four thousand a year, and we receiving little more + than the pay of a butler!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I wish, for his sake, he might have it,” said Endymion, “though I + might lose a kind friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Look at Seymour Hicks,” said St. Barbe; “he has smoked his cigar, and he + is going. He never remains. He is going to a party, I’ll be found. That + fellow gets about in a most extraordinary manner. Is it not disgusting? I + doubt whether he is asked much to dinner though, or I think we should have + heard of it. Nevertheless, Trenchard said the other day that Hicks had + dined with Lord Cinque-Ports. I can hardly believe it; it would be too + disgusting. No lord ever asked me to dinner. But the aristocracy of this + country are doomed!” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hicks,” said Endymion, “probably lays himself out for society.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you will,” said St. Barbe, with a scrutinising air. “I should + if I were the son of a privy councillor. Hicks is nothing; his father kept + a stable-yard and his mother was an actress. We have had several + dignitaries of the Church in my family and one admiral. And yet Hicks + dines with Lord Cinque-Ports! It is positively revolting! But the things + he does to get asked!—sings, rants, conjures, ventriloquises, + mimics, stands on his head. His great performance is a parliamentary + debate. We will make him do it for you. And yet with all this a dull dog—a + very dull dog, sir. He wrote for ‘Scaramouch’ some little time, but they + can stand it no more. Between you and me, he has had notice to quit. That + I know; and he will probably get the letter when he goes home from his + party to-night. So much for success in society! I shall now say good-night + to you.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI + </h2> + <p> + It was only ten o’clock when Endymion returned to Warwick Street, and for + the first time in his life used a pass-key, with which Mr. Rodney had + furnished him in the morning, and re-entered his new home. He thought he + had used it very quietly, and was lighting his candle and about to steal + up to his lofty heights, when from the door of the parlour, which opened + into the passage, emerged Miss Imogene, who took the candlestick from his + hand and insisted on waiting upon him. + </p> + <p> + “I thought I heard something,” she said; “you must let me light you up, + for you can hardly yet know your way. I must see too if all is right; you + may want something.” + </p> + <p> + So she tripped up lightly before him, showing, doubtless without + premeditation, as well-turned an ankle and as pretty a foot as could fall + to a damsel’s fortunate lot. “My sister and Mr. Rodney have gone to the + play,” she said, “but they left strict instructions with me to see that + you were comfortable, and that you wanted for nothing that we could + supply.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too kind,” said Endymion, as she lighted the candles on his + dressing-table, “and, to tell you the truth, these are luxuries I am not + accustomed to, and to which I am not entitled.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” she said, with a glance of blended admiration and pity, “they + tell me time was when gold was not good enough for you, and I do not think + it could be.” + </p> + <p> + “Such kindness as this,” said Endymion, “is more precious than gold.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will find your things well arranged. All your clothes are in + these two drawers; the coats in the bottom one, and your linen in those + above. You will not perhaps be able to find your pocket-handkerchiefs at + first. They are in this sachet; my sister made it herself. Mr. Rodney says + you are to be called at eight o’clock and breakfast at nine. I think + everything is right. Good-night, Mr. Endymion.” + </p> + <p> + The Rodney household was rather a strange one. The first two floors, as we + have mentioned, were let, and at expensive rates, for the apartments were + capacious and capitally furnished, and the situation, if not + distinguished, was extremely convenient—quiet from not being a + thoroughfare, and in the heart of civilisation. They only kept a couple of + servants, but their principal lodgers had their personal attendants. And + yet after sunset the sisters appeared and presided at their tea-table, + always exquisitely dressed; seldom alone, for Mr. Rodney had many friends, + and lived in a capacious apartment, rather finely furnished, with a round + table covered with gaudy print-books, a mantelpiece crowded with vases of + mock Dresden, and a cottage piano, on which Imogene could accompany her + more than pleasing voice. + </p> + <p> + Somehow or other, the process is difficult to trace, Endymion not + unfrequently found himself at Mrs. Rodney’s tea-table. On the first + occasion or so, he felt himself a little shy and embarrassed, but it soon + became natural to him, and he would often escape from the symposia at + Joe’s, and, instead of the Divan, find in Warwick Street a more congenial + scene. There were generally some young men there, who seemed delighted + with the ladies, listened with enthusiasm to Imogene’s singing, and were + allowed to smoke. They were evidently gentlemen, and indeed Mr. Rodney + casually mentioned to Endymion that one of the most frequent guests might + some day even be a peer of the realm. Sometimes there was a rubber of + whist, and, if wanted, Mrs. Rodney took a hand in it; Endymion sitting + apart and conversing with her sister, who amused him by her lively + observations, indicating even flashes of culture; but always addressed him + without the slightest pretence and with the utmost naturalness. This was + not the case with Mr. Rodney; pretence with him was ingrained, and he was + at first somewhat embarrassed by the presence of Endymion, as he could + hardly maintain before his late patron’s son his favourite character of + the aristocratic victim of revolution. And yet this drawback was more than + counterbalanced by the gratification of his vanity in finding a Ferrars + his habitual guest. Such a luxury seemed a dangerous indulgence, but he + could not resist it, and the moth was always flying round the candle. + There was no danger, however, and that Mr. Rodney soon found out. Endymion + was born with tact, and it came to him as much from goodness of heart as + fineness of taste. Mr. Rodney, therefore, soon resumed his anecdotes of + great men and his personal experience of their sayings, manners, and + customs, with which he was in the habit of enlivening or ornamenting the + whist table; occasionally introducing Endymion to the notice of the table + by mentioning in a low tone, “That is Mr. Ferrars, in a certain sense + under my care; his father is a privy councillor, and had it not been for + the revolution—for I maintain, and always will, the Reform Bill was + neither more nor less than a revolution—would probably have been + Prime Minister. He was my earliest and my best friend.” + </p> + <p> + When there were cards, there was always a little supper: a lobster and a + roasted potato and that sort of easy thing, and curious drinks, which the + sisters mixed and made, and which no one else, at least all said so, could + mix and make. On fitting occasions a bottle of champagne appeared, and + then the person for whom the wine was produced was sure with wonderment to + say, “Where did you get this champagne, Rodney? Could you get me some?” + Mr. Rodney shook his head and scarcely gave a hope, but subsequently, when + the praise in consequence had continued and increased, would observe, “Do + you really want some? I cannot promise, but I will try. Of course they + will ask a high figure.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything they like, my dear Rodney.” + </p> + <p> + And in about a week’s time the gentleman was so fortunate as to get his + champagne. + </p> + <p> + There was one subject in which Mr. Rodney appeared to be particularly + interested, and that was racing. The turf at that time had not developed + into that vast institution of national demoralisation which it now + exhibits. That disastrous character may be mainly attributed to the + determination of our legislators to put down gaming-houses, which, + practically speaking, substituted for the pernicious folly of a + comparatively limited class the ruinous madness of the community. There + were many influences by which in the highest classes persons might be + discouraged or deterred from play under a roof; and in the great majority + of cases such a habit was difficult, not to say impossible, to indulge. + But in shutting up gaming-houses, we brought the gaming-table into the + street, and its practices became the pursuit of those who would otherwise + have never witnessed or even thought of them. No doubt Crockford’s had its + tragedies, but all its disasters and calamities together would hardly + equal a lustre of the ruthless havoc which has ensued from its + suppression. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, in 1835 men made books, and Mr. Rodney was not inexpert in a + composition which requires no ordinary qualities of character and + intelligence; method, judgment, self-restraint, not too much imagination, + perception of character, and powers of calculation. All these qualities + were now in active demand and exercise; for the Derby was at hand, and the + Rodney family, deeply interested in the result, were to attend the + celebrated festival. + </p> + <p> + One of the young gentlemen, who sometimes smoked a cigar and sometimes + tasted a lobster in their parlour, and who seemed alike and equally + devoted to Mrs. Rodney and her sister, insisted upon taking them to Epsom + in his drag, and they themselves were to select the party to accompany + them. That was not difficult, for they were naturally all friends of their + munificent host with one exception. Imogene stipulated that Endymion + should be asked, and Mr. Rodney supported the suggestion. “He is the son + of the privy councillor the Right Hon. William Pitt Ferrars, my earliest + and my best friend, and in a certain sense is under my care.” + </p> + <p> + The drive to the Derby was not then shorn of its humours and glories. It + was the Carnival of England, with equipages as numerous and various, and + with banter not less quick and witty. It was a bright day—a day, no + doubt, of wild hopes and terrible fears, but yet, on the whole, of joy and + exultation. And no one was happier and prouder than pretty Mrs. Rodney, + exquisitely dressed and sitting on the box of a patrician drag, beside its + noble owner. On the seat behind them was Imogene, with Endymion on one + side, and on the other the individual “who might one day be a peer.” Mr. + Rodney and some others, including Mr. Vigo, faced a couple of grooms, who + sat with folded arms and unmoved countenances, fastidiously stolid amid + all the fun, and grave even when they opened the champagne. + </p> + <p> + The right horse won. Mr. Rodney and his friends pocketed a good stake, and + they demolished their luncheon of luxuries with frantic gaiety. + </p> + <p> + “It is almost as happy as our little suppers in Warwick Street,” whispered + their noble driver to his companion. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! much more than anything you can find there,” simpered Mrs. Rodney. + </p> + <p> + “I declare to you, some of the happiest hours of my life have been passed + in Warwick Street,” gravely murmured her friend. + </p> + <p> + “I wish I could believe that,” said Mrs. Rodney. + </p> + <p> + As for Endymion, he enjoyed himself amazingly. The whole scene was new to + him—he had never been at a race before, and this was the most famous + of races. He did not know he had betted, but he found he too had won a + little money, Mr. Rodney having put him on something, though what that + meant he had not the remotest idea. Imogene, however, assured him it was + all right—Mr. Rodney constantly put her on something. He enjoyed the + luncheon too; the cold chicken, and the French pies, the wondrous salads, + and the iced champagne. It seemed that Imogene was always taking care that + his plate or his glass should be filled. Everything was delightful, and + his noble host, who, always courteous, had hitherto been reserved, called + him “Ferrars.” + </p> + <p> + What with the fineness of the weather, the inspirations of the excited and + countless multitude, the divine stimulus of the luncheon, the kindness of + his charming companions, and the general feeling of enjoyment and success + that seemed to pervade his being, Endymion felt as he were almost acting a + distinguished part in some grand triumph of antiquity, as returning home, + the four splendid dark chestnuts swept along, two of their gay company + playing bugles, and the grooms sitting with folded arms of haughty + indifference. + </p> + <p> + Just at this moment his eye fell upon an omnibus full, inside and out, of + clerks in his office. There was a momentary stoppage, and while he + returned the salute of several of them, his quick eye could not avoid + recognising the slightly surprised glance of Trenchard, the curious + amazement of Seymour Hicks, and the indignant astonishment of St. Barbe. + </p> + <p> + “Our friend Ferrars seems in tiptop company,” said Trenchard. + </p> + <p> + “That may have been a countess on the box,” said Seymour Hicks, “for I + observed an earl’s coronet on the drag. I cannot make out who it is.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no more advantage in going with four horses than with two,” said + St. Barbe; “indeed, I believe you go slower. It is mere pride; puffed-up + vanity. I should like to send those two grooms with their folded arms to + the galleys—I hate those fellows. For my part, I never was behind + four horses except in a stage-coach. No peer of the realm ever took me on + his drag. However, a day of reckoning will come; the people won’t stand + this much longer.” + </p> + <p> + Jawett was not there, for he disapproved of races. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII + </h2> + <p> + Endymion had to encounter a rather sharp volley when he went to the office + next morning. After some general remarks as to the distinguished party + which he had accompanied to the races, Seymour Hicks could not resist + inquiring, though with some circumlocution, whether the lady was a + countess. The lady was not a countess. Who was the lady? The lady was Mrs. + Rodney. Who was Mrs. Rodney? She was the wife of Mr. Rodney, who + accompanied her. Was Mr. Rodney a relation of Lord Rodney? Endymion + believed he was not a relation of Lord Rodney. Who was Mr. Rodney then? + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Rodney is an old friend of my father.” + </p> + <p> + This natural solution of doubts and difficulties arrested all further + inquiry. Generally speaking, the position of Endymion in his new life was + satisfactory. He was regular and assiduous in his attendance at office, + was popular with his comrades, and was cherished by his chief, who had + even invited him to dinner. His duties were certainly at present + mechanical, but they were associated with an interesting profession; and + humble as was his lot, he began to feel the pride of public life. He + continued to be a regular guest at Joe’s, and was careful not to seem to + avoid the society of his fellow-clerks in the evenings, for he had an + instinctive feeling that it was as well they should not become acquainted + with his circle in Warwick Street. And yet to him the attractions of that + circle became daily more difficult to resist. And often when he was + enduring the purgatory of the Divan, listening to the snarls of St. Barbe + over the shameful prosperity of everybody in this world except the + snarler, or perhaps went half-price to the pit of Drury Lane with the + critical Trenchard, he was, in truth, restless and absent, and his mind + was in another place, indulging in visions which he did not care to + analyse, but which were very agreeable. + </p> + <p> + One evening, shortly after the expedition to Epsom, while the rest were + playing a rubber, Imogene said to him, “I wish you to be friends with Mr. + Vigo; I think he might be of use to you.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Vigo was playing whist at this moment; his partner was Sylvia, and + they were playing against Mr. Rodney and Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + Waldershare was a tenant of the second floor. He was the young gentleman + “who might some day be a peer.” He was a young man of about three or four + and twenty years; fair, with short curly brown hair and blue eyes; not + exactly handsome, but with a countenance full of expression, and the index + of quick emotions, whether of joy or of anger. Waldershare was the only + child of a younger son of a patrician house, and had inherited from his + father a moderate but easy fortune. He had been the earliest lodger of the + Rodneys, and, taking advantage of the Tory reaction, had just been + returned to the House of Commons. + </p> + <p> + What he would do there was a subject of interesting speculation to his + numerous friends, and it may be said admirers. Waldershare was one of + those vivid and brilliant organisations which exercise a peculiarly + attractive influence on youth. He had been the hero of the debating club + at Cambridge, and many believed in consequence that he must become prime + minister. He was witty and fanciful, and, though capricious and + bad-tempered, could flatter and caress. At Cambridge he had introduced the + new Oxford heresy, of which Nigel Penruddock was a votary. Waldershare + prayed and fasted, and swore by Laud and Strafford. He took, however, a + more eminent degree at Paris than at his original Alma Mater, and becoming + passionately addicted to French literature, his views respecting both + Church and State became modified—at least in private. His entrance + into English society had been highly successful, and as he had a due share + of vanity, and was by no means free from worldliness, he had enjoyed and + pursued his triumphs. But his versatile nature, which required not only + constant, but novel excitement, became palled, even with the society of + duchesses. There was a monotony in the splendour of aristocratic life + which wearied him, and for some time he had persuaded himself that the + only people who understood the secret of existence were the family under + whose roof he lodged. + </p> + <p> + Waldershare was profligate, but sentimental; unprincipled, but romantic; + the child of whim, and the slave of an imagination so freakish and + deceptive, that it was always impossible to foretell his course. He was + alike capable of sacrificing all his feelings to worldly considerations or + of forfeiting the world for a visionary caprice. At present his favourite + scheme, and one to which he seemed really attached, was to educate + Imogene. Under his tuition he had persuaded himself that she would turn + out what he styled “a great woman.” An age of vast change, according to + Waldershare, was impending over us. There was no male career in which one + could confide. Most men of mark would probably be victims, but “a great + woman” must always make her way. Whatever the circumstances, she would + adapt herself to them; if necessary, would mould and fashion them. His + dream was that Imogene should go forth and conquer the world, and that in + the sunset of life he should find a refuge in some corner of her palace. + </p> + <p> + Imogene was only a child when Waldershare first became a lodger. She used + to bring his breakfast to his drawing-room and arrange his table. He + encountered her one day, and he requested her to remain, and always + preside over his meal. He fell in love with her name, and wrote her a + series of sonnets, idealising her past, panegyrising her present, and + prophetic of her future life. Imogene, who was neither shy nor obtrusive, + was calm amid all his vagaries, humoured his fancies, even when she did + not understand them, and read his verses as she would a foreign language + which she was determined to master. + </p> + <p> + Her culture, according to Waldershare, was to be carried on chiefly by + conversations. She was not to read, or at least not to read much, until + her taste was formed and she had acquired the due share of previous + knowledge necessary to profitable study. As Waldershare was eloquent, + brilliant, and witty, Imogene listened to him with wondering interest and + amusement, even when she found some difficulty in following him; but her + apprehension was so quick and her tact so fine, that her progress, though + she was almost unconscious of it, was remarkable. Sometimes in the + evening, while the others were smoking together or playing whist, + Waldershare and Imogene, sitting apart, were engaged in apparently the + most interesting converse. It was impossible not to observe the animation + and earnestness of Waldershare, and the great attention with which his + companion responded to his representations. Yet all this time he was only + giving her a lecture on Madame de Sevigne. + </p> + <p> + Waldershare used to take Imogene to the National Gallery and Hampton + Court, and other delightful scenes of popular education, but of late Mrs. + Rodney had informed her sister that she was no longer young enough to + permit these expeditions. Imogene accepted the announcement without a + murmur, but it occasioned Waldershare several sonnets of heartrending + remonstrance. Imogene continued, however, to make his breakfast, and kept + his Parliamentary papers in order, which he never could manage, but the + mysteries of which Imogene mastered with feminine quickness and precision. + Whenever Waldershare was away he always maintained a constant + correspondence with Imogene. In this he communicated everything to her + without the slightest reserve; describing everything he saw, almost + everything he heard, pages teeming with anecdotes of a world of which she + could know nothing—the secrets of courts and coteries, memoirs of + princes and ministers, of dandies and dames of fashion. “If anything + happens to me,” Waldershare would say to Imogene, “this correspondence may + be worth thousands to you, and when it is published it will connect your + name with mine, and assist my grand idea of your becoming ‘a great + woman.’” + </p> + <p> + “But I do not know Mr. Vigo,” whispered Endymion to Imogene. + </p> + <p> + “But you have met him here, and you went together to Epsom. It is enough. + He is going to ask you to dine with him on Saturday. We shall be there, + and Mr. Waldershare is going. He has a beautiful place, and it will be + very pleasant.” And exactly as Imogene had anticipated, Mr. Vigo, in the + course of the evening, did ask Endymion to do him the honour of being his + guest. + </p> + <p> + The villa of Mr. Vigo was on the banks of the Thames, and had once + belonged to a noble customer. The Palladian mansion contained a suite of + chambers of majestic dimensions—lofty ceilings, rich cornices, and + vast windows of plate glass; the gardens were rich with the products of + conservatories which Mr. Vigo had raised with every modern improvement, + and a group of stately cedars supported the dignity of the scene and gave + to it a name. Beyond, a winding walk encircled a large field which Mr. + Vigo called the park, and which sparkled with gold and silver pheasants, + and the keeper lived in a newly-raised habitation at the extreme end, + which took the form of a Swiss cottage. + </p> + <p> + The Rodney family, accompanied by Mr. Waldershare and Endymion, went to + the Cedars by water. It was a delightful afternoon of June, the river warm + and still, and the soft, fitful western breeze occasionally rich with the + perfume of the gardens of Putney and Chiswick. Waldershare talked the + whole way. It was a rhapsody of fancy, fun, knowledge, anecdote, brilliant + badinage—even passionate seriousness. Sometimes he recited poetry, + and his voice was musical; and, then, when he had attuned his companions + to a sentimental pitch, he would break into mockery, and touch with + delicate satire every mood of human feeling. Endymion listened to him in + silence and admiration. He had never heard Waldershare talk before, and he + had never heard anybody like him. All this time, what was now, and ever, + remarkable in Waldershare were his manners. They were finished, even to + courtliness. Affable and winning, he was never familiar. He always + addressed Sylvia as if she were one of those duchesses round whom he used + to linger. He would bow deferentially to her remarks, and elicit from some + of her casual observations an acute or graceful meaning, of which she + herself was by no means conscious. The bow of Waldershare was a study. Its + grace and ceremony must have been organic; for there was no traditionary + type in existence from which he could have derived or inherited it. He + certainly addressed Imogene and spoke to her by her Christian name; but + this was partly because he was in love with the name, and partly because + he would persist in still treating her as a child. But his manner to her + always was that of tender respect. She was almost as silent as Endymion + during their voyage, but not less attentive to her friend. Mr. Rodney was + generally silent, and never opened his mouth on this occasion except in + answer to an inquiry from his wife as to whom a villa might belong, and it + seemed always that he knew every villa, and every one to whom they + belonged. + </p> + <p> + The sisters were in demi-toilette, which seemed artless, though in fact it + was profoundly devised. Sylvia was the only person who really understood + the meaning of “simplex munditiis,” and this was one of the secrets of her + success. There were some ladies, on the lawn of the Cedars when they + arrived, not exactly of their school, and who were finely and fully + dressed. Mrs. Gamme was the wife of a sporting attorney of Mr. Vigo, and + who also, having a villa at hand, was looked upon as a country neighbour. + Mrs. Gamme was universally recognised to be a fine woman, and she dressed + up to her reputation. She was a famous whist-player at high points, and + dealt the cards with hands covered with diamond rings. Another country + neighbour was the chief partner in the celebrated firm of Hooghley, Dacca, + and Co., dealers in Indian and other shawls. Mr. Hooghley had married a + celebrated actress, and was proud and a little jealous of his wife. Mrs. + Hooghley had always an opportunity at the Cedars of meeting some friends + in her former profession, for Mr. Vigo liked to be surrounded by genius + and art. “I must have talent,” he would exclaim, as he looked round at the + amusing and motley multitude assembled at his splendid entertainments. And + to-day upon his lawn might be observed the first tenor of the opera and a + prima-donna who had just arrived, several celebrated members of the + English stage of both sexes, artists of great reputation, whose principal + works already adorned the well-selected walls of the Cedars, a danseuse or + two of celebrity, some literary men, as Mr. Vigo styled them, who were + chiefly brethren of the political press, and more than one member of + either House of Parliament. + </p> + <p> + Just as the party were preparing to leave the lawn and enter the + dining-room arrived, breathless and glowing, the young earl who had driven + the Rodneys to the Derby. + </p> + <p> + “A shaver, my dear Vigo! Only returned to town this afternoon, and found + your invitation. How fortunate!” And then he looked around, and + recognising Mrs. Rodney, was immediately at her side. “I must have the + honour of taking you into dinner. I got your note, but only by this + morning’s post.” + </p> + <p> + The dinner was a banquet,—a choice bouquet before every guest, + turtle and venison and piles of whitebait, and pine-apples of prodigious + size, and bunches of grapes that had gained prizes. The champagne seemed + to flow in fountains, and was only interrupted that the guests might quaff + Burgundy or taste Tokay. But what was more delightful than all was the + enjoyment of all present, and especially of their host. That is a rare + sight. Banquets are not rare, nor choice guests, nor gracious hosts; but + when do we ever see a person enjoy anything? But these gay children of art + and whim, and successful labour and happy speculation, some of them very + rich and some of them without a sou, seemed only to think of the festive + hour and all its joys. Neither wealth nor poverty brought them cares. + Every face sparkled, every word seemed witty, and every sound seemed + sweet. A band played upon the lawn during the dinner, and were succeeded, + when the dessert commenced, by strange choruses from singers of some + foreign land, who for the first time aired their picturesque costumes on + the banks of the Thames. + </p> + <p> + When the ladies had withdrawn to the saloon, the first comic singer of the + age excelled himself; and when they rejoined their fair friends, the + primo-tenore and the prima-donna gave them a grand scene, succeeded by the + English performers in a favourite scene from a famous farce. Then Mrs. + Gamme had an opportunity of dealing with her diamond rings, and the rest + danced—a waltz of whirling grace, or merry cotillon of jocund + bouquets. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Clarence,” said Waldershare to the young earl, as they stood for a + moment apart, “was I right?” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! yes. It is the only life. You were quite right. We should indeed + be fools to sacrifice ourselves to the conventional.” + </p> + <p> + The Rodney party returned home in the drag of the last speaker. They were + the last to retire, as Mr. Vigo wished for one cigar with his noble + friend. As he bade farewell, and cordially, to Endymion, he said, “Call on + me to-morrow morning in Burlington Street in your way to your office. Do + not mind the hour. I am an early bird.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII + </h2> + <p> + “It is no favour,” said Mr. Vigo; “it is not even an act of friendliness; + it is a freak, and it is my freak; the favour, if there be one, is + conferred by you.” + </p> + <p> + “But I really do not know what to say,” said Endymion, hesitating and + confused. + </p> + <p> + “I am not a classical scholar,” said Mr. Vigo, “but there are two things + which I think I understand—men and horses. I like to back them both + when I think they ought to win.” + </p> + <p> + “But I am scarcely a man,” said Endymion, rather piteously, “and I + sometimes think I shall never win anything.” + </p> + <p> + “That is my affair,” replied Mr. Vigo; “you are a yearling, and I have + formed my judgment as to your capacity. What I wish to do in your case is + what I have done in others, and some memorable ones. Dress does not make a + man, but it often makes a successful one. The most precious stone, you + know, must be cut and polished. I shall enter your name in my books for an + unlimited credit, and no account to be settled till you are a privy + councillor. I do not limit the credit, because you are a man of sense and + a gentleman, and will not abuse it. But be quite as careful not to stint + yourself as not to be needlessly extravagant. In the first instance, you + would be interfering with my experiment, and that would not be fair.” + </p> + <p> + This conversation took place in Mr. Vigo’s counting-house the morning + after the entertainment at his villa. Endymion called upon Mr. Vigo in his + way to his office, as he had been requested to do, and Mr. Vigo had + expressed his wishes and intentions with regard to Endymion, as intimated + in the preceding remarks. + </p> + <p> + “I have known many an heiress lost by her suitor being ill-dressed,” said + Mr. Vigo. “You must dress according to your age, your pursuits, your + object in life; you must dress too, in some cases, according to your set. + In youth a little fancy is rather expected, but if political life be your + object, it should be avoided, at least after one-and-twenty. I am dressing + two brothers now, men of considerable position; one is a mere man of + pleasure, the other will probably be a minister of state. They are as like + as two peas, but were I to dress the dandy and the minister the same, it + would be bad taste—it would be ridiculous. No man gives me the + trouble which Lord Eglantine does; he has not made up his mind whether he + will be a great poet or prime minister. ‘You must choose, my lord,’ I tell + him. ‘I cannot send you out looking like Lord Byron if you mean to be a + Canning or a Pitt.’ I have dressed a great many of our statesmen and + orators, and I always dressed them according to their style and the nature + of their duties. What all men should avoid is the ‘shabby genteel.’ No man + ever gets over it. I will save you from that. You had better be in rags.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV + </h2> + <p> + When the twins had separated, they had resolved on a system of + communication which had been, at least on the part of Myra, scrupulously + maintained. They were to interchange letters every week, and each letter + was to assume, if possible, the shape of a journal, so that when they + again met no portion of the interval should be a blank in their past + lives. There were few incidents in the existence of Myra; a book, a walk, + a visit to the rectory, were among the chief. The occupations of their + father were unchanged, and his health seemed sustained, but that of her + mother was not satisfactory. Mrs. Ferrars had never rallied since the last + discomfiture of her political hopes, and had never resumed her previous + tenour of life. She was secluded, her spirits uncertain, moods of + depression succeeded by fits of unaccountable excitement, and, on the + whole, Myra feared a general and chronic disturbance of her nervous + system. His sister prepared Endymion for encountering a great change in + their parent when he returned home. Myra, however, never expatiated on the + affairs of Hurstley. Her annals in this respect were somewhat dry. She + fulfilled her promise of recording them, but no more. Her pen was fuller + and more eloquent in her comments on the life of her brother, and of the + new characters with whom he had become acquainted. She delighted to hear + about Mr. Jawett, and especially about Mr. St. Barbe, and was much pleased + that he had been to the Derby, though she did not exactly collect who were + his companions. Did he go with that kind Mr. Trenchant? It would seem that + Endymion’s account of the Rodney family had been limited to vague though + earnest acknowledgments of their great civility and attention, which added + much to the comfort of his life. Impelled by some of these grateful though + general remarks, Mrs. Ferrars, in a paroxysm of stately gratitude, had + sent a missive to Sylvia, such as a sovereign might address to a deserving + subject, at the same time acknowledging and commending her duteous + services. Such was the old domestic superstition of the Rodneys, that, + with all their worldliness, they treasured this effusion as if it had + really emanated from the centre of power and courtly favour. + </p> + <p> + Myra, in her anticipation of speedily meeting her brother, was doomed to + disappointment. She had counted on Endymion obtaining some holidays in the + usual recess, but in consequence of having so recently joined the office, + Endymion was retained for summer and autumnal work, and not until + Christmas was there any prospect of his returning home. + </p> + <p> + The interval between midsummer and that period, though not devoid of + seasons of monotony and loneliness, passed in a way not altogether + unprofitable to Endymion. Waldershare, who had begun to notice him, seemed + to become interested in his career. Waldershare knew all about his + historic ancestor, Endymion Carey. The bubbling imagination of Waldershare + clustered with a sort of wild fascination round a living link with the age + of the cavaliers. He had some Stuart blood in his veins, and his ancestors + had fallen at Edgehill and Marston Moor. Waldershare, whose fancies + alternated between Stafford and St. Just, Archbishop Laud and the Goddess + of Reason, reverted for the moment to his visions on the banks of the Cam, + and the brilliant rhapsodies of his boyhood. His converse with Nigel + Penruddock had prepared Endymion in some degree for these mysteries, and + perhaps it was because Waldershare found that Endymion was by no means + ill-informed on these matters, and therefore there was less opportunity of + dazzling and moulding him, which was a passion with Waldershare, that he + soon quitted the Great Rebellion for pastures new, and impressed upon his + pupil that all that had occurred before the French Revolution was ancient + history. The French Revolution had introduced the cosmopolitan principle + into human affairs instead of the national, and no public man could + succeed who did not comprehend and acknowledge that truth. Waldershare + lent Endymion books, and books with which otherwise he would not have + become acquainted. Unconsciously to himself, the talk of Waldershare, + teeming with knowledge, and fancy, and playfulness, and airy sarcasm of + life, taught him something of the art of conversation—to be prompt + without being stubborn, to refute without argument, and to clothe grave + matters in a motley garb. + </p> + <p> + But in August Waldershare disappeared, and at the beginning of September, + even the Rodneys had gone to Margate. St. Barbe was the only clerk left in + Endymion’s room. They dined together almost every day, and went on the top + of an omnibus to many a suburban paradise. “I tell you what,” said St. + Barbe, as they were watching one day together the humours of the world in + the crowded tea-garden and bustling bowling-green of Canonbury Tavern; “a + fellow might get a good chapter out of this scene. I could do it, but I + will not. What is the use of lavishing one’s brains on an ungrateful + world? Why, if that fellow Gushy were to write a description of this + place, which he would do like a penny-a-liner drunk with ginger beer, + every countess in Mayfair would be reading him, not knowing, the idiot, + whether she ought to smile or shed tears, and sending him cards with ‘at + home’ upon them as large as life. Oh! it is disgusting! absolutely + disgusting. It is a nefarious world, sir. You will find it out some day. I + am as much robbed by that fellow Gushy as men are on the highway. He is + appropriating my income, and the income of thousands of honest fellows. + And then he pretends he is writing for the people! The people! What does + he know about the people? Annals of the New Cut and Saffron Hill. He + thinks he will frighten some lord, who will ask him to dinner. And that he + calls Progress. I hardly know which is the worst class in this country—the + aristocracy, the middle class, or what they call the people. I hate them + all.” + </p> + <p> + About the fall of the leaf the offices were all filled again, and among + the rest Trenchard returned. “His brother has been ill,” said St. Barbe. + “They say that Trenchard is very fond of him. Fond of a brother who keeps + him out of four thousand pounds per annum! What will man not say? And yet + I could not go and congratulate Trenchard on his brother’s death. It would + be ‘bad taste.’ Trenchard would perhaps never speak to me again, though he + had been lying awake all night chuckling over the event. And Gushy takes + an amiable view of this world of hypocrisy and plunder. And that is why + Gushy is so popular!” + </p> + <p> + There was one incident at the beginning of November, which eventually + exercised no mean influence on the life of Endymion. Trenchard offered one + evening to introduce him as a guest to a celebrated debating society, of + which Trenchard was a distinguished member. This society had grown out of + the Union at Cambridge, and was originally intended to have been a + metropolitan branch of that famous association. But in process of time it + was found that such a constitution was too limited to ensure those numbers + and that variety of mind desirable in such an institution. It was + therefore opened to the whole world duly qualified. The predominant + element, however, for a long time consisted of Cambridge men. + </p> + <p> + This society used to meet in a large room, fitted up as much like the + House of Commons as possible, and which was in Freemason’s Tavern, in + Great Queen Street. Some hundred and fifty members were present when + Endymion paid his first visit there, and the scene to Endymion was novel + and deeply interesting. Though only a guest, he was permitted to sit in + the body of the chamber, by the side of Trenchard, who kindly gave him + some information, as the proceedings advanced, as to the principal + personages who took part in them. + </p> + <p> + The question to-night was, whether the decapitation of Charles the First + were a justifiable act, and the debate was opened in the affirmative by a + young man with a singularly sunny face and a voice of music. His statement + was clear and calm. Though nothing could be more uncompromising than his + opinions, it seemed that nothing could be fairer than his facts. + </p> + <p> + “That is Hortensius,” said Trenchard; “he will be called this term. They + say he did nothing at the university, and is too idle to do anything at + the bar; but I think highly of him. You should hear him in reply.” + </p> + <p> + The opening speech was seconded by a very young man, in a most artificial + style, remarkable for its superfluity of intended sarcasm, which was + delivered in a highly elaborate tone, so that the speaker seemed severe + without being keen. + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis the new Cambridge style,” whispered Trenchard, “but it will not go + down here.” + </p> + <p> + The question having been launched, Spruce arose, a very neat speaker; a + little too mechanical, but plausible. Endymion was astonished at the + dexterous turns in his own favour which he gave to many of the statements + of Hortensius, and how he mangled and massacred the seconder, who had made + a mistake in a date. + </p> + <p> + “He is the Tory leader,” said Trenchard. “There are not twenty Tories in + our Union, but we always listen to him. He is sharp, Jawett will answer + him.” + </p> + <p> + And, accordingly, that great man rose. Jawett, in dulcet tones of + philanthropy, intimated that he was not opposed to the decapitation of + kings; on the contrary, if there were no other way of getting rid of them, + he would have recourse to such a method. But he did not think the case + before them was justifiable. + </p> + <p> + “Always crotchety,” whispered Trenchard. + </p> + <p> + Jawett thought the whole conception of the opening speech erroneous. It + proceeded on the assumption that the execution of Charles was the act of + the people; on the contrary, it was an intrigue of Cromwell, who was the + only person who profited by it. + </p> + <p> + Cromwell was vindicated and panegyrised in a flaming speech by Montreal, + who took this opportunity of denouncing alike kings and bishops, Church + and State, with powerful invective, terminating his address by the + expression of an earnest hope that he might be spared to witness the + inevitable Commonwealth of England. + </p> + <p> + “He only lost his election for Rattleton by ten votes,” said Trenchard. + “We call him the Lord Protector, and his friends here think he will be + so.” + </p> + <p> + The debate was concluded, after another hour, by Hortensius, and Endymion + was struck by the contrast between his first and second manner. Safe from + reply, and reckless in his security, it is not easy to describe the + audacity of his retorts, or the tumult of his eloquence. Rapid, sarcastic, + humorous, picturesque, impassioned, he seemed to carry everything before + him, and to resemble his former self in nothing but the music of his + voice, which lent melody to scorn, and sometimes reached the depth of + pathos. + </p> + <p> + Endymion walked home with Mr. Trenchard, and in a musing mood. “I should + not care how lazy I was,” said Endymion, “if I could speak like + Hortensius.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV + </h2> + <p> + The snow was falling about the time when the Swindon coach, in which + Endymion was a passenger, was expected at Hurstley, and the snow had been + falling all day. Nothing had been more dreary than the outward world, or + less entitled to the merry epithet which is the privilege of the season. + The gardener had been despatched to the village inn, where the coach + stopped, with a lantern and cloaks and umbrellas. Within the house the + huge blocks of smouldering beech sent forth a hospitable heat, and, + whenever there was a sound, Myra threw cones on the inflamed mass, that + Endymion might be welcomed with a blaze. Mrs. Ferrars, who had appeared + to-day, though late, and had been very nervous and excited, broke down + half an hour before her son could arrive, and, murmuring that she would + reappear, had retired. Her husband was apparently reading, but his eye + wandered and his mind was absent from the volume. + </p> + <p> + The dogs barked, Mr. Ferrars threw down his book, Myra forgot her cones; + the door burst open, and she was in her brother’s arms. + </p> + <p> + “And where is mamma?” said Endymion, after he had greeted his father. + </p> + <p> + “She will be here directly,” said Mr. Ferrars. “You are late, and the + suspense of your arrival a little agitated her.” + </p> + <p> + Three quarters of a year had elapsed since the twins had parted, and they + were at that period of life when such an interval often produces no slight + changes in personal appearance. Endymion, always tall for his years, had + considerably grown; his air, and manner, and dress were distinguished. But + three quarters of a year had produced a still greater effect upon his + sister. He had left her a beautiful girl: her beauty was not less + striking, but it was now the beauty of a woman. Her mien was radiant but + commanding, and her brow, always remarkable, was singularly impressive. + </p> + <p> + They stood in animated converse before the fire, Endymion between his + father and his sister and retaining of each a hand, when Mr. Ferrars + nodded to Myra and said, “I think now;” and Myra, not reluctantly, but not + with happy eagerness, left the room. + </p> + <p> + “She is gone for your poor mother,” said Mr. Ferrars; “we are uneasy about + her, my dear boy.” + </p> + <p> + Myra was some time away, and when she returned, she was alone. “She says + she must see him first in her room,” said Myra, in a low voice, to her + father; “but that will never do; you or I must go with him.” + </p> + <p> + “You had better go,” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + She took her brother’s hand and led him away. “I go with you, to prevent + dreadful scenes,” said his sister on the staircase. “Try to behave just as + in old times, and as if you saw no change.” + </p> + <p> + Myra went into the chamber first, to give to her mother, if possible, the + keynote of the interview, and of which she had already furnished the + prelude. “We are all so happy to see Endymion again, dear mamma. Papa is + quite gay.” + </p> + <p> + And then when Endymion, answering his sister’s beckon, entered, Mrs. + Ferrars rushed forward with a sort of laugh, and cried out, “Oh! I am so + happy to see you again, my child. I feel quite gay.” + </p> + <p> + He embraced her, but he could not believe it was his mother. A visage at + once haggard and bloated had supplanted that soft and rich countenance + which had captivated so many. A robe concealed her attenuated frame; but + the lustrous eyes were bleared and bloodshot, and the accents of the + voice, which used to be at once melodious and a little drawling, hoarse, + harsh, and hurried. + </p> + <p> + She never stopped talking; but it was all in one key, and that the + prescribed one—her happiness at his arrival, the universal gaiety it + had produced, and the merry Christmas they were to keep. After a time she + began to recur to the past, and to sigh; but instantly Myra interfered + with “You know, mamma, you are to dine downstairs to-day, and you will + hardly have time to dress;” and she motioned to Endymion to retire. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars kept the dinner waiting a long time, and, when she entered + the room, it was evident that she was painfully excited. She had a cap on, + and had used some rouge. + </p> + <p> + “Endymion must take me in to dinner,” she hurriedly exclaimed as she + entered, and then grasped her son’s arm. + </p> + <p> + It seemed a happy and even a merry dinner, and yet there was something + about it forced and constrained. Mrs. Ferrars talked a great deal, and + Endymion told them a great many anecdotes of those men and things which + most interested them, and Myra seemed to be absorbed in his remarks and + narratives, and his mother would drink his health more than once, when + suddenly she went into hysterics, and all was anarchy. Mr. Ferrars looked + distressed and infinitely sad; and Myra, putting her arm round her mother, + and whispering words of calm or comfort, managed to lead her out of the + room, and neither of them returned. + </p> + <p> + “Poor creature!” said Mr. Ferrars, with a sigh. “Seeing you has been too + much for her.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning Endymion and his sister paid a visit to the rectory, and + there they met Nigel, who was passing his Christmas at home. This was a + happy meeting. The rector had written an essay on squirrels, and showed + them a glass containing that sportive little animal in all its frolic + forms. Farmer Thornberry had ordered a path to be cleared on the green + from the hall to the rectory; and “that is all,” said Mrs. Penruddock, “we + have to walk upon, except the high road. The snow has drifted to such a + degree that it is impossible to get to the Chase. I went out the day + before yesterday with Carlo as a guide. When I did not clearly make out my + way, I sent him forward, and sometimes I could only see his black head + emerging from the snow. So I had to retreat.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ferrars did not appear this day. Endymion visited her in her room. He + found her flighty and incoherent. She seemed to think that he had returned + permanently to Hurstley, and said she never had any good opinion of the + scheme of his leaving them. If it had been the Foreign Office, as was + promised, and his father had been in the Cabinet, which was his right, it + might have been all very well. But, if he were to leave home, he ought to + have gone into the Guards, and it was not too late. And then they might + live in a small house in town, and look after him. There were small houses + in Wilton Crescent, which would do very well. Besides, she herself wanted + change of air. Hurstley did not agree with her. She had no appetite. She + never was well except in London, or Wimbledon. She wished that, as + Endymion was here, he would speak to his father on the subject. She saw no + reason why they should not live at their place at Wimbledon as well as + here. It was not so large a house, and, therefore, would not be so + expensive. + </p> + <p> + Endymion’s holiday was only to last a week, and Myra seemed jealous of his + sparing any portion of it to Nigel; yet the rector’s son was sedulous in + his endeavours to enjoy the society of his former companion. There seemed + some reason for his calling at the hall every day. Mr. Ferrars broke + through his habits, and invited Nigel to dine with them; and after dinner, + saying that he would visit Mrs. Ferrars, who was unwell, left them alone. + It was the only time they had yet been alone. Endymion found that there + was no change in the feelings and views of Nigel respecting Church + matters, except that his sentiments and opinions were more assured, and, + if possible, more advanced. He would not tolerate any reference to the + state of the nation; it was the state of the Church which engrossed his + being. No government was endurable that was not divine. The Church was + divine, and on that he took his stand. + </p> + <p> + Nigel was to take his degree next term, and orders as soon as possible. He + looked forward with confidence, after doubtless a period of disturbance, + confusion, probably violence, and even anarchy, to the establishment of an + ecclesiastical polity that would be catholic throughout the realm. + Endymion just intimated the very contrary opinions that Jawett held upon + these matters, and mentioned, though not as an adherent, some of the + cosmopolitan sentiments of Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + “The Church is cosmopolitan,” said Nigel; “the only practicable means by + which you can attain to identity of motive and action.” + </p> + <p> + Then they rejoined Myra, but Nigel soon returned to the absorbing theme. + His powers had much developed since he and Endymion used to wander + together over Hurstley Chase. He had great eloquence, his views were + startling and commanding, and his expressions forcible and picturesque. + All was heightened, too, by his striking personal appearance and the + beauty of his voice. He seemed something between a young prophet and an + inquisitor; a remarkable blending of enthusiasm and self-control. + </p> + <p> + A person more experienced in human nature than Endymion might have + observed, that all this time, while Nigel was to all appearance chiefly + addressing himself to Endymion, he was, in fact, endeavouring to impress + his sister. Endymion knew, from the correspondence of Myra, that Nigel had + been, especially in the summer, much at Hurstley; and when he was alone + with his sister, he could not help remarking, “Nigel is as strong as ever + in his views.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she replied; “he is very clever and very good-looking. It is a pity + he is going into the Church. I do not like clergymen.” + </p> + <p> + On the third day of the visit, Mrs. Ferrars was announced to be unwell, + and in the evening very unwell; and Mr. Ferrars sent to the nearest + medical man, and he was distant, to attend her. The medical man did not + arrive until past midnight, and, after visiting his patient, looked grave. + She had fever, but of what character it was difficult to decide. The + medical man had brought some remedies with him, and he stayed the night at + the hall. It was a night of anxiety and alarm, and the household did not + retire until nearly the break of dawn. + </p> + <p> + The next day it seemed that the whole of the Penruddock family were in the + house. Mrs. Penruddock insisted on nursing Mrs. Ferrars, and her husband + looked as if he thought he might be wanted. It was unreasonable that Nigel + should be left alone. His presence, always pleasing, was a relief to an + anxious family, and who were beginning to get alarmed. The fever did not + subside. On the contrary, it increased, and there were other dangerous + symptoms. There was a physician of fame at Oxford, whom Nigel wished they + would call in. Matters were too pressing to wait for the posts, and too + complicated to trust to an ordinary messenger. Nigel, who was always well + mounted, was in his saddle in an instant. He seemed to be all resource, + consolation, and energy: “If I am fortunate, he will be here in four + hours; at all events, I will not return alone.” + </p> + <p> + Four terrible hours were these: Mr. Ferrars, restless and sad, and + listening with a vacant air or an absent look to the kind and unceasing + talk of the rector; Myra, silent in her mother’s chamber; and Endymion, + wandering about alone with his eyes full of tears. This was the Merrie + Christmas he had talked of, and this his long-looked-for holiday. He could + think of nothing but his mother’s kindness; and the days gone by, when she + was so bright and happy, came back to him with painful vividness. It + seemed to him that he belonged to a doomed and unhappy family. Youth and + its unconscious mood had hitherto driven this thought from his mind; but + it occurred to him now, and would not be driven away. + </p> + <p> + Nigel was fortunate. Before sunset he returned to Hurstley in a postchaise + with the Oxford physician, whom he had furnished with an able and accurate + diagnosis of the case. All that art could devise, and all that devotion + could suggest, were lavished on the sufferer, but in vain; and four days + afterwards, the last day of Endymion’s long-awaited holiday, Mr. Ferrars + closed for ever the eyes of that brilliant being, who, with some + weaknesses, but many noble qualities, had shared with no unequal spirit + the splendour and the adversity of his existence. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI + </h2> + <p> + Nigel took a high degree and obtained first-class honours. He was ordained + by the bishop of the diocese as soon after as possible. His companions, + who looked up to him with every expectation of his eminence and influence, + were disappointed, however, in the course of life on which he decided. It + was different from that which he had led them to suppose it would be. They + had counted on his becoming a resident light of the University, filling + its highest offices, and ultimately reaching the loftiest stations in the + Church. Instead of that he announced that he had resolved to become a + curate to his father, and that he was about to bury himself in the + solitude of Hurstley. + </p> + <p> + It was in the early summer following the death of Mrs. Ferrars that he + settled there. He was frequently at the hall, and became intimate with Mr. + Ferrars. Notwithstanding the difference of age, there was between them a + sympathy of knowledge and thought. In spite of his decided mind, Nigel + listened to Mr. Ferrars with deference, soliciting his judgment, and + hanging, as it were, on his accents of wise experience and refined taste. + So Nigel became a favourite with Mr. Ferrars; for there are few things + more flattering than the graceful submission of an accomplished intellect, + and, when accompanied by youth, the spell is sometimes fascinating. + </p> + <p> + The death of his wife seemed to have been a great blow to Mr. Ferrars. The + expression of his careworn, yet still handsome, countenance became, if + possible, more saddened. It was with difficulty that his daughter could + induce him to take exercise, and he had lost altogether that seeming + interest in their outer world which once at least he affected to feel. + Myra, though ever content to be alone, had given up herself much to her + father since his great sorrow; but she felt that her efforts to distract + him from his broodings were not eminently successful, and she hailed with + a feeling of relief the establishment of Nigel in the parish, and the + consequent intimacy that arose between him and her father. + </p> + <p> + Nigel and Myra were necessarily under these circumstances thrown much + together. As time advanced he passed his evenings generally at the hall, + for he was a proficient in the only game which interested Mr. Ferrars, and + that was chess. Reading and writing all day, Mr. Ferrars required some + remission of attention, and his relaxation was chess. Before the games, + and between the games, and during delightful tea-time, and for the happy + quarter of an hour which ensued when the chief employment of the evening + ceased, Nigel appealed much to Myra, and endeavoured to draw out her mind + and feelings. He lent her books, and books that favoured, indirectly at + least, his own peculiar views—volumes of divine poesy that had none + of the twang of psalmody, tales of tender and sometimes wild and brilliant + fancy, but ever full of symbolic truth. + </p> + <p> + Chess-playing requires complete abstraction, and Nigel, though he was a + double first, occasionally lost a game from a lapse in that condensed + attention that secures triumph. The fact is, he was too frequently + thinking of something else besides the moves on the board, and his ear was + engaged while his eye wandered, if Myra chanced to rise from her seat or + make the slightest observation. + </p> + <p> + The woods were beginning to assume the first fair livery of autumn, when + it is beautiful without decay. The lime and the larch had not yet dropped + a golden leaf, and the burnished beeches flamed in the sun. Every now and + then an occasional oak or elm rose, still as full of deep green foliage as + if it were midsummer; while the dark verdure of the pines sprang up with + effective contrast amid the gleaming and resplendent chestnuts. + </p> + <p> + There was a glade at Hurstley, bounded on each side with masses of yew, + their dark green forms now studded with crimson berries. Myra was walking + one morning in this glade when she met Nigel, who was on one of his daily + pilgrimages, and he turned round and walked by her side. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure I cannot give you news of your brother,” he said, “but I have + had a letter this morning from Endymion. He seems to take great interest + in his debating club.” + </p> + <p> + “I am so glad he has become a member of it,” said Myra. “That kind Mr. + Trenchard, whom I shall never see to thank him for all his goodness to + Endymion, proposed him. It occupies his evenings twice a week, and then it + gives him subjects to think of and read up in the interval.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; it is a good thing,” said Nigel moodily; “and if he is destined for + public life, which perhaps he may be, no contemptible discipline.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear boy!” said Myra, with a sigh. “I do not see what public life he is + destined to, except slaving at a desk. But sometimes one has dreams.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; we all have dreams,” said Nigel, with an air of abstraction. + </p> + <p> + “It is impossible to resist the fascination of a fine autumnal morn,” said + Myra; “but give me the long days of summer and its rich leafy joys. I like + to wander about, and dine at nine o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Delightful, doubtless, with a sympathising companion.” + </p> + <p> + “Endymion was such a charming companion,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “But he has left us,” said Nigel; “and you are alone.” + </p> + <p> + “I am alone,” said Myra; “but I am used to solitude, and I can think of + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Would I were Endymion,” said Nigel, “to be thought of by you!” + </p> + <p> + Myra looked at him with something of a stare; but he continued— + </p> + <p> + “All seasons would be to me fascination, were I only by your side. Yes; I + can no longer repress the irresistible confusion of my love. I am here, + and I am here only, because I love you. I quitted Oxford and all its pride + that I might have the occasional delight of being your companion. I was + not presumptuous in my thoughts, and believed that would content me; but I + can no longer resist the consummate spell, and I offer you my heart and my + life.” + </p> + <p> + “I am amazed; I am a little overwhelmed,” said Myra. “Pardon me, dear Mr. + Penruddock—dear Nigel—you speak of things of which I have not + thought.” + </p> + <p> + “Think of them! I implore you to think of them, and now!” + </p> + <p> + “We are a fallen family,” said Myra, “perhaps a doomed one. We are not + people to connect yourself with. You have witnessed some of our sorrows, + and soothed them. I shall be ever grateful to you for the past. But I + sometimes feel our cup is not yet full, and I have long resolved to bear + my cross alone. But, irrespective of all other considerations, I can never + leave my father.” + </p> + <p> + “I have spoken to your father,” said Nigel, “and he approved my suit.” + </p> + <p> + “While my father lives I shall not quit him,” said Myra; “but, let me not + mislead you, I do not live for my father—I live for another.” + </p> + <p> + “For another?” inquired Nigel, with anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “For one you know. My life is devoted to Endymion. There is a mystic bond + between us, originating, perhaps, in the circumstance of our birth; for we + are twins. I never mean to embarrass him with a sister’s love, and perhaps + hereafter may see less of him even than I see now; but I shall be in the + world, whatever be my lot, high or low—the active, stirring world—working + for him, thinking only of him. Yes; moulding events and circumstances in + his favour;” and she spoke with fiery animation. “I have brought myself, + by long meditation, to the conviction that a human being with a settled + purpose must accomplish it, and that nothing can resist a will that will + stake even existence for its fulfilment.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII + </h2> + <p> + Endymion had returned to his labours, after the death of his mother, much + dispirited. Though young and hopeful, his tender heart could not be + insensible to the tragic end. There is anguish in the recollection that we + have not adequately appreciated the affection of those whom we have loved + and lost. It tortured him to feel that he had often accepted with + carelessness or indifference the homage of a heart that had been to him + ever faithful in its multiplied devotion. Then, though he was not of a + melancholy and brooding nature, in this moment of bereavement he could not + drive from his mind the consciousness that there had long been hanging + over his home a dark lot, as it were, of progressive adversity. His family + seemed always sinking, and he felt conscious how the sanguine spirit of + his mother had sustained them in their trials. His father had already made + him the depositary of his hopeless cares; and if anything happened to that + father, old and worn out before his time, what would become of Myra? + </p> + <p> + Nigel, who in their great calamity seemed to have thought of everything, + and to have done everything, had written to the chief of his office, and + also to Mr. Trenchard, explaining the cause of the absence of Endymion + from his duties. There were no explanations, therefore, necessary when he + reappeared; no complaints, but only sympathy and general kindness. In + Warwick Street there was unaffected sorrow; Sylvia wept and went into the + prettiest mourning for her patroness, and Mr. Rodney wore a crape on his + hat. “I never saw her,” said Imogene, “but I am told she was heavenly.” + </p> + <p> + Waldershare was very kind to Endymion, and used to take him to the House + of Commons on interesting evenings, and, if he succeeded in getting + Endymion a place under the gallery, would come and talk to him in the + course of the night, and sometimes introduce him to the mysteries of + Bellamy’s, where Endymion had the satisfaction of partaking of a steak in + the presence of statesmen and senators. + </p> + <p> + “You are in the precincts of public life,” said Waldershare; “and if you + ever enter it, which I think you will,” he would add thoughtfully, “it + will be interesting for you to remember that you have seen these + characters, many of whom will then have passed away. Like the shades of a + magic lantern,” he added, with something between a sigh and a smile. “One + of my constituents sent me a homily this morning, the burthen of which + was, I never thought of death. The idiot! I never think of anything else. + It is my weakness. One should never think of death. One should think of + life. That is real piety.” + </p> + <p> + This spring and summer were passed tranquilly by Endymion, but not + unprofitably. He never went to any place of public amusement, and, + cherishing his sorrow, declined those slight openings to social life which + occasionally offered themselves even to him; but he attended his debating + club with regularity, and, though silent, studied every subject which was + brought before it. It interested him to compare their sayings and doings + with those of the House of Commons, and he found advantage in the critical + comparison. Though not in what is styled society, his mind did not rust + from the want of intelligent companions. The clear perception, accurate + knowledge, and unerring judgment of Trenchard, the fantastic cynicism of + St. Barbe, and all the stores of the exuberant and imaginative + Waldershare, were brought to bear on a young and plastic intelligence, + gifted with a quick though not a too profound sensibility which soon + ripened into tact, and which, after due discrimination, was tenacious of + beneficial impressions. + </p> + <p> + In the autumn, Endymion returned home for a long visit and a happy one. He + found Nigel settled at Hurstley, and almost domesticated at the hall; his + father more cheerful than his sister’s earlier letters had led him to + suppose; and she herself so delighted by the constant companionship of her + brother that she seemed to have resumed all her original pride of life. + </p> + <p> + Nearly two years’ acquaintance, however limited, with the world, had + already exercised a ripening influence over Endymion. Nigel soon perceived + this, though, with a native tact which circumstances had developed, + Endymion avoided obtruding his new conclusions upon his former instructor. + But that deep and eager spirit, unwilling ever to let a votary escape, and + absorbed intellectually by one vast idea, would not be baffled. Nigel had + not renounced the early view of Endymion taking orders, and spoke of his + London life as an incident which, with his youth, he might in time only + look upon as an episode in his existence. + </p> + <p> + “I trust I shall ever be a devoted son of the Church,” said Endymion; “but + I confess I feel no predisposition to take orders, even if I had the + opportunity, which probably I never shall have. If I were to choose my + career it would be public life. I am on the last step of the ladder, and I + do not suppose that I can ever be anything but a drudge. But even that + would interest me. It brings one in contact with those who are playing the + great game. One at least fancies one comprehends something of the + government of mankind. Mr. Waldershare takes me often to the House of + Commons, and I must say, I am passionately fond of it.” + </p> + <p> + After Endymion’s return to London that scene occurred between Nigel and + Myra, in the glade at Hurstley, which we have noticed in the preceding + chapter. In the evening of that day Nigel did not pay his accustomed visit + to the hall, and the father and the daughter were alone. Then it was, + notwithstanding evident agitation, and even with some degree of solemnity, + that Mr. Ferrars broke to his daughter that there was a subject on which + he wished seriously to confer with her. + </p> + <p> + “Is it about Nigel?” she inquired with calmness. + </p> + <p> + “It is about Nigel.” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen him, and he has spoken to me.” + </p> + <p> + “And what have you replied?” + </p> + <p> + “What I fear will not be satisfactory to you, sir, but what is + irrevocable.” + </p> + <p> + “Your union would give me life and hope,” said Mr. Ferrars; and then, as + she remained silent, he continued after a pause: “For its happiness there + seems every security. He is of good family, and with adequate means, and, + I firmly believe, no inconsiderable future. His abilities are already + recognised; his disposition is noble. As for his personal qualities, you + are a better judge than I am; but, for my part, I never saw a countenance + that more became the beauty and nobility of his character.” + </p> + <p> + “I think him very good-looking,” said Myra, “and there is no doubt he is + clever, and he has shown himself, on more than one occasion, amiable.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what more can you require?” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “I require nothing; I do not wish to marry.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my daughter, my dearest daughter,” said Mr. Ferrars, “bear with the + anxiety of a parent who is at least devoted to you. Our separation would + be my last and severest sorrow, and I have had many; but there is no + necessity to consider that case, for Nigel is content, is more than + content, to live as your husband under this roof.” + </p> + <p> + “So he told me.” + </p> + <p> + “And that removed one objection that you might naturally feel?” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly should never leave you, sir,” said Myra, “and I told Nigel + so; but that contingency had nothing to do with my decision. I declined + his offer, because I have no wish to marry.” + </p> + <p> + “Women are born to be married,” said Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “And yet I believe most marriages are unhappy,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! if your objection to marry Nigel arises from an abstract objection to + marriage itself,” said Mr. Ferrars, “it is a subject which we might talk + over calmly, and perhaps remove your prejudices.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no objection against marriage,” rejoined Myra. “It is likely + enough that I may marry some day, and probably make an unhappy marriage; + but that is not the question before us. It is whether I should marry + Nigel. That cannot be, my dear father, and he knows it. I have assured him + so in a manner which cannot be mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + “We are a doomed family!” exclaimed the unhappy Mr. Ferrars, clasping his + hands. + </p> + <p> + “So I have long felt,” said Myra. “I can bear our lot; but I want no + strangers to be introduced to share its bitterness, and soothe us with + their sympathy.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak like a girl,” said Mr. Ferrars, “and a headstrong girl, which + you always have been. You know not what you are talking about. It is a + matter of life or death. Your decorous marriage would have saved us from + absolute ruin.” + </p> + <p> + “Alone, I can meet absolute ruin,” said Myra. “I have long contemplated + such a contingency, and am prepared for it. My marriage with Nigel could + hardly save you, sir, from such a visitation, if it be impending. But I + trust in that respect, if in no other, you have used a little of the + language of exaggeration. I have never received, and I have never presumed + to seek, any knowledge of your affairs; but I have assumed, that for your + life, somehow or other, you would be permitted to exist without disgrace. + If I survive you, I have neither care nor fear.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII + </h2> + <p> + In the following spring a vexatious incident occurred in Warwick Street. + The highly-considered county member, who was the yearly tenant of Mr. + Rodney’s first floor, and had been always a valuable patron, suddenly + died. An adjourned debate, a tough beefsteak, a select committee still + harder, and an influenza caught at three o’clock in the morning in an + imprudent but irresistible walk home with a confidential Lord of the + Treasury, had combined very sensibly to affect the income of Mr. Rodney. + At first he was sanguine that such a desirable dwelling would soon find a + suitable inhabitant, especially as Mr. Waldershare assured him that he + would mention the matter to all his friends. But time rolled on, and the + rooms were still vacant; and the fastidious Rodneys, who at first would + only listen to a yearly tenant, began to reduce their expectations. + Matters had arrived at such a pass in May, that, for the first time in + their experience, they actually condescended to hoist an announcement of + furnished apartments. + </p> + <p> + In this state of affairs a cab rattled up to the house one morning, out of + which a young gentleman jumped briskly, and, knocking at the door, asked, + of the servant who opened it, whether he might see the apartments. He was + a young man, apparently not more than one or two and twenty, of a graceful + figure, somewhat above the middle height, fair, with a countenance not + absolutely regular, but calm and high-bred. His dress was in the best + taste, but to a practised eye had something of a foreign cut, and he wore + a slight moustache. + </p> + <p> + “The rooms will suit me,” he said, “and I have no doubt the price you ask + for them is a just one;” and he bowed with high-bred courtesy to Sylvia, + who was now in attendance on him, and who stood with her pretty hands in + the pretty pockets of her pretty apron. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear that,” said Sylvia. “We have never let them before, + except to a yearly tenant.” + </p> + <p> + “And if we suit each other,” said the gentleman, “I should have no great + objection to becoming such.” + </p> + <p> + “In these matters,” said Sylvia, after a little hesitation, “we give and + receive references. Mr. Rodney is well known in this neighbourhood and in + Westminster generally; but I dare say,” she adroitly added, “he has many + acquaintances known to you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Not very likely,” replied the young gentleman; “for I am a foreigner, and + only arrived in England this morning;” though he spoke English without the + slightest accent. + </p> + <p> + Sylvia looked a little perplexed; but he continued: “It is quite just that + you should be assured to whom you are letting your lodgings. The only + reference I can give you is to my banker, but he is almost too great a man + for such matters. Perhaps,” he added, pulling out a case from his breast + pocket, and taking out of it a note, which he handed to Sylvia, “this may + assure you that your rent will be paid.” + </p> + <p> + Sylvia took a rapid glance at the hundred-pound-note, and twisting it into + her little pocket with apparent <i>sangfroid</i>, though she held it with + a tight grasp, murmured that it was quite unnecessary, and then offered to + give her new lodger an acknowledgment of it. + </p> + <p> + “That is really unnecessary,” he replied. “Your appearance commands from + me that entire confidence which on your part you very properly refuse to a + stranger and a foreigner like myself.” + </p> + <p> + “What a charming young man!” thought Sylvia, pressing with emotion her + hundred-pound-note. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” continued the young gentleman, “I will return to the station to + release my servant, who is a prisoner there with my luggage. Be pleased to + make him at home. I shall myself not return probably till the evening; and + in the meantime,” he added, giving Sylvia his card, “you will admit + anything that arrives here addressed to Colonel Albert.” + </p> + <p> + The settlement of Colonel Albert in Warwick Street was an event of no + slight importance. It superseded for a time all other topics of + conversation, and was discussed at length in the evenings, especially with + Mr. Vigo. Who was he? And in what service was he colonel? Mr. Rodney, like + a man of the world, assumed that all necessary information would in time + be obtained from the colonel’s servant; but even men of the world + sometimes miscalculate. The servant, who was a Belgian, had only been + engaged by the colonel at Brussels a few days before his departure for + England, and absolutely knew nothing of his master, except that he was a + gentleman with plenty of money and sufficient luggage. Sylvia, who was the + only person who had seen the colonel, was strongly in his favour. Mr. + Rodney looked doubtful, and avoided any definite opinion until he had had + the advantage of an interview with his new lodger. But this was not easy + to obtain. Colonel Albert had no wish to see the master of the house, and, + if he ever had that desire, his servant would accordingly communicate it + in the proper quarter. At present he was satisfied with all the + arrangements, and wished neither to make nor to receive remarks. The + habits of the new lodger were somewhat of a recluse. He was generally + engaged in his rooms the whole day, and seldom left them till the evening, + and nobody, as yet, had called upon him. Under these circumstances, + Imogene was instructed to open the matter to Mr. Waldershare when she + presided over his breakfast-table; and that gentleman said he would make + inquiries about the colonel at the Travellers’ Club, where Waldershare + passed a great deal of his time. “If he be anybody,” said Mr. Waldershare, + “he is sure in time to be known there, for he will be introduced as a + visitor.” At present, however, it turned out that the “Travellers’” knew + nothing of Colonel Albert; and time went on, and Colonel Albert was not + introduced as a visitor there. + </p> + <p> + After a little while there was a change in the habits of the colonel. One + morning, about noon, a groom, extremely well appointed, and having under + his charge a couple of steeds of breed and beauty, called at Warwick + Street, and the colonel rode out, and was long absent, and after that, + every day, and generally at the same hour, mounted his horse. Mr. Rodney + was never wearied of catching a glimpse of his distinguished lodger over + the blinds of the ground-floor room, and of admiring the colonel’s + commanding presence in his saddle, distinguished as his seat was alike by + its grace and vigour. + </p> + <p> + In the course of a little time, another incident connected with the + colonel occurred which attracted notice and excited interest. Towards the + evening a brougham, marked, but quietly, with a foreign coronet, stopped + frequently at Mr. Rodney’s house, and a visitor to the colonel appeared in + the form of a middle-aged gentleman who never gave his name, and evaded, + it seemed with practised dexterity, every effort, however adroit, to + obtain it. The valet was tried on this head also, and replied with + simplicity that he did not know the gentleman’s name, but he was always + called the Baron. + </p> + <p> + In the middle of June a packet arrived one day by the coach, from the + rector of Hurstley, addressed to Endymion, announcing his father’s + dangerous illness, and requesting him instantly to repair home. Myra was + too much occupied to write even a line. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX + </h2> + <p> + It was strange that Myra did not write, were it only a line. It was so + unlike her. How often this occurred to Endymion during his wearisome and + anxious travel! When the coach reached Hurstley, he found Mr. Penruddock + waiting for him. Before he could inquire after his father, that gentleman + said, “Myra is at the rectory; you are to come on there.” + </p> + <p> + “And my father?”—— + </p> + <p> + “Matters are critical,” said Mr. Penruddock, as it were avoiding a direct + answer, and hastening his pace. + </p> + <p> + It was literally not a five minutes’ walk from the village inn to the + rectory, and they walked in silence. The rector took Endymion at once into + his study; for we can hardly call it a library, though some shelves of + books were there, and many stuffed birds. + </p> + <p> + The rector closed the door with care, and looked distressed; and, + beckoning to Endymion to be seated, he said, while still standing and half + turning away his head, “My dear boy, prepare yourself for the worst.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! he is gone then! my dear, dear father!” and Endymion burst into + passionate tears, and leant on the table, his face hid in his hands. + </p> + <p> + The rector walked up and down the room with an agitated countenance. He + could not deny, it would seem, the inference of Endymion; and yet he did + not proffer those consolations which might be urged, and which it became + one in his capacity peculiarly to urge. + </p> + <p> + “I must see Myra,” said Endymion eagerly, looking up with a wild air and + streaming eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Not yet,” said the rector; “she is much disturbed. Your poor father is no + more; it is too true; but,” and here the rector hesitated, “he did not die + happily.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Your poor father had much to try him,” said the rector. “His life, since + he was amongst us here, was a life, for him, of adversity—perhaps of + great adversity—yet he bore up against it with a Christian spirit; + he never repined. There was much that was noble and exalted in his + character. But he never overcame the loss of your dear mother. He was + never himself afterwards. He was not always master of himself. I could + bear witness to that,” said the rector, talking, as it were, to himself. + “Yes; I could conscientiously give evidence to that effect”—— + </p> + <p> + “What effect?” asked Endymion, with a painful scrutiny. + </p> + <p> + “I could show,” said the rector, speaking slowly, and in a low voice, “and + others could show, that he was not master of himself when he committed the + rash act.” + </p> + <p> + “O Mr. Penruddock!” exclaimed Endymion, starting from his chair, and + seizing the rector by the arm. “What is all this?” + </p> + <p> + “That a great sorrow has come upon you, and your sister, and all of us,” + said Mr. Penruddock; “and you, and she, and all of us must bow before the + Divine will in trembling, though in hope. Your father’s death was not + natural.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the end of William Pitt Ferrars, on whom nature, opportunity, and + culture appeared to have showered every advantage. His abilities were + considerable, his ambition greater. Though intensely worldly, he was not + devoid of affections. He found refuge in suicide, as many do, from want of + imagination. The present was too hard for him, and his future was only a + chaotic nebula. + </p> + <p> + Endymion did not see his sister that evening. She was not made aware of + his arrival, and was alone with Mrs. Penruddock, who never left her night + or day. The rector took charge of her brother, and had a sofa-bed made for + him in the kind man’s room. He was never to be alone. Never the whole + night did Endymion close his eyes; and he was almost as much agitated + about the impending interview with Myra, as about the dark event of terror + that had been disclosed to him. + </p> + <p> + Yet that dreaded interview must take place; and, about noon, the rector + told him that Myra was in the drawing-room alone, and would receive him. + He tottered as he crossed the hall; grief and physical exhaustion had + unmanned him; his eyes were streaming with tears; he paused for a moment + with his hand upon the door; he dreaded the anguish of her countenance. + </p> + <p> + She advanced and embraced him with tenderness; her face was grave, and not + a tear even glistened. + </p> + <p> + “I have been living in a tragedy for years,” said Myra, in a low, hollow + voice; “and the catastrophe has now arrived.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my dear father!” exclaimed Endymion; and he burst into a renewed + paroxysm of grief. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; he was dear to us, and we were dear to him,” said Myra; “but the + curtain has fallen. We have to exert ourselves. Energy and self-control + were never more necessary to two human beings than to us. Here are his + keys; his papers must be examined by no one but ourselves. There is a + terrible ceremony taking place, or impending. When it is all over, we must + visit the hall at least once more.” + </p> + <p> + The whole neighbourhood was full of sorrow for the event, and of sympathy + for those bereft. It was universally agreed that Mr. Ferrars had never + recovered the death of his wife; had never been the same man after it; had + become distrait, absent, wandering in his mind, and the victim of an + invincible melancholy. Several instances were given of his inability to + manage his affairs. The jury, with Farmer Thornberry for foreman, + hesitated not in giving a becoming verdict. In those days information + travelled slowly. There were no railroads then, and no telegraphs, and not + many clubs. A week elapsed before the sad occurrence was chronicled in a + provincial paper, and another week before the report was reproduced in + London, and then in an obscure corner of the journal, and in small print. + Everything gets about at last, and the world began to stare and talk; but + it passed unnoticed to the sufferers, except by a letter from Zenobia, + received at Hurstley after Myra had departed from her kind friends. + Zenobia was shocked, nay, overwhelmed, by what she had heard; wanted to + know if she could be of use; offered to do anything; begged Myra to come + and stay with her in St. James’ Square; and assured her that, if that were + not convenient, when her mourning was over Zenobia would present her at + court, just the same as if she were her own daughter. + </p> + <p> + When the fatal keys were used, and the papers of Mr. Ferrars examined, it + turned out worse than even Myra, in her darkest prescience, had + anticipated. Her father had died absolutely penniless. As executor of his + father, the funds settled on his wife had remained under his sole control, + and they had entirely disappeared. There was a letter addressed to Myra on + this subject. She read it with a pale face, said nothing, and without + showing it to Endymion, destroyed it. There was to be an immediate sale of + their effects at the hall. It was calculated that the expenses of the + funeral and all the country bills might be defrayed by its proceeds. + </p> + <p> + “And there will be enough left for me,” said Myra. “I only want ten + pounds; for I have ascertained that there is no part of England where ten + pounds will not take me.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion sighed and nearly wept when she said these things. “No,” he would + add; “we must never part.” + </p> + <p> + “That would ensure our common ruin,” said Myra. “No; I will never + embarrass you with a sister. You can only just subsist; for you could not + well live in a garret, except at the Rodneys’. I see my way,” said Myra; + “I have long meditated over this—I can draw, I can sing, I can speak + many tongues: I ought to be able to get food and clothing; I may get + something more. And I shall always be content; for I shall always be + thinking of you. However humble even my lot, if my will is concentrated on + one purpose, it must ultimately effect it. That is my creed,” she said, + “and I hold it fervently. I will stay with these dear people for a little + while. They are not exactly the family on which I ought to trespass. But + never mind. You will be a great man some day, Endymion, and you will + remember the good Penruddocks.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX + </h2> + <p> + One of the most remarkable families that have ever flourished in England + were the NEUCHATELS. Their founder was a Swiss, who had established a + banking house of high repute in England in the latter part of the + eighteenth century, and, irrespective of a powerful domestic connection, + had in time pretty well engrossed the largest and best portion of foreign + banking business. When the great French Revolution occurred, all the + emigrants deposited their jewels and their treasure with the Neuchatels. + As the disturbance spread, their example was followed by the alarmed + proprietors and capitalists of the rest of Europe; and, independently of + their own considerable means, the Neuchatels thus had the command for a + quarter of a century, more or less, of adventitious millions. They were + scrupulous and faithful stewards, but they were doubtless repaid for their + vigilance, their anxiety, and often their risk, by the opportunities which + these rare resources permitted them to enjoy. One of the Neuchatels was a + favourite of Mr. Pitt, and assisted the great statesman in his vast + financial arrangements. This Neuchatel was a man of large capacity, and + thoroughly understood his period. The minister wished to introduce him to + public life, would have opened Parliament to him, and no doubt have + showered upon him honours and titles. But Neuchatel declined these + overtures. He was one of those strong minds who will concentrate their + energies on one object; without personal vanity, but with a deep-seated + pride in the future. He was always preparing for his posterity. Governed + by this passion, although he himself would have been content to live for + ever in Bishopsgate Street, where he was born, he had become possessed of + a vast principality, and which, strange to say, with every advantage of + splendour and natural beauty, was not an hour’s drive from Whitechapel. + </p> + <p> + HAINAULT HOUSE had been raised by a British peer in the days when nobles + were fond of building Palladian palaces. It was a chief work of Sir + William Chambers, and in its style, its beauty, and almost in its + dimensions, was a rival of Stowe or Wanstead. It stood in a deer park, and + was surrounded by a royal forest. The family that had raised it wore out + in the earlier part of this century. It was supposed that the place must + be destroyed and dismantled. It was too vast for a citizen, and the + locality was no longer sufficiently refined for a conscript father. In + this dilemma, Neuchatel stepped in and purchased the whole affair—palace, + and park, and deer, and pictures, and halls, and galleries of statue and + bust, and furniture, and even wines, and all the farms that remained, and + all the seigneurial rights in the royal forest. But he never lived there. + Though he spared nothing in the maintenance and the improvement of the + domain, except on a Sunday he never visited it, and was never known to + sleep under its roof. “It will be ready for those who come after me,” he + would remark, with a modest smile. + </p> + <p> + Those who came after him were two sons, between whom his millions were + divided; and Adrian, the eldest, in addition to his share, was made the + lord of Hainault. Adrian had inherited something more, and something more + precious, than his father’s treasure—a not inferior capacity, + united, in his case, with much culture, and with a worldly ambition to + which his father was a stranger. So long as that father lived, Adrian had + been extremely circumspect. He seemed only devoted to business, and to + model his conduct on that of his eminent sire. That father who had + recognised with pride and satisfaction his capacity, and who was without + jealousy, had initiated his son during his lifetime in all the secrets of + his wondrous craft, and had entrusted him with a leading part in their + affairs. Adrian had waited in Downing Street on Lord Liverpool, as his + father years before had waited on Mr. Pitt. + </p> + <p> + The elder Neuchatel departed this life a little before the second French + Revolution of 1830, which had been so fatal to Mr. Ferrars. Adrian, who + had never committed himself in politics, further than sitting a short time + for a reputed Tory borough, for which he paid a rent of a thousand a year + to the proprietor, but who was known to have been nurtured in the school + of Pitt and Wellington, astonished the world by voting for Lord Grey’s + Reform Bill, and announcing himself as a Liberal. This was a large fish + for the new Liberal Treasury to capture; their triumph was great, and they + determined to show that they appreciated the power and the influence of + their new ally. At the dissolution of 1831, Adrian Neuchatel was a + candidate for a popular constituency, and was elected at the head of the + poll. His brother, Melchior, was also returned, and a nephew. The Liberals + were alarmed by a subscription of fabulous dimensions said to have been + collected by the Tories to influence the General Election; and the + undoubted contribution of a noble duke was particularly mentioned, which + alone appalled the heart of Brooks’. The matter was put before Neuchatel, + as he entered the club, to which he had been recently elected with + acclamation. “So you are a little frightened,” he said, with a peculiarly + witching smile which he had, half mockery and half good nature; as much as + to say, “I will do what you wish, but I see through you and everybody + else.” “So you are a little frightened. Well; we City men must see what we + can do against the dukes. You may put me down for double his amount.” + </p> + <p> + Adrian purchased a very fine mansion in Portland Place, and took up his + residence formally at Hainault. He delighted in the place, and to dwell + there in a manner becoming the scene had always been one of his dreams. + Now he lived there with unbounded expenditure. He was passionately fond of + horses, and even in his father’s lifetime had run some at Newmarket in + another name. The stables at Hainault had been modelled on those at + Chantilly, and were almost as splendid a pile as the mansion itself. They + were soon full, and of first-rate animals in their different ways. With + his choice teams Adrian could reach Bishopsgate from Hainault, + particularly if there were no stoppages in Whitechapel, in much under an + hour. + </p> + <p> + If he had fifty persons in his stables, there were certainly as many in + his park and gardens. These latter were most elaborate. It seemed there + was nothing that Hainault could not produce: all the fruits and flowers of + the tropics. The conservatories and forcing-houses looked, in the + distance, like a city of glass. But, after all, the portion of this + immense establishment which was most renowned, and perhaps, on the whole, + best appreciated, was the establishment of the kitchen. The chef was the + greatest celebrity of Europe; and he had no limit to his staff, which he + had selected with the utmost scrutiny, maintained with becoming spirit, + and winnowed with unceasing vigilance. Every day at Hainault was a + banquet. What delighted Adrian was to bring down without notice a troop of + friends, conscious they would be received as well as if there had been a + preparation of weeks. Sometimes it was a body from the Stock Exchange, + sometimes a host from the House of Commons, sometimes a board of directors + with whom he had been transacting business in the morning. It delighted + Adrian to see them quaffing his burgundy, and stuffing down his truffles, + and his choice pies from Strasbourg, and all the delicate dishes which + many of them looked at with wonder, and tasted with timidity. And then he + would, with his particular smile, say to a brother bank director, whose + mouth was full, and who could only answer him with his eyes, “Business + gives one an appetite; eh, Mr. Trodgits?” + </p> + <p> + Sunday was always a great day at Hainault. The Royal and the Stock + Exchanges were both of them always fully represented; and then they often + had an opportunity, which they highly appreciated, of seeing and + conferring with some public characters, M.P.‘s of note or promise, and + occasionally a secretary of the Treasury, or a privy councillor. “Turtle + makes all men equal,” Adrian would observe. “Our friend Trodgits seemed a + little embarrassed at first, when I introduced him to the Right + Honourable; but when they sate next each other at dinner, they soon got on + very well.” + </p> + <p> + On Sunday the guests walked about and amused themselves. No one was + allowed to ride or drive; Mrs. Neuchatel did not like riding and driving + on Sundays. “I see no harm in it,” said Adrian, “but I like women to have + their way about religion. And you may go to the stables and see the + horses, and that might take up the morning. And then there are the houses; + they will amuse you. For my part, I am for a stroll in the forest;” and + then he would lead his companions, after a delightful ramble, to some spot + of agrestic charm, and, looking at it with delight, would say, “Pretty, is + it not? But then they say this place is not fashionable. It will do, I + think, for us City men.” + </p> + <p> + Adrian had married, when very young, a lady selected by his father. The + selection seemed a good one. She was the daughter of a most eminent + banker, and had herself, though that was of slight importance, a large + portion. She was a woman of abilities, highly cultivated. Nothing had ever + been spared that she should possess every possible accomplishment, and + acquire every information and grace that it was desirable to attain. She + was a linguist, a fine musician, no mean artist; and she threw out, if she + willed it, the treasures of her well-stored and not unimaginative mind + with ease and sometimes eloquence. Her person, without being absolutely + beautiful, was interesting. There was even a degree of fascination in her + brown velvet eyes. And yet Mrs. Neuchatel was not a contented spirit; and + though she appreciated the great qualities of her husband, and viewed him + even with reverence as well as affection, she scarcely contributed to his + happiness as much as became her. And for this reason. Whether it were the + result of physical organisation, or whether it were the satiety which was + the consequence of having been born, and bred, and lived for ever, in a + society of which wealth was the prime object of existence, and practically + the test of excellence, Mrs. Neuchatel had imbibed not merely a contempt + for money, but absolutely a hatred of it. The prosperity of her house + depressed her. The stables with their fifty grooms, and the grounds with + their fifty gardeners, and the daily visit of the head cook to pass the + bill of fare, were incidents and circumstances that made her melancholy. + She looked upon the Stock Exchange coming down to dinner as she would on + an invasion of the Visigoths, and endured the stiff observations or the + cumbrous liveliness of the merchants and bank directors with gloomy grace. + Something less material might be anticipated from the members of + Parliament. But whether they thought it would please the genius of the + place, or whether Adrian selected his friends from those who sympathised + with his pursuits, the members of Parliament seemed wonderfully to accord + with the general tone of the conversation, or varied it only by indulging + in technical talk of their own. Sometimes she would make a desperate + effort to change the elements of their society; something in this way: “I + see M. Arago and M. Mignet have arrived here, Adrian. Do not you think we + ought to invite them here? And then you might ask Mr. Macaulay to meet + them. You said you wished to ask Mr. Macaulay.” + </p> + <p> + In one respect the alliance between Adrian and his wife was not an + unfortunate one. A woman, and a woman of abilities, fastidious, and + inclined to be querulous, might safely be counted on as, in general, + ensuring for both parties in their union an unsatisfactory and unhappy + life. But Adrian, though kind, generous, and indulgent, was so absorbed by + his own great affairs, was a man at the same time of so serene a temper + and so supreme a will, that the over-refined fantasies of his wife + produced not the slightest effect on the course of his life. Adrian + Neuchatel was what very few people are—master in his own house. With + a rich varnish of graciousness and favour, he never swerved from his + purpose; and, though willing to effect all things by smiles and sweet + temper, he had none of that morbid sensibility which allows some men to + fret over a phrase, to be tortured by a sigh, or to be subdued by a tear. + </p> + <p> + There had been born of this marriage only one child, the greatest heiress + in England. She had been christened after her father, ADRIANA. She was now + about seventeen; and, had she not been endowed with the finest disposition + and the sweetest temper in the world, she must have been spoiled, for both + her parents idolised her. To see her every day was for Adrian a reward for + all his labours, and in the midst of his greatest affairs he would always + snatch a moment to think how he could contribute to her pleasure or her + happiness. All that was rare and delightful and beautiful in the world was + at her command. There was no limit to the gratification of her wishes. + But, alas! this favoured maiden wished for nothing. Her books interested + her, and a beautiful nature; but she liked to be alone, or with her + mother. She was impressed with the horrible and humiliating conviction, + that she was courted and admired only for her wealth. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +“What my daughter requires,” said Adrian, as he mused over these +domestic contrarieties, “is a companion of her own age. Her mother is +the very worst constant companion she could have. She requires somebody +with charm, and yet of a commanding mind; with youthful sympathy, and +yet influencing her in the right way. It must be a person of birth and +breeding and complete self-respect. I do not want to have any parasites +in my house, or affected fine ladies. That would do no good. What I do +want is a thing very difficult to procure. And yet they say everything +is to be obtained. At least, I have always thought so, and found it so. +I have the greatest opinion of an advertisement in the ‘Times.’ I +got some of my best clerks by advertisements in the ‘Times.’ If I had +consulted friends, there would have been no end of jobbing for such +patronage. One could not trust, in such matters, one’s own brother. I +will draw up an advertisement and insert it in the ‘Times,’ and have +the references to my counting-house. I will think over the wording as I + drive to town.” This was the wording:—ADVERTISEMENT + + A Banker and his Wife require a Companion for their only child, a + young lady whose accomplishments and acquirements are already + considerable. The friend that they would wish for her must be of + about the same age as herself, and in every other respect their + lots will be the same. The person thus desired will be received + and treated as a daughter of the house, will be allowed her own + suite of apartments, her own servants and equipage. She must be a + person of birth, breeding, and entire self-respect; with a mind + and experience capable of directing conduct, and with manners + which will engage sympathy.—Apply to H. H., 45 Bishopsgate Street + Within. +</pre> + <p> + This advertisement met the eye of Myra at Hurstley Rectory about a month + after her father’s death, and she resolved to answer it. Her reply pleased + Mr. Neuchatel. He selected it out of hundreds, and placed himself in + communication with Mr. Penruddock. The result was, that Miss Ferrars was + to pay a visit to the Neuchatels; and if, on experience, they liked each + other, the engagement was to take place. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the good rector of Hurstley arrived on the previous + evening with his precious charge at Hainault House; and was rewarded for + his kind exertions, not only by the prospect of assisting Myra, but by + some present experience of a splendid and unusual scene. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI + </h2> + <p> + “What do you think of her, mamma?” said Adriana, with glistening eyes, as + she ran into Mrs. Neuchatel’s dressing-room for a moment before dinner. + </p> + <p> + “I think her manners are perfect,” replied Mrs. Neuchatel; “and as there + can be no doubt, after all we have heard, of her principles, I think we + are most fortunate. But what do you think of her, Adriana? For, after all, + that is the main question.” + </p> + <p> + “I think she is divine,” said Adriana; “but I fear she has no heart.” + </p> + <p> + “And why? Surely it is early to decide on such a matter as that!” + </p> + <p> + “When I took her to her room,” said Adriana, “I suppose I was nervous; but + I burst into tears, and threw my arms round her neck and embraced her, but + she did not respond. She touched my forehead with her lips, and withdrew + from my embrace.” + </p> + <p> + “She wished, perhaps, to teach you to control your emotions,” said Mrs. + Neuchatel. “You have known her only an hour, and you could not have done + more to your own mother.” + </p> + <p> + It had been arranged that there should be no visitors to-day; only a + nephew and a foreign consul-general, just to break the formality of the + meeting. Mr. Neuchatel placed Myra next to himself at the round table, and + treated her with marked consideration—cordial but courteous, and + easy, with a certain degree of deference. His wife, who piqued herself on + her perception of character, threw her brown velvet eyes on her neighbour, + Mr. Penruddock, and cross-examined him in mystical whispers. She soon + recognised his love of nature; and this allowed her to dissert on the + subject, at once sublime and inexhaustible, with copiousness worthy of the + theme. When she found he was an entomologist, and that it was not so much + mountains as insects which interested him, she shifted her ground, but + treated it with equal felicity. Strange, but nature is never so powerful + as in insect life. The white ant can destroy fleets and cities, and the + locusts erase a province. And then, how beneficent they are! Man would + find it difficult to rival their exploits: the bee, that gives us honey; + the worm, that gives us silk; the cochineal, that supplies our + manufactures with their most brilliant dye. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Penruddock did not seem to know much about manufactures, but always + recommended his cottagers to keep bees. + </p> + <p> + “The lime-tree abounds in our village, and there is nothing the bees love + more than its blossoms.” + </p> + <p> + This direct reference to his village led Mrs. Neuchatel to an inquiry as + to the state of the poor about Hurstley, and she made the inquiry in a + tone of commiseration. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! we do pretty well,” said Mr. Penruddock. + </p> + <p> + “But how can a family live on ten or twelve shillings a week?” murmured + Mrs. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “There it is,” said Mr. Penruddock. “A family has more than that. With a + family the income proportionately increases.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Neuchatel sighed. “I must say,” she said, “I cannot help feeling + there is something wrong in our present arrangements. When I sit down to + dinner every day, with all these dishes, and remember that there are + millions who never taste meat, I cannot resist the conviction that it + would be better if there were some equal division, and all should have, if + not much, at least something.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, Emily!” said Mr. Neuchatel, who had an organ like Fine-ear, and + could catch, when necessary, his wife’s most mystical revelations. “My + wife, Mr. Penruddock, is a regular Communist. I hope you are not,” he + added, with a smile, turning to Myra. + </p> + <p> + “I think life would be very insipid,” replied Myra, “if all our lots were + the same.” + </p> + <p> + When the ladies withdrew, Adriana and Myra walked out together + hand-in-hand. Mr. Neuchatel rose and sate next to Mr. Penruddock, and + began to talk politics. His reverend guest could not conceal his alarm + about the position of the Church and spoke of Lord John Russell’s + appropriation clause with well-bred horror. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not think there is much to be afraid of,” said Mr. Neuchatel. + “This is a liberal age, and you cannot go against it. The people must be + educated, and where are the funds to come from? We must all do something, + and the Church must contribute its share. You know I am a Liberal, but I + am not for any rash courses. I am not at all sorry that Sir Robert Peel + gained so much at the last general election. I like parties to be + balanced. I am quite content with affairs. My friends, the Liberals, are + in office, and, being there, they can do very little. That is the state of + things, is it not, Melchior?” he added, with a smile to his nephew, who + was an M.P. “A balanced state of parties, and the house of Neuchatel with + three votes—that will do. We poor City men get a little attention + paid to us now, but before the dissolution three votes went for nothing. + Now, shall we go and ask my daughter to give us a song?” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Neuchatel accompanied her daughter on the piano, and after a time not + merely on the instrument. The organ of both was fine and richly + cultivated. It was choice chamber music. Mr. Neuchatel seated himself by + Myra. His tone was more than kind, and his manner gentle. “It is a little + awkward the first day,” he said, “among strangers, but that will wear off. + You must bring your mind to feel that this is your home, and we shall all + of us do everything in our power to convince you of it. Mr. Penruddock + mentioned to me your wish, under present circumstances, to enter as little + as possible into society, and this is a very social house. Your feeling is + natural, and you will be in this matter entirely your own mistress. We + shall always be glad to see you, but if you are not present we shall know + and respect the cause. For my own part, I am one of those who would rather + cherish affection than indulge grief, but every one must follow their + mood. I hear you have a brother, to whom you are much attached; a twin, + too, and they tell me strongly resembling you. He is in a public office, I + believe? Now, understand this; your brother can come here whenever he + likes, without any further invitation. Ask him whenever you please. We + shall always be glad to see him. No sort of notice is necessary. This is + not a very small house, and we can always manage to find a bed and a + cutlet for a friend.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII + </h2> + <p> + Nothing could be more successful than the connection formed between the + Neuchatel family and Myra Ferrars. Both parties to the compact were alike + satisfied. Myra had “got out of that hole” which she always hated; and + though the new life she had entered was not exactly the one she had mused + over, and which was founded on the tradition of her early experience, it + was a life of energy and excitement, of splendour and power, with a total + absence of petty vexations and miseries, affording neither time nor cause + for the wearing chagrin of a monotonous and mediocre existence. But the + crowning joy of her emancipation was the prospect it offered of frequent + enjoyment of the society of her brother. + </p> + <p> + With regard to the Neuchatels, they found in Myra everything they could + desire. Mrs. Neuchatel was delighted with a companion who was not the + daughter of a banker, and whose schooled intellect not only comprehended + all her doctrines, however abstruse or fanciful, but who did not hesitate, + if necessary, to controvert or even confute them. As for Adriana, she + literally idolised a friend whose proud spirit and clear intelligence were + calculated to exercise a strong but salutary influence over her timid and + sensitive nature. As for the great banker himself, who really had that + faculty of reading character which his wife flattered herself she + possessed, he had made up his mind about Myra from the first, both from + her correspondence and her conversation. “She has more common sense than + any woman I ever knew, and more,” he would add, “than most men. If she + were not so handsome, people would find it out; but they cannot understand + that so beautiful a woman can have a headpiece, that, I really believe, + could manage the affairs in Bishopsgate Street.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime life at Hainault resumed its usual course; streams of + guests, of all parties, colours, and classes, and even nations. Sometimes + Mr. Neuchatel would say, “I really must have a quiet day that Miss Ferrars + may dine with us, and she shall ask her brother. How glad I shall be when + she goes into half-mourning! I scarcely catch a glimpse of her.” And all + this time his wife and daughter did nothing but quote her, which was still + more irritating, for, as he would say, half-grumbling and half-smiling, + “If it had not been for me she would not have been here.” + </p> + <p> + At first Adriana would not dine at table without Myra, and insisted on + sharing her imprisonment. “It does not look like a cell,” said Myra, + surveying, not without complacency, her beautiful little chamber, + beautifully lit, with its silken hangings and carved ceiling and bright + with books and pictures; “besides, there is no reason why you should be a + prisoner. You have not lost a father, and I hope never will.” + </p> + <p> + “Amen!” said Adriana; “that would indeed be the unhappiest day of my + life.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot be in society too much in the latter part of the day,” said + Myra. “The mornings should be sacred to ourselves, but for the rest of the + hours people are to see and to be seen, and,” she added, “to like and be + liked.” + </p> + <p> + Adriana shook her head; “I do not wish any one to like me but you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure I shall always like you, and love you,” said Myra, “but I am + equally sure that a great many other people will do the same.” + </p> + <p> + “It will not be myself that they like or love,” said Adriana with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + “Now, spare me that vein, dear Adriana; you know I do not like it. It is + not agreeable, and I do not think it is true. I believe that women are + loved much more for themselves than is supposed. Besides, a woman should + be content if she is loved; that is the point; and she is not to inquire + how far the accidents of life have contributed to the result. Why should + you not be loved for yourself? You have an interesting appearance. I think + you very pretty. You have choice accomplishments and agreeable + conversation and the sweetest temper in the world. You want a little + self-conceit, my dear. If I were you and admired, I should never think of + my fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “If you were the greatest heiress in the world, Myra, and were married, + nobody would suppose for a moment that it was for your fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “Go down to dinner and smile upon everybody, and tell me about your + conquests to-morrow. And say to your dear papa, that as he is so kind as + to wish to see me, I will join them after dinner.” + </p> + <p> + And so, for the first two months, she occasionally appeared in the + evening, especially when there was no formal party. Endymion came and + visited her every Sunday, but he was also a social recluse, and though he + had been presented to Mrs. Neuchatel and her daughter, and been most + cordially received by them, it was some considerable time before he made + the acquaintance of the great banker. + </p> + <p> + About September Myra may be said to have formally joined the circle at + Hainault. Three months had elapsed since the terrible event, and she felt, + irrespective of other considerations, her position hardly justified her, + notwithstanding all the indulgent kindness of the family, in continuing a + course of life which she was conscious to them was sometimes an + inconvenience and always a disappointment. It was impossible to deny that + she was interested and amused by the world which she now witnessed—so + energetic, so restless, so various; so full of urgent and pressing life; + never thinking of the past and quite heedless of the future, but + worshipping an almighty present that sometimes seemed to roll on like the + car of Juggernaut. She was much diverted by the gentlemen of the Stock + Exchange, so acute, so audacious, and differing so much from the merchants + in the style even of their dress, and in the ease, perhaps the too great + facility, of their bearing. They called each other by their Christian + names, and there were allusions to practical jokes which intimated a life + something between a public school and a garrison. On more solemn days + there were diplomatists and men in political office; sometimes great + musical artists, and occasionally a French actor. But the dinners were + always the same; dishes worthy of the great days of the Bourbons, and + wines of rarity and price, which could not ruin Neuchatel, for in many + instances the vineyards belonged to himself. + </p> + <p> + One morning at breakfast, when he rarely encountered them, but it was a + holiday in the City, Mr. Neuchatel said, “There are a few gentlemen coming + to dine here to-day whom you know, with one exception. He is a young man, + a very nice young fellow. I have seen a good deal of him of late on + business in the City, and have taken a fancy to him. He is a foreigner, + but he was partly educated in this country and speaks English as well as + any of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I suppose he is not a Frenchman,” said Mrs. Neuchatel, “for they + never speak English.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall not say what he is. You must all find out; I dare say Miss + Ferrars will discover him; but, remember, you must all of you pay him + great attention, for he is not a common person, I can assure you.” + </p> + <p> + “You are mysterious, Adrian,” said his wife, “and quite pique our + curiosity.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I wish somebody would pique mine,” said the banker. “These holidays + in the City are terrible things. I think I will go after breakfast and + look at the new house, and I dare say Miss Ferrars will be kind enough to + be my companion.” + </p> + <p> + Several of the visitors, fortunately for the banker whose time hung rather + heavily on his hands, arrived an hour or so before dinner, that they might + air themselves in the famous gardens and see some of the new plants. But + the guest whom he most wished to greet, and whom the ladies were most + curious to welcome, did not arrive. They had all entered the house and the + critical moment was at hand, when, just as dinner was about to be + announced, the servants ushered in a young man of distinguished + appearance, and the banker exclaimed, “You have arrived just in time to + take Mrs. Neuchatel in to dinner,” and he presented to her—COLONEL + ALBERT. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII + </h2> + <p> + The ladies were much interested by Colonel Albert. Mrs. Neuchatel + exercised on him all the unrivalled arts by which she so unmistakably + discovered character. She threw on him her brown velvet eyes with a + subdued yet piercing beam, which would penetrate his most secret and even + undeveloped intelligence. She asked questions in a hushed mystical voice, + and as the colonel was rather silent and somewhat short in his replies, + though ever expressed in a voice of sensibility and with refined deference + of manner, Mrs. Neuchatel opened her own peculiar views on a variety of + subjects of august interest, such as education, high art, the influence of + women in society, the formation of character, and the distribution of + wealth, on all of which this highly gifted lady was always in the habit of + informing her audience, by way of accompaniment, that she was conscious + that the views she entertained were peculiar. The views of Mrs. Neuchatel + were peculiar, and therefore not always, or even easily, comprehended. + That indeed she felt was rather her fate in life, but a superior + intelligence like hers has a degree of sublimated self-respect which + defies destiny. + </p> + <p> + When she was alone with the ladies, the bulletin of Mrs. Neuchatel was not + so copious as had been expected. She announced that Colonel Albert was + sentimental, and she suspected a poet. But for the rest she had discovered + nothing, not even his nationality. She had tried him both in French and + German, but he persisted in talking English, although he spoke of himself + as a foreigner. After dinner he conversed chiefly with the men, + particularly with the Governor of the Bank, who seemed to interest him + much, and a director of one of the dock companies, who offered to show him + over their establishment, an offer which Colonel Albert eagerly accepted. + Then, as if he remembered that homage was due at such a moment to the + fairer sex, he went and seated himself by Adriana, and was playful and + agreeable, though when she was cross-examined afterwards by her friends as + to the character of his conversation, she really could not recall anything + particular except that he was fond of horses, and said that he should like + very much to take a ride with her. Just before he took his departure, + Colonel Albert addressed Myra, and in a rather strange manner. He said, “I + have been puzzling myself all dinner, but I cannot help feeling that we + have met before.” + </p> + <p> + Myra shook her head and said, “I think that is impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the colonel with a look a little perplexed and not altogether + satisfied, “I suppose then it was a dream. May dreams so delightful,” and + he bowed, “never be wanting!” + </p> + <p> + “So you think he is a poet, Emily,” said Mr. Neuchatel when they had all + gone. “We have got a good many of his papers in Bishopsgate Street, but I + have not met with any verses in them yet.” + </p> + <p> + The visit of Colonel Albert was soon repeated, and he became a rather + frequent guest at Hainault. It was evident that he was a favourite with + Mr. Neuchatel. “He knows very few people,” he would say, “and I wish him + to make some friends. Poor young fellow: he has had rather a hard life of + it, and seen some service for such a youth. He is a perfect gentleman, and + if he be a poet, Emily, that is all in your way. You like literary people, + and are always begging that I should ask them. Well, next Saturday you + will have a sort of a lion—one of the principal writers in + ‘Scaramouch.’ He is going to Paris as the foreign correspondent of the + ‘Chuck-Farthing,’ with a thousand a year, and one of my friends in the + Stock Exchange, who is his great ally, asked me to give him some letters. + So he came to Bishopsgate Street—they all come to Bishopsgate Street—and + I asked him to dine here on Saturday. By the by, Miss Ferrars, ask your + brother to come on the same day and stay with us till Monday. I will take + him up to town with me quite in time for his office.” + </p> + <p> + This was the first time that Endymion had remained at Hainault. He looked + forward to the visit with anticipation of great pleasure. Hainault, and + all the people there, and everything about it, delighted him, and most of + all the happiness of his sister and the consideration, and generosity, and + delicate affection with which she was treated. One morning, to his + astonishment, Myra had insisted upon his accepting from her no + inconsiderable sum of money. “It is no part of my salary,” she said, when + he talked of her necessities. “Mr. Neuchatel said he gave it to me for + outfit and to buy gloves. But being in mourning I want to buy nothing, and + you, dear darling, must have many wants. Besides, Mrs. Neuchatel has made + me so many presents that I really do not think that I shall ever want to + buy anything again.” + </p> + <p> + It was rather a grand party at Hainault, such as Endymion had little + experience of. There was a cabinet minister and his wife, not only an + ambassador, but an ambassadress who had been asked to meet them, a nephew + Neuchatel, the M.P. with a pretty young wife, and several apparently + single gentlemen of note and position. Endymion was nervous when he + entered, and more so because Myra was not in the room. But his trepidation + was absorbed in his amazement when in the distance he observed St. Barbe, + with a very stiff white cravat, and his hair brushed into unnatural order, + and his whole demeanour forming a singular contrast to the rollicking + cynicisms of Joe’s and the office. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Neuchatel presented St. Barbe to the lady of the mansion. “Here is one + of our greatest wits,” said the banker, “and he is going to Paris, which + is the capital of wits.” The critical moment prevented prolonged + conversation, but the lady of the mansion did contrive to convey to St. + Barbe her admiring familiarity with some of his effusions, and threw out a + phrase which proved how finely she could distinguish between wit and + humour. + </p> + <p> + Endymion at dinner sate between two M.P.‘s, whom his experience at the + House of Commons allowed him to recognise. As he was a young man whom + neither of them knew, neither of them addressed him, but with delicate + breeding carried on an active conversation across him, as if in fact he + were not present. As Endymion had very little vanity, this did not at all + annoy him. On the contrary, he was amused, for they spoke of matters with + which he was not unacquainted, though he looked as if he knew or heard + nothing. Their conversation was what is called “shop:” all about the House + and office; criticisms on speakers, speculations as to preferment, what + Government would do about this, and how well Government got out of that. + </p> + <p> + Endymion was amused by seeing Myra, who was remote from him, sitting by + St. Barbe, who, warmed by the banquet, was evidently holding forth without + the slightest conception that his neighbour whom he addressed had long + become familiar with his characteristics. + </p> + <p> + After dinner St. Barbe pounced upon Endymion. “Only think of our meeting + here!” he said. “I wonder why they asked you. You are not going to Paris, + and you are not a wit. What a family this is!” he said; “I had no idea of + wealth before! Did you observe the silver plate? I could not hold mine + with one hand, it was so heavy. I do not suppose there are such plates in + the world. It gives one an idea of the galleons and Anson’s plunder. But + they deserve their wealth,” he added, “nobody grudges it to them. I + declare when I was eating that truffle, I felt a glow about my heart that, + if it were not indigestion, I think must have been gratitude; though that + is an article I had not believed in. He is a wonderful man, that + Neuchatel. If I had only known him a year ago! I would have dedicated my + novel to him. He is a sort of man who would have given you a cheque + immediately. He would not have read it, to be sure, but what of that? If + you had dedicated it to a lord, the most he would have done would have + been to ask you to dinner, and then perhaps cut up your work in one of the + Quality reviews, and taken money for doing it out of our pockets! Oh! it’s + too horrid! There are some topsawyers here to-day, Ferrars! It would make + Seymour Hicks’ mouth water to be here. We should have had it in the + papers, and he would have left us out of the list, and called us, etc. Now + I dare say that ambassador has been blundering all his life, and yet there + is something in that star and ribbon; I do not know how you feel, but I could + almost go down on my knees to him. And there is a cabinet minister; well, + we know what he is; I have been squibbing him for these two years, and now + that I meet him I feel like a snob. Oh! there is an immense deal of + superstition left in the world. I am glad they are going to the ladies. I + am to be honoured by some conversation with the mistress of the house. She + seems a first-rate woman, familiar with the glorious pages of a certain + classic work, and my humble effusions. She praised one she thought I + wrote, but between ourselves it was written by that fellow Seymour Hicks, + who imitates me; but I would not put her right, as dinner might have been + announced every moment. But she is a great woman, sir,—wonderful + eyes! They are all great women here. I sat next to one of the daughters, + or daughters-in-law, or nieces, I suppose. By Jove! it was tierce and + quart. If you had been there, you would have been run through in a moment. + I had to show my art. Now they are rising. I should not be surprised if + Mr. Neuchatel were to present me to some of the grandees. I believe them + to be all impostors, but still it is pleasant to talk to a man with a + star. + </p> + <p> + “‘Ye stars, which are the poetry of heaven,’ + </p> + <p> + “Byron wrote; a silly line; he should have written, + </p> + <p> + “‘Ye stars, which are the poetry of dress.’” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV + </h2> + <p> + St. Barbe was not disappointed in his hopes. It was an evening of glorious + success for him. He had even the honour of sitting for a time by the side + of Mrs. Neuchatel, and being full of good claret, he, as he phrased it, + showed his paces; that is to say, delivered himself of some sarcastic + paradoxes duly blended with fulsome flattery. Later in the evening, he + contrived to be presented both to the ambassador and the cabinet minister, + and treated them as if they were demigods; listened to them as if with an + admiration which he vainly endeavoured to repress; never spoke except to + enforce and illustrate the views which they had condescended to intimate; + successfully conveyed to his excellency that he was conversing with an + enthusiast for his exalted profession; and to the minister that he had met + an ardent sympathiser with his noble career. The ambassador was not + dissatisfied with the impression he had made on one of the foreign + correspondents of the “Chuck-Farthing,” and the minister flattered himself + that both the literary and the graphic representations of himself in + “Scaramouch” might possibly for the future be mitigated. + </p> + <p> + “I have done business to-night,” said St. Barbe to Endymion, towards the + close of the evening. “You did not know I had left the old shop? I kept it + close. I could stand it no longer. One has energies, sir, though not + recognised—at least not recognised much,” he added thoughtfully. + “But who knows what may happen? The age of mediocrity is not eternal. You + see this thing offered, and I saw an opening. It has come already. You saw + the big-wigs all talking to me? I shall go to Paris now with some <i>eclat</i>. + I shall invent a new profession; the literary diplomatist. The bore is, I + know nothing about foreign politics. My line has been the other way. Never + mind; I will read the ‘Debats’ and the ‘Revue des Deux Mondes,’ and make + out something. Foreign affairs are all the future, and my views may be as + right as anybody else’s; probably more correct, not so conventional. What + a fool I was, Ferrars! I was asked to remain here to-night and refused! + The truth is, I could not stand those powdered gentlemen, and I should + have been under their care. They seem so haughty and supercilious. And yet + I was wrong. I spoke to one of them very rudely just now, when he was + handing coffee, to show I was not afraid, and he answered me like a + seraph. I felt remorse.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have made the acquaintance of Mr. St. Barbe,” said Myra to + Endymion. “Strange as he is, he seemed quite familiar to me, and he was so + full of himself that he never found me out. I hope some day to know Mr. + Trenchard and Mr. Waldershare. Those I look upon as your chief friends.” + </p> + <p> + On the following afternoon, Adriana, Myra, and Endymion took a long walk + together in the forest. The green glades in the autumnal woods were + inviting, and sometimes they stood before the vast form of some doddered + oak. The air was fresh and the sun was bright. Adriana was always gay and + happy in the company of her adored Myra, and her happiness and her gaiety + were not diminished by the presence of Myra’s brother. So it was a lively + and pleasant walk. + </p> + <p> + At the end of a long glade they observed a horseman followed by a groom + approaching them. Endymion was some little way behind, gathering wild + flowers for Adriana. Cantering along, the cavalier soon reached them, and + then he suddenly pulled up his horse. It was Colonel Albert. + </p> + <p> + “You are walking, ladies? Permit me to join you,” and he was by their + side. “I delight in forests and in green alleys,” said Colonel Albert. + “Two wandering nymphs make the scene perfect.” + </p> + <p> + “We are not alone,” said Adriana, “but our guardian is picking some wild + flowers for us, which we fancied. I think it is time to return. You are + going to Hainault, I believe, Colonel Albert, so we can all walk home + together.” + </p> + <p> + So they turned, and Endymion with his graceful offering in a moment met + them. Full of his successful quest, he offered with eager triumph the + flowers to Adriana, without casting a glance at her new companion. + </p> + <p> + “Beautiful!” exclaimed Adriana, and she stopped to admire and arrange + them. “See, dear Myra, is not this lovely? How superior to anything in our + glass-houses!” + </p> + <p> + Myra took the flower and examined it. Colonel Albert, who was silent, was + watching all this time Endymion with intentness, who now looked up and + encountered the gaze of the new comer. Their eyes met, their countenances + were agitated, they seemed perplexed, and then it seemed that at the same + time both extended their hands. + </p> + <p> + “It is a long time since we met,” said Colonel Albert, and he retained the + hand of Endymion with affection. But Endymion, who was apparently much + moved, said nothing, or rather only murmured an echo to the remarks of his + new friend. And then they all walked on, but Myra fell a little back and + made a signal to Endymion to join her. + </p> + <p> + “You never told me, darling, that you knew Colonel Albert.” + </p> + <p> + “Colonel Albert!” said Endymion, looking amazed, and then he added, “Who + is Colonel Albert?” + </p> + <p> + “That gentleman before us,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “That is the Count of Otranto, whose fag I was at Eton.” + </p> + <p> + “The Count of Otranto!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV + </h2> + <p> + Colonel Albert from this day became an object of increased and deeper + interest to Myra. His appearance and manners had always been attractive, + and the mystery connected with him was not calculated to diminish + curiosity in his conduct or fate. But when she discovered that he was the + unseen hero of her childhood, the being who had been kind to her Endymion + in what she had ever considered the severest trial of her brother’s life, + had been his protector from those who would have oppressed him, and had + cherished him in the desolate hour of his delicate and tender boyhood, her + heart was disturbed. How often had they talked together of the Count of + Otranto, and how often had they wondered who he was! His memory had been a + delightful mystery to them in their Berkshire solitude, and Myra recalled + with a secret smile the numberless and ingenious inquiries by which she + had endeavoured to elicit from her brother some clue as to his friend, or + to discover some detail which might guide her to a conclusion. Endymion + had known nothing, and was clear always that the Count of Otranto must + have been, and was, an English boy. And now the Count of Otranto called + himself Colonel Albert, and though he persisted in speaking English, had + admitted to Mrs. Neuchatel that he was a foreigner. + </p> + <p> + Who was he? She resolved, when she had an opportunity, to speak to the + great banker on the subject. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know, Mr. Neuchatel,” she said, “that Endymion, my brother, was at + school with Colonel Albert?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, ah!” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “But when he was at school he had another name,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, oh!” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “He was then called the Count of Otranto.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a very pretty name,” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “But why did he change it?” asked Myra. + </p> + <p> + “The great world often change their names,” said Mr. Neuchatel. “It is + only poor City men like myself who are always called Mr., and bear the + same name as their fathers.” + </p> + <p> + “But when a person is called a count when he is a boy, he is seldom called + only a colonel when he is a man,” said Myra. “There is a great mystery in + all this.” + </p> + <p> + “I should not be surprised,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “if he were to change his + name again before this time year.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” asked Myra. + </p> + <p> + “Well, when I have read all his papers in Bishopsgate Street, perhaps I + shall be able to tell you,” said Mr. Neuchatel, and Myra felt that she + could pursue the theme no further. + </p> + <p> + She expected that Endymion would in time be able to obtain this + information, but it was not so. In their first private conversation after + their meeting in the forest, Endymion had informed Colonel Albert that, + though they had met now for the first time since his return, they had been + for some time lodgers in London under the same roof. Colonel Albert smiled + when Endymion told him this; then falling into thought, he said; “I hope + we may often meet, but for the moment it may be as well that the past + should be known only to ourselves. I wish my life for the present to be as + private as I can arrange it. There is no reason why we should not be + sometimes together—that is, when you have leisure. I had the + pleasure of making your acquaintance at my banker’s.” + </p> + <p> + Parliament had been dissolved through the demise of the crown in the + summer of this year (1837), and London society had been prematurely broken + up. Waldershare had left town early in July to secure his election, in + which he was successful, with no intention of settling again in his old + haunts till the meeting of the new House of Commons, which was to be in + November. The Rodneys were away at some Kentish watering-place during + August and September, exhibiting to an admiring world their exquisitely + made dresses, and enjoying themselves amazingly at balls and assemblies at + the public rooms. The resources of private society also were not closed to + them. Mr. and Mrs. Gamme were also there and gave immense dinners, and the + airy Mrs. Hooghley, who laughed a little at the Gammes’ substantial + gatherings and herself improvised charming pic-nics. So there was really + little embarrassment in the social relations between Colonel Albert and + Endymion. They resolved themselves chiefly into arranging joint + expeditions to Hainault. Endymion had a perpetual invitation there, and it + seemed that the transactions between Mr. Neuchatel and the colonel + required much conference, for the banker always expected him, although it + was well known that they met not unfrequently in Bishopsgate Street in the + course of the week. Colonel Albert and Endymion always stayed at Hainault + from Saturday till Monday. It delighted the colonel to mount Endymion on + one of his choice steeds, and his former fag enjoyed all this amazingly. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Albert became domiciled at Hainault. The rooms which were occupied + by him when there were always reserved for him. He had a general + invitation, and might leave his luggage and books and papers behind him. + It was evident that the family pleased him. Between Mr. Neuchatel and + himself there were obviously affairs of great interest; but it was equally + clear that he liked the female members of the family—all of them; + and all liked him. And yet it cannot be said that he was entertaining, but + there are some silent people who are more interesting than the best + talkers. And when he did speak he always said the right thing. His manners + were tender and gentle; he had an unobtrusive sympathy with all they said + or did, except, indeed, and that was not rarely, when he was lost in + profound abstraction. + </p> + <p> + “I delight in your friend the colonel, Adrian,” said Mrs. Neuchatel, “but + I must say he is very absent.” + </p> + <p> + “He has a good deal to think about,” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what it can be,” thought Myra. + </p> + <p> + “He has a claim to a great estate,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “and he has to + think of the best mode of establishing it; and he has been deprived of + great honours, and he believes unjustly, and he wishes to regain them.” + </p> + <p> + “No wonder, then, he is absent,” said Mrs. Neuchatel. “If he only knew + what a burthen great wealth is, I am sure he would not wish to possess it, + and as for honours I never could make out why having a title or a ribbon + could make any difference in a human being.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, my dear Emily,” said Mr. Neuchatel. “Great wealth is a blessing + to a man who knows what to do with it, and as for honours, they are + inestimable to the honourable.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I ardently hope Colonel Albert may succeed,” said Myra, “because he + was so kind to my brother at Eton. He must have a good heart.” + </p> + <p> + “They say he is the most unscrupulous of living men,” said Mr. Neuchatel, + with his peculiar smile. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” exclaimed Mrs. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “How terrible!” said Adriana. “It cannot be true.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he is the most determined,” said Myra. “Moral courage is the + rarest of qualities, and often maligned.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he has got a champion,” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “I ardently wish him success,” said Myra, “in all his undertakings. I only + wish I knew what they were.” + </p> + <p> + “Has not he told your brother, Miss Ferrars?” asked Mr. Neuchatel, with + laughing eyes. + </p> + <p> + “He never speaks of himself to Endymion,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “He speaks a good deal of himself to me,” said Mr. Neuchatel; “and he is + going to bring a friend here to-morrow who knows more about his affairs + even than I do. So you will have a very good opportunity, Miss Ferrars, of + making yourself acquainted with them, particularly if you sit next to him + at dinner, and are very winning.” + </p> + <p> + The friend of Colonel Albert was Baron Sergius, the baron who used to + visit him in London at twilight in a dark brougham. Mrs. Neuchatel was + greatly taken by his appearance, by the calmness of his mien, his + unstudied politeness, and his measured voice. He conversed with her + entirely at dinner on German philosophy, of which he seemed a complete + master, explained to her the different schools, and probably the + successful ones, and imparted to her that precise knowledge which she + required on the subject, and which she had otherwise been unable to + obtain. It seemed, too, that he personally knew all the famous professors, + and he intimated their doctrines not only with profound criticism, but + described their persons and habits with vividness and picturesque power, + never, however, all this time, by any chance raising his voice, the tones + of which were ever distinct and a little precise. + </p> + <p> + “Is this the first visit of your friend to this country?” asked Myra of + Colonel Albert. + </p> + <p> + “Oh no; he has been here often—and everywhere,” added Colonel + Albert. + </p> + <p> + “Everywhere! he must be a most interesting companion then.” + </p> + <p> + “I find him so: I never knew any one whom I thought equal to him. But + perhaps I am not an impartial judge, for I have known him so long and so + intimately. In fact, I had never been out of his sight till I was brought + over to this country to be placed at Eton. He is the counsellor of our + family, and we all of us have ever agreed that if his advice had been + always followed we should never have had a calamity.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, a gifted person! Is he a soldier?” + </p> + <p> + “No; Baron Sergius has not followed the profession of arms.” + </p> + <p> + “He looks a diplomatist.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he is now nothing but my friend,” said the colonel. “He might have + been anything, but he is a peculiarly domestic character, and is devoted + to private life.” + </p> + <p> + “You are fortunate in such a friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am glad to be fortunate in something,” said Colonel Albert. + </p> + <p> + “And are you not fortunate in everything?” + </p> + <p> + “I have not that reputation; but I shall be more than fortunate if I have + your kind wishes.” + </p> + <p> + “Those you have,” said Myra, rather eagerly. “My brother taught me, even + as a child, to wish nothing but good for you. I wish I knew only what I + was to wish for.” + </p> + <p> + “Wish that my plans may succeed,” said Colonel Albert, looking round to + her with interest. + </p> + <p> + “I will more than wish,” said Myra; “I will believe that they will + succeed, because I think you have resolved to succeed.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall tell Endymion when I see him,” said Colonel Albert, “that his + sister is the only person who has read my character.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI + </h2> + <p> + Colonel Albert and Baron Sergius drove up in their landau from Hainault + while Endymion was at the door in Warwick Street, returning home. The + colonel saluted him cordially, and said, “The baron is going to take a cup + of coffee with me; join us.” So they went upstairs. There was a packet on + the table, which seemed to catch the colonel’s eye immediately, and he at + once opened it with eagerness. It contained many foreign newspapers. + Without waiting for the servant who was about to bring candles, the + colonel lighted a taper on the table with a lucifer, and then withdrew + into the adjoining chamber, opening, however, with folding doors to the + principal and spacious apartment. + </p> + <p> + “A foreign newspaper always interests our friend,” said the baron, taking + his coffee. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it must always be interesting to have news from home, I suppose,” + said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Home!” said the baron. “News is always interesting, whether it come from + home or not.” + </p> + <p> + “To public men,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “To all men if they be wise,” said the baron; “as a general rule, the most + successful man in life is the man who has the best information.” + </p> + <p> + “But what a rare thing is success in life!” said Endymion. “I often wonder + whether I shall ever be able to step out of the crowd.” + </p> + <p> + “You may have success in life without stepping out of the crowd,” said the + baron. + </p> + <p> + “A sort of success,” said Endymion; “I know what you mean. But what I mean + is real success in life. I mean, I should like to be a public man.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” asked the baron. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I should like to have power,” said Endymion, blushing. + </p> + <p> + “The most powerful men are not public men,” said the baron. “A public man + is responsible, and a responsible man is a slave. It is private life that + governs the world. You will find this out some day. The world talks much + of powerful sovereigns and great ministers; and if being talked about made + one powerful, they would be irresistible. But the fact is, the more you + are talked about the less powerful you are.” + </p> + <p> + “But surely King Luitbrand is a powerful monarch; they say he is the + wisest of men. And the Emperor Harold, who has succeeded in everything. + And as for ministers, who is a great man if it be not Prince Wenceslaus?” + </p> + <p> + “King Luitbrand is governed by his doctor, who is capable of governing + Europe, but has no ambition that way; the Emperor Harold is directed by + his mistress, who is a woman of a certain age with a vast sagacity, but + who also believes in sorcery; and as for Prince Wenceslaus, he is inspired + by an individual as obscure as ourselves, and who, for aught I know, may + be, at this moment, like ourselves, drinking a cup of coffee in a hired + lodging.” + </p> + <p> + “What you say about public life amazes me,” said Endymion musingly. + </p> + <p> + “Think over it,” said the baron. “As an Englishman, you will have + difficulty in avoiding public life. But at any rate do not at present be + discontented that you are unknown. It is the first condition of real + power. When you have succeeded in life according to your views, and I am + inclined to believe you will so succeed, you will, some day, sigh for real + power, and denounce the time when you became a public man, and belonged to + any one but yourself. But our friend calls me. He has found something + startling. I will venture to say, if there be anything in it, it has been + brought about by some individual of whom you never heard.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII + </h2> + <p> + With the assembling of parliament in November recommenced the sittings of + the Union Society, of which Endymion had for some time been a member, and + of whose meetings he was a constant and critical, though silent, + attendant. There was a debate one night on the government of dependencies, + which, although all reference to existing political circumstances was + rigidly prohibited, no doubt had its origin in the critical state of one + of our most important colonies, then much embarrassing the metropolis. The + subject was one which Endymion had considered, and on which he had arrived + at certain conclusions. The meeting was fully attended, and the debate had + been conducted with a gravity becoming the theme. Endymion was sitting on + a back bench, and with no companion near him with whom he was acquainted, + when he rose and solicited the attention of the president. Another and a + well-known speaker had also risen, and been called, but there was a cry of + “new member,” a courteous cry, borrowed from the House of Commons, and + Endymion for the first time heard his own voice in public. He has since + admitted, though he has been through many trying scenes, that it was the + most nervous moment of his life. “After Calais,” as a wise wit said, + “nothing surprises;” and the first time a man speaks in public, even if + only at a debating society, is also the unequalled incident in its way. + The indulgence of the audience supported him while the mist cleared from + his vision, and his palpitating heart subsided into comparative + tranquillity. After a few pardonable incoherencies, he was launched into + his subject, and spoke with the thoughtful fluency which knowledge alone + can sustain. For knowledge is the foundation of eloquence. + </p> + <p> + “What a good-looking young fellow!” whispered Mr. Bertie Tremaine to his + brother Mr. Tremaine Bertie. The Bertie Tremaines were the two greatest + swells of the Union, and had a party of their own. “And he speaks well.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is he?” inquired Mr. Tremaine Bertie of their other neighbour. + </p> + <p> + “He is a clerk in the Treasury, I believe, or something of that sort,” was + the reply. + </p> + <p> + “I never saw such a good-looking young fellow,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine. + “He is worth getting hold of. I shall ask to be introduced to him when we + break up.” + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, Mr. Bertie Tremaine, who was always playing at politics, and + who, being two-and-twenty, was discontented he was not Chancellor of the + Exchequer like Mr. Pitt, whispered to a gentleman who sate behind him, and + was, in short, the whip of his section, and signified, as a minister of + state would, that an introduction to Mr. Ferrars should be arranged. + </p> + <p> + So when the meeting broke up, of which Mr. Ferrars’ maiden speech was + quite the event, and while he was contemplating, not without some fair + self-complacency, walking home with Trenchard, Endymion found himself + encompassed by a group of bowing forms and smiling countenances, and, + almost before he was aware of it, had made the acquaintance of the great + Mr. Bertie Tremaine, and received not only the congratulations of that + gentleman, but an invitation to dine with him on the morrow; “quite <i>sans + facon</i>.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bertie Tremaine, who had early succeeded to the family estate, lived + in Grosvenor Street, and in becoming style. His house was furnished with + luxury and some taste. The host received his guests in a library, well + stored with political history and political science, and adorned with the + busts of celebrated statesmen and of profound political sages. Bentham was + the philosopher then affected by young gentleman of ambition, and who + wished to have credit for profundity and hard heads. Mr. Bertie Tremaine + had been the proprietor of a close borough, which for several generations + had returned his family to parliament, the faithful supporters of Pitt, + and Perceval, and Liverpool, and he had contemplated following the same + line, though with larger and higher objects than his ancestors. Being a + man of considerable and versatile ability, and of ample fortune, with the + hereditary opportunity which he possessed, he had a right to aspire, and, + as his vanity more than equalled his talents, his estimate of his own + career was not mean. Unfortunately, before he left Harrow, he was deprived + of his borough, and this catastrophe eventually occasioned a considerable + change in the views and conduct of Mr. Bertie Tremaine. In the confusion + of parties and political thought which followed the Reform Act of Lord + Grey, an attempt to govern the country by the assertion of abstract + principles, and which it was now beginning to be the fashion to call + Liberalism, seemed the only opening to public life; and Mr. Bertie + Tremaine, who piqued himself on recognising the spirit of the age, adopted + Liberal opinions with that youthful fervour which is sometimes called + enthusiasm, but which is a heat of imagination subsequently discovered to + be inconsistent with the experience of actual life. At Cambridge Mr. + Bertie Tremaine was at first the solitary pupil of Bentham, whose + principles he was prepared to carry to their extreme consequences, but + being a man of energy and in possession of a good estate, he soon found + followers, for the sympathies of youth are quick, and, even with an + original bias, it is essentially mimetic. When Mr. Bertie Tremaine left + the university he found in the miscellaneous elements of the London Union + many of his former companions of school and college, and from them, and + the new world to which he was introduced, it delighted him to form parties + and construct imaginary cabinets. His brother Augustus, who was his junior + only by a year, and was destined to be a diplomatist, was an efficient + assistant in these enterprises, and was one of the guests who greeted + Endymion when he arrived next day in Grosvenor Street according to his + engagement. The other three were Hortensius, the whip of the party, and + Mr. Trenchard. + </p> + <p> + The dinner was refined, for Mr. Bertie Tremaine combined the Sybarite with + the Utilitarian sage, and it secretly delighted him to astonish or + embarrass an austere brother republican by the splendour of his family + plate or the polished appointments of his household. To-day the individual + to be influenced was Endymion, and the host, acting up to his ideal of a + first minister, addressed questions to his companions on the subjects + which were peculiarly their own, and, after eliciting their remarks, + continued to complete the treatment of the theme with adequate ability, + though in a manner authoritative, and, as Endymion thought, a little + pompous. What amused him most in this assemblage of youth was their + earnest affectation of public life. The freedom of their comments on + others was only equalled by their confidence in themselves. Endymion, who + only spoke when he was appealed to, had casually remarked in answer to one + of the observations which his host with elaborate politeness occasionally + addressed to him, that he thought it was unpatriotic to take a certain + course. Mr. Bertie Tremaine immediately drew up, and said, with a deep + smile, “that he comprehended philanthropy, but patriotism he confessed he + did not understand;” and thereupon delivered himself of an address on the + subject which might have been made in the Union, and which communicated to + the astonished Endymion that patriotism was a false idea, and entirely + repugnant to the principles of the new philosophy. As all present were + more or less impregnated with these tenets, there was no controversy on + the matter. Endymion remained discreetly silent, and Augustus—Mr. + Bertie Tremaine’s brother—who sate next to him, and whose manners + were as sympathising as his brother’s were autocratic, whispered in a + wheedling tone that it was quite true, and that the idea of patriotism was + entirely relinquished except by a few old-fashioned folks who clung to + superstitious phrases. Hortensius, who seemed to be the only one of the + company who presumed to meet Mr. Bertie Tremaine in conversation on equal + terms, and who had already astonished Endymion by what that inexperienced + youth deemed the extreme laxity of his views, both social and political, + evinced, more than once, a disposition to deviate into the lighter topics + of feminine character, and even the fortunes of the hazard-table; but the + host looked severe, and was evidently resolved that the conversation + to-day should resemble the expression of his countenance. After dinner + they returned to the library, and most of them smoked, but Mr. Bertie + Tremaine, inviting Endymion to seat himself by his side on a sofa at the + farther end of the room, observed, “I suppose you are looking to + parliament?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not know,” said the somewhat startled Endymion; “I have not + thought much about it, and I have not yet reached a parliamentary age.” + </p> + <p> + “A man cannot enter parliament too soon,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine; “I + hope to enter this session. There will be a certain vacancy on a petition, + and I have arranged to have the seat.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Endymion. “My father was in parliament, and so was my + grandfather, but I confess I do not very well see my way there.” + </p> + <p> + “You must connect yourself with a party,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine, “and + you will soon enter; and being young, you should connect yourself with the + party of the future. The country is wearied with the present men, who have + no philosophical foundation, and are therefore perpetually puzzled and + inconsistent, and the country will not stand the old men, as it is + resolved against retrogression. The party of the future and of the speedy + future has its headquarters under this roof, and I should like to see you + belong to it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too kind,” murmured Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I see in you the qualities adapted to public life, and which may be + turned to great account. I must get you into parliament as soon as you are + eligible,” continued Mr. Bertie Tremaine in a musing tone. “This death of + the King was very inopportune. If he had reigned a couple of years more, I + saw my way to half a dozen seats, and I could have arranged with Lord + Durham.” + </p> + <p> + “That was unfortunate,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of Hortensius?” inquired Mr. Bertie Tremaine. + </p> + <p> + “I think him the most brilliant speaker I know,” said Endymion. “I never + met him in private society before; he talks well.” + </p> + <p> + “He wants conduct,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine. “He ought to be my Lord + Chancellor, but there is a tone of levity about him which is unfortunate. + Men destined to the highest places should beware of badinage.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it is a dangerous weapon.” + </p> + <p> + “All lawyers are loose in their youth, but an insular country subject to + fogs, and with a powerful middle class, requires grave statesmen. I + attribute a great deal of the nonsense called Conservative Reaction to + Peel’s solemnity. The proper minister for England at this moment would be + Pitt. Extreme youth gives hope to a country; coupled with ceremonious + manners, hope soon assumes the form of confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” murmured Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “I had half a mind to ask Jawett to dinner to-day. His powers are + unquestionable, but he is not a practical man. For instance, I think + myself our colonial empire is a mistake, and that we should disembarrass + ourselves of its burthen as rapidly as is consistent with the dignity of + the nation; but were Jawett in the House of Commons to-morrow, nothing + would satisfy him but a resolution for the total and immediate abolition + of the empire, with a preamble denouncing the folly of our fathers in + creating it. Jawett never spares any one’s self-love.” + </p> + <p> + “I know him very well,” said Endymion; “he is in my office. He is very + uncompromising.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine musingly; “if I had to form a government, + I could hardly offer him the cabinet.” Then speaking more rapidly, he + added, “The man you should attach yourself to is my brother Augustus—Mr. + Tremaine Bertie. There is no man who understands foreign politics like + Augustus, and he is a thorough man of the world.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVIII + </h2> + <p> + When parliament reassembled in February, the Neuchatels quitted Hainault + for their London residence in Portland Place. Mrs. Neuchatel was sadly + troubled at leaving her country home, which, notwithstanding its + distressing splendour, had still some forms of compensatory innocence in + its flowers and sylvan glades. Adriana sighed when she called to mind the + manifold and mortifying snares and pitfalls that awaited her, and had even + framed a highly practical and sensible scheme which would permit her + parents to settle in town and allow Myra and herself to remain permanently + in the country; but Myra brushed away the project like a fly, and Adriana + yielding, embraced her with tearful eyes. + </p> + <p> + The Neuchatel mansion in Portland Place was one of the noblest in that + comely quarter of the town, and replete with every charm and convenience + that wealth and taste could provide. Myra, who, like her brother, had a + tenacious memory, was interested in recalling as fully and as accurately + as possible her previous experience of London life. She was then indeed + only a child, but a child who was often admitted to brilliant circles, and + had enjoyed opportunities of social observation which the very youthful + seldom possess. Her retrospection was not as profitable as she could have + desired, and she was astonished, after a severe analysis of the past, to + find how entirely at that early age she appeared to have been engrossed + with herself and with Endymion. Hill Street and Wimbledon, and all their + various life, figured as shadowy scenes; she could realise nothing very + definite for her present guidance; the past seemed a phantom of fine + dresses, and bright equipages, and endless indulgence. All that had + happened after their fall was distinct and full of meaning. It would seem + that adversity had taught Myra to feel and think. + </p> + <p> + Forty years ago the great financiers had not that commanding, not to say + predominant, position in society which they possess at present, but the + Neuchatels were an exception to this general condition. They were a family + which not only had the art of accumulating wealth, but of expending it + with taste and generosity—an extremely rare combination. Their great + riches, their political influence, their high integrity and their social + accomplishments, combined to render their house not only splendid, but + interesting and agreeable, and gave them a great hold upon the world. At + first the fine ladies of their political party called on them as a homage + of condescending gratitude for the public support which the Neuchatel + family gave to their sons and husbands, but they soon discovered that this + amiable descent from their Olympian heights on their part did not amount + exactly to the sacrifice or service which they had contemplated. They + found their host as refined as themselves, and much more magnificent, and + in a very short time it was not merely the wives of ambassadors and + ministers of state that were found at the garden fetes of Hainault, or the + balls, and banquets, and concerts of Portland Place, but the fitful and + capricious realm of fashion surrendered like a fair country conquered as + it were by surprise. To visit the Neuchatels became the mode; all + solicited to be their guests, and some solicited in vain. + </p> + <p> + Although it was only February, the world began to move, and some of the + ministers’ wives, who were socially strong enough to venture on such a + step, received their friends. Mr. Neuchatel particularly liked this form + of society. “I cannot manage balls,” he used to say, “but I like a + ministerial reception. There is some chance of sensible conversation and + doing a little business. I like talking with ambassadors after dinner. + Besides, in this country you meet the leaders of the opposition, because, + as they are not invited by the minister, but by his wife, anybody can come + without committing himself.” + </p> + <p> + Myra, faithful to her original resolution, not to enter society while she + was in mourning, declined all the solicitudes of her friends to accompany + them to these assemblies. Mrs. Neuchatel always wished Myra should be her + substitute, and it was only at Myra’s instance that Adriana accompanied + her parents. In the meantime, Myra saw much of Endymion. He was always a + welcome guest by the family, and could call upon his sister at all the + odds and ends of time that were at his command, and chat with her at + pleasant ease in her pretty room. Sometimes they walked out together, and + sometimes they went together to see some exhibition that everybody went to + see. Adriana became almost as intimate with Endymion as his sister, and + altogether the Neuchatel family became by degrees to him as a kind of + home. Talking with Endymion, Myra heard a good deal of Colonel Albert, for + he was her brother’s hero—but she rarely saw that gentleman. She was + aware from her brother, and from some occasional words of Mr. Neuchatel, + that the great banker still saw Colonel Albert and not unfrequently, but + the change of residence from Hainault to London made a difference in their + mode of communication. Business was transacted in Bishopsgate Street, and + no longer combined with a pleasant ride to an Essex forest. More than once + Colonel Albert had dined in Portland Place, but at irregular and + miscellaneous parties. Myra observed that he was never asked to meet the + grand personages who attended the celebrated banquets of Mr. Neuchatel. + And why not? His manners were distinguished, but his whole bearing that of + one accustomed to consideration. The irrepressible curiosity of woman + impelled her once to feel her way on the subject with Mr. Neuchatel, but + with the utmost dexterity and delicacy. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Mr. Neuchatel with a laughing eye, and who saw through + everybody’s purpose, though his own manner was one of simplicity amounting + almost to innocence, “I did not say Colonel Albert was going to dine here + on Wednesday; I have asked him to dine here on Sunday. On Wednesday I am + going to have the premier and some of his colleagues. I must insist upon + Miss Ferrars dining at table. You will meet Lord Roehampton; all the + ladies admire him and he admires all the ladies. It will not do to ask + Colonel Albert to meet such a party, though perhaps,” added Mr. Neuchatel + with a merry smile, “some day they may be asked to meet Colonel Albert. + Who knows, Miss Ferrars? The wheel of Fortune turns round very strangely.” + </p> + <p> + “And who then is Colonel Albert?” asked Myra with decision. + </p> + <p> + “Colonel Albert is Colonel Albert, and nobody else, so far as I know,” + replied Mr. Neuchatel; “he has brought a letter of credit on my house in + that name, and I am happy to honour his drafts to the amount in question, + and as he is a foreigner, I think it is but kind and courteous + occasionally to ask him to dinner.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Ferrars did not pursue the inquiry, for she was sufficiently + acquainted with Mr. Neuchatel to feel that he did not intend to gratify + her curiosity. + </p> + <p> + The banquet of the Neuchatels to the premier, and some of the principal + ambassadors and their wives, and to those of the premier’s colleagues who + were fashionable enough to be asked, and to some of the dukes and + duchesses and other ethereal beings who supported the ministry, was the + first event of the season. The table blazed with rare flowers and rarer + porcelain and precious candelabra of sculptured beauty glittering with + light; the gold plate was less remarkable than the delicate ware that had + been alike moulded and adorned for a Du Barri or a Marie Antoinette, and + which now found a permanent and peaceful home in the proverbial land of + purity and order; and amid the stars and ribbons, not the least remarkable + feature of the whole was Mr. Neuchatel himself, seated at the centre of + his table, alike free from ostentation or over-deference, talking to the + great ladies on each side of him, as if he had nothing to do in life but + whisper in gentle ears, and partaking of his own dainties as if he were + eating bread and cheese at a country inn. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps Mrs. Neuchatel might have afforded a companion picture. Partly in + deference to their host, and partly because this evening the first dance + of the season was to be given, the great ladies in general wore their + diamonds, and Myra was amused as she watched their dazzling tiaras and + flashing rivieres, while not a single ornament adorned the graceful + presence of their hostess, who was more content to be brilliant only by + her conversation. As Mr. Neuchatel had only a few days before presented + his wife with another diamond necklace, he might be excused were he + slightly annoyed. Nothing of the sort; he only shrugged his shoulders, and + said to his nephew, “Your aunt must feel that I give her diamonds from + love and not from vanity, as she never lets me have the pleasure of seeing + them.” The sole ornament of Adriana was an orchid, which had arrived that + morning from Hainault, and she had presented its fellow to Myra. + </p> + <p> + There was one lady who much attracted the attention of Myra, interested in + all she observed. This lady was evidently a person of importance, for she + sate between an ambassador and a knight of the garter, and they vied in + homage to her. They watched her every word, and seemed delighted with all + she said. Without being strictly beautiful, there was an expression of + sweet animation in her physiognomy which was highly attractive: her eye + was full of summer lightning, and there was an arch dimple in her smile, + which seemed to irradiate her whole countenance. She was quite a young + woman, hardly older than Myra. What most distinguished her was the harmony + of her whole person; her graceful figure, her fair and finely moulded + shoulders, her pretty teeth, and her small extremities, seemed to blend + with and become the soft vivacity of her winning glance. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Montfort looks well to-night,” said the neighbour of Myra. + </p> + <p> + “And is that Lady Montfort? Do you know, I never saw her before.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; that is the famous Berengaria, the Queen of Society, and the genius + of Whiggism.” + </p> + <p> + In the evening, a great lady, who was held to have the finest voice in + society, favoured them with a splendid specimen of her commanding skill, + and then Adriana was induced to gratify her friends with a song, “only one + song,” and that only on condition that Myra should accompany her. Miss + Neuchatel had a sweet and tender voice, and it had been finely cultivated; + she would have been more than charming if she had only taken interest in + anything she herself did, or believed for a moment that she could interest + others. When she ceased, a gentleman approached the instrument and + addressed her in terms of sympathy and deferential praise. Myra recognised + the knight of the garter who had sat next to Lady Montfort. He was + somewhat advanced in middle life, tall and of a stately presence, with a + voice more musical even than the tones which had recently enchanted every + one. His countenance was impressive, a truly Olympian brow, but the lower + part of the face indicated not feebleness, but flexibility, and his mouth + was somewhat sensuous. His manner was at once winning; natural, and + singularly unaffected, and seemed to sympathise entirely with those whom + he addressed. + </p> + <p> + “But I have never been at Hainault,” said the gentleman, continuing a + conversation, “and therefore could not hear the nightingales. I am content + you have brought one of them to town.” + </p> + <p> + “Nightingales disappear in June,” said Miss Ferrars; “so our season will + be short.” + </p> + <p> + “And where do they travel to?” asked the gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! that is a mystery,” said Myra. “You must ask Miss Neuchatel.” + </p> + <p> + “But she will not tell me,” said the gentleman, for in truth Miss + Neuchatel, though he had frequently addressed her, had scarcely opened her + lips. + </p> + <p> + “Tell your secret, Adriana,” said Miss Ferrars, trying to force her to + converse. + </p> + <p> + “Adriana!” said the gentleman. “What a beautiful name! You look with that + flower, Miss Neuchatel, like a bride of Venice.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay,” said Myra; “the bride of Venice was a stormy ocean.” + </p> + <p> + “And have you a Venetian name?” asked the gentleman. + </p> + <p> + There was a pause, and then Miss Neuchatel, with an effort, murmured, “She + has a very pretty name. Her name is Myra.” + </p> + <p> + “She seems to deserve it,” said the gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “So you like my daughter’s singing,” said Mr. Neuchatel, coming up to + them. “She does not much like singing in public, but she is a very good + girl, and always gives me a song when I come home from business.” + </p> + <p> + “Fortunate man!” said the gentleman. “I wish somebody would sing to me + when I come home from business.” + </p> + <p> + “You should marry, my lord,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “and get your wife to + sing to you. Is it not so, Miss Ferrars? By the by, I ought to introduce + you to—Lord Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIX + </h2> + <p> + The Earl of Roehampton was the strongest member of the government, except, + of course, the premier himself. He was the man from whose combined force + and flexibility of character the country had confidence that in all their + councils there would be no lack of courage, yet tempered with adroit + discretion. Lord Roehampton, though an Englishman, was an Irish peer, and + was resolved to remain so, for he fully appreciated the position, which + united social distinction with the power of a seat in the House of + Commons. He was a very ambitious, and, as it was thought, worldly man, + deemed even by many to be unscrupulous, and yet he was romantic. A great + favourite in society, and especially with the softer sex, somewhat late in + life, he had married suddenly a beautiful woman, who was without fortune, + and not a member of the enchanted circle in which he flourished. The union + had been successful, for Lord Roehampton was gifted with a sweet temper, + and, though people said he had no heart, with a winning tenderness of + disposition, or at least of manner, which at the same time charmed and + soothed. He had been a widower for two years, and the world was of opinion + that he ought to marry again, and form this time a becoming alliance. In + addition to his many recommendations he had now the inestimable + reputation, which no one had ever contemplated for him, of having been a + good husband. + </p> + <p> + Berengaria, Countess of Montfort, was a great friend of Lord Roehampton. + She was accustomed to describe herself as “the last of his conquests,” and + though Lord Roehampton read characters and purposes with a glance, and was + too sagacious to be deceived by any one, even by himself, his gratified + taste, for he scarcely had vanity, cherished the bright illusion of which + he was conscious, and he responded to Lady Montfort half sportively, half + seriously, with an air of flattered devotion. Lord Roehampton had + inherited an ample estate, and he had generally been in office; for he + served his apprenticeship under Perceval and Liverpool, and changed his + party just in time to become a member of the Cabinet of 1831. Yet with all + these advantages, whether it were the habit of his life, which was ever + profuse, or that neglect of his private interests which almost inevitably + accompanies the absorbing duties of public life, his affairs were always + somewhat confused, and Lady Montfort, who wished to place him on a + pinnacle, had resolved that he should marry an heiress. After long + observation and careful inquiry and prolonged reflection, the lady she had + fixed upon was Miss Neuchatel; and she it was who had made Lord Roehampton + cross the room and address Adriana after her song. + </p> + <p> + “He is not young,” reasoned Lady Montfort to herself, “but his mind and + manner are young, and that is everything. I am sure I meet youth every day + who, compared with Lord Roehampton, could have no chance with my sex—men + who can neither feel, nor think, nor converse. And then he is famous, and + powerful, and fashionable, and knows how to talk to women. And this must + all tell with a banker’s daughter, dying, of course, to be a <i>grande + dame</i>. It will do. He may not be young, but he is irresistible. And the + father will like it, for he told me in confidence, at dinner, that he + wished Lord Roehampton to be prime minister; and with this alliance he + will be.” + </p> + <p> + The plot being devised by a fertile brain never wanting in expedients, its + development was skilfully managed, and its accomplishment anticipated with + confidence. It was remarkable with what dexterity the Neuchatel family and + Lord Roehampton were brought together. Berengaria’s lord and master was in + the country, which he said he would not quit; but this did not prevent her + giving delightful little dinners and holding select assemblies on nights + when there was no dreadful House of Commons, and Lord Roehampton could be + present. On most occasions, and especially on these latter ones, Lady + Montfort could not endure existence without her dear Adriana. Mr. + Neuchatel, who was a little in the plot, who at least smiled when + Berengaria alluded to her enterprise, was not wanting in his contributions + to its success. He hardly ever gave one of his famous banquets to which + Lord Roehampton was not invited, and, strange to say, Lord Roehampton, who + had the reputation of being somewhat difficult on this head, always + accepted the invitations. The crowning social incident, however, was when + Lord Roehampton opened his own house for the first time since his + widowhood, and received the Neuchatels at a banquet not inferior to their + own. This was a great triumph for Lady Montfort, who thought the end was + at hand. + </p> + <p> + “Life is short,” she said to Lord Roehampton that evening. “Why not settle + it to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Lord Roehampton, “you know I never like anything precipitate. + Besides, why should the citadel surrender when I have hardly entered on my + first parallel?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! those are old-fashioned tactics,” said Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I suppose I am an old-fashioned man.” + </p> + <p> + “Be serious, now. I want it settled before Easter. I must go down to my + lord then, and even before; and I should like to see this settled before + we separate.” + </p> + <p> + “Why does not Montfort come up to town?” said Lord Roehampton. “He is + wanted.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Lady Montfort, with half a sigh, “it is no use talking about + it. He will not come. Our society bores him, and he must be amused. I + write to him every day, and sometimes twice a day, and pass my life in + collecting things to interest him. I would never leave him for a moment, + only I know then that he would get wearied of me; and he thinks now—at + least, he once said so—that he has never had a dull moment in my + company.” + </p> + <p> + “How can he find amusement in the country?” said Lord Roehampton. “There + is no sport now, and a man cannot always be reading French novels.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I send amusing people down to him,” said Berengaria. “It is + difficult to arrange, for he does not like toadies, which is so + unreasonable, for I know many toadies who are very pleasant. Treeby is + with him now, and that is excellent, for Treeby contradicts him, and is + scientific as well as fashionable, and gives him the last news of the Sun + as well as of White’s. I want to get this great African traveller to go + down to him; but one can hardly send a perfect stranger as a guest. I + wanted Treeby to take him, but Treeby refused—men are so selfish. + Treeby could have left him there, and the traveller might have remained a + week, told all he had seen, and as much more as he liked. My lord cannot + stand Treeby more than two days, and Treeby cannot stand my lord for a + longer period, and that is why they are such friends.” + </p> + <p> + “A sound basis of agreement,” said Lord Roehampton. “I believe absence is + often a great element of charm.” + </p> + <p> + “But, <i>a nos moutons</i>,” resumed Lady Montfort. “You see now why I am + so anxious for a conclusion of our affair. I think it is ripe?” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you?” said Lord Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “Well, she must be very much in love with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Has she told you so?” + </p> + <p> + “No; but she looks in love.” + </p> + <p> + “She has never told me so,” said Lord Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “Have you told her?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have not,” said her companion. “I like the family—all of + them. I like Neuchatel particularly. I like his house and style of living. + You always meet nice people there, and hear the last thing that has been + said or done all over the world. It is a house where you are sure not to + be dull.” + </p> + <p> + “You have described a perfect home,” said Lady Montfort, “and it awaits + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not know,” said Lord Roehampton. “Perhaps I am fastidious, + perhaps I am content; to be noticed sometimes by a Lady Montfort should, I + think, satisfy any man.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is gallant, but it is not business, my dear lord. You can + count on my devotion even when you are married; but I want to see you on a + pinnacle, so that if anything happens there shall be no question who is to + be the first man in this country.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0040" id="link2HCH0040"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XL + </h2> + <p> + The meeting of parliament caused also the return of Waldershare to + England, and brought life and enjoyment to our friends in Warwick Street. + Waldershare had not taken his seat in the autumn session. After the + general election, he had gone abroad with Lord Beaumaris, the young + nobleman who had taken them to the Derby, and they had seen and done many + strange things. During all their peregrinations, however, Waldershare + maintained a constant correspondence with Imogene, occasionally sending + her a choice volume, which she was not only to read, but to prove her + perusal of it by forwarding to him a criticism of its contents. + </p> + <p> + Endymion was too much pleased to meet Waldershare again, and told him of + the kind of intimacy he had formed with Colonel Albert and all about the + baron. Waldershare was much interested in these details, and it was + arranged that an opportunity should be taken to make the colonel and + Waldershare acquainted. + </p> + <p> + This, however, was not an easy result to bring about, for Waldershare + insisted on its not occurring formally, and as the colonel maintained the + utmost reserve with the household, and Endymion had no room of reception, + weeks passed over without Waldershare knowing more of Colonel Albert + personally than sometimes occasionally seeing him mount his horse. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime life in Warwick Street, so far as the Rodney family were + concerned, appeared to have re-assumed its pleasant, and what perhaps we + are authorised in styling its normal condition. They went to the play two + or three times a week, and there Waldershare or Lord Beaumaris, frequently + both, always joined them; and then they came home to supper, and then they + smoked; and sometimes there was a little singing, and sometimes a little + whist. Occasionally there was only conversation, that is to say, + Waldershare held forth, dilating on some wondrous theme, full of + historical anecdote, and dazzling paradox, and happy phrase. All listened + with interest, even those who did not understand him. Much of his talk was + addressed really to Beaumaris, whose mind he was forming, as well as that + of Imogene. Beaumaris was an hereditary Whig, but had not personally + committed himself, and the ambition of Waldershare was to transform him + not only into a Tory, but one of the old rock, a real Jacobite. “Is not + the Tory party,” Waldershare would exclaim, “a succession of heroic + spirits, ‘beautiful and swift,’ ever in the van, and foremost of their + age?—Hobbes and Bolingbroke, Hume and Adam Smith, Wyndham and + Cobham, Pitt and Grenville, Canning and Huskisson?—Are not the + principles of Toryism those popular rights which men like Shippen and + Hynde Cotton flung in the face of an alien monarch and his mushroom + aristocracy?—Place bills, triennial bills, opposition to standing + armies, to peerage bills?—Are not the traditions of the Tory party + the noblest pedigree in the world? Are not its illustrations that glorious + martyrology, that opens with the name of Falkland and closes with the name + of Canning?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it is all true,” whispered Lord Beaumaris to Sylvia, who had + really never heard of any of these gentlemen before, but looked most sweet + and sympathetic. + </p> + <p> + “He is a wonderful man—Mr. Waldershare,” said Mr. Vigo to Rodney, + “but I fear not practical.” + </p> + <p> + One day, not very long after his return from his travels, Waldershare went + to breakfast with his uncle, Mr. Sidney Wilton, now a cabinet minister, + still unmarried, and living in Grosvenor Square. Notwithstanding the + difference of their politics, an affectionate intimacy subsisted between + them; indeed Waldershare was a favourite of his uncle, who enjoyed the + freshness of his mind, and quite appreciated his brilliancy of thought and + speech, his quaint reading and effervescent imagination. + </p> + <p> + “And so you think we are in for life, George,” said Mr. Wilson, taking a + piece of toast. “I do not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I go upon this,” said Waldershare. “It is quite clear that Peel has + nothing to offer the country, and the country will not rally round a + negation. When he failed in ‘34 they said there had not been sufficient + time for the reaction to work. Well, now, since then, it has had nearly + three years, during which you fellows have done everything to outrage + every prejudice of the constituency, and yet they have given you a + majority.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is all very well,” replied Mr. Wilton, “but we are the Liberal + shop, and we have no Liberal goods on hand; we are the party of movement, + and must perforce stand still. The fact is, all the great questions are + settled. No one will burn his fingers with the Irish Church again, in this + generation certainly not, probably in no other; you could not get ten men + together in any part of the country to consider the corn laws; I must + confess I regret it. I still retain my opinion that a moderate fixed duty + would be a wise arrangement, but I quite despair in my time of any such + advance of opinion; as for the ballot, it is hardly tolerated in debating + societies. The present government, my dear George, will expire from + inanition. I always told the cabinet they were going on too fast. They + should have kept back municipal reform. It would have carried us on for + five years. It was our only <i>piece de resistance</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “I look upon the House of Commons as a mere vestry,” said Waldershare. “I + believe it to be completely used up. Reform has dished it. There are no + men, and naturally, because the constituencies elect themselves, and the + constituencies are the most mediocre of the nation. The House of Commons + now is like a spendthrift living on his capital. The business is done and + the speeches are made by men formed in the old school. The influence of + the House of Commons is mainly kept up by old social traditions. I believe + if the eldest sons of peers now members would all accept the Chiltern + hundreds, and the House thus cease to be fashionable, before a year was + past, it would be as odious and as contemptible as the Rump Parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you are now the eldest son of a peer,” said Sidney Wilton, smiling. + “Why do you not set an example, instead of spending your father’s + substance and your own in fighting a corrupt borough?” + </p> + <p> + “I am <i>vox clamantis</i>,” said Waldershare. “I do not despair of its + being done. But what I want is some big guns to do it. Let the eldest son + of a Tory duke and the eldest son of a Whig duke do the same thing on the + same day, and give the reason why. If Saxmundham, for example, and + Harlaxton would do it, the game would be up.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary,” said Mr. Wilton, “Saxmundham, I can tell you, will be + the new cabinet minister.” + </p> + <p> + “Degenerate land!” exclaimed Waldershare. “Ah! in the eighteenth century + there was always a cause to sustain the political genius of the country,—the + cause of the rightful dynasty.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, thank God, we have got rid of all those troubles,” said Mr. Wilton. + </p> + <p> + “Rid of them! I do not know that. I saw a great deal of the Duke of Modena + this year, and tried as well as I could to open his mind to the + situation.” + </p> + <p> + “You traitor!” exclaimed Mr. Wilton. “If I were Secretary of State, I + would order the butler to arrest you immediately, and send you to the + Tower in a hack cab; but as I am only a President of a Board and your + uncle, you will escape.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I should think all sensible men,” said Waldershare, “of all parties + will agree, that before we try a republic, it would be better to give a + chance to the rightful heir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am not a republican,” said Mr. Wilton, “and I think Queen + Victoria, particularly if she make a wise and happy marriage, need not + much fear the Duke of Modena.” + </p> + <p> + “He is our sovereign lord, all the same,” said Waldershare. “I wish he + were more aware of it himself. Instead of looking to a restoration to his + throne, I found him always harping on the fear of French invasion. I could + not make him understand that France was his natural ally, and that without + her help, Charlie was not likely to have his own again.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, as you admire pretenders, George, I wish you were in my shoes this + morning, for I have got one of the most disagreeable interviews on hand + which ever fell to my lot.” + </p> + <p> + “How so, my dear uncle?” said Waldershare, in a tone of sympathy, for he + saw that the countenance of Mr. Wilton was disturbed. + </p> + <p> + “My unhappy ward,” said Mr. Wilton; “you know, of course, something about + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I was at school and college,” said Waldershare, “when it all + happened. But I have just heard that you had relations with him.” + </p> + <p> + “The most intimate; and there is the bitterness. There existed between his + mother Queen Agrippina and myself ties of entire friendship. In her last + years and in her greatest adversity she appealed to me to be the guardian + of her son. He inherited all her beauty and apparently all her sweetness + of disposition. I took the greatest pains with him. He was at Eton, and + did well there. He was very popular; I never was so deceived in a boy in + my life. I though him the most docile of human beings, and that I had + gained over him an entire influence. I am sure it would have been + exercised for his benefit. In short, I may say it now, I looked upon him + as a son, and he certainly would have been my heir; and yet all this time, + from his seventeenth year, he was immersed in political intrigue, and + carrying on plots against the sovereign of his country, even under my own + roof.” + </p> + <p> + “How very interesting!” said Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + “It may be interesting to you; I know what it cost me. The greatest + anxiety and sorrow, and even nearly compromised my honour. Had I not a + large-hearted chief and a true man of the world to deal with, I must have + retired from the government.” + </p> + <p> + “How could he manage it?” said Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + “You have no conception of the devices and resources of the secret + societies of Europe,” said Mr. Wilton. “His drawing-master, his + fencing-master, his dancing-master, all his professors of languages, who + delighted me by their testimony to his accomplishments and their praises + of his quickness and assiduity, were active confederates in bringing about + events which might have occasioned an European war. He left me avowedly to + pay a visit in the country, and I even received letters from him with the + postmark of the neighbouring town; letters all prepared beforehand. My + first authentic information as to his movements was to learn, that he had + headed an invading force, landed on the shores which he claimed as his + own, was defeated and a prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember it,” said Waldershare. “I had just then gone up to St. John’s, + and I remember reading it with the greatest excitement.” + </p> + <p> + “All this was bad enough,” said Mr. Wilton, “but this is not my sorrow. I + saved him from death, or at least a dreadful imprisonment. He was + permitted to sail to America on his parole that he would never return to + Europe, and I was required, and on his solemn appeal I consented, to give + my personal engagement that the compact should be sacred. Before two years + had elapsed, supported all this time, too, by my bounty, there was an + attempt, almost successful, to assassinate the king, and my ward was + discovered and seized in the capital. This time he was immured, and for + life, in the strongest fortress of the country; but secret societies laugh + at governments, and though he endured a considerable imprisonment, the + world has recently been astounded by hearing that he had escaped. Yes; he + is in London and has been here, though in studied obscurity, for some + little time. He has never appealed to me until within these few days, and + now only on the ground that there are some family affairs which cannot be + arranged without my approval. I had great doubts whether I should receive + him. I feel I ought not to have done so. But I hesitated, and I know not + what may be the truth about women, but of this I am quite sure, the man + who hesitates is lost.” + </p> + <p> + “How I should like to present at the interview, my dear uncle!” said + Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + “And I should not be sorry to have a witness,” said Mr. Wilton, “but it is + impossible. I am ashamed to say how unhinged I feel; no person, and no + memories, ought to exercise such an influence over one. To tell you the + truth, I encouraged your pleasant gossip at breakfast by way of + distraction at this moment, and now”—— + </p> + <p> + At this moment, the groom of the chambers entered and announced “His royal + highness, Prince Florestan.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilton, who was too agitated to speak, waved his hand to Waldershare + to retire, and his nephew vanished. As Waldershare was descending the + staircase, he drew back on a landing-place to permit the prince to advance + undisturbed. The prince apparently did not observe him, but when + Waldershare caught the countenance of the visitor, he started. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0041" id="link2HCH0041"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLI + </h2> + <p> + “I know, sir, you are prejudiced against me,” said Prince Florestan, + bowing before Mr. Wilton with a sort of haughty humility, “and therefore I + the more appreciate your condescension in receiving me.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no wish to refer to the past,” said Mr. Wilton somewhat sternly. + “You mentioned in your letter that my co-operation was necessary with + reference to your private affairs, of which I once was a trustee, and + under those circumstances I felt it my duty to accede to your request. I + wish our communication to be limited to that business.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be so strictly,” said the prince; “you may remember, sir, that + at the unhappy period when we were deprived of our throne, the name of + Queen Agrippina was inscribed on the great book of the state for a + considerable sum, for which the credit of the state was pledged to her. It + was strictly her private property, and had mainly accrued through the sale + of the estates of her ancestors. This sum was confiscated, and several + other amounts, which belonged to members of our house and to our friends. + It was an act of pure rapine, so gross, that as time revolved, and the + sense of justice gradually returned to the hearts of men, restitution was + made in every instance except my own, though I have reason to believe that + individual claim was the strongest. My bankers, the house of Neuchatel, + who have much interested themselves in this matter, and have considerable + influence with the government that succeeded us, have brought things to + this pass, that we have reason to believe our claim would be conceded, if + some of the foreign governments, and especially the government of this + country, would signify that the settlement would not be disagreeable to + them.” And the prince ceased, and raising his eyes, which were downcast as + he spoke, looked Mr. Wilton straight in the face. + </p> + <p> + “Before such a proposal could even be considered by Her Majesty’s + Government,” said Mr. Wilton with a reddening cheek, “the intimation must + be made to them by authority. If the minister of your country has such an + intimation to make to ours, he should address himself to the proper + quarter, to Lord Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” said Prince Florestan; “but governments, like individuals, + sometimes shrink from formality. The government of my country will act on + the intimation, but they do not care to make it an affair of despatches.” + </p> + <p> + “There is only one way of transacting business,” said Mr. Wilton frigidly, + and as if, so far as he was concerned, the interview was ended. + </p> + <p> + “I have been advised on high authority,” said Prince Florestan, speaking + very slowly, “that if any member of the present cabinet will mention in + conversation to the representative of my country here, that the act of + justice would not be disagreeable to the British Government, the affair is + finished.” + </p> + <p> + “I doubt whether any one of my colleagues would be prepared to undertake a + personal interference of that kind with a foreign government,” said Mr. + Wilton stiffly. “For my own part, I have had quite enough of such + interpositions never to venture on them again.” + </p> + <p> + “The expression of feeling desired would involve no sort of engagement,” + said the imperturbable prince. + </p> + <p> + “That depends on the conscience of the individual who interferes. No man + of honour would be justified in so interposing if he believed he was thus + furnishing arms against the very government of which he solicited the + favour.” + </p> + <p> + “But why should he believe this?” asked the prince with great calmness. + </p> + <p> + “I think upon reflection,” said Mr. Wilton, taking up at the same time an + opened letter which was before him, as if he wished to resume the private + business on which he had been previously engaged, “that your royal + highness might find very adequate reasons for the belief.” + </p> + <p> + “I would put this before you with great deference, sir,” said the prince. + “Take my own case; is it not more likely that I should lead that life of + refined retirement, which I really desire, were I in possession of the + means to maintain such a position with becoming dignity, than if I were + distressed, and harassed, and disgusted, every day, with sights and + incidents which alike outrage my taste and self-respect? It is not + prosperity, according to common belief, that makes conspirators.” + </p> + <p> + “You <i>were</i> in a position, and a refined position,” rejoined Mr. + Wilton sharply; “you had means adequate to all that a gentleman could + desire, and might have been a person of great consideration, and you + wantonly destroyed all this.” + </p> + <p> + “It might be remembered that I was young.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you were young, very young, and your folly was condoned. You might + have begun life again, for to the world at least you were a man of honour. + You had not deceived the world, whatever you might have done to others.” + </p> + <p> + “If I presume to make another remark,” said the prince calmly, but pale, + “it is only, believe me, sir, from the profound respect I feel for you. Do + not misunderstand these feelings, sir. They are not unbecoming the past. + Now that my mother has departed, there is no one to whom I am attached + except yourself. I have no feeling whatever towards any other human being. + All my thought and all my sentiment are engrossed by my country. But + pardon me, dear sir, for so let me call you, if I venture to say that, in + your decision on my conduct, you have never taken into consideration the + position which I inherited.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not follow you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You never will remember that I am the child of destiny,” said Prince + Florestan. “That destiny will again place me on the throne of my fathers. + That is as certain as I am now speaking to you. But destiny for its + fulfilment ordains action. Its decrees are inexorable, but they are + obscure, and the being whose career it directs is as a man travelling in a + dark night; he reaches his goal even without the aid of stars or moon.” + </p> + <p> + “I really do not understand what destiny means,” said Mr. Wilton. “I + understand what conduct means, and I recognise that it should be regulated + by truth and honour. I think a man had better have nothing to do with + destiny, particularly if it is to make him forfeit his parole.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! sir, I well know that on that head you entertain a great prejudice in + my respect. Believe me it is not just. Even lawyers acknowledge that a + contract which is impossible cannot be violated. My return from America + was inevitable. The aspirations of a great people and of many communities + required my presence in Europe. My return was the natural development of + the inevitable principle of historical necessity.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that principle is not recognised by Her Majesty’s Ministers,” said + Mr. Wilton, and both himself and the prince seemed to rise at the same + time. + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, sir, for this interview,” said his royal highness. “You will + not help me, but what I require will happen by some other means. It is + necessary, and therefore it will occur.” + </p> + <p> + The prince remounted his horse, and rode off quickly till he reached the + Strand, where obstacles to rapid progress commenced, and though impatient, + it was some time before he reached Bishopsgate Street. He entered the + spacious courtyard of a noble mansion, and, giving his horse to the groom, + inquired for Mr. Neuchatel, to whom he was at once ushered,—seated + in a fine apartment at a table covered with many papers. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my prince,” said Mr. Neuchatel with a smiling eye, “what brings + such a great man into the City to-day? Have you seen your great friend?” + And then Prince Florestan gave Mr. Neuchatel a succinct but sufficient + summary of his recent interview. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said Mr. Neuchatel, “so it is, so it is; I dare say if you were + received at St. James’, Mr. Sidney Wilton would not be so very particular; + but we must take things as we find them. If our fine friends will not help + us, you must try us poor business men in the City. We can manage things + here sometimes which puzzle them at the West End. I saw you were disturbed + when you came in. Put on a good countenance. Nobody should ever look + anxious except those who have no anxiety. I dare say you would like to + know how your account is. I will send for it. It is not so bad as you + think. I put a thousand pounds to it in the hope that your fine friend + would help us, but I shall not take it off again. My Louis is going + to-night to Paris, and he shall call upon the ministers and see what can + be done. In the meantime, good appetite, sir. I am going to luncheon, and + there is a place for you. And I will show you my Gainsborough that I have + just bought, from a family for whom it was painted. The face is divine, + very like our Miss Ferrars. I am going to send the picture down to + Hainault. I won’t tell you what I gave for it, because perhaps you would + tell my wife and she would be very angry. She would want the money for an + infant school. But I think she has schools enough. Now to lunch.” + </p> + <p> + On the afternoon of this day there was a half-holiday at the office, and + Endymion had engaged to accompany Waldershare on some expedition. They had + been talking together in his room where Waldershare was finishing his + careless toilette, which however was never finished, and they had just + opened the house door and were sallying forth when Colonel Albert rode up. + He gave a kind nod to Endymion, but did not speak, and the companions went + on. “By the by, Ferrars,” said Waldershare, pressing his arm and bubbling + with excitement, “I have found out who your colonel is. It is a wondrous + tale, and I will tell it all to you as we go on.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0042" id="link2HCH0042"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLII + </h2> + <p> + Endymion had now passed three years of his life in London, and considering + the hard circumstances under which he had commenced this career, he might + on the whole look back to those years without dissatisfaction. Three years + ago he was poor and friendless, utterly ignorant of the world, and with + nothing to guide him but his own good sense. His slender salary had not + yet been increased, but with the generosity and aid of his sister and the + liberality of Mr. Vigo, he was easy in his circumstances. Through the + Rodneys, he had become acquainted with a certain sort of miscellaneous + life, a knowledge of which is highly valuable to a youth, but which is + seldom attained without risk. Endymion, on the contrary, was always + guarded from danger. Through his most unexpected connection with the + Neuchatel family, he had seen something of life in circles of refinement + and high consideration, and had even caught glimpses of that great world + of which he read so much and heard people talk more, the world of the Lord + Roehamptons and the Lady Montforts, and all those dazzling people whose + sayings and doings form the taste, and supply the conversation, and leaven + the existence of admiring or wondering millions. + </p> + <p> + None of these incidents, however, had induced any change in the scheme of + his existence. Endymion was still content with his cleanly and airy + garret; still dined at Joe’s; was still sedulous at his office, and always + popular with his fellow clerks. Seymour Hicks, indeed, who studied the + “Morning Post” with intentness, had discovered the name of Endymion in the + elaborate lists of attendants on Mrs. Neuchatel’s receptions, and had duly + notified the important event to his colleagues; but Endymion was not + severely bantered on the occasion, for, since the withdrawal of St. Barbe + from the bureau, the stock of envy at Somerset House was sensibly + diminished. + </p> + <p> + His lodging at the Rodneys’, however, had brought Endymion something more + valuable than an innocuous familiarity with their various and suggestive + life. In the friendship of Waldershare he found a rich compensation for + being withdrawn from his school and deprived of his university. The care + of his father had made Endymion a good classical scholar, and he had + realised a degree of culture which it delighted the brilliant and + eccentric Waldershare to enrich and to complete. Waldershare guided his + opinions, and directed his studies, and formed his taste. Alone at night + in his garret, there was no solitude, for he had always some book or some + periodical, English or foreign, with which Waldershare had supplied him, + and which he assured Endymion it was absolutely necessary that he should + read and master. + </p> + <p> + Nor was his acquaintance with Baron Sergius less valuable, or less + fruitful of results. He too became interested in Endymion, and poured + forth to him, apparently without reserve, all the treasures of his vast + experience of men and things, especially with reference to the conduct of + external affairs. He initiated him in the cardinal principles of the + policies of different nations; he revealed to him the real character of + the chief actors in the scene. “The first requisite,” Baron Sergius would + say, “in the successful conduct of public affairs is a personal + acquaintance with the statesmen engaged. It is possible that events may + not depend now, so much as they did a century ago, on individual feeling, + but, even if prompted by general principles, their application and + management are always coloured by the idiosyncrasy of the chief actors. + The great advantage which your Lord Roehampton, for example, has over all + his colleagues in <i>la haute politique</i>, is that he was one of your + plenipotentiaries at the Congress of Vienna. There he learned to gauge the + men who govern the world. Do you think a man like that, called upon to + deal with a Metternich or a Pozzo, has no advantage over an individual who + never leaves his chair in Downing Street except to kill grouse? Pah! + Metternich and Pozzo know very well that Lord Roehampton knows them, and + they set about affairs with him in a totally different spirit from that + with which they circumvent some statesman who has issued from the + barricades of Paris.” + </p> + <p> + Nor must it be forgotten that his debating society and the acquaintance + which he had formed there, were highly beneficial to Endymion. Under the + roof of Mr. Bertie Tremaine he enjoyed the opportunity of forming an + acquaintance with a large body of young men of breeding, of high + education, and full of ambition, that was a substitute for the society, + becoming his youth and station, which he had lost by not going to the + university. + </p> + <p> + With all these individuals, and with all their circles, Endymion was a + favourite. No doubt his good looks, his mien—which was both cheerful + and pensive—his graceful and quiet manners, all told in his favour, + and gave him a good start, but further acquaintance always sustained the + first impression. He was intelligent and well-informed, without any + alarming originality, or too positive convictions. He listened not only + with patience but with interest to all, and ever avoided controversy. Here + are some of the elements of a man’s popularity. + </p> + <p> + What was his intellectual reach, and what his real character, it was + difficult at this time to decide. He was still very young, only on the + verge of his twentieth year; and his character had no doubt been + influenced, it might be suppressed, by the crushing misfortunes of his + family. The influence of his sister was supreme over him. She had never + reconciled herself to their fall. She had existed only on the solitary + idea of regaining their position, and she had never omitted an occasion to + impress upon him that he had a great mission, and that, aided by her + devotion, he would fulfil it. What his own conviction on this subject was + may be obscure. Perhaps he was organically of that cheerful and easy + nature, which is content to enjoy the present, and not brood over the + past. The future may throw light upon all these points; at present it may + be admitted that the three years of seemingly bitter and mortifying + adversity have not been altogether wanting in beneficial elements in the + formation of his character and the fashioning of his future life. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0043" id="link2HCH0043"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIII + </h2> + <p> + Lady Montfort heard with great satisfaction from Mr. Neuchatel that Lord + Roehampton was going to pay a visit to Hainault at Easter, and that he had + asked himself. She playfully congratulated Mrs. Neuchatel on the subject, + and spoke as if the affair was almost concluded. That lady, however, + received the intimation with a serious, not to say distressed countenance. + She said that she should be grieved to lose Adriana under any + circumstances; but if her marriage in time was a necessity, she trusted + she might be united to some one who would not object to becoming a + permanent inmate of their house. What she herself desired for her daughter + was a union with some clergyman, and if possible, the rector of their own + parish. But it was too charming a dream to realise. The rectory at + Hainault was almost in the Park, and was the prettiest house in the world, + with the most lovely garden. She herself much preferred it to the great + mansion—and so on. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort stared at her with impatient astonishment, and then said, + “Your daughter, Mrs. Neuchatel, ought to make an alliance which would + place her at the head of society.” + </p> + <p> + “What a fearful destiny,” said Mrs. Neuchatel, “for any one, but + overwhelming for one who must feel the whole time that she occupies a + position not acquired by her personal qualities!” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana is pretty,” said Lady Montfort. “I think her more than pretty; + she is highly accomplished and in every way pleasing. What can you mean, + then, my dear madam, by supposing she would occupy a position not acquired + by her personal qualities?” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Neuchatel sighed and shook her head, and then said, “We need not have + any controversy on this subject. I have no reason to believe there is any + foundation for my fears. We all like and admire Lord Roehampton. It is + impossible not to admire and like him. So great a man, and yet so gentle + and so kind, so unaffected—I would say, so unsophisticated; but he + has never given the slightest intimation, either to me or her father, that + he seriously admired Adriana, and I am sure if he had said anything to her + she would have told us.” + </p> + <p> + “He is always here,” said Lady Montfort, “and he is a man who used to go + nowhere except for form. Besides, I know that he admires her, that he is + in love with her, and I have not a doubt that he has invited himself to + Hainault in order to declare his feelings to her.” + </p> + <p> + “How very dreadful!” exclaimed Mrs. Neuchatel. “What are we to do?” + </p> + <p> + “To do!” said Lady Montfort; “why, sympathise with his happiness, and + complete it. You will have a son-in-law of whom you may well be proud, and + Adriana a husband who, thoroughly knowing the world, and women, and + himself, will be devoted to her; will be a guide and friend, a guide that + will never lecture, and a friend who will always charm, for there is no + companion in the world like him, and I think I ought to know,” added Lady + Montfort, “for I always tell him that I was the last of his conquests, and + I shall ever be grateful to him for his having spared to me so much of his + society.” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana on this matter will decide for herself,” said Mrs. Neuchatel, in + a serious tone, and with a certain degree of dignity. “Neither Mr. + Neuchatel, nor myself, have ever attempted to control her feelings in this + respect.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am now about to see Adriana,” said Lady Montfort; “I know she is + at home. If I had not been obliged to go to Princedown, I would have asked + you to let me pass Easter at Hainault myself.” + </p> + <p> + On this very afternoon, when Myra, who had been walking in Regent’s Park + with her brother, returned home, she found Adriana agitated, and really in + tears. + </p> + <p> + “What is all this, dearest?” inquired her friend. + </p> + <p> + “I am too unhappy,” sobbed Adriana, and then she told Myra that she had + had a visit from Lady Montfort, and all that had occurred in it. Lady + Montfort had absolutely congratulated her on her approaching alliance with + Lord Roehampton, and when she altogether disclaimed it, and expressed her + complete astonishment at the supposition, Lady Montfort had told her she + was not justified in giving Lord Roehampton so much encouragement and + trifling with a man of his high character and position. + </p> + <p> + “Fancy my giving encouragement to Lord Roehampton!” exclaimed Adriana, and + she threw her arms round the neck of the friend who was to console her. + </p> + <p> + “I agree with Lady Montfort,” said Myra, releasing herself with gentleness + from her distressed friend. “It may have been unconsciously on your part, + but I think you have encouraged Lord Roehampton. He is constantly + conversing with you, and he is always here, where he never was before, + and, as Lady Montfort says, why should he have asked himself to pass the + Easter at Hainault if it were not for your society?” + </p> + <p> + “He invited himself to Hainault, because he is so fond of papa,” said + Adriana. + </p> + <p> + “So much the better, if he is to be your husband. That will be an + additional element of domestic happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “O Myra! that you should say such things!” exclaimed Adriana. + </p> + <p> + “What things?” + </p> + <p> + “That I should marry Lord Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + “I never said anything of the kind. Whom you should marry is a question + you must decide for yourself. All that I said was, that if you marry Lord + Roehampton, it is fortunate he is so much liked by Mr. Neuchatel.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall not marry Lord Roehampton,” said Adriana with some determination, + “and if he has condescended to think of marrying me,” she continued, “as + Lady Montfort says, I think his motives are so obvious that if I felt for + him any preference it would be immediately extinguished.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! now you are going to ride your hobby, my dear Adriana. On that + subject we never can agree; were I an heiress, I should have as little + objection to be married for my fortune as my face. Husbands, as I have + heard, do not care for the latter too long. Have more confidence in + yourself, Adriana. If Lord Roehampton wishes to marry you, it is that he + is pleased with you personally, that he appreciates your intelligence, + your culture, your accomplishments, your sweet disposition, and your + gentle nature. If in addition to these gifts you have wealth, and even + great wealth, Lord Roehampton will not despise it, will not—for I + wish to put it frankly—be uninfluenced by the circumstances, for + Lord Roehampton is a wise man; but he would not marry you if he did not + believe that you would make for him a delightful companion in life, that + you would adorn his circle and illustrate his name.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I see you are all in the plot against me,” said Adriana. “I have no + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Adriana, I think you are unreasonable; I could say even unkind.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! pardon me, dear Myra,” said Adriana, “but I really am so very + unhappy.” + </p> + <p> + “About what? You are your own mistress in this matter. If you do not like + to marry Lord Roehampton, nobody will attempt to control you. What does it + signify what Lady Montfort says? or anybody else, except your own parents, + who desire nothing but your happiness? I should never have mentioned Lord + Roehampton to you had you not introduced the subject yourself. And all + that I meant to say was, what I repeat, that your creed that no one can + wish to marry you except for your wealth is a morbid conviction, and must + lead to unhappiness; that I do not believe that Lord Roehampton is + influenced in his overture, if he make one, by any unworthy motive, and + that any woman whose heart is disengaged should not lightly repudiate such + an advance from such a man, by which, at all events, she should feel + honoured.” + </p> + <p> + “But my heart is engaged,” said Adriana in an almost solemn tone. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that is quite a different thing!” said Myra, turning pale. + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” said Adriana; “I am devoted to one whose name I cannot now mention, + perhaps will never mention, but I am devoted to him. Yes!” she added with + fire, “I am not altogether so weak a thing as the Lady Montforts and some + other persons seem to think me—I can feel and decide for myself, and + it shall never be said of me that I purchased love.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0044" id="link2HCH0044"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIV + </h2> + <p> + There was to be no great party at Hainault; Lord Roehampton particularly + wished that there should be no fine folks asked, and especially no + ambassadors. All that he wanted was to enjoy the fresh air, and to ramble + in the forest, of which he had heard so much, with the young ladies. + </p> + <p> + “And, by the by, Miss Ferrars,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “we must let what we + were talking about the other day drop. Adriana has been with me quite + excited about something Lady Montfort said to her. I soothed her and + assured her she should do exactly as she liked, and that neither I nor her + mother had any other wishes on such a subject than her own. The fact is, I + answered Lady Montfort originally only half in earnest. If the thing might + have happened, I should have been content—but it really never rested + on my mind, because such matters must always originate with my daughter. + Unless they come from her, with me they are mere fancies. But now I want + you to help me in another matter, if not more grave, more businesslike. My + lord must be amused, although it is a family party. He likes his rubber; + that we can manage. But there must be two or three persons that he is not + accustomed to meet, and yet who will interest him. Now, do you know, Miss + Ferrars, whom I think of asking?” + </p> + <p> + “Not I, my dear sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of the colonel?” said Mr. Neuchatel, looking in her + face with a rather laughing eye. + </p> + <p> + “Well, he is very agreeable,” said Myra, “and many would think + interesting, and if Lord Roehampton does not know him, I think he would do + very well.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but Lord Roehampton knows all about him,” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is an advantage,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “I do not know,” said Mr. Neuchatel. “Life is a very curious thing, eh, + Miss Ferrars? One cannot ask one person to meet another even in one’s own + home, without going through a sum of moral arithmetic.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it so?” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Miss Ferrars,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “I want your advice and I want + your aid; but then it is a long story, at which I am rather a bad hand,” + and Mr. Neuchatel hesitated. “You know,” he said, suddenly resuming, “you + once asked me who Colonel Albert was.” + </p> + <p> + “But I do not ask you now,” said Myra, “because I know.” + </p> + <p> + “Hah, hah!” exclaimed Mr. Neuchatel, much surprised. + </p> + <p> + “And what you want to know is,” continued Myra, “whether Lord Roehampton + would have any objection to meet Prince Florestan?” + </p> + <p> + “That is something; but that is comparatively easy. I think I can manage + that. But when they meet—that is the point. But, in the first place, + I should like very much to know how you became acquainted with the + secret.” + </p> + <p> + “In a very natural way; my brother was my information,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! now you see,” continued Mr. Neuchatel, with a serious air, “a word + from Lord Roehampton in the proper quarter might be of vast importance to + the prince. He has a large inheritance, and he has been kept out of it + unjustly. Our house has done what we could for him, for his mother, Queen + Agrippina, was very kind to my father, and the house of Neuchatel never + forgets its friends. But we want something else, we want the British + Government to intimate that they will not disapprove of the restitution of + the private fortune of the prince. I have felt my way with the premier; he + is not favourable; he is prejudiced against the prince; and so is the + cabinet generally; and yet all difficulties would vanish at a word from + Lord Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, this is a good opportunity for you to speak to him,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “Hem!” said Mr. Neuchatel, “I am not so sure about that. I like Lord + Roehampton, and, between ourselves, I wish he were first minister. He + understands the Continent, and would keep things quiet. But, do you know, + Miss Ferrars, with all his playful, good-tempered manner, as if he could + not say a cross word or do an unkind act, he is a very severe man in + business. Speak to him on business, and he is completely changed. His + brows knit, he penetrates you with the terrible scrutiny of that deep-set + eye; he is more than stately, he is austere. I have been up to him with + deputations—the Governor of the Bank, and all the first men in the + City, half of them M.P.s, and they trembled before him like aspens. No, it + will not do for me to speak to him, it will spoil his visit. I think the + way will be this; if he has no objection to meet the prince, we must watch + whether the prince makes a favourable impression on him, and if that is + the case, and Lord Roehampton likes him, what we must do next is this—<i>you</i> + must speak to Lord Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + “I!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Miss Ferrars, you. Lord Roehampton likes ladies. He is never austere + to them, even if he refuses their requests, and sometimes he grants them. + I thought first of Mrs. Neuchatel speaking to him, but my wife will never + interfere in anything in which money is concerned; then I thought Adriana + might express a hope when they were walking in the garden, but now that is + all over; and so you alone remain. I have great confidence in you,” added + Mr. Neuchatel, “I think you would do it very well. Besides, my lord rather + likes you, for I have observed him often go and sit by you at parties, at + our house.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he is very high-bred in that,” said Myra, gravely and rather sadly; + “and the fact of my being a dependent, I have no doubt, influences him.” + </p> + <p> + “We are all dependents in this house,” said Mr. Neuchatel with his + sweetest smile; “and I depend upon Miss Ferrars.” + </p> + <p> + Affairs on the whole went on in a promising manner. The weather was + delightful, and Lord Roehampton came down to Hainault just in time for + dinner, the day after their arrival, and in the highest spirits. He seemed + to be enjoying a real holiday; body and mind were in a like state of + expansion; he was enchanted with the domain; he was delighted with the + mansion, everything pleased and gratified him, and he pleased and + gratified everybody. The party consisted only of themselves, except one of + the nephews, with whom indeed Lord Roehampton was already acquainted; a + lively youth, a little on the turf, not too much, and this suited Lord + Roehampton, who was a statesman of the old aristocratic school, still bred + horses, and sometimes ran one, and in the midst of an European crisis + could spare an hour to Newmarket. Perhaps it was his only affectation. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Neuchatel, by whom he was seated, had the happy gift of conversation; + but the party was of that delightful dimension, that it permitted talk to + be general. Myra sate next to Lord Roehampton, and he often addressed her. + He was the soul of the feast, and yet it is difficult to describe his + conversation; it was a medley of graceful whim, interspersed now and then + with a very short anecdote of a very famous person, or some deeply + interesting reminiscence of some critical event. Every now and then he + appealed to Adriana, who sate opposite to him in the round table, and she + trusted that her irrepressible smiles would not be interpreted into undue + encouragement. + </p> + <p> + Lord Roehampton had no objection to meet Prince Florestan, provided there + were no other strangers, and the incognito was observed. He rather + welcomed the proposal, observing he liked to know public men personally; + so, you can judge of their calibre, which you never can do from books and + newspapers, or the oral reports of their creatures or their enemies. And + so on the next day Colonel Albert was expected. + </p> + <p> + Lord Roehampton did not appear till luncheon; he had received so many + boxes from Downing Street which required his attention. “Business will + follow one,” he said; “yesterday I thought I had baffled it. I do not like + what I shall do without my secretaries. I think I shall get you young + ladies to assist me.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot have better secretaries,” said Mr. Neuchatel; “Miss Ferrars + often helps me.” + </p> + <p> + Then what was to be done after luncheon? Would he ride, or would he drive? + And where should they drive and ride to? But Lord Roehampton did not much + care to drive, and was tired of riding. He would rather walk and ramble + about Hainault. He wanted to see the place, and the forest and the fern, + and perhaps hear one of those nightingales that they had talked of in + Portland Place. But Mrs. Neuchatel did not care to walk, and Mr. + Neuchatel, though it was a holiday in the City, had a great many letters + to write, and so somehow or other it ended in Lord Roehampton and the two + young ladies walking out together, and remaining so long and so late, that + Mrs. Neuchatel absolutely contemplated postponing the dinner hour. + </p> + <p> + “We shall just be in time, dear Mrs. Neuchatel,” said Myra; “Lord + Roehampton has gone up to his rooms. We have heard a nightingale, and Lord + Roehampton insisted upon our sitting on the trunk of a tree till it ceased—and + it never ceased.” + </p> + <p> + Colonel Albert, who had arrived, was presented to Lord Roehampton before + dinner. Lord Roehampton received him with stately courtesy. As Myra + watched, not without interest, the proceeding, she could scarcely believe, + as she marked the lofty grace and somewhat haughty mien of Lord + Roehampton, that it could be the same being of frolic and fancy, and even + tender sentiment, with whom she had been passing the preceding hours. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Albert sate next to Myra at dinner, and Lord Roehampton between + Mrs. Neuchatel and her daughter. His manner was different to-day, not less + pleased and pleasing, but certainly more restrained. He encouraged Mrs. + Neuchatel to occupy the chief part in conversation, and whispered to + Adriana, who became somewhat uneasy; but the whispers mainly consisted of + his delight in their morning adventures. When he remarked that it was one + of the most agreeable days of his life, she became a little alarmed. Then + he addressed Colonel Albert across the table, and said that he had heard + from Mr. Neuchatel that the colonel had been in America, and asked some + questions about public men, which brought him out. Colonel Albert answered + with gentleness and modesty, never at any length, but in language which + indicated, on all the matters referred to, thought and discrimination. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose their society is like the best society in Manchester?” said + Lord Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “It varies in different cities,” said Colonel Albert. “In some there is + considerable culture, and then refinement of life always follows.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but whatever they may be, they will always be colonial. What is + colonial necessarily lacks originality. A country that borrows its + language, its laws, and its religion, cannot have its inventive powers + much developed. They got civilised very soon, but their civilisation was + second-hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps their inventive powers may develop themselves in other ways,” + said the prince. “A nation has a fixed quantity of invention, and it will + make itself felt.” + </p> + <p> + “At present,” said Lord Roehampton, “the Americans, I think, employ their + invention in imaginary boundary lines. They are giving us plenty of + trouble now about Maine.” + </p> + <p> + After dinner they had some music; Lord Roehampton would not play whist. He + insisted on comparing the voices of his companions with that of the + nightingales of the morning. He talked a great deal to Adriana, and + Colonel Albert, in the course of the evening much to Myra, and about her + brother. Lord Roehampton more than once had wished to tell her, as he had + already told Miss Neuchatel, how delightful had been their morning; but on + every occasion he had found her engaged with the colonel. + </p> + <p> + “I rather like your prince,” he had observed to Mr. Neuchatel, as they + came from the dining-room. “He never speaks without thinking; very + reserved, I apprehend. They say, an inveterate conspirator.” + </p> + <p> + “He has had enough of that,” said Mr. Neuchatel. “I believe he wants to be + quiet.” + </p> + <p> + “That class of man is never quiet,” said Lord Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “But what can he do?” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “What can he not do? Half Europe is in a state of chronic conspiracy.” + </p> + <p> + “You must keep us right, my dear lord. So long as you are in Downing + Street I shall sleep at nights.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Ferrars,” said Lord Roehampton abruptly to Mr. Neuchatel, “must have + been the daughter of William Ferrars, one of my great friends in old days. + I never knew it till to-day, and she did not tell me, but it flashed + across me from something she said.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she is his daughter, and is in mourning for him at this moment. She + has had sorrows,” said Mr. Neuchatel. “I hope they have ceased. It was one + of the happiest days of my life when she entered this family.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said Lord Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + The next day, after they had examined the famous stud and stables, there + was a riding party, and in the evening Colonel Albert offered to perform + some American conjuring tricks, of which he had been speaking in the + course of the day. This was a most wonderful performance, and surprised + and highly amused everybody. Colonel Albert was the last person who they + expected would achieve such marvels; he was so quiet, not to say grave. + They could hardly credit that he was the same person as he poured floods + of flowers over Myra from her own borrowed pocket-handkerchief, and + without the slightest effort or embarrassment, robbed Lord Roehampton of + his watch, and deposited it in Adriana’s bosom. It was evident that he was + a complete master of slight-of-hand. + </p> + <p> + “Characteristic!” murmured Lord Roehampton to himself. + </p> + <p> + It was the day after this, that Myra being in the music room and alone, + Lord Roehampton opened the door, looked in, and then said, “Where is Miss + Neuchatel?” + </p> + <p> + “I think she is on the terrace.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us try to find her, and have one of our pleasant strolls. I sadly + want one, for I have been working very hard all this morning, and half the + night.” + </p> + <p> + “I will be with you, Lord Roehampton, in a moment.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not let us have anybody else,” he said, as she left the room. + </p> + <p> + They were soon on the terrace, but Adriana was not there. + </p> + <p> + “We must find her,” said Lord Roehampton; “you know her haunts. Ah! what a + delight it is to be in this air and this scene after those dreadful boxes! + I wish they would turn us out. I think they must soon.” + </p> + <p> + “Now for the first time,” said Myra, “Lord Roehampton is not sincere.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you think me always sincere?” he replied. + </p> + <p> + “I have no reason to think you otherwise.” + </p> + <p> + “That is very true,” said Lord Roehampton, “truer perhaps than you + imagine.” Then rather abruptly he said, “You know Colonel Albert very + well?” + </p> + <p> + “Pretty well. I have seen him here frequently, and he is also a friend of + my brother.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! a friend of your brother.” Then, after a slight pause, he said, “He + is an interesting man.” + </p> + <p> + “I think so,” said Myra. “You know all about him, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good-looking.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he looks unhappy, I think, and worn.” + </p> + <p> + “One is never worn when one is young,” said Lord Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “He must have great anxieties and great sorrows,” said Myra. “I cannot + imagine a position more unfortunate than that of an exiled prince.” + </p> + <p> + “I can,” said Lord Roehampton. “To have the feelings of youth and the + frame of age.” + </p> + <p> + Myra was silent, one might say dumbfounded. She had just screwed herself + up to the task which Mr. Neuchatel had imposed on her, and was about to + appeal to the good offices of Lord Roehampton in favour of the prince, + when he had indulged in a remark which was not only somewhat strange, but + from the manner in which it was introduced hardly harmonised with her + purpose. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I would give up everything,” said Lord Roehampton. “I would even be + an exile to be young; to hear that Miss Ferrars deems me interesting and + good-looking, though worn.” + </p> + <p> + “What is going to happen?” thought Myra. “Will the earth open to receive + me?” + </p> + <p> + “You are silent,” said Lord Roehampton. “You will not speak, you will not + sigh, you will not give a glance of consolation or even pity. But I have + spoken too much not to say more. Beautiful, fascinating being, let me at + least tell you of my love.” + </p> + <p> + Myra could not speak, but put her left hand to her face. Gently taking her + other hand, Lord Roehampton pressed it to his lips. “From the first moment + I met you, my heart was yours. It was love at first sight; indeed I + believe in no other. I was amused with the projects of my friend, and I + availed myself of them, but not unfairly. No one can accuse me of trifling + with the affections of your sweet companion, and I must do her the justice + to say that she did everything to convince me that she shrank from my + attentions. But her society was an excuse to enjoy yours. I was an + habitual visitor in town that I might cherish my love, and, dare I say it, + I came down here to declare it. Do not despise it, dearest of women; it is + not worthy of you, but it is not altogether undeserving. It is, as you + kindly believed it,—it is sincere!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0045" id="link2HCH0045"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLV + </h2> + <p> + On the following day, Mr. Neuchatel had good-naturedly invited Endymion + down to Hainault, and when he arrived there, a servant informed him that + Miss Ferrars wished to see him in her room. + </p> + <p> + It was a long interview and an agitated one, and when she had told her + tale, and her brother had embraced her, she sat for a time in silence, + holding his hand, and intimating, that, for a while, she wished that + neither of them should speak. Suddenly, she resumed, and said, “Now you + know all, dear darling; it is so sudden, and so strange, that you must be + almost as much astounded as gratified. What I have sighed for, and prayed + for—what, in moments of inspiration, I have sometimes foreseen—has + happened. Our degradation is over. I seem to breathe for the first time + for many years. I see a career, ay, and a great one; and what is far more + important, I see a career for you.” + </p> + <p> + “At this moment, dear Myra, think only of yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “You are myself,” she replied, rather quickly, “never more so than at this + moment;” and then she said in a tone more subdued, and even tender, “Lord + Roehampton has every quality and every accident of life that I delight in; + he has intellect, eloquence, courage, great station and power; and, what I + ought perhaps more to consider, though I do not, a sweet disposition and a + tender heart. There is every reason why we should be happy—yes, very + happy. I am sure I shall sympathise with him; perhaps, I may aid him; at + least, he thinks so. He is the noblest of men. The world will talk of the + disparity of our years; but Lord Roehampton says that he is really the + younger of the two, and I think he is right. My pride, my intense pride, + never permitted to me any levity of heart.” + </p> + <p> + “And when is it to happen?” inquired Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Not immediately. I could not marry till a year had elapsed after our + great sorrow; and it is more agreeable, even to him, that our union should + be delayed till the session is over. He wants to leave England; go abroad; + have a real holiday. He has always had a dream of travelling in Spain; + well, we are to realise the dream. If we could get off at the end of July, + we might go to Paris, and then to Madrid, and travel in Andalusia in the + autumn, and then catch the packet at Gibraltar, and get home just in time + for the November cabinets.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Myra! how wonderful it all seems!” involuntarily exclaimed Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but more wonderful things will happen. We have now got a lever to + move the world. Understand, my dear Endymion, that nothing is to be + announced at present. It will be known only to this family, and the + Penruddocks. I am bound to tell them, even immediately; they are friends + that never can be forgotten. I have always kept up my correspondence with + Mrs. Penruddock. Besides, I shall tell her in confidence, and she is + perfectly to be depended on. I am going to ask my lord to let Mr. + Penruddock marry us.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that will be capital,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “There is another person, by the by, who must know it, at least my lord + says so,” said Myra, “and that is Lady Montfort; you have heard of that + lady and her plans. Well, she must be told—at least, sooner or + later. She will be annoyed, and she will hate me. I cannot help it; every + one is hated by somebody.” + </p> + <p> + During the three months that had to elapse before the happy day, several + incidents occurred that ought to be noted. In the first place, Lady + Montfort, though disappointed and very much astonished, bore the + communication from Lord Roehampton more kindly than he had anticipated. + Lord Roehampton made it by letter, and his letters to women were more + happy even than his despatches to ministers, and they were unrivalled. He + put the matter in the most skilful form. Myra had been born in a social + position not inferior to his own, and was the daughter of one of his + earliest political friends. He did not dilate too much on her charms and + captivating qualities, but sufficiently for the dignity of her who was to + become his wife. And then he confessed to Lady Montfort how completely his + heart and happiness were set on Lady Roehampton being welcomed becomingly + by his friends; he was well aware, that in these matters things did not + always proceed as one could wish, but this was the moment, and this the + occasion, to test a friend, and he believed he had the dearest, the most + faithful, the most fascinating, and the most powerful in Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “Well, we must put the best face upon it,” exclaimed that lady; “he was + always romantic. But, as he says, or thinks, what is the use of friends if + they do not help you in a scrape?” + </p> + <p> + So Lady Montfort made the acquaintance of Myra, and welcomed her new + acquaintance cordially. She was too fine a judge of beauty and deportment + not to appreciate them, even when a little prejudice lurked behind. She + was amused also, and a little gratified, by being in the secret; presented + Myra with a rare jewel, and declared that she should attend the wedding; + though when the day arrived, she was at Princedown, and could not, + unfortunately, leave her lord. + </p> + <p> + About the end of June, a rather remarkable paragraph appeared in the + journal of society: + </p> + <p> + “We understand that His Royal Highness Prince Florestan, who has been for + some little time in this country, has taken the mansion in Carlton + Gardens, recently occupied by the Marquis of Katterfelto. The mansion is + undergoing very considerable repairs, but it is calculated that it will be + completed in time for the reception of His Royal Highness by the end of + the autumn; His Royal Highness has taken the extensive moors of + Dinniewhiskie for the coming season.” + </p> + <p> + In the earlier part of July, the approaching alliance of the Earl of + Roehampton with Miss Ferrars, the only daughter of the late Right + Honourable William Pitt Ferrars, of Hurstley Hall, in the county of Berks, + was announced, and great was the sensation, and innumerable the presents + instantly ordered. + </p> + <p> + But on no one did the announcement produce a greater effect than on + Zenobia; that the daughter of her dearest friend should make so + interesting and so distinguished an alliance was naturally most gratifying + to her. She wrote to Myra a most impassioned letter, as if they had only + separated yesterday, and a still longer and more fervent one to Lord + Roehampton; Zenobia and he had been close friends in other days, till he + wickedly changed his politics, and was always in office and Zenobia always + out. This was never to be forgiven. But the bright lady forgot all this + now, and sent to Myra the most wondrous bracelet of precious stones, in + which the word “Souvenir” was represented in brilliants, rubies, and + emeralds. + </p> + <p> + “For my part,” said Myra to Endymion, “my most difficult task are the + bridesmaids. I am to have so many, and know so few. I feel like a + recruiting sergeant. I began to Adriana, but my lord helps me very much + out of his family, and says, when we have had a few family dinners, all + will be right.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion did not receive the banter he expected at the office. The event + was too great for a jest. Seymour Hicks, with a serious countenance, said + Ferrars might get anywhere now,—all the ministerial receptions of + course. Jawett said there would be no ministerial receptions soon; they + were degrading functions. Clear-headed Trenchard congratulated him + quietly, and said, “I do not think you will stay much longer among us, but + we shall always remember you with interest.” + </p> + <p> + At last the great day arrived, and at St. George’s, Hanover Square, the + Right Honourable the Earl of Roehampton, K.G., was united to Miss Ferrars. + Mr. Penruddock joined their hands. His son Nigel had been invited to + assist him, but did not appear, though Myra had written to him. The great + world assembled in force, and Endymion observed Mr. and Mrs. Rodney and + Imogene in the body of the church. After the ceremony there was an + entertainment in Portland Place, and the world ate ortolans and examined + the presents. These were remarkable for number and splendour. Myra could + not conceal her astonishment at possessing so many friends; but it was the + fashion for all Lord Roehampton’s acquaintance to make him offerings, and + to solicit his permission to present gifts to his bride. Mr. Neuchatel + placed on her brow a diamond tiara, and Mrs. Neuchatel encircled her neck + with one of her diamond necklaces. “I should like to give the other one to + Adriana,” she observed, “but Adriana says that nothing will ever induce + her to wear jewels.” Prince Florestan presented Lady Roehampton with a + vase which had belonged to his mother, and which had been painted by + Boucher for Marie Antoinette. It was matchless, and almost unique. + </p> + <p> + Not long after this, Lord Beaumaris, with many servants and many guns, + took Waldershare and Endymion down with him to Scotland. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0046" id="link2HCH0046"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVI + </h2> + <p> + The end of the season is a pang to society. More hopes have been baffled + than realised. There is something melancholy in the last ball, though the + music ever seems louder, and the lights more glaring than usual. Or it may + be, the last entertainment is that hecatomb they call a wedding breakfast, + which celebrates the triumph of a rival. That is pleasant. Society, to do + it justice, struggles hard to revive in other scenes the excitement that + has expired. It sails to Cowes, it scuds to bubbling waters in the pine + forests of the continent, it stalks even into Scotland; but it is + difficult to restore the romance that has been rudely disturbed, and to + gather again together the threads of the intrigue that have been lost in + the wild flight of society from that metropolis, which is now described as + “a perfect desert”—that is to say, a park or so, two or three + squares, and a dozen streets where society lives; where it dines, and + dances, and blackballs, and bets, and spouts. + </p> + <p> + But to the world in general, the mighty million, to the professional + classes, to all men of business whatever, the end of the season is the + beginning of carnival. It is the fulfilment of the dream over which they + have been brooding for ten months, which has sustained them in toil, + lightened anxiety, and softened even loss. It is air, it is health, it is + movement, it is liberty, it is nature—earth, sea, lake, moor, + forest, mountain, and river. From the heights of the Engadine to Margate + Pier, there is equal rapture, for there is an equal cessation of routine. + </p> + <p> + Few enjoy a holiday more than a young clerk in a public office, who has + been bred in a gentle home, and enjoyed in his boyhood all the pastimes of + gentlemen. Now he is ever toiling, with an uncertain prospect of annual + relaxation, and living hardly. Once on a time, at the paternal hall, he + could shoot, or fish, or ride, every day of his life, as a matter of + course; and now, what would he not give for a good day’s sport? Such + thoughts had frequently crossed the mind of Endymion when drudging in + London during the autumn, and when all his few acquaintances were away. It + was, therefore, with no ordinary zest that he looked forward to the + unexpected enjoyment of an unstinted share of some of the best shooting in + the United Kingdom. And the relaxation and the pastime came just at the + right moment, when the reaction, from all the excitement attendant on the + marvellous change in his sister’s position, would have made him, deprived + of her consoling society, doubly sensible of his isolated position. + </p> + <p> + It so happened that the moors of Lord Beaumaris were contiguous to the + celebrated shootings of Dinniewhiskie, which were rented by Prince + Florestan, and the opportunity now offered which Waldershare desired of + making the acquaintance of the prince in an easy manner. Endymion managed + this cleverly. Waldershare took a great fancy to the prince. He + sympathised with him, and imparted to Endymion his belief that they could + not do a better thing than devote their energies to a restoration of his + rights. Lord Beaumaris, who hated foreigners, but who was always + influenced by Waldershare, also liked the prince, and was glad to be + reminded by his mentor that Florestan was half an Englishman, not to say a + whole one, for he was an Eton boy. What was equally influential with Lord + Beaumaris was, that the prince was a fine shot, and indeed a consummate + sportsman, and had in his manners that calm which is rather unusual with + foreigners, and which is always pleasing to an English aristocrat. So in + time they became intimate, sported much together, and visited each other + at their respective quarters. The prince was never alone. What the county + paper described as distinguished foreigners were perpetually paying him + visits, long or short, and it did not generally appear that these visits + were influenced by a love of sport. One individual, who arrived shortly + after the prince, remained, and, as was soon known, was to remain + permanently. This was a young gentleman, short and swarthy, with flashing + eyes and a black moustache, known by the name of the Duke of St. Angelo, + but who was really only a cadet of that illustrious house. The Duke of St. + Angelo took the management of the household of the prince—was + evidently the controller; servants trembled at his nod, and he rode any + horse he liked; he invited guests, and arranged the etiquette of the + interior. He said one day very coolly to Waldershare: “I observe that Lord + Beaumaris and his friends never rise when the prince moves.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should we?” + </p> + <p> + “His rank is recognised and guaranteed by the Treaty of Vienna,” said the + Duke of St. Angelo, with an arrogant air. + </p> + <p> + “His princely rank,” replied Waldershare, “but not his royalty.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a mere refinement,” said the duke contemptuously. + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, a clear distinction, and specifically made in the + treaty. I do not think the prince himself would desire such a ceremony, + and let me recommend you, duke,” added Waldershare, “not to go out of your + way to insist on these points. They will not increase the prince’s + popularity.” + </p> + <p> + “The time will come, and before long, when the Treaty of Vienna, with its + clear distinctions, will be at the bottom of the Red Sea,” said the Duke + of St. Angelo, “and then no one will sit when His Majesty rises.” + </p> + <p> + “Amen!” said Waldershare. “All diplomacy since the Treaty of Utrecht seems + to me to be fiddle-faddle, and the country rewarded the great man who made + that treaty by an attainder.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion returned to town towards the end of September, Waldershare went + to Paris, and Lord Beaumaris and the prince, who had become intimate, + repaired together to Conington, the seat of Lord Beaumaris, to kill + pheasants. Even the Rodneys, who had gone to the Rhine this year, had not + returned. Endymion had only the society of his fellow clerks. He liked + Trenchard, who was acute, full of official information, and of gentle + breeding. Still it must be confessed that Endymion felt the change in his + society. Seymour Hicks was hardly a fit successor to Waldershare, and + Jawett’s rabid abstractions on government were certainly not so + interesting as <i>la haute politique</i> of the Duke of St. Angelo. Were + it not for the letters which he constantly received from his sister, he + would have felt a little despondent. As it was, he renewed his studies in + his pleasant garret, trained himself in French and German, and got up + several questions for the Union. + </p> + <p> + The month seemed very long, but it was not unprofitably spent. The Rodneys + were still absent. They had not returned as they had intended direct to + England, but had gone to Paris to meet Mr. Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + At the end of October there was a semi-official paragraph announcing the + approaching meeting of the Cabinet, and the movements of its members. Some + were in the north, and some were in the south; some were killing the last + grouse, and some, placed in green ridings, were blazing in battues. But + all were to be at their post in ten days, and there was a special + notification that intelligence had been received of the arrival of Lord + and Lady Roehampton at Gibraltar. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0047" id="link2HCH0047"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVII + </h2> + <p> + Lady Roehampton, in her stately mansion in St. James’ Square, found life + very different from what she had experienced in her Andalusian dream. For + three months she had been the constant companion of one of the most + fascinating of men, whose only object had been to charm and delight her. + And in this he had entirely succeeded. From the moment they arrived in + London, however, they seemed to be separated, and although when they met, + there was ever a sweet smile and a kind and playful word for her, his + brow, if not oppressed with care, was always weighty with thought. Lord + Roehampton was little at his office; he worked in a spacious chamber on + the ground floor of his private residence, and which was called the + Library, though its literature consisted only of Hansard, volumes of state + papers, shelves of treatises, and interminable folios of parliamentary + reports. He had not been at home a week before the floor of the apartment + was literally covered with red boxes, all containing documents requiring + attention, and which messengers were perpetually bringing or carrying + away. Then there were long meetings of the Cabinet almost daily, and daily + visits from ambassadors and foreign ministers, which prevented the + transaction of the current business, and rendered it necessary that Lord + Roehampton should sit up late in his cabinet, and work sometimes nearly + till the hours of dawn. There had been of course too some arrears of + business, for secretaries of state cannot indulge with impunity in + Andalusian dreams, but Lord Roehampton was well served. His + under-secretaries of state were capable and experienced men, and their + chief had not been altogether idle in his wanderings. He had visited + Paris, and the capital of France in those days was the capital of + diplomacy. The visit of Lord Roehampton had settled some questions which + might have lingered for years, and had given him that opportunity of + personal survey which to a statesman is invaluable. + </p> + <p> + Although it was not the season, the great desert had, comparatively + speaking, again become peopled. There were many persons in town, and they + all called immediately on Lady Roehampton. The ministerial families and + the diplomatic corps alone form a circle, but there is also a certain + number of charming people who love London in November, and lead there a + wondrous pleasant life of real amusement, until their feudal traditions + and their domestic duties summon them back to their Christmas homes. + </p> + <p> + Lord and Lady Roehampton gave constant dinners, and after they had tried + two or three, he expressed his wish to his wife that she should hold a + small reception after these dinners. He was a man of great tact, and he + wished to launch his wife quietly and safely on the social ocean. “There + is nothing like practising before Christmas, my love,” he would say; “you + will get your hand in, and be able to hold regular receptions in the + spring.” And he was quite right. The dinners became the mode, and the + assemblies were eagerly appreciated. The Secretary of the Treasury + whispered to an Under-Secretary of State,—“This marriage was a <i>coup</i>. + We have got another house.” + </p> + <p> + Myra had been a little anxious about the relations between Lord Roehampton + and her brother. She felt, with a woman’s instinct, that her husband might + not be overpleased by her devotion to Endymion, and she could not resist + the conviction that the disparity of age which is easily forgotten in a + wife, and especially in a wife who adores you, assumes a different, and + somewhat distasteful character, when a great statesman is obliged to + recognise it in the shape of a boyish brother-in-law. But all went right, + for the sweetness of Lord Roehampton’s temper was inexhaustible. Endymion + had paid several visits to St. James’ square before Myra could seize the + opportunity, for which she was ever watching, to make her husband and her + brother acquainted. + </p> + <p> + “And so you are one of us,” said Lord Roehampton, with his sweetest smile + and in his most musical tone, “and in office. We must try to give you a + lift.” And then he asked Endymion who was his chief, and how he liked him, + and then he said, “A good deal depends on a man’s chief. I was under your + grandfather when I first entered parliament, and I never knew a pleasanter + man to do business with. He never made difficulties; he always encouraged + one. A younker likes that.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton was desirous of paying some attention to all those who had + been kind to her brother; particularly Mr. Waldershare and Lord Beaumaris—and + she wished to invite them to her house. “I am sure Waldershare would like + to come,” said Endymion, “but Lord Beaumaris, I know, never goes anywhere, + and I have myself heard him say he never would.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my lord was telling me Lord Beaumaris was quite <i>farouche</i>, and + it is feared that we may lose him. That would be sad,” said Myra, “for he + is powerful.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like very much if you could give me a card for Mr. Trenchard,” + said Endymion; “he is not in society, but he is quite a gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have it, my dear. I have always liked Mr. Trenchard, and I dare + say, some day or other, he may be of use to you.” + </p> + <p> + The Neuchatels were not in town, but Myra saw them frequently, and Mr. + Neuchatel often dined in St. James’ Square—but the ladies always + declined every invitation of the kind. They came up from Hainault to see + Myra, but looked as if nothing but their great affection would prompt such + a sacrifice, and seemed always pining for Arcadia. Endymion, however, not + unfrequently continued his Sunday visits to Hainault, to which Mr. + Neuchatel had given him a general welcome. This young gentleman, indeed, + soon experienced a considerable change in his social position. Invitations + flocked to him, and often from persons whom he did not know, and who did + not even know him. He went by the name of Lady Roehampton’s brother, and + that was a sufficient passport. + </p> + <p> + “We are trying to get up a carpet dance to-night,” said Belinda to a fair + friend. “What men are in town?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there is Mr. Waldershare, who has just left me.” + </p> + <p> + “I have asked him. + </p> + <p> + “Then there is Lord Willesden and Henry Grantley—I know they are + passing through town—and there is the new man, Lady Roehampton’s + brother.” + </p> + <p> + “I will send to Lord Willesden and Henry Grantley immediately, and perhaps + you will send a card, which I will write here, for me to the new man.” + </p> + <p> + And in this way Mr. Ferrars soon found that he was what is called + “everywhere.” + </p> + <p> + One of the most interesting acquaintances that Lady Roehampton made was a + colleague of her husband, and that was Mr. Sidney Wilton, once the + intimate friend of her father. He had known herself and her brother when + they were children, indeed from the cradle. Mr. Sidney Wilton was in the + perfection of middle life, and looked young for his years. He was tall and + pensive, and naturally sentimental, though a long political career, for he + had entered the House of Commons for the family borough the instant he was + of age, had brought to this susceptibility a salutary hardness. Although + somewhat alienated from the friend of his youth by the course of affairs, + for Mr. Sidney Wilton had followed Lord Roehampton, while Mr. Ferrars had + adhered to the Duke of Wellington, he had not neglected Ferrars in his + fall, but his offers of assistance, frankly and generously made, had been + coldly though courteously rejected, and no encouragement had been given to + the maintenance of their once intimate acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sidney Wilton was much struck by the appearance of Lady Roehampton. He + tried to compare the fulfilment of her promise with the beautiful and + haughty child whom he used to wonder her parents so extravagantly spoiled. + Her stature was above the average height of women and finely developed and + proportioned. But it was in the countenance—in the pellucid and + commanding brow, the deep splendour of her dark blue eyes softened by long + lashes, her short upper lip, and the rich profusion of her dark chestnut + hair—that his roused memory recalled the past; and he fell into a + mood of agitated contemplation. + </p> + <p> + The opportunities which he enjoyed of cultivating her society were + numerous, and Mr. Wilton missed none. He was frequently her guest, and + being himself the master of a splendid establishment, he could offer her a + hospitality which every one appreciated. Lord Roehampton was peculiarly + his political chief, and they had always been socially intimate. As the + trusted colleague of her husband—as one who had known her in her + childhood, and as himself a man singularly qualified, by his agreeable + conversation and tender and deferential manner, to make his way with women—Mr. + Sidney Wilton had no great difficulty, particularly in that happy + demi-season which precedes Christmas, in establishing relations of + confidence and intimacy with Lady Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + The cabinets were over: the government had decided on their measures, and + put them in a state of preparation, and they were about to disperse for a + month. The seat of Lord Roehampton was in the extreme north of England, + and a visit to it was inconvenient at this moment, and especially at this + season. The department of Lord Roehampton was very active at this time, + and he was unwilling that the first impression by his wife of her future + home should be experienced at a season little favourable to the charms of + a northern seat. Mr. Sidney Wilton was the proprietor of the most + beautiful and the most celebrated villa in England; only twenty miles from + town, seated on a wooded crest of the swan-crowned Thames, with gardens of + delight, and woods full of pheasants, and a terrace that would have become + a court, glancing over a wide expanse of bower and glade, studded with + bright halls and delicate steeples, and the smoke of rural homes. + </p> + <p> + It was arranged that Lord and Lady Roehampton should pass their Christmas + at Gaydene with Mr. Sidney Wilton, stay as long as they liked, go where + they chose, but make it their headquarters. It was a most successful + visit; for a great deal of business was done, as well as pleasure enjoyed. + The ambassadors, who were always a little uneasy at Christmas when + everybody is away, and themselves without country homes, were all invited + down for that week. Lord Roehampton used to give them audiences after the + shooting parties. He thought it was a specific against their being too + long. He used to say, “The first dinner-bell often brings things to a + point.” After Christmas there was an ever-varying stream of company, + chiefly official and parliamentary. The banquet and the battue did not + always settle the business, the clause, or the schedule, which the guests + often came down to Gaydene ostensibly to accomplish, but they sent men + back to town with increased energy and good humour, and kept the party in + heart. Towards the end of the month the premier came down, and for him the + Blue Ribbon Covert had been reserved, though he really cared little for + sport. It was an eighteenth century tradition that knights of the garter + only had been permitted to shoot this choice preserve, but Mr. Sidney + Wilton, in this advanced age, did not of course revive such an + ultra-exclusive practice, and he was particular in arranging the party to + include Mr. Jorrocks. This was a Radical member to whom considerable + office had been given at the reconstruction of 1835, when it was necessary + that the Whigs should conciliate the Mountain. He was a pretentious, + underbred, half-educated man, fluent with all the commonplaces of + middle-class ambition, which are humorously called democratic opinions, + but at heart a sycophant of the aristocracy. He represented, however, a + large and important constituency, and his promotion was at first looked + upon as a masterpiece of management. The Mountain, who knew Jorrocks by + heart, and felt that they had in their ranks men in every sense his + superior, and that he could be no representative of their intelligence and + opinions, and so by degrees prepare for their gradual admission to the + sacred land, at first sulked over the promotion of their late companion, + and only did not publicly deride it from the feeling that by so doing they + might be playing the game of the ministry. At the time of which we are + writing, having become extremely discontented and wishing to annoy the + government, they even affected dissatisfaction at the subordinate position + which Jorrocks occupied in the administration, and it was generally said—had + become indeed the slang of the party—that the test of the sincerity + of the ministry to Liberal principles was to put Jorrocks in the cabinet. + The countenance of the premier when this choice programme was first + communicated to him was what might have been expected had he learnt of the + sudden descent upon this isle of an invading force, and the Secretary of + the Treasury whispered in confidence to one or two leaders of the + Mountain, “that if they did not take care they would upset the + government.” + </p> + <p> + “That is exactly what we want to do,” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + So it will be seen that the position of the ministry, previous to the + meeting of parliament in 1839, was somewhat critical. In the meantime, its + various members, who knew their man, lavished every practicable social + attention on Jorrocks. The dinners they gave him were doubled; they got + their women to call on his women; and Sidney Wilton, a member of an + illustrious garter family, capped the climax by appointing him one of the + party to shoot the Blue Ribbon Covert. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilton had invited Endymion to Gaydene, and, as his stay there could + only be brief, had even invited him to repeat the visit. He was, indeed, + unaffectedly kind to one whom he remembered so young, and was evidently + pleased with him. + </p> + <p> + One evening, a day or two before the break-up of the party, while some + charming Misses Playfellow, with an impudent brother, who all lived in the + neighbourhood, were acting charades, Mr. Wilton said to Lady Roehampton, + by whose side he was sitting in the circle— + </p> + <p> + “I have had a very busy morning about my office. There is to be a complete + revolution in it. The whole system is to be reconstructed; half the + present people are to be pensioned off, and new blood is to be introduced. + It struck me that this might be an opening for your brother. He is in the + public service—that is something; and as there are to be so many new + men, there will be no jealousy as to his promotion. If you will speak to + him about it, and he likes it, I will appoint him one of the new clerks; + and then, if he also likes it, he shall be my private secretary. That will + give him position, and be no mean addition to his income, you know, if we + last—but that depends, I suppose, on Mr. Jorrocks.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton communicated all this to her brother on her return to + London. “It is exactly what I wished,” she said. “I wanted you to be + private secretary to a cabinet minister, and if I were to choose any one, + except, of course, my lord, it would be Mr. Wilton. He is a perfect + gentleman, and was dear papa’s friend. I understand you will have three + hundred a year to begin with, and the same amount as his secretary. You + ought to be able to live with ease and propriety on six hundred a year—and + this reminds me of what I have been thinking of before we went to Gaydene. + I think now you ought to have a more becoming residence. The Rodneys are + good people, I do not doubt, and I dare say we shall have an opportunity + of proving our sense of their services; but they are not exactly the + people that I care for you to live with, and, at any rate, you cannot + reside any longer in a garret. I have taken some chambers in the Albany, + therefore, for you, and they shall be my contribution to your + housekeeping. They are not badly furnished, but they belonged to an old + general officer, and are not very new-fashioned; but we will go together + and see them to-morrow, and I dare say I shall soon be able to make them + <i>comme il faut</i>.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0048" id="link2HCH0048"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVIII + </h2> + <p> + This considerable rise in the life of Endymion, after the first excitement + occasioned by its announcement to him had somewhat subsided, was not + contemplated by him with unmixed feelings of satisfaction. It seemed to + terminate many relations of life, the value of which he had always + appreciated, but which now, with their impending conclusion, he felt, and + felt keenly, had absolutely contributed to his happiness. There was no + great pang in quitting his fellow-clerks, except Trenchard, whom he + greatly esteemed. But poor little Warwick Street had been to him a real + home, if unvarying kindness, and sedulous attention, and the affection of + the eyes and heart, as well as of the mouth, can make a hearth. He hoped + he might preserve the friendship of Waldershare, which their joint + intimacy with the prince would favour; but still he could hardly flatter + himself that the delightful familiarity of their past lives could subsist. + Endymion sighed, and then he sighed again. He felt sad. Because he was + leaving the humble harbour of refuge, the entrance to which, even in the + darkest hour of his fallen fortunes, was thought somewhat of an indignity, + and was about to assume a position which would not have altogether + misbecome the earliest expectations of his life? That seems unreasonable; + but mankind, fortunately, are not always governed by reason, but by + sentiment, and often by very tender sentiment. + </p> + <p> + When Endymion, sitting in his little room, analysed his feelings, he came + to the conclusion that his sadness was occasioned by his having to part + from Imogene. It often requires an event in life, and an unexpected one, + to make us clearly aware of the existence of feelings which have long + influenced us. Never having been in a position in which the possibility of + uniting his fate to another could cross his mind for a moment, he had been + content with the good fortune which permitted a large portion of his life + to be passed in the society of a woman who, unconsciously both to him and + to herself, had fascinated him. The graceful child who, four or five years + ago, had first lit him to his garret, without losing any of her rare and + simple ingenuousness, had developed into a beautiful and accomplished + woman. There was a strong resemblance between Imogene and her sister, but + Imogene was a brunette. Her countenance indicated far more intellect and + character than that of Sylvia. Her brow was delicately pencilled and + finely arched, and her large dark eyes gleamed with a softness and + sweetness of expression, which were irresistibly attractive, and seemed to + indicate sympathy with everything that was good and beautiful. Her + features were not so regular as her sister’s; but when she smiled, her + face was captivating. + </p> + <p> + Endymion had often listened, half with fondness and half with scepticism, + to Waldershare dilating, according to his wont, on the high character and + qualities of Imogene, whom he persisted in believing he was preparing for + a great career. “How it will come about I cannot say,” he would remark; + “but it will come. If my legitimate sovereign were on the throne, and I in + the possession of my estates, which were graciously presented by the + usurper to the sausage-makers, or some other choice middle-class + corporation, I would marry her myself. But that is impossible. That would + only be asking her to share my ruin. I want her to live in palaces, and + perhaps, in my decline of life, make me her librarian, like Casanova. I + should be content to dine in her hall every day beneath the salt, and see + her enter with her state, amid the flourish of trumpets.” And now, strange + to say, Endymion was speculating on the fate of Imogene, and, as he + thought, in a more practical spirit. Six hundred a year, he thought, was + not a very large income; but it was an income, and one which a year ago he + never contemplated possessing until getting grey in the public service. + Why not realise perfect happiness at once? He could conceive no bliss + greater than living with Imogene in one of those little villas, even if + semi-detached, which now are numbered by tens of thousands, and which were + then beginning to shoot out their suburban antennae in every direction of + our huge metropolis. He saw her in his mind’s eye in a garden of perpetual + sunshine, breathing of mignonette and bright with roses, and waiting for + him as he came down from town and his daily labours, in the cheap and + convenient omnibus. What a delightful companion to welcome him! How much + to tell her, and how much to listen to! And then their evenings with a + delicious book or some delightful music! What holidays, too, of romantic + adventure! The vine-clad Rhine, perhaps Switzerland; at any rate, the + quaint old cities of Flanders, and the winding valley of the Meuse. They + could live extremely well on six hundred a year, yes, with all the real + refinements of existence. And all their genuine happiness was to be + sacrificed for utterly fantastic and imaginary gratifications, which, if + analysed, would be found only to be efforts to amuse and astonish others. + </p> + <p> + It did not yet occur to Endymion that his garden could not always be + sunshiny; that cares crop up in villas, even semi-detached, as well as + joys; that he would have children, and perhaps too many; that they would + be sick, and that doctors’ bills would soon put a stop to romantic + excursions; that his wife would become exhausted with nursing and clothing + and teaching them; that she herself would become an invalid, and moped to + death; that his resources would every day bear a less proportion to his + expenditure; and that wanting money, he would return too often from town a + harassed husband to a jaded wife! + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rodney and Sylvia were at Conington on a visit to Lord Beaumaris, + hunting. It was astonishing how Sylvia had ridden to the hounds, mounted + on the choicest steeds, and in a scarlet habit which had been presented to + her by Mr. Vigo. She had created quite an enthusiasm in the field, and + Lord Beaumaris was proud of his guests. When Endymion parted with his + sister at the Albany, where they had been examining his rooms, he had + repaired to Warwick Street, with some expectation that the Rodneys would + have returned from Conington, and he intended to break to his host the + impending change in his life. The Rodneys, however, had not arrived, and + so he ascended to his room, where he had been employed in arranging his + books and papers, and indulging in the reverie which we have indicated. + When he came downstairs, wishing to inquire about the probable arrival of + his landlord, Endymion knocked at the door of the parlour where they used + to assemble, and on entering, found Imogene writing. + </p> + <p> + “How do you do, Mr. Ferrars?” she said, rising. “I am writing to Sylvia. + They are not returning as soon as they intended, and I am to go down to + Conington by an early train to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to see Mr. Rodney,” said Endymion moodily. + </p> + <p> + “Can I write anything to him, or tell him anything?” said Imogene. + </p> + <p> + “No,” continued Endymion in a melancholy tone. “I can tell you what I + wanted to say. But you must be occupied now, going away, and unexpectedly, + to-morrow. It seems to me that every one is going away.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we have lost the prince, certainly,” said Imogene, “and I doubt + whether his rooms will be ever let again.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I only know what Mr. Waldershare tells me. He says that Mr. Rodney + and Mr. Vigo have made a great speculation, and gained a great deal of + money; but Mr. Rodney never speaks to me of such matters, nor indeed does + Sylvia. I am myself very sorry that the prince has gone, for he interested + me much.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I should think Mr. Rodney would not be very sorry to get rid of me + then,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “O Mr. Ferrars! why should you say or think such things! I am sure that my + brother and sister, and indeed every one in this house, always consider + your comfort and welfare before any other object.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Endymion, “you have all been most kind to me, and that makes + me more wretched at the prospect of leaving you.” + </p> + <p> + “But there is no prospect of that?” + </p> + <p> + “A certainty, Imogene; there is going to be a change in my life,” and then + he told her all. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Imogene, “it would be selfish not to be happy at what I hear; + but though I hope I am happy, I need not be joyful. I never used to be + nervous, but I am afraid I am getting so. All these great changes rather + shake me. This adventure of the prince—as Mr. Waldershare says, it + is history. Then Miss Myra’s great marriage, and your promotion—although + they are exactly what we used to dream about, and wished a fairy would + accomplish, and somehow felt that, somehow or other, they must happen—yet + now they have occurred, one is almost as astounded as delighted. We + certainly have been very happy in Warwick Street, at least I have been, + all living as it were together. But where shall we be this time next year? + All scattered, and perhaps not even the Rodneys under this roof. I know + not how it is, but I dread leaving the roof where one has been happy.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you know you must leave it one day or other, Imogene. You are sure to + marry; that you cannot avoid.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am not by any means sure about that,” said Imogene. “Mr. + Waldershare, in educating me, as he says, as a princess, has made me + really neither fish, flesh, nor fowl, nor even that coarser but popular + delicacy never forgotten. I could not unite my life with a being who was + not refined in mind and in manners, and the men of my class in life, who + are the only ones after all who might care to marry me, shock my taste, I + am ashamed to say so. I am not sure it is not wicked to think it even; but + so it is.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you not marry Waldershare?” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “That would be madness! I do not know any alliance that could prove more + unfortunate. Mr. Waldershare must never marry. All people of imagination, + they say, are difficult to live with; but a person who consists solely of + imagination, like Mr. Waldershare, who has indeed no other attribute—before + a year was past, married, he would fly to the desert or to La Trappe, + commit terrible scandals from mere weariness of feeling, write pasquinades + against the wife of his bosom, and hold us both up to the fierce laughter + of the world. No, no; he is the best, the dearest, and the most romantic + of friends; tender as a father, and sometimes as wise, for genius can be + everything. He is going to rise early to-morrow, which he particularly + dislikes, because he will not let me go to the station alone; though I + tell him, as I often tell him, those are the becoming manners of my + class.” + </p> + <p> + “But you might meet a person of the refinement you require,” said + Endymion, “with a moderate and yet a sufficient income, who would not be + unworthy of you.” + </p> + <p> + “I doubt it,” said Imogene. + </p> + <p> + “But, do not doubt it, dear Imogene,” said Endymion, advancing; “such + charms as yours, both of body and of mind, such a companion in life, so + refined, so accomplished, and yet endowed with such clear sense, and such + a sweet disposition—believe me”—— + </p> + <p> + But at this moment a splendid equipage drove up to the door, with powdered + footmen and long canes behind, and then a terrible rap, like the tattoo of + a field-marshal. + </p> + <p> + “Good gracious! what is all this?” exclaimed Imogene. + </p> + <p> + “It is my sister,” said Endymion, blushing; “it is Lady Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + “I must go to her myself,” said Imogene; “I cannot have the servant attend + upon your sister.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion remained silent and confused. Imogene was some little time at the + carriage-door, for Lady Roehampton had inquiries to make after Sylvia and + other courteous things to say, and then Imogene returned, and said to + Endymion, “Lady Roehampton wishes you to go with her directly on some + particular business.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0049" id="link2HCH0049"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIX + </h2> + <p> + Endymion liked his new official life very much. Whitehall was a great + improvement on Somerset House, and he had sufficient experience of the + civil service to duly appreciate the advantage of being permanently + quartered in one of the chief departments of the state, instead of + obscurely labouring in a subordinate office, with a limited future, and + detached from all the keenly interesting details of public life. But it + was not this permanent and substantial advantage which occasioned him such + lively and such novel pleasure, as the fact of his being a private + secretary, and a private secretary to a cabinet minister. + </p> + <p> + The relations between a minister and his secretary are, or at least should + be, among the finest that can subsist between two individuals. Except the + married state, there is none in which so great a degree of confidence is + involved, in which more forbearance ought to be exercised, or more + sympathy ought to exist. There is usually in the relation an identity of + interest, and that of the highest kind; and the perpetual difficulties, + the alternations of triumph and defeat, develop devotion. A youthful + secretary will naturally feel some degree of enthusiasm for his chief, and + a wise minister will never stint his regard for one in whose intelligence + and honour he finds he can place confidence. + </p> + <p> + There never was a happier prospect of these relations being established on + the most satisfactory basis than in the instance of Endymion and his new + master. Mr. Sidney Wilton was a man of noble disposition, fine manners, + considerable culture, and was generally gracious. But he was disposed to + be more than gracious to Endymion, and when he found that our young friend + had a capacity for work—that his perception was quick and clear—that + he wrote with facility—never made difficulties—was calm, + sedulous, and patient, the interest which Mr. Wilton took in him as the + son of William Ferrars, and, we must add, as the brother of Lady + Roehampton, became absorbed in the personal regard which the minister soon + entertained for his secretary. Mr. Wilton found a pleasure in forming the + mind of Endymion to the consideration and comprehension of public affairs; + he spoke to him both of men and things without reserve; revealed to him + the characters of leading personages on both sides, illustrated their + antecedents, and threw light upon their future; taught him the real + condition of parties in parliament, rarely to be found in newspapers; and + finally, when he was sufficiently initiated, obtained for his secretary a + key for his cabinet boxes, which left little of the business of government + unknown to Endymion. + </p> + <p> + Such great confidence, and that exhibited by one who possessed so many + winning qualities, excited in the breast of Endymion the most lively + feelings of gratitude and respect. He tried to prove them by the vigilant + and unwearying labour with which he served his master, and he served him + every day more effectually, because every day he became more intimate with + the mind and method of Mr. Wilton. Every one to a certain degree is a + mannerist; every one has his ways; and a secretary will be assisted in the + transaction of business if a vigilant observation has made him acquainted + with the idiosyncrasy of his chief. + </p> + <p> + The regulations of the office which authorise a clerk, appointed to a + private secretaryship, to deviate from the routine duties of the + department, and devote his time entirely to the special requirements of + his master, of course much assisted Endymion, and proved also a pleasant + relief, for he had had enough at Somerset House of copying documents and + drawing up formal reports. But it was not only at Whitehall that he saw + Mr. Wilton, and experienced his kindness. Endymion was a frequent guest + under Mr. Wilton’s roof, and Mr. Wilton’s establishment was one of the + most distinguished in London. They met also much in the evenings, and + always at Lady Roehampton’s, where Mr. Wilton was never absent. Whenever + and wherever they met, even if they had been working together the whole + morning, Mr. Wilton always greeted Endymion with the utmost consideration—because + he knew such a recognition would raise Endymion in the eyes of the social + herd, who always observe little things, and generally form from them their + opinions of great affairs. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0050" id="link2HCH0050"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER L + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Wilton was at Charing Cross, on his way to his office, when a lady + saluted him from her carriage, which then drew up to the pavement and + stopped. + </p> + <p> + “We have just arrived,” said Lady Montfort, “and I want you to give me a + little dinner to-day. My lord is going to dine with an Old Bailey lawyer, + who amuses him, and I do not like to be left, the first day, on the <i>pave</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “I can give you a rather large dinner, if you care to come,” said Mr. + Wilton, “but I fear you will not like it. I have got some House of Commons + men dining with me to-day, and one or two of the other House to meet them. + My sister Georgina has very good-naturedly promised to come, with her + husband, and I have just written a note to the Duchess Dowager of Keswick, + who often helps me—but I fear this sort of thing would hardly suit + you.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, I think it will be very amusing. Only do not put me + between two of your colleagues. Anybody amuses me for once. A new + acquaintance is like a new book. I prefer it, even if bad, to a classic.” + </p> + <p> + The dinner party to-day at Mr. Wilton’s was miscellaneous, and not + heterogeneous enough to produce constraint, only to produce a little + excitement—some commoners high in office, and the Treasury whip, + several manufacturers who stood together in the room, and some + metropolitan members. Georgina’s husband, who was a lord-in-waiting, and a + great swell, in a green riband, moved about with adroit condescension, and + was bewitchingly affable. The manufacturing members whispered to each + other that it was a wise thing to bring the two Houses together, but when + Her Grace the Duchess Dowager of Keswick was announced, they exchanged + glances of astounded satisfaction, and felt that the government, which had + been thought to be in a somewhat rickety condition, would certainly stand. + </p> + <p> + Berengaria came a little late, not very. She thought it had been earlier, + but it was not. The duchess dowager opened her eyes with wonderment when + she beheld Lady Montfort, but the company in general were not in the least + aware of the vast social event that was occurring. They were gratified in + seeing another fine lady, but did not, of course, rank her with a duchess. + </p> + <p> + The dinner went off better than Mr. Wilton could have hoped, as it was + impossible to place a stranger by Lady Montfort. He sate in the middle of + his table with the duchess dowager on his right hand, and Berengaria, who + was taken out by the green riband, on the other. As he knew the green + riband would be soon exhausted, he devoted himself to Lady Montfort, and + left the duchess to her own resources, which were considerable, and she + was soon laying down her opinions on men and things to her other + neighbours with much effect. The manufacturers talked shop to each other + in whispers, that is to say, mixed House of Commons tattle about bills and + committees with news from Manchester and Liverpool, and the West Riding. + The metropolitan members, then a more cosmopolitan body and highly + miscellaneous in their character and pursuits, were louder, and perhaps + more easy, even ventured to talk across the table when near its end, and + enticed the peers into discussions on foreign politics. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sidney Wilton having been delightful, thought it necessary to observe + that he feared Lady Montfort had been bored. “I have been, and am, + extremely amused,” she replied; “and now tell me, who is that young man at + the very end of the table?” + </p> + <p> + “That is my private secretary, Mr. Ferrars.” + </p> + <p> + “Ferrars!” + </p> + <p> + “A brother of Lady Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + “Present him to me after dinner.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion knew Lady Montfort by sight, though she did not know him. He had + seen her more than once at the receptions of Mrs. Neuchatel, where, as + indeed in every place, she was the cynosure. He was much astonished at + meeting her at this party to-day,—almost as surprised as the duchess + dowager, for Endymion, who was of an observant nature, was beginning to + comprehend society and all its numerous elements, and schools, and shades, + and classes. When they entered the saloon, Mr. Wilton led Endymion up to + Lady Montfort at once, and she immediately inquired after his sister. “Do + you think,” she said, “Lady Roehampton would see me to-morrow if I called + on her?” + </p> + <p> + “If I were Lady Roehampton, I would,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort looked at him with a glance of curious scrutiny; not + smiling, and yet not displeased. “I will write her a little note in the + morning,” said Lady Montfort thoughtfully. “One may leave cards for ever. + Mr. Wilton tells me you are quite his right hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Wilton is too kind to me,” said Endymion. “One could not be excused + for not doing one’s best for such a master.” + </p> + <p> + “You like people to be kind to you?” said Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have not met with so much kindness in this world as to become + insensible to it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too young to be melancholy,” said Lady Montfort; “are you older + than Lady Roehampton?” + </p> + <p> + “We are twins.” + </p> + <p> + “Twins! and wonderfully like too! Is it not thought so?” + </p> + <p> + “I have sometimes heard it mentioned.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it is striking!” said Lady Montfort, and she motioned to him to sit + down by her; and then she began to talk politics, and asked him what the + members thought at dinner of the prospects of the government, and what he + had heard of the malcontent movement that they said was <i>in petto</i>. + Endymion replied that Mr. Sharpset, the Secretary of the Treasury, did not + think much of it. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I wish I did not,” said Lady Montfort. “However, I will soon find + out something about it. I have only just come to town; but I intend to + open my house, immediately. Now I must go. What are you going to do with + yourself to-morrow? I wish you would come and dine with Lord Montfort. It + will be quite without form, a few agreeable and amusing people; Lord + Montfort must be amused. It seems a reasonable fancy, but very difficult + to realise; and now you shall ask for my carriage, and to-morrow I hope to + be able to tell Lady Roehampton what very great pleasure I have had in + making the acquaintance of her brother.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0051" id="link2HCH0051"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LI + </h2> + <p> + The morning after, Endymion was emerging from the court-yard of the + Albany, in order to call on Mr. Rodney, who, as he learnt from a casual + remark in a letter from Waldershare, would be in town. The ladies were + left behind for the last week of hunting, but business called Mr. Rodney + home. Waldershare wrote to Endymion in the highest spirits, and more than + once declared that he was the happiest of men. Just as Endymion had + entered Piccadilly, he was stopped by a once familiar face; it was St. + Barbe, who accosted him with great warmth, and as usual began to talk + about himself. “You are surprised to see me,” he said. “It is two years + since we met. Well, I have done wonders; carried all before me. By Jove, + sir, I can walk into a minister’s private room with as much ease as I were + entering the old den. The ambassadors are hand and glove with me. There + are very few things I do not know. I have made the fortune of the + ‘Chuck-Farthing,’ trebled its circulation, and invented a new style, which + has put me at the head of all ‘our own correspondents.’ I wish you were at + Paris; I would give you a dinner at the Rocher, which would make up for + all our dinners at that ferocious ruffian, Joe’s. I gave a dinner the + other day to forty of them, all ‘our own correspondents,’ or such like. Do + you know, my dear fellow, when I looked round the room, there was not a + man who had not done his best to crush me; running down my works or not + noticing them, or continually dilating on Gushy as if the English public + would never read anything else. Now, that was Christian-like of me, was + not it? God, sir, if they only had but one neck, and I had been the + Emperor Nero—but, I will not dwell on it; I hate them. However, it + suits me to take the other line at present. I am all for fraternity and + that sort of thing, and give them dinners. There is a reason why, but + there is no time to talk about that now. I shall want their sweet voices—the + hounds! But, my dear fellow, I am truly glad to see you. Do you know, I + always liked you; and how come you to be in this quarter this fine + morning?” + </p> + <p> + “I live in the Albany,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “You live in the Albany!” repeated St. Barbe, with an amazed and perturbed + expression. “I knew I could not be a knight of the garter, or a member of + White’s—the only two things an Englishman cannot command; but I did + think I might some day live in the Albany. It was my dream. And you live + there! Gracious! what an unfortunate fellow I am! I do not see how you can + live in the Albany with your salary; I suppose they have raised you.” + </p> + <p> + “I have left Somerset House,” said Endymion, “and am now at the Board of + Trade, and am private secretary to Mr. Sidney Wilton.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” said St. Barbe; “then we have friends at court. You may do something + for me, if I only knew what I wanted. They have no decorations here. Curse + this aristocratic country, they want all the honours to themselves. I + should like to be in the Board of Trade, and would make some sacrifice for + it. The proprietors of the ‘Chuck-Farthing’ pay well; they pay like + gentlemen; though, why I say so I do not exactly know, for no gentleman + ever paid me anything. But, if I could be Secretary of the Board of Trade, + or get 1500 pounds a year secure, I would take it; and I dare say I could + get employed on some treaties, as I speak French, and then I might get + knighted.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think you are very well off,” said Endymion; “carrying, as you + say, everything before you. What more can you want?” + </p> + <p> + “I hate the craft,” said St. Barbe, with an expression of genuine + detestation; “I should like to show them all up before I died. I suppose + it was your sister marrying a lord that got you on in this way. I could + have married a countess myself, but then, to be sure, she was only a + Polish one, and hard up. I never had a sister; I never had any luck in + life at all. I wish I had been a woman. Women are the only people who get + on. A man works all his life, and thinks he has done a wonderful thing if, + with one leg in the grave and no hair on his head, he manages to get a + coronet; and a woman dances at a ball with some young fellow or other, or + sits next to some old fellow at dinner and pretends she thinks him + charming, and he makes her a peeress on the spot. Oh! it is a disgusting + world; it must end in revolution. Now you tell your master, Mr. Sidney + Wilton, that if he wants to strengthen the institutions of this country, + the government should establish an order of merit, and the press ought to + be represented in it. I do not speak only for myself; I speak for my + brethren. Yes, sir, I am not ashamed of my order.” + </p> + <p> + And so they bade each other farewell. + </p> + <p> + “Unchanged,” thought Endymion, as he crossed Piccadilly; “the vainest, the + most envious, and the most amusing of men! I wonder what he will do in + life.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rodney was at home, had just finished his breakfast, read his + newspaper, and was about to “go into the City.” His costume was perfect. + Mr. Rodney’s hat seemed always a new one. Endymion was a little + embarrassed by this interview, for he had naturally a kind heart, and + being young, it was still soft. The Rodneys had been truly good to him, + and he was attached to them. Imogene had prepared Mr. Rodney for the + change in Endymion’s life, and Endymion himself had every reason to + believe that in a worldly point of view the matter was entirely + insignificant to his old landlord. Still his visit this morning ratified a + permanent separation from those with whom he had lived for a long time, + and under circumstances of sympathy and family connection which were + touching. He retained Mr. Rodney’s hand for a moment as he expressed, and + almost in faltering tones, his sorrow at their separation and his hope + that their friendly connection might be always cherished. + </p> + <p> + “That feeling is reciprocal,” said Mr. Rodney. “If only because you were + the son of my revered and right honourable friend, you would always be + esteemed here. But you are esteemed, or, I may say beloved, for your own + sake. We shall be proud to be considered with kindness by you, and I echo + your wish that, though no longer living under the same roof, we may yet, + and even often, meet. But do not say another word about the inconvenience + you are occasioning us. The truth is, that although wherever we went the + son of my revered and right honourable friend would have always commanded + hospitality from us, there are many changes about to take place in our + family which have made us for some time contemplate leaving Warwick + Street. Affairs, especially of late, have gone pretty well with me in the + world,—at least not badly; I have had friends, and I hope have + proved not undeserving of them. I wish Sylvia, too, to live in an airier + situation, near the park, so that she may ride every morning. Besides, I + have a piece of news to communicate to you, which would materially affect + our arrangements. We are going to lose Imogene.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! she is going to be married,” said Endymion, blushing. + </p> + <p> + “She is going to be married,” said Mr. Rodney gravely. + </p> + <p> + “To Mr. Waldershare?” said Endymion. “He almost said as much to me in a + letter this morning. But I always thought so.” + </p> + <p> + “No; not to Mr. Waldershare,” said Mr. Rodney. + </p> + <p> + “Who is the happy man then?” said Endymion, agitated. “I truly call him + so; for I think myself that Imogene is perfection.” + </p> + <p> + “Imogene is about to be married to the Earl of Beaumaris.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0052" id="link2HCH0052"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LII + </h2> + <p> + Simon, Earl of Montfort, with whom Endymion was so unexpectedly going to + dine, may be said to have been a minor in his cradle. Under ordinary + circumstances, his inheritance would have been one of the most + considerable in England. His castle in the north was one of the glories of + the land, and becomingly crowned his vast domain. Under the old + parliamentary system, he had the greatest number of nomination boroughs + possessed by any Whig noble. The character and conduct of an individual so + qualified were naturally much speculated on and finely scanned. Nothing + very decided transpired about them in his boyhood, but certainly nothing + adverse. He was good-looking and athletic, and was said to be generous and + good-natured, and when he went to Harrow, he became popular. In his + eighteenth year, while he was in correspondence with his guardians about + going to Christ Church, he suddenly left his country without giving any + one notice of his intentions, and entered into, and fulfilled, a vast + scheme of adventurous travel. He visited countries then rarely reached, + and some of which were almost unknown. His flag had floated in the Indian + Ocean, and he had penetrated the dazzling mysteries of Brazilian forests. + When he was of age, he returned, and communicated with his guardians, as + if nothing remarkable had happened in his life. Lord Montfort had + inherited a celebrated stud, which the family had maintained for more than + a century, and the sporting world remarked with satisfaction that their + present representative appeared to take much interest in it. He had an + establishment at Newmarket, and his horses were entered for all the great + races of the kingdom. He appeared also at Melton, and conducted the + campaign in a style becoming such a hero. His hunters and his cooks were + both first-rate. Although he affected to take little interest in politics, + the events of the time forced him to consider them and to act. Lord Grey + wanted to carry his Reform Bill, and the sacrifice of Lord Montfort’s + numerous boroughs was a necessary ingredient in the spell. He was appealed + to as the head of one of the greatest Whig houses, and he was offered a + dukedom. He relinquished his boroughs without hesitation, but he preferred + to remain with one of the oldest earldoms of England for his chief title. + All honours, however, clustered about him, though he never sought them, + and in the same year he tumbled into the Lord Lieutenancy of his county, + unexpectedly vacant, and became the youngest Knight of the Garter. + </p> + <p> + Society was looking forward with the keenest interest to the impending + season, when Lord Montfort would formally enter its spell-bound ranks, and + multiform were the speculations on his destiny. He attended an early + levee, in order that he might be presented—a needful ceremony which + had not yet taken place—and then again quitted his country, and for + years. He was heard of in every capital except his own. Wonderful exploits + at St. Petersburg, and Paris, and Madrid, deeds of mark at Vienna, and + eccentric adventures at Rome; but poor Melton, alas! expecting him to + return every season, at last embalmed him, and his cooks, and his hunters, + and his daring saddle, as a tradition,—jealous a little of + Newmarket, whither, though absent, he was frequently transmitting foreign + blood, and where his horses still ran, and were often victorious. + </p> + <p> + At last it would appear that the restless Lord Montfort had found his + place, and that place was Paris. There he dwelt for years in Sybaritic + seclusion. He built himself a palace, which he called a villa, and which + was the most fanciful of structures, and full of every beautiful object + which rare taste and boundless wealth could procure, from undoubted + Raffaelles to jewelled toys. It was said that Lord Montfort saw no one; he + certainly did not court or receive his own countrymen, and this perhaps + gave rise to, or at least caused to be exaggerated, the tales that were + rife of his profusion, and even his profligacy. But it was not true that + he was entirely isolated. He lived much with the old families of France in + their haughty faubourg, and was highly considered by them. It was truly a + circle for which he was adapted. Lord Montfort was the only living + Englishman who gave one an idea of the nobleman of the eighteenth century. + He was totally devoid of the sense of responsibility, and he looked what + he resembled. His manner, though simple and natural, was finished and + refined, and, free from forbidding reserve, was yet characterised by an + air of serious grace. + </p> + <p> + With the exception of the memorable year when he sacrificed his nomination + boroughs to the cause for which Hampden died on the field and Sidney on + the scaffold—that is to say, the Whig government of England—Lord + Montfort had been absent for his country for ten years, and one day, in + his statued garden at the Belvedere, he asked himself what he had gained + by it. There was no subject, divine or human, in which he took the + slightest interest. He entertained for human nature generally, and without + any exception, the most cynical appreciation. He had a sincere and + profound conviction, that no man or woman ever acted except from selfish + and interested motives. Society was intolerable to him; that of his own + sex and station wearisome beyond expression; their conversation consisted + only of two subjects, horses and women, and he had long exhausted both. As + for female society, if they were ladies, it was expected that, in some + form or other, he should make love to them, and he had no sentiment. If he + took refuge in the <i>demi-monde</i>, he encountered vulgarity, and that, + to Lord Montfort, was insufferable. He had tried them in every capital, + and vulgarity was the badge of all their tribe. He had attempted to read; + a woman had told him to read French novels, but he found them only a + clumsy representation of the life which, for years, he had practically + been leading. An accident made him acquainted with Rabelais and Montaigne; + and he had relished them, for he had a fine sense of humour. He might have + pursued these studies, and perhaps have found in them a slight and + occasional distraction, but a clever man he met at a guingette at Passy, + whither he had gone to try to dissipate his weariness in disguise, had + convinced him, that if there were a worthy human pursuit, an assumption + which was doubtful, it was that of science, as it impressed upon man his + utter insignificance. + </p> + <p> + No one could say Lord Montfort was a bad-hearted man, for he had no heart. + He was good-natured, provided it brought him no inconvenience; and as for + temper, his was never disturbed, but this not from sweetness of + disposition, rather from a contemptuous fine taste, which assured him, + that a gentleman should never be deprived of tranquillity in a world where + nothing was of the slightest consequence. + </p> + <p> + The result of these reflections was, that he was utterly wearied with + Belvedere and Paris, and as his mind was now rather upon science, he + fancied he should like to return to a country where it flourished, and + where he indulged in plans of erecting colossal telescopes, and of + promoting inquiry into the origin of things. He thought that with science + and with fishing, the only sport to which he still really clung, for he + liked the lulling influence of running streams, and a pastime he could + pursue in loneliness, existence might perhaps be endured. + </p> + <p> + Society was really surprised when they heard of the return of Lord + Montfort to England. He came back in the autumn, so that there should be + no season to encounter, and his flag was soon flying at his castle. There + had been continuous attacks for years on the government for having made an + absentee lord lieutenant of his country, and conferring the high + distinction of the garter on so profligate a character. All this made his + return more interesting and exciting. + </p> + <p> + A worthy nobleman of high rank and of the same county, who for the last + five years everybody, shaking everybody’s head, had been saying ought to + have been lord lieutenant, had a great county function in his immediate + neighbourhood in the late autumn, and had invited a large party to assist + him in its celebration. It seemed right also to invite the lord + lieutenant, but no one expected that he would make his appearance. On the + contrary, the invitation was accepted, and the sensation was great. What + would he be like, and what would he do, and was he so very wicked as the + county newspaper said? He came, this wicked man, with his graceful + presence and his diamond star, and everybody’s heart palpitated with a due + mixture of terror and admiration. The only exception to these feelings was + the daughter of the house, the Lady Berengaria. She was then in her second + season, but still unparagoned, for she was a fastidious, not to say + disdainful lady. The highest had been at her feet, and sued in vain. She + was a stirring spirit, with great ambition and a daring will; never + content except in society, and influencing it—for which she was + qualified by her grace and lively fancy, her ready though capricious + sympathy, and her passion for admiration. + </p> + <p> + The function was successful, and the county full of enthusiasm for their + lord lieutenant, whose manner quite cleared his character. The party did + not break up, in fact the function was only an excuse for the party. There + was sport of all kinds, and in the evenings a carnival—for Lady + Berengaria required everybody about her to be gay and diverting—games + and dances, and infinite frolic. Lord Montfort, who, to the surprise of + every one, did not depart, spoke to her a little, and perhaps would not + have spoken at all, had they not met in the hunting-field. Lady Berengaria + was a first-rate horsewoman, and really in the saddle looked irresistible. + </p> + <p> + The night before the party, which had lasted a week, broke up, Lord + Montfort came and sat by Lady Berengaria. He spoke about the run of the + morning, and she replied in the same vein. “I have got a horse, Lady + Berengaria, which I should like you to ride. Would you do so?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, and what sort of horse is it?” + </p> + <p> + “You shall see to-morrow. It is not far off. I like to have some horses + always near,” and then he walked away. + </p> + <p> + It was a dark chestnut of matchless beauty. Lady Berengaria, who was of an + emphatic nature, was loud in her admiration of its beauty and its hunting + qualities. + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you,” said Lord Montfort, “that it will spoil you for any + other horse, and therefore I shall ask permission to leave it here for + your use.” + </p> + <p> + The party broke up, but, strange to say, Lord Montfort did not depart. It + was a large family. Lady Berengaria had several sisters; her eldest + brother was master of the hounds, and her younger brothers were asserting + their rights as cadets, and killing their father’s pheasants. There was + also a number of cousins, who were about the same age, and were always + laughing, though it was never quite clear what it was about. An + affectation of gaiety may be sometimes detected in youth. + </p> + <p> + As Lord Montfort always had the duty of ushering the lady of the house to + dinner, he never had the opportunity of conversing with Lady Berengaria, + even had he wished it; but it was not all clear that he did wish it, and + it seemed that he talked as much to her sisters and the laughing cousins + as to herself, but still he did not go away, which was most strange, and + commenced to be embarrassing. + </p> + <p> + At last one evening, both her parents slumbering, one over the newspaper + and the other over her work, and the rest of the party in a distant room + playing at some new game amid occasional peals of laughter, Lord Montfort, + who had been sitting for some time by Lady Berengaria’s side, and only + asking now and then a question, though often a searching one, in order to + secure her talking to him, rather abruptly said, “I wonder if anything + would ever induce you to marry me?” + </p> + <p> + This was the most startling social event of the generation. Society + immediately set a-wondering how it would turn out, and proved very clearly + that it must turn out badly. Men who knew Montfort well at Paris looked + knowing, and said they would give it six months. + </p> + <p> + But the lady was as remarkable a woman as the bridegroom was in his sex. + Lady Berengaria was determined to be the Queen of Society, and had + confidence in her unlimited influence over man. It is, however, rather + difficult to work on the feelings of a man who has no heart. This she soon + found out, and to her dismay, but she kept it a profound secret. By + endless ingenuity on her part, affairs went on very well much longer than + the world expected, and long enough to fulfil the object of Lady + Berengaria’s life. Lord Montfort launched his wife well, and seemed even + content to be occasionally her companion until she had mounted the social + throne. He was proud of her as he would be of one of his beautiful horses; + but when all the world had acknowledged the influence of Berengaria, he + fell into one of his old moods, and broke to her that he could bear it no + longer, and that he must retire from society. Lady Montfort looked + distressed, but, resolved under no circumstances to be separated from her + husband, whom she greatly admired, and to whom, had he wished it, she + could have become even passionately attached, signified her readiness to + share his solitude. But she then found out that this was not what he + wanted. It was not only retirement from society, but retirement from Lady + Montfort, that was indispensable. In short, at no time of his perverse + career had Lord Montfort been more wilful. + </p> + <p> + During the last years of his residence in Paris, when he was shut up in + his delicious Belvedere, he had complained much of the state of his + health, and one of his principal pursuits was consulting the faculty on + this interesting subject. The faculty were unanimous in their opinion that + the disorder from which their patient was suffering was <i>Ennui</i>. This + persistent opinion irritated him, and was one of the elements of his + decision to leave the country. The unexpected distraction that followed + his return to his native land had made him neglect or forget his sad + indisposition, but it appears that it had now returned, and in an + aggravated form. Unhappily the English physicians took much the same view + of the case as their French brethren. They could find nothing organically + wrong in the constitution or condition of Lord Montfort, and recommended + occupation and society. At present he shrank with some disgust at the + prospect of returning to France, and he had taken it into his head that + the climate of Montfort did not agree with him. He was convinced that he + must live in the south of England. One of the most beautiful and + considerable estates in that favoured part of our country was virtually in + the market, and Lord Montfort, at the cost of half a million, became the + proprietor of Princedown. And here he announced that he should dwell and + die. + </p> + <p> + This state of affairs was a bitter trial to the proudest woman in England, + but Lady Montfort was also one of the most able. She resisted nothing, + sympathised with all his projects, and watched her opportunity when she + could extract from his unconscious good-nature some reasonable + modification of them. And she ultimately succeeded in establishing a <i>modus + vivendi</i>. He was to live and die at Princedown; that was settled; but + if he ever came to town, to consult his physicians, for example, he was + always to inhabit Montfort House, and if she occasionally required a whiff + of southern air, she was to have her rooms always ready for her at + Princedown. She would not interfere with him in the least; he need not + even see her, if he were too unwell. Then as to the general principle of + his life, it was quite clear that he was not interested in anything, and + never would be interested in anything; but there was no reason that he + should not be amused. This distinction between interest and amusement + rather pleased, and seemed to satisfy Lord Montfort—but then it was + difficult to amuse him. The only thing that ever amused him, he said, were + his wife’s letters, and as he was the most selfish as well as the most + polite of men, he requested her to write to him every day. Great + personages, who are selfish and whimsical, are generally surrounded by + parasites and buffoons, but this would not suit Lord Montfort; he + sincerely detested flattery, and he wearied in eight-and-forty hours of + the most successful mountebank in society. What he seemed inclined to was + the society of men of science, of travellers in rare parts, and of clever + artists; in short, of all persons who had what he called “idiosyncrasy.” + Civil engineering was then beginning to attract general attention, and + Lord Montfort liked the society of civil engineers; but what he liked most + were self-formed men, and to learn the secret of their success, and how + they made their fortune. After the first fit of Princedown was over, Lord + Montfort found that it was impossible, even with all its fascination, to + secure a constant, or sufficient, presence of civil engineers in such + distant parts, and so he got into the habit of coming up to Montfort + House, that he might find companions and be amused. Lady Montfort took + great pains that he should not be disappointed, and catered for him with + all the skill of an accomplished <i>chef</i>. Then, when the occasion + served, she went down to Princedown herself with welcome guests—and + so it turned out, that circumstances, which treated by an ordinary mind + must have led to a social scandal, were so adroitly manipulated, that the + world little apprehended the real and somewhat mortifying state of + affairs. With the utmost license of ill-nature, they could not suppose + that Lord and Lady Montfort, living under the same roof, might scarcely + see each other for weeks, and that his communications with her, and indeed + generally, were always made in writing. + </p> + <p> + Lady Monfort never could agree with her husband in the cardinal assumption + of his philosophy. One of his reasons for never doing anything was, that + there was nothing for him to attain. He had got everything. Here they at + once separated in their conclusions. Lady Montfort maintained they had got + nothing. “What,” she would say, “are rank and wealth to us? We were born + to them. We want something that we were not born to. You reason like a + parvenu. Of course, if you had created your rank and your riches, you + might rest on your oars, and find excitement in the recollection of what + you had achieved. A man of your position ought to govern the country, and + it always was so in the old days. Your family were prime ministers; why + not you, with as much talent, and much more knowledge?” + </p> + <p> + “You would make a very good prime minister, Berengaria.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you always jest, I am serious.” + </p> + <p> + “And so am I. If I ever am to work, I would sooner be a civil engineer + than a prime minister.” + </p> + <p> + Nothing but the indomitable spirit of Lady Montfort could fight + successfully against such obstacles to her schemes of power as were + presented by the peculiar disposition of her lord. Her receptions every + Saturday night during the season were the most important of social + gatherings, but she held them alone. It was by consummate skill that she + had prevailed upon her lord occasionally appearing at the preceding + banquets, and when they were over, he flitted for an instant and + disappeared. At first, he altogether refused, but then Lady Montfort would + introduce Royalty, always kind, to condescend to express a wish to dine at + Montfort House, and that was a gracious intimation it was impossible not + to act upon, and then, as Lady Montfort would say, “I trust much to the + periodical visits of that dear Queen of Mesopotamia. He must entertain + her, for his father was her lover.” + </p> + <p> + In this wonderful mystification, by which Lord Montfort was made to appear + as living in a society which he scarcely ever entered, his wife was a + little assisted by his visits to Newmarket, which he even frequently + attended. He never made a bet or a new acquaintance, but he seemed to like + meeting men with whom he had been at school. There is certainly a magic in + the memory of school-boy friendships; it softens the heart, and even + affects the nervous system of those who have no hearts. Lord Montfort at + Newmarket would ask half a dozen men who had been at school with him, and + were now members of the Jockey Club, to be his guests, and the next day + all over the heath, and after the heath, all over Mayfair and Belgravia, + you heard only one speech, “I dined yesterday,” or “the other day,” as the + case might be, “with Montfort; out and out the best dinner I ever had, and + such an agreeable fellow; the wittiest, the most amusing, certainly the + most charming fellow that ever lived; out and out! It is a pity he does + not show a little more.” And society thought the same; they thought it a + pity, and a great one, that this fascinating being of whom they rarely + caught a glimpse, and who to them took the form of a wasted and + unsympathising phantom, should not show a little more and delight them. + But the most curious thing was, that however rapturous were his guests, + the feelings of their host after they had left him, were by no means + reciprocal. On the contrary, he would remark to himself, “Have I heard a + single thing worth remembering? Not one.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0053" id="link2HCH0053"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LIII + </h2> + <p> + Endymion was a little agitated when he arrived at the door of Montfort + House, a huge family mansion, situate in a court-yard and looking into the + Green Park. When the door was opened he found himself in a large hall with + many servants, and he was ushered through several rooms on the ground + floor, into a capacious chamber dimly lighted, where there were several + gentlemen, but not his hostess. His name was announced, and then a young + man came up to him and mentioned that Lord and Lady Montfort would soon be + present, and then talked to him about the weather. The Count of Ferroll + arrived after Endymion, and then another gentleman whose name he could not + catch. Then while he was making some original observations on the east + wind, and, to confess the truth, feeling anything but at his ease, the + folding doors of a further chamber brilliantly lighted were thrown open, + and almost at the same moment Lady Montfort entered, and, taking the Count + of Ferroll’s arm, walked into the dining-room. It was a round table, and + Endymion was told by the same gentleman who had already addressed him, + that he was to sit by Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Montfort is a little late to-day,” she said, “but he wished me not + to wait for him. And how are you after our parliamentary banquet?” she + said, turning to Endymion; “I will introduce you to the Count of Ferroll.” + </p> + <p> + The Count of Ferroll was a young man, and yet inclined to be bald. He was + chief of a not inconsiderable mission at our court. Though not to be + described as a handsome man, his countenance was striking; a brow of much + intellectual development, and a massive jaw. He was tall, + broad-shouldered, with a slender waist. He greeted Endymion with a + penetrating glance, and then with a winning smile. + </p> + <p> + The Count of Ferroll was the representative of a kingdom which, if not + exactly created, had been moulded into a certain form of apparent strength + and importance by the Congress of Vienna. He was a noble of considerable + estate in a country where possessions were not extensive or fortunes + large, though it was ruled by an ancient, and haughty, and warlike + aristocracy. Like his class, the Count of Ferroll had received a military + education; but when that education was completed, he found but a feeble + prospect of his acquirements being called into action. It was believed + that the age of great wars had ceased, and that even revolutions were for + the future to be controlled by diplomacy. As he was a man of an original, + not to say eccentric, turn of mind, the Count of Ferroll was not contented + with the resources and distraction of his second-rate capital. He was an + eminent sportsman, and, for some time, took refuge and found excitement in + the breadth of his dark forests, and in the formation of a stud, which had + already become celebrated. But all this time, even in the excitement of + the chase, and in the raising of his rare-breed steeds, the Count of + Ferroll might be said to have been brooding over the position of what he + could scarcely call his country, but rather an aggregation of lands + baptized by protocols, and christened and consolidated by treaties which + he looked upon as eminently untrustworthy. One day he surprised his + sovereign, with whom he was a favourite, by requesting to be appointed to + the legation at London, which was vacant. The appointment was at once + made, and the Count of Ferroll had now been two years at the Court of St. + James’. + </p> + <p> + The Count of Ferroll was a favourite in English society, for he possessed + every quality which there conduces to success. He was of great family and + of distinguished appearance, munificent and singularly frank; was a + dead-shot, and the boldest of riders, with horses which were the + admiration alike of Melton and Newmarket. The ladies also approved of him, + for he was a consummate waltzer, and mixed with a badinage gaily cynical a + tone that could be tender and a bewitching smile. + </p> + <p> + But his great friend was Lady Montfort. He told her everything, and + consulted her on everything; and though he rarely praised anybody, it had + reached her ears that the Count of Ferroll had said more than once that + she was a greater woman than Louise of Savoy or the Duchesse de + Longueville. + </p> + <p> + There was a slight rustling in the room. A gentleman had entered and + glided into his unoccupied chair, which his valet had guarded. “I fear I + am not in time for an oyster,” said Lord Montfort to his neighbour. + </p> + <p> + The gentleman who had first spoken to Endymion was the secretary of Lord + Montfort; then there was a great genius who was projecting a suspension + bridge over the Tyne, and that was in Lord Montfort’s county. A + distinguished officer of the British Museum completed the party with a + person who sate opposite Endymion, and whom in the dim twilight he had not + recognised, but whom he now beheld with no little emotion. It was Nigel + Penruddock. They had not met since his mother’s funeral, and the + associations of the past agitated Endymion. They exchanged recognitions; + that of Nigel was grave but kind. + </p> + <p> + The conversation was what is called general, and a great deal on + suspension bridges. Lord Montfort himself led off on this, in order to + bring out his distinguished guest. The Count of Ferroll was also + interested on this subject, as his own government was making inquiries on + the matter. The gentleman from the British Museum made some remarks on the + mode in which the ancient Egyptians moved masses of granite, and quoted + Herodotus to the civil engineer. The civil engineer had never heard of + Herodotus, but he said he was going to Egypt in the autumn by desire of + Mehemet Ali, and he would undertake to move any mass which was requisite, + even if it were a pyramid itself. Lady Montfort, without disturbing the + general conversation, whispered in turns to the Count of Ferroll and + Endymion, and told the latter that she had paid a visit to Lady Roehampton + in the morning—a most delightful visit. There was no person she + admired so much as his sister; she quite loved her. The only person who + was silent was Nigel, but Lady Montfort, who perceived everything, + addressed him across the table with enthusiasm about some changes he had + made in the services of some church, and the countenance of Nigel became + suffused like a young saint who has a glimpse of Paradise. + </p> + <p> + After dinner Lady Montfort led Endymion to her lord, and left him seated + by his host. Lord Montfort was affable and natural in his manner. He said, + “I have not yet made the acquaintance of Lady Roehampton, for I never go + out; but I hope to do so, for Lady Montfort tells me she is quite + captivating.” + </p> + <p> + “She is a very good sister,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Montfort has told me a great deal about yourself, and all of it I + was glad to hear. I like young men who rise by their merits, and Mr. + Sidney Wilton tells Lady Montfort that yours are distinguished.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Sidney Wilton is a kind master, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I was his fag at Harrow, and I thought him so,” said Lord Montfort. + “And now about your office; tell me what you do. You were not there first, + Lady Montfort says. Where were you first? Tell me all about it. I like + detail.” + </p> + <p> + It was impossible to resist such polished and amiable curiosity, and + Endymion gratified it with youthful grace. He even gave Lord Montfort a + sketch of St. Barbe, inspired probably by the interview of the morning. + Lord Montfort was quite amused with this, and said he should so much like + to know Mr. St. Barbe. It was clear, when the party broke up, that + Endymion had made a favourable impression, for Lord Montfort said, “You + came here to-day as Lady Montfort’s friend, but you must come in future as + mine also. And will you understand, I dine at home every day when I am in + town, and I give you a general invitation. Come as often as you like; you + will be always welcome. Only let the house know your intention an hour + before dinner-time, as I have a particular aversion to the table being + crowded, or seeing an empty chair.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort had passed much of the evening in earnest conversation with + Nigel, and when the guests quitted the room, Nigel and Endymion walked + away together. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0054" id="link2HCH0054"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LIV + </h2> + <p> + The meeting between Nigel and Endymion was not an ordinary one, and when + they were at length alone, neither of them concealed his feelings of + pleasure and surprise at its occurrence. Nigel had been a curate in the + northern town which was defended by Lord Montfort’s proud castle, and his + labours and reputation had attracted the attention of Lady Montfort. Under + the influence of his powerful character, the services of his church were + celebrated with a precision and an imposing effect, which soon occasioned + a considerable excitement in the neighbourhood, in time even in the + county. The pulpit was frequently at his command, for his rector, who had + imbibed his Church views, was not equal to the task of propagating them, + and the power and fame of Nigel as a preacher began to be much rumoured. + Although the church at which he officiated was not the one which Lady + Montfort usually attended, she was soon among his congregation and + remained there. He became a constant guest at the castle, and Lady + Montfort presented his church with a reredos of alabaster. She did more + than this. Her enthusiasm exceeded her selfishness, for though the + sacrifice was great which would deprive her of the ministrations and + society of Nigel in the country, she prevailed upon the prime minister to + prefer him to a new church in London, which had just fallen vacant, and + which, being situated in a wealthy and populous district, would afford him + the opportunity of making known to the world his eloquence and genius. + This was Nigel’s simple, yet not uneventful history; and then, in turn, he + listened to Endymion’s brief but interesting narrative of his career, and + then they agreed to adjourn to Endymion’s chambers and have a good talk + over the past and the present. + </p> + <p> + “That Lady Montfort is a great woman,” said Nigel, standing with his back + to the fire. “She has it in her to be another Empress Helena.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “I believe she has only one thought, and that the only thought worthy the + human mind—the Church. I was glad to meet you at her house. You have + cherished, I hope, those views which in your boyhood you so fervently and + seriously embraced.” + </p> + <p> + “I am rather surprised,” said Endymion, not caring to answer this inquiry, + “at a Whig lady entertaining such high views in these matters. The Liberal + party rather depends on the Low Church.” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing about Whigs or Tories or Liberals, or any other new names + which they invent,” said Nigel. “Nor do I know, or care to know, what Low + Church means. There is but one Church, and it is catholic and apostolic; + and if we act on its principles, there will be no need, and there ought to + be no need, for any other form of government.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, those are very distinct views,” said Endymion, “but are they as + practical as they are clear?” + </p> + <p> + “Why should they not be practical? Everything is practical which we + believe; and in the long run, which is most likely that we should believe, + what is taught by God, or what is taught by man?” + </p> + <p> + “I confess,” said Endymion, “that in all matters, both civil and + religious, I incline to what is moderate and temperate. I always trace my + dear father’s sad end, and all the terrible events in my family, to his + adopting in 1829 the views of the extreme party. If he had only followed + the example and the advice of his best friend, Mr. Sidney Wilton, what a + different state of affairs might have occurred!” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing about politics,” said Nigel. “By being moderate and + temperate in politics I suppose you mean being adroit, and doing that + which is expedient and which will probably be successful. But the Church + is founded on absolute truth, and teaches absolute truth, and there can be + no compromise on such matters.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not know,” said Endymion, “but surely there are many very + religious people, who do not accept without reserve everything that is + taught by the Church. I hope I am a religious person myself, and yet, for + example, I cannot give an unreserved assent to the whole of the Athanasian + Creed.” + </p> + <p> + “The Athanasian Creed is the most splendid ecclesiastical lyric ever + poured forth by the genius of man. I give to every clause of it an + implicit assent. It does not pretend to be divine; it is human, but the + Church has hallowed it, and the Church ever acts under the influence of + the Divine Spirit. St. Athanasius was by far the greatest man that ever + existed. If you cavil at his creed, you will soon cavil at other symbols. + I was prepared for infidelity in London, but I confess, my dear Ferrars, + you alarm me. I was in hopes that your early education would have saved + you from this backsliding.” + </p> + <p> + “But let us be calm, my dear Nigel. Do you mean to say, that I am to be + considered an infidel or an apostate, because, although I fervently + embrace all the vital truths of religion, and try, on the whole, to + regulate my life by them, I may have scruples about believing, for + example, in the personality of the Devil?” + </p> + <p> + “If the personality of Satan be not a vital principle of your religion, I + do not know what is. There is only one dogma higher. You think it is safe, + and I daresay it is fashionable, to fall into this lax and really + thoughtless discrimination between what is and what is not to be believed. + It is not good taste to believe in the Devil. Give me a single argument + against his personality which is not applicable to the personality of the + Deity. Will you give that up; and if so, where are you? Now mark me; you + and I are young men—you are a very young man. This is the year of + grace 1839. If these loose thoughts, which you have heedlessly taken up, + prevail in this country for a generation or so—five and twenty or + thirty years—we may meet together again, and I shall have to + convince you that there is a God.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0055" id="link2HCH0055"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LV + </h2> + <p> + The balance of parties in the House of Commons, which had been virtually + restored by Sir Robert Peel’s dissolution of 1834, might be said to be + formally and positively established by the dissolution of parliament in + the autumn of 1837, occasioned by the demise of the crown. The ministerial + majority became almost nominal, while troubles from all quarters seemed to + press simultaneously upon them: Canadian revolts, Chartist insurrections, + Chinese squabbles, and mysterious complications in Central Asia, which + threatened immediate hostilities with Persia, and even with one of the + most powerful of European empires. In addition to all this, the revenue + continually declined, and every day the general prejudice became more + intense against the Irish policy of the ministry. The extreme popularity + of the Sovereign, reflecting some lustre on her ministers, had enabled + them, though not without difficulty, to tide through the session of 1838; + but when parliament met in 1839 their prospects were dark, and it was + known that there was a section of the extreme Liberals who would not be + deeply mortified if the government were overthrown. All efforts, + therefore, political and social, and particularly the latter, in which the + Whigs excelled, were to be made to prevent or to retard the catastrophe. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort and Lady Roehampton opened their houses to the general world + at an unusually early period. Their entertainments rivalled those of + Zenobia, who with unflagging gallantry, her radiant face prescient of + triumph, stopped her bright vis-a-vis and her tall footmen in the midst of + St. James’ Street or Pall Mall, while she rapidly inquired from some + friendly passer-by whom she had observed, “Tell me the names of the + Radical members who want to turn out the government, and I will invite + them directly.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort had appropriated the Saturdays, as was her custom and her + right; so Myra, with the advice of Lord Roehampton, had fixed on + Wednesdays for her receptions. + </p> + <p> + “I should have liked to have taken Wednesdays,” said Zenobia, “but I do + not care to seem to be setting up against Lady Roehampton, for her mother + was my dearest friend. Not that I think any quarter ought to be shown to + her after joining those atrocious Whigs, but to be sure she was corrupted + by her husband, whom I remember the most thorough Tory going. To be sure, + I was a Whig myself in those days, so one must not say too much about it, + but the Whigs then were gentlemen. I will tell you what I will do. I will + receive both on Saturdays and Wednesdays. It is an effort, and I am not as + young as I was, but it will only be for a season or less, for I know these + people cannot stand. It will be all over by May.” + </p> + <p> + Prince Florestan had arrived in town, and was now settled in his mansion + in Carlton Terrace. It was the fashion among the <i>creme de la creme</i> + to keep aloof from him. The Tories did not love revolutionary dynasties, + and the Whigs being in office could not sanction a pretender, and one who, + they significantly intimated with a charitable shrug of the shoulders, was + not a very scrupulous one. The prince himself, though he was not + insensible to the charms of society, and especially of agreeable women, + was not much chagrined by this. The world thought that he had fitted up + his fine house, and bought his fine horses, merely for the enjoyment of + life. His purposes were very different. Though his acquaintances were + limited, they were not undistinguished, and he lived with them in + intimacy. There had arisen between himself and Mr. Waldershare the closest + alliance both of thought and habits. They were rarely separated. The + prince was also a frequent guest at the Neuchatels’, and was a favourite + with the head of the house. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of St. Angelo controlled the household at Carlton Gardens with + skill. The appointments were finished and the cuisine refined. There was a + dinner twice a week, from which Waldershare was rarely absent, and to + which Endymion, whom the prince always treated with kindness, had a + general invitation. When he occasionally dined there he met always several + foreign guests, and all men apparently of mark—at any rate, all + distinguished by their intelligence. It was an interesting and useful + house for a young man, and especially a young politician, to frequent. + Endymion heard many things and learnt many things which otherwise would + not have met his ear or mind. The prince encouraged conversation, though + himself inclined to taciturnity. When he did speak, his terse remarks and + condensed views were striking, and were remembered. On the days on which + he did not receive, the prince dined at the Travellers’ Club, to which + Waldershare had obtained his introduction, and generally with Waldershare, + who took this opportunity of gradually making his friend acquainted with + eminent and influential men, many of whom in due time became guests at + Carlton Terrace. It was clear, indeed, that these club-dinners were part + of a system. + </p> + <p> + The prince, soon after his arrival in town, while riding, had passed Lady + Roehampton’s carriage in the park, and he had saluted her with a grave + grace which distinguished him. She was surprised at feeling a little + agitated by this rencontre. It recalled Hainault, her not mortifying but + still humble position beneath that roof, the prince’s courtesy to her + under those circumstances, and, indeed, his marked preference for her + society. She felt it something like ingratitude to treat him with neglect + now, when her position was so changed and had become so elevated. She + mentioned to Lord Roehampton, while they were dining alone, that she + should like to invite the prince to her receptions, and asked his opinion + on the point. Lord Roehampton shrugged his shoulders and did not encourage + her. “You know, my darling, our people do not much like him. They look + upon him as a pretender, as having forfeited his parole, and as a refugee + from justice. I have no prejudices against him myself, and perhaps in the + same situation might have acted in the same manner; but if he is to be + admitted into society, it should hardly be at a ministerial reception, and + of all houses, that of one who holds my particular post.” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing about his forfeiting his parole,” said Lady Roehampton; + “the charge is involved in mystery, and Mr. Waldershare told me it was an + entire fabrication. As for his being a pretender, he seems to me as + legitimate a prince as most we meet; he was born in the purple, and his + father was recognised by every government in Europe except our own. As for + being a refugee from justice, a prince in captivity has certainly a right + to escape if he can, and his escape was romantic. However, I will not + contest any decision of yours, for I think you are always right. Only I am + disappointed, for, to say nothing of the unkindness, I cannot help feeling + our not noticing him is rather shabby.” + </p> + <p> + There was silence, a longer silence than usually occurred in <i>tete-a-tete</i> + dinners between Lord and Lady Roehampton. To break the silence he began to + converse on another subject, and Lady Roehampton replied to him + cheerfully, but curtly. He saw she was vexed, and this great man, who was + at that time meditating one of the most daring acts of modern diplomacy, + who had the reputation, in the conduct of public affairs, of not only + being courageous, but of being stern, inflexible, unfeeling, and + unscrupulous beyond ordinary statesmen, who had passed his mornings in + writing a menacing despatch to a great power and intimating combinations + to the ambassadors of other first-rate states which they almost trembled + to receive, was quite upset by seeing his wife chagrined. At last, after + another embarrassing pause, he said gaily, “Do you know, my dear Myra, I + do not see why you should not ask Prince Florestan. It is you that ask + him, not I. That is one of the pleasant results of our system of political + entertainments. The guests come to pay their respects to the lady of the + house, so no one is committed. The prince may visit you on Wednesday just + as well as the leaders of the opposition who want our places, or the + malcontent Radicals who they say are going to turn us out.” + </p> + <p> + So Prince Florestan was invited to Lady Roehampton’s receptions, and he + came; and he never missed one. His visits were brief. He appeared, made + his bow, had the pleasure of some slight conversation with her, and then + soon retired. Received by Lady Roehampton, in time, though sluggishly, + invitations arrived from other houses, but he rarely availed himself of + them. He maintained in this respect great reserve, and was accustomed to + say that the only fine lady in London who had ever been kind to him was + Lady Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + All this time Endymion, who was now thoroughly planted in society, saw a + great deal of the Neuchatels, who had returned to Portland Place at the + beginning of February. He met Adriana almost every evening, and was + frequently invited to the house—to the grand dinners now, as well as + the domestic circle. In short, our Endymion was fast becoming a young man + of fashion and a personage. The brother of Lady Roehampton had now become + the private secretary of Mr. Sydney Wilton and the great friend of Lady + Montfort. He was indeed only one of the numerous admirers of that lady, + but he seemed not the least smiled on. There was never anything delightful + at Montfort House at which he was not present, or indeed in any other + place, for under her influence, invitations from the most distinguished + houses crowded his mantelpiece and were stuck all round his looking-glass. + Endymion in this whirl of life did not forget his old friends. He took + care that Seymour Hicks should have a frequent invitation to Lady + Roehampton’s assemblies. Seymour Hicks only wanted a lever to raise the + globe, and this introduction supplied him with one. It was astonishing how + he made his way in society, and though, of course, he never touched the + empyrean regions in which Endymion now breathed, he gradually, and at last + rapidly, planted himself in a world which to the uninitiated figures as + the very realm of nobility and fashion, and where doubtless is found a + great fund of splendour, refinement, and amusement. Seymour Hicks was not + ill-favoured, and was always well dressed, and he was very civil, but what + he really owed his social advancement to was his indomitable will. That + quality governs all things, and though the will of Seymour Hicks was + directed to what many may deem a petty or a contracted purpose, life is + always interesting when you have a purpose and live in its fulfilment. It + appeared from what he told Endymion that matters at the office had altered + a good deal since he left it. The retirement of St. Barbe was the first + brick out of the wall; now, which Endymion had not yet heard, the brother + of Trenchard had most unexpectedly died, and that gentleman come into a + good estate. “Jawett remains, and is also the editor of the ‘Precursor,’ + but his new labours so absorb his spare time that he is always at the + office of the paper. So it is pretty well all over with the table at + Joe’s. I confess I could not stand it any longer, particularly after you + left. I have got into the junior Pan-Ionian; and I am down for the senior; + I cannot get in for ten years, but when I do it will be a <i>coup</i>; the + society there is tiptop, a cabinet minister sometimes, and very often a + bishop.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0056" id="link2HCH0056"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LVI + </h2> + <p> + Endymion was glad to meet Baron Sergius one day when he dined with Prince + Florestan. There were several distinguished foreigners among the guests, + who had just arrived. They talked much, and with much emphasis. One of + them, the Marquis of Vallombrosa, expatiated on the Latin race, their + great qualities, their vivacity, invention, vividness of perception, + chivalrous valour, and sympathy with tradition. The northern races + detested them, and the height of statesmanship was to combine the Latin + races into an organised and active alliance against the barbarism which + menaced them. There had been for a short time a vacant place next to + Endymion, when Baron Sergius, according to his quiet manner, stole into + the room and slipped into the unoccupied seat. “It is some time since we + met,” he said, “but I have heard of you. You are now a public man, and not + a public character. That is a not unsatisfactory position.” + </p> + <p> + The prince listened apparently with much interest to the Marquis of + Vallombrosa, occasionally asked him a question, and promoted discussion + without himself giving any opinion. Baron Sergius never spoke except to + Endymion, and then chiefly social inquiries about Lord and Lady + Roehampton, their good friends the Neuchatels, and frequently about Mr. + Sidney Wilton, whom, it appeared, he had known years ago, and intimately. + After dinner the guests, on the return to the saloon, ranged themselves in + a circle, but not too formally, and the prince moving round addressed each + of them in turn. When this royal ceremony was concluded, the prince + motioned to the Marquis of Vallombrosa to accompany him, and then they + repaired to an adjacent salon, the door of which was open, but where they + could converse without observation. The Duke of St. Angelo amused the + remaining guests with all the resources of a man practised in making + people feel at their ease, and in this he was soon greatly assisted by Mr. + Waldershare, who was unable to dine with the prince to-day, but who seemed + to take much interest in this arrival of the representatives of the Latin + race. + </p> + <p> + Baron Sergius and Endymion were sitting together rather apart from the + rest. The baron said, “You have heard to-day a great deal about the Latin + race, their wondrous qualities, their peculiar destiny, their possible + danger. It is a new idea, or rather a new phrase, that I observe is now + getting into the political world, and is probably destined to produce + consequences. No man will treat with indifference the principle of race. + It is the key of history, and why history is often so confused is that it + has been written by men who were ignorant of this principle and all the + knowledge it involves. As one who may become a statesman and assist in + governing mankind, it is necessary that you should not be insensible to + it; whether you encounter its influence in communities or in individuals, + its qualities must ever be taken into account. But there is no subject + which more requires discriminating knowledge, or where your illustrating + principle, if you are not deeply founded, may not chance to turn out a + will-o’-the-wisp. Now this great question of the Latin race, by which M. + de Vallombrosa may succeed in disturbing the world—it might be well + to inquire where the Latin race is to be found. In the North of Italy, + peopled by Germans and named after Germans, or in the South of Italy, + swarming with the descendants of Normans and Arabs? Shall we find the + Latin race in Spain, stocked by Goths, and Moors, and Jews? Or in France, + where there is a great Celtic nation, occasionally mingled with Franks? + Now I do not want to go into the origin of man and nations—I am + essentially practical, and only endeavour to comprehend that with which I + have personally to deal, and that is sufficiently difficult. In Europe I + find three great races with distinct qualities—the Teutons, the + Sclaves, and the Celts; and their conduct will be influenced by those + distinctive qualities. There is another great race which influences the + world, the Semites. Certainly, when I was at the Congress of Vienna, I did + not believe that the Arabs were more likely to become a conquering race + again than the Tartars, and yet it is a question at this moment whether + Mehemet Ali, at their head, may not found a new empire in the + Mediterranean. The Semites are unquestionably a great race, for among the + few things in this world which appear to be certain, nothing is more sure + than that they invented our alphabet. But the Semites now exercise a vast + influence over affairs by their smallest though most peculiar family, the + Jews. There is no race gifted with so much tenacity, and such skill in + organisation. These qualities have given them an unprecedented hold over + property and illimitable credit. As you advance in life, and get + experience in affairs, the Jews will cross you everywhere. They have long + been stealing into our secret diplomacy, which they have almost + appropriated; in another quarter of a century they will claim their share + of open government. Well, these are races; men and bodies of men + influenced in their conduct by their particular organisation, and which + must enter into all the calculations of a statesman. But what do they mean + by the Latin race? Language and religion do not make a race—there is + only one thing which makes a race, and that is blood.” + </p> + <p> + “But the prince,” said Endymion inquiringly; “he seemed much interested in + what M. de Vallombrosa was saying; I should like to know what his opinions + are about the Latin race.” + </p> + <p> + “The prince rarely gives an opinion,” said the baron. “Indeed, as you well + know, he rarely speaks; he thinks and he acts.” + </p> + <p> + “But if he acts on wrong information,” continued Endymion, “there will + probably be only one consequence.” + </p> + <p> + “The prince is very wise,” said the baron; “and, trust me, knows as much + about mankind, and the varieties of mankind, as any one. He may not + believe in the Latin race, but he may choose to use those who do believe + in it. The weakness of the prince, if he have one, is not want of + knowledge, or want of judgment, but an over-confidence in his star, which + sometimes seduces him into enterprises which he himself feels at the time + are not perfectly sound.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0057" id="link2HCH0057"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LVII + </h2> + <p> + The interest of the town was now divided between the danger of the + government and the new preacher who electrified the world at St. + Rosicrucius. The Rev. Nigel Penruddock was not at all a popular preacher + according to the vulgar acceptation of the term. He disdained all cant and + clap-trap. He preached Church principles with commanding eloquence, and he + practised them with unceasing devotion. His church was always open, yet + his schools were never neglected; there was a perfect choir, a staff of + disciplined curates, young and ascetic, while sacred sisters, some of + patrician blood, fearless and prepared for martyrdom, were gliding about + all the back slums of his ferocious neighbourhood. How came the Whigs to + give such a church to such a person? There must have been some mistake. + But how came it that all the Whig ladies were among the most devoted of + his congregation? The government whips did not like it; at such a critical + period too, when it was necessary to keep the Dissenters up to the mark! + And there was Lady Montfort and Lady Roehampton never absent on a Sunday, + and their carriages, it was whispered, were often suspiciously near to St. + Rosicrucius on week-days. Mr. Sidney Wilton too was frequently in Lady + Roehampton’s pew, and one day, absolutely my lord himself, who + unfortunately was rarely seen at church—but then, as is well known, + critical despatches always arrive on a Sunday morning—was + successfully landed in her pew by Lady Roehampton, and was very much + struck indeed by what he heard. “The fact is,” as he afterwards observed, + “I wish we had such a fellow on our bench in the House of Commons.” + </p> + <p> + About this time also there was another event, which, although not of so + general an interest, much touched the feelings of Endymion, and this was + the marriage of the Earl of Beaumaris with Imogene. It was solemnised in + as private and quiet a manner as possible. Waldershare was the best man, + and there were no bridesmaids. The only other persons invited by Mr. + Rodney, who gave away the bride, were Endymion and Mr. Vigo. + </p> + <p> + One morning, a few days before the wedding, Sylvia, who had written to ask + Lady Roehampton for an interview, called by appointment in St. James’ + Square. Sylvia was received by Lady Roehampton in her boudoir, and the + interview was long. Sylvia, who by nature was composed, and still more so + by art, was pale and nervous when she arrived, so much so that her + demeanour was noticed by the groom of the chambers; but when she departed, + her countenance was flushed and radiant, though it was obvious that she + had been shedding tears. On the morning of the wedding, Lady Roehampton in + her lord’s brougham called for Endymion at the Albany, and then they went + together to the vestry of St. James’ Church. Lord Beaumaris and Mr. + Waldershare had arrived. The bridegroom was a little embarrassed when he + was presented to Lady Roehampton. He had made up his mind to be married, + but not to be introduced to a stranger, and particularly a lady; but Mr. + Waldershare fluttered over them and put all right. It was only the + perplexity of a moment, for the rest of the wedding party now appeared. + Imogene, who was in a travelling dress, was pale and serious, but + transcendently beautiful. She attempted to touch Lady Roehampton’s hand + with her lips when Myra welcomed her, but Lady Roehampton would not permit + this, and kissed her. Everybody was calm during the ceremony except + Endymion, who had been silent the whole morning. He stood by the altar + with that convulsion of the throat and that sickness of the heart which + accompany the sense of catastrophe. He was relieved by some tears which he + easily concealed. Nobody noticed him, for all were thinking of themselves. + After the ceremony, they all returned to the vestry, and Lady Roehampton + with the others signed the registry. Lord and Lady Beaumaris instantly + departed for the continent. + </p> + <p> + “A strange event!” exclaimed Lady Roehampton, as she threw herself back in + the brougham and took her brother’s hand. “But not stranger than what has + happened to ourselves. Fortune seems to attend on our ruined home. I + thought the bride looked beautiful.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion was silent. + </p> + <p> + “You are not gay this morning, my dear,” said Lady Roehampton; “they say + that weddings are depressing. Now I am in rather high spirits. I am very + glad that Imogene has become Lady Beaumaris. She is beautiful, and + dangerously beautiful. Do you know, my Endymion, I have had some uneasy + moments about this young lady. Women are prescient in these matters, and I + have observed with anxiety that you admired her too much yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure you had no reason, Myra,” said Endymion, blushing deeply. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not from what you said, my dear. It was from what you did not + say that I became alarmed. You seldom mentioned her name, and when I + referred to her, you always turned the conversation. However, that is all + over now. She is Countess of Beaumaris,” added Myra, dwelling slowly and + with some unction on the title, “and may be a powerful friend to you; and + I am Countess of Roehampton, and am your friend, also not quite devoid of + power. And there are other countesses, I suspect, on whose good wishes you + may rely. If we cannot shape your destiny, there is no such thing as + witchcraft. No, Endymion, marriage is a mighty instrument in your hands. + It must not be lightly used. Come in and lunch; my lord is at home, and I + know he wants to see you.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0058" id="link2HCH0058"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LVIII + </h2> + <p> + What was most remarkable, and most interesting, in the character of + Berengaria was her energy. She had the power of exciting others to action + in a degree rarely possessed. She had always some considerable object in + contemplation, occasionally more than one, and never foresaw difficulties. + Her character was, however, singularly feminine; she never affected to be + a superior woman. She never reasoned, did not read much, though her + literary taste was fine and fastidious. Though she required constant + admiration and consequently encouraged it, she was not a heartless + coquette. Her sensibility was too quick, and as the reign of her + favourites was sometimes brief, she was looked upon as capricious. The + truth is, what seemed whimsical in her affections was occasioned by the + subtlety of her taste, which was not always satisfied by the increased + experience of intimacy. Whenever she made a friend not unworthy of her, + she was constant and entirely devoted. + </p> + <p> + At present, Berengaria had two great objects; one was to sustain the Whig + government in its troubles, and the other was to accomplish an + unprecedented feat in modern manners, and that was no less than to hold a + tournament, a real tournament, in the autumn, at the famous castle of her + lord in the North of England. + </p> + <p> + The lord-lieutenant had not been in his county for two years; he had even + omitted to celebrate Christmas at his castle, which had shocked everybody, + for its revelry was looked upon almost as the tenure by which the + Montforts held their estates. His plea of ill health, industriously + circulated by all his agents, obtained neither sympathy nor credence. His + county was rather a weak point with Lord Montfort, for though he could not + bear his home, he was fond of power, and power depended on his territorial + influence. The representation of his county by his family, and authority + in the local parliamentary boroughs, were the compensations held out to + him for the abolition of his normal seats. His wife dexterously availed + herself of this state of affairs to obtain his assent to her great + project, which, it would appear, might not only amuse him, but, in its + unprecedented magnificence and novelty, must sweep away all discontents, + and gratify every class. + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort had placed unlimited resources at the disposal of Berengaria + for the fulfilment of her purpose, and at times even showed some not + inconsiderable though fitful interest in her progress. He turned over the + drawings of the various costumes and armour with a gracious smile, and, + having picked up on such subjects a great deal of knowledge, occasionally + made suggestions which were useful and sometimes embarrassing. The heralds + were all called into council, and Garter himself deigned to regulate the + order of proceedings. Some of the finest gentlemen in London, of both + parties in the state, passed the greater part of their spring mornings in + jousting, and in practising all the manoeuvres of the lists. Lady Montfort + herself was to be the Queen of the Tournament, and she had prevailed on + Lady Roehampton to accept the supreme office of Queen of Beauty. + </p> + <p> + It was the early part of May, and Zenobia held one of her great + assemblies. Being in high good humour, sanguine and prophetic of power, + she had asked all the great Whig ladies, and, the times being critical, + they had come. Berengaria seemed absorbed by the details of her + tournament. She met many of her knights, and she conferred with them all; + the Knight of the Bleeding Heart, the Knight of Roses, the Knight of the + Crystal Shield. + </p> + <p> + Endymion, who was not to be a knight, but a gentleman-at-arms in + attendance on the Queen of the Tournament, mentioned that Prince Florestan + much wished to be a jouster; he had heard this from the Duke of St. + Angelo, and Lady Montfort, though she did not immediately sanction, did + not absolutely refuse, the request. + </p> + <p> + Past midnight, there was a sudden stir in the saloons. The House of + Commons had broken up and many members were entering. There had been a + division on the Jamaica question, and the ministers had only a majority of + five. The leader of the House of Commons had intimated, not to say + announced, their consequent resignation. + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard what they say?” said Endymion anxiously to Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I heard; but do not look so grave.” + </p> + <p> + “Do I look grave?” + </p> + <p> + “As if it were the last day.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear it is.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not so sure. I doubt whether Sir Robert thinks it ripe enough; and + after all, we are not in a minority. I do not see why we should have + resigned. I wish I could see Lord Roehampton.” + </p> + <p> + Affairs did not proceed so rapidly as the triumphant Zenobia expected. + They were out, no question about that; but it was not so certain who was + in. A day passed and another day, and even Zenobia, who knew everything + before anybody, remained in the dark. The suspense became protracted and + even more mysterious. Almost a week had elapsed; noble lords and right + honourable gentlemen were calling on Sir Robert every morning, according + to the newspapers, but no one could hear from any authority of any + appointments being really made. At last, there was a whisper very late one + night at Crockford’s, which was always better informed on these matters + than the political clubs, and people looked amazed, and stared + incredulously in each other’s face. But it was true; there was a hitch, + and in four-and-twenty hours the cause of the hitch was known. It seemed + that the ministry really had resigned, but Berengaria, Countess of + Montfort, had not followed their example. + </p> + <p> + What a dangerous woman! even wicked! Zenobia was for sending her to the + Tower at once. “It was clearly impossible,” she declared, “for Sir Robert + to carry on affairs with such a Duchesse de Longueville always at the ear + of our young Queen, under the pretence forsooth of being the friend of Her + Majesty’s youth.” + </p> + <p> + This was the famous Bed-Chamber Plot, in which the Conservative leaders, + as is now generally admitted, were decidedly in error, and which + terminated in the return of the Whigs to office. + </p> + <p> + “But we must reconstruct,” said Lady Montfort to the prime minister. + “Sidney Wilton must be Secretary of State. And you,” she said to Endymion, + when she communicated to him the successful result of her interference, + “you will go with him. It is a great thing at your age to be private + secretary to a Secretary of State.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0059" id="link2HCH0059"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LIX + </h2> + <p> + Montfort Castle was the stronghold of England against the Scotch invader. + It stood on a high and vast table-land, with the town of Montfort on one + side at its feet, and on the other a wide-spreading and sylvan domain, + herded with deer of various races, and terminating in pine forests; beyond + them moors and mountains. The donjon keep, tall and grey, that had + arrested the Douglas, still remained intact, and many an ancient + battlement; but the long list of the Lords of Montfort had successively + added to the great structure according to the genius of the times, so that + still with the external appearance generally of a feudal castle, it + combined in its various courts and quadrangle all the splendour and + convenience of a modern palace. + </p> + <p> + But though it had witnessed many scenes and sights, and as strange ones as + any old walls in this ancient land, it may be doubted whether the keep of + Montfort ever looked down on anything more rare than the life that was + gathering and disporting itself in its towers and halls, and courts and + parks, and forest chase, in the memorable autumn of this year. + </p> + <p> + Berengaria had repaired to her castle full of triumph; her lord, in high + good humour, admiring his wife for her energy, yet with a playful malice + apparently enjoying the opportunity of showing that the chronology of her + arrangements was confused, and her costume incorrect. They had + good-naturedly taken Endymion down with them; for travelling to the Border + in those times was a serious affair for a clerk in a public office. Day + after day the other guests arrived; the rivals in the tourney were among + the earliest, for they had to make themselves acquainted with the land + which was to be the scene of their exploits. There came the Knights of the + Griffin, and the Dragon, and the Black Lion and the Golden Lion, and the + Dolphin and the Stag’s Head, and they were all always scrupulously + addressed by their chivalric names, instead of by the Tommys and the + Jemmys that circulated in the affectionate circle of White’s, or the + Gusseys and the Regys of Belgravian tea-parties. After a time duly + appeared the Knight of the White Rose, whose armour shielded the princely + form of Florestan; and this portion of the company was complete when the + Black Knight at length reached the castle, who had been detained by his + attendance on a conference at St. James’, in the character of the Count of + Ferroll. + </p> + <p> + If anything could add to the delight and excitement of Berengaria, it + would seem to be the arrival of the Count of Ferroll. + </p> + <p> + Other guests gradually appeared, who were to sustain other characters in + the great pageant. There was the Judge of Peace, and the Knight Marshal of + the Lists, and the Jester, who was to ride on a caparisoned mule trapped + with bells, and himself bearing a sceptre. Mr. Sidney Wilton came down, + who had promised to be King of the Tournament; and, though rather late, + for my lord had been detained by the same cause as the Count of Ferroll, + at length arrived the Queen of Beauty herself. + </p> + <p> + If the performance, to which all contiguous Britain intended to repair—for + irrespective of the railroads, which now began sensibly to affect the + communications in the North of England, steamers were chartering from + every port for passengers to the Montfort tournament within one hundred + miles’ distance—were equal to the preparation, the affair must be a + great success. The grounds round the castle seemed to be filled every day + with groups of busy persons in fanciful costume, all practising their + duties and rehearsing their parts; swordsmen and bowmen, and seneschals + and esquires, and grooms and pages, and heralds in tabards, and + pursuivants, and banner-bearers. The splendid pavilions of the knights + were now completed, and the gorgeous throne of the Queen of Beauty, + surrounded by crimson galleries, tier above tier, for thousands of + favoured guests, were receiving only their last stroke of magnificence. + The mornings passed in a feverish whirl of curiosity, and preparation, and + excitement, and some anxiety. Then succeeded the banquet, where nearly one + hundred guests were every day present; but the company were so absorbed in + the impending event that none expected or required, in the evenings, any + of the usual schemes or sources of amusement that abound in country + houses. Comments on the morning, and plans for the morrow, engrossed all + thought and conversation, and my lord’s band was just a due accompaniment + that filled the pauses when perplexities arrested talk, or deftly blended + with some whispered phrase almost as sweet or thrilling as the notes of + the cornet-a-piston. + </p> + <p> + “I owe my knighthood to you,” said Prince Florestan to Lady Roehampton, + “as I do everything in this country that is agreeable.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot be my knight,” replied Lady Roehampton, “because I am told I + am the sovereign of all the chivalry, but you have my best wishes.” + </p> + <p> + “All that I want in life,” said the prince, “are your good wishes.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear they are barren.” + </p> + <p> + “No, they are inspiring,” said the prince with unusual feeling. “You + brought me good fortune. From the moment I saw you, light fell upon my + life.” + </p> + <p> + “Is not that an exaggerated phrase?” said Lady Roehampton with a smile, + “because I happened to get you a ticket for a masquerade.” + </p> + <p> + “I was thinking of something else,” said the prince pensively; “but life + is a masquerade; at least mine has been.” + </p> + <p> + “I think yours, sir, is a most interesting life,” said Lady Roehampton, + “and, were I you, I would not quarrel with my destiny.” + </p> + <p> + “My destiny is not fulfilled,” said the prince. “I have never quarrelled + with it, and am least disposed to do so at this moment.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Sidney Wilton was speaking to me very much the other day about your + royal mother, sir, Queen Agrippina. She must have been fascinating.” + </p> + <p> + “I like fascinating women,” said the prince, “but they are rare.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps it is better it should be so,” said Lady Roehampton, “for they + are apt—are they not?—to disturb the world.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess I like to be bewitched,” said the prince, “and I do not care + how much the world is disturbed.” + </p> + <p> + “But is not the world very well as it is?” said Lady Roehampton. “Why + should we not be happy and enjoy it?” + </p> + <p> + “I do enjoy it,” replied Prince Florestan, “especially at Montfort Castle; + I suppose there is something in the air that agrees with one. But + enjoyment of the present is consistent with objects for the future.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! now you are thinking of your great affairs—of your kingdom. My + woman’s brain is not equal to that.” + </p> + <p> + “I think your brain is quite equal to kingdoms,” said the prince, with a + serious expression, and speaking in even a lower voice, “but I was not + thinking of my kingdom. I leave that to fate; I believe it is destined to + be mine, and therefore occasions me thought but not anxiety. I was + thinking of something else than kingdoms, and of which unhappily I am not + so certain—of which I am most uncertain—of which I fear I have + no chance—and yet which is dearer to me than even my crown.” + </p> + <p> + “What can that be?” said Lady Roehampton, with unaffected wonderment. + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis a secret of chivalry,” said Prince Florestan, “and I must never + disclose it.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a wonderful scene,” said Adriana Neuchatel to Endymion, who had + been for some time conversing with her. “I had no idea that I should be so + much amused by anything in society. But then, it is so unlike anything one + has ever seen.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Neuchatel had not accompanied her husband and her daughter to the + Montfort Tournament. Mr. Neuchatel required a long holiday, and after the + tournament he was to take Adriana to Scotland. Mrs. Neuchatel shut herself + up at Hainault, which it seemed she had never enjoyed before. She could + hardly believe it was the same place, freed from its daily invasions by + the House of Commons and the Stock Exchange. She had never lived so long + without seeing an ambassador or a cabinet minister, and it was quite a + relief. She wandered in the gardens, and drove her pony-chair in forest + glades. She missed Adriana very much, and for a few days always expected + her to enter the room when the door opened; and then she sighed, and then + she flew to her easel, or buried herself in some sublime cantata of her + favourite master, Beethoven. Then came the most wonderful performance of + the whole day, and that was the letter, never missed, to Adriana. + Considering that she lived in solitude, and in a spot with which her + daughter was quite familiar, it was really marvellous that the mother + should every day be able to fill so many interesting and impassioned + pages. But Mrs. Neuchatel was a fine penwoman; her feelings were her + facts, and her ingenious observations of art and nature were her news. + After the first fever of separation, reading was always a resource to her, + for she was a great student. She was surrounded by all the literary + journals and choice publications of Europe, and there scarcely was a + branch of science and learning with which she was not sufficiently + familiar to be able to comprehend the stir and progress of the European + mind. Mrs. Neuchatel had contrived to get rid of the chief cook by sending + him on a visit to Paris, so she could, without cavil, dine off a cutlet + and seltzer-water in her boudoir. Sometimes, not merely for distraction, + but more from a sense of duty, she gave festivals to her schools; and when + she had lived like a princely prisoner of state alone for a month, or + rather like one on a desert isle who sighs to see a sail, she would ask a + great geologist and his wife to pay her a visit, or some professor, who, + though himself not worth a shilling, had some new plans, which really + sounded quite practical, for the more equal distribution of wealth. + </p> + <p> + “And who is your knight?” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + Adriana looked distressed. + </p> + <p> + “I mean, whom do you wish to win?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I should like them all to win!” + </p> + <p> + “That is good-natured, but then there would be no distinction. I know who + is going to wear your colours—the Knight of the Dolphin.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope nothing of that kind will happen,” said Adriana, agitated. “I know + that some of the knights are going to wear ladies’ colours, but I trust no + one will think of wearing mine. I know the Black Knight wears Lady + Montfort’s.” + </p> + <p> + “He cannot,” said Endymion hastily. “She is first lady to the Queen of + Beauty; no knight can wear the colours of the Queen. I asked Sir Morte + d’Arthur himself, and he told me there was no doubt about it, and that he + had consulted Garter before he came down.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, all I know is that the Count of Ferroll told me so,” said Adriana; + “I sate next to him at dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “He shall not wear her colours,” said Endymion quite angrily. “I will + speak to the King of the Tournament about it directly.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what does it signify?” said Adriana. + </p> + <p> + “You thought it signified when I told you Regy Sutton was going to wear + your colours.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! that is quite a different business,” said Adriana, with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + Reginald Sutton was a professed admirer of Adriana, rode with her whenever + he could, and danced with her immensely. She gave him cold encouragement, + though he was the best-looking and best-dressed youth in England; but he + was a determined young hero, not gifted with too sensitive nerves, and was + a votary of the great theory that all in life was an affair of will, and + that endowed with sufficient energy he might marry whom he liked. He + accounted for his slow advance in London by the inimical presence of Mrs. + Neuchatel, who he felt, or fancied, did not sympathise with him; while, on + the contrary, he got on very well with the father, and so he was + determined to seize the present opportunity. The mother was absent, and he + himself in a commanding position, being one of the knights to whose + exploits the eyes of all England were attracted. + </p> + <p> + Lord Roehampton was seated between an ambassadress and Berengaria, + indulging in gentle and sweet-voiced raillery; the Count of Ferroll was + standing beside Lady Montfort, and Mr. Wilton was opposite to the group. + The Count of Ferroll rarely spoke, but listened to Lady Montfort with what + she called one of his dark smiles. + </p> + <p> + “All I know is, she will never pardon you for not asking her,” said Lord + Roehampton. “I saw Bicester the day I left town, and he was very grumpy. + He said that Lady Bicester was the only person who understood tournaments. + She had studied the subject.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose she wanted to be the Queen of Beauty,” said Berengaria. + </p> + <p> + “You are too severe, my dear lady. I think she would have been contented + with a knight wearing her colours.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I cannot help it,” said Berengaria, but somewhat doubtingly. And + then, after a moment’s pause, “She is too ugly.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, she came to my fancy ball, and it is not five years ago, as Mary + Queen of Scots!” + </p> + <p> + “That must have been after the Queen’s decapitation,” said Berengaria. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder you did not ask Zenobia,” said Mr. Wilton. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I asked her, but I knew she would not come. She is in one of + her hatreds now. She said she would have come, only she had half-promised + to give a ball to the tenants at Merrington about that time, and she did + not like to disappoint them. Quite touching, was it not?” + </p> + <p> + “A touch beyond the reach of art,” said Mr. Wilton; “almost worthy of + yourself, Lady Montfort.” + </p> + <p> + “And what do you think of all this?” asked Lord Montfort of Nigel + Penruddock, who, in a cassock that swept the ground, had been stalking + about the glittering salons like a prophet who had been ordained in + Mayfair, but who had now seated himself by his host. + </p> + <p> + “I am thinking of what is beneath all this,” replied Nigel. “A great + revivication. Chivalry is the child of the Church; it is the distinctive + feature of Christian Europe. Had it not been for the revival of Church + principles, this glorious pageant would never have occurred. But it is a + pageant only to the uninitiated. There is not a ceremony, a form, a + phrase, a costume, which is not symbolic of a great truth or a high + purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think Lady Montfort is aware of all this,” said her lord. + </p> + <p> + “Oh yes!” said Nigel. “Lady Montfort is a great woman—a woman who + could inspire crusades and create churches. She might, and she will, I + trust, rank with the Helenas and the Matildas.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort gave a little sound, but so gentle that it was heard + probably but by himself, which in common language would be styled a + whistle—an articulate modulation of the breath which in this + instance expressed a sly sentiment of humorous amazement. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Ferrars,” said Mr. Neuchatel, with a laughing eye, to that + young gentleman, as he encountered Endymion passing by, “and how are you + getting on? Are we to see you to-morrow in a Milanese suit?” + </p> + <p> + “I am only a page,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, the old Italian saying is, ‘A page beats a knight,’ at least + with the ladies.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you not think it very absurd,” said Endymion, “that the Count of + Ferroll says he shall wear Lady Montfort’s colours? Lady Montfort is only + the first lady of the Queen of Beauty, and she can wear no colours except + the Queen’s. Do not you think somebody ought to interfere?” + </p> + <p> + “Hem! The Count of Ferroll is a man who seldom makes a mistake,” said Mr. + Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “So everybody says,” said Endymion rather testily; “but I do not see + that.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, you are a very young man,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “and I hope you will + some day be a statesman. I do not see why you should not, if you are + industrious and stick to your master, for Mr. Sidney Wilton is a man who + will always rise; but, if I were you, I would keep my eyes very much on + the Count of Ferroll, for, depend on it, he is one of those men who sooner + or later will make a noise in the world.” + </p> + <p> + Adriana came up at this moment, leaning on the arm of the Knight of the + Dolphin, better known as Regy Sutton. They came from the tea-room. + Endymion moved away with a cloud on his brow, murmuring to himself, “I am + quite sick of the name of the Count of Ferroll.” + </p> + <p> + The jousting-ground was about a mile from the castle, and though it was + nearly encircled by vast and lofty galleries, it was impossible that + accommodation could be afforded on this spot to the thousands who had + repaired from many parts of the kingdom to the Montfort Tournament. But + even a hundred thousand people could witness the procession from the + castle to the scene of action. That was superb. The sun shone, and not one + of the breathless multitude was disappointed. + </p> + <p> + There came a long line of men-at-arms and musicians and trumpeters and + banner-bearers of the Lord of the Tournament, and heralds in tabards, and + pursuivants, and then the Herald of the Tournament by himself, whom the + people at first mistook for the Lord Mayor. + </p> + <p> + Then came the Knight Marshal on a caparisoned steed, himself in a suit of + gilt armour, and in a richly embroidered surcoat. A band of halberdiers + preceded the King of the Tournament, also on a steed richly caparisoned, + and himself clad in robes of velvet and ermine, and wearing a golden + crown. + </p> + <p> + Then on a barded Arab, herself dressed in cloth of gold, parti-coloured + with violet and crimson, came, amidst tremendous cheering, the Queen of + Beauty herself. Twelve attendants bore aloft a silken canopy, which did + not conceal from the enraptured multitude the lustre of her matchless + loveliness. Lady Montfort, Adriana, and four other attendant ladies, + followed her majesty, two by two, each in gorgeous attire, and on a + charger that vied in splendour with its mistress. Six pages followed next, + in violet and silver. + </p> + <p> + The bells of a barded mule announced the Jester, who waved his sceptre + with unceasing authority, and pelted the people with admirably prepared + impromptus. Some in the crowd tried to enter into a competition of banter, + but they were always vanquished. + </p> + <p> + Soon a large army of men-at-arms and the sounds of most triumphant music + stopped the general laughter, and all became again hushed in curious + suspense. The tallest and the stoutest of the Border men bore the gonfalon + of the Lord of the Tournament. That should have been Lord Montfort + himself; but he had deputed the office to his cousin and presumptive heir. + Lord Montfort was well represented, and the people cheered his cousin Odo + heartily, as in his suit of golden armour richly chased, and bending on + his steed, caparisoned in blue and gold, he acknowledged their fealty with + a proud reverence. + </p> + <p> + The other knights followed in order, all attended by their esquires and + their grooms. Each knight was greatly applauded, and it was really a grand + sight to see them on their barded chargers and in their panoply; some in + suits of engraved Milanese armour, some in German suits of fluted polished + steel; some in steel armour engraved and inlaid with gold. The Black + Knight was much cheered, but no one commanded more admiration than Prince + Florestan, in a suit of blue damascened armour, and inlaid with silver + roses. + </p> + <p> + Every procession must end. It is a pity, for there is nothing so popular + with mankind. The splendid part of the pageant had passed, but still the + people gazed and looked as if they would have gazed for ever. The visitors + at the castle, all in ancient costume, attracted much notice. Companies of + swordsmen and bowmen followed, till at last the seneschal of the castle, + with his chamberlains and servitors, closed the spell-bound scene. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0060" id="link2HCH0060"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LX + </h2> + <p> + The jousting was very successful; though some were necessarily + discomfited, almost every one contrived to obtain some distinction. But + the two knights who excelled and vanquished every one except themselves + were the Black Knight and the Knight of the White Rose. Their exploits + were equal at the close of the first day, and on the second they were to + contend for the principal prize of the tournament, for which none else + were entitled to be competitors. This was a golden helm, to be placed upon + the victor’s brow by the Queen of Beauty. + </p> + <p> + There was both a banquet and a ball on this day, and the excitement + between the adventures of the morning and the prospects of the morrow was + great. The knights, freed from their armour, appeared in fanciful dresses + of many-coloured velvets. All who had taken part in the pageant retained + their costumes, and the ordinary guests, if they yielded to mediaeval + splendour, successfully asserted the taste of Paris and its sparkling + grace, in their exquisite robes, and wreaths and garlands of fantastic + loveliness. + </p> + <p> + Berengaria, full of the inspiration of success, received the smiling + congratulations of everybody, and repaid them with happy suggestions, + which she poured forth with inexhaustible yet graceful energy. The only + person who had a gloomy air was Endymion. She rallied him. “I shall call + you the Knight of the Woeful Countenance if you approach me with such a + visage. What can be the matter with you?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” repeated Endymion, looking rather away. + </p> + <p> + The Knight of the Dolphin came up and said, “This is a critical affair + to-morrow, my dear Lady Montfort. If the Count Ferroll is discomfited by + the prince, it may be a <i>casus belli</i>. You ought to get Lord + Roehampton to interfere and prevent the encounter.” + </p> + <p> + “The Count of Ferroll will not be discomfited,” said Lady Montfort. “He is + one of those men who never fail.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not know,” said the Knight of the Dolphin musingly. “The + prince has a stout lance, and I have felt it.” + </p> + <p> + “He had the best of it this morning,” said Endymion rather bitterly. + “Every one thought so, and that it was very fortunate for the Count of + Ferroll that the heralds closed the lists.” + </p> + <p> + “It might have been fortunate for others,” rejoined Lady Montfort. “What + is the general opinion?” she added, addressing the Knight of the Dolphin. + “Do not go away, Mr. Ferrars. I want to give you some directions about + to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think I shall be at the place to-morrow,” muttered Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “What!” exclaimed Berengaria; but at this moment Mr. Sidney Wilton came up + and said, “I have been looking at the golden helm. It is entrusted to my + care as King of the Tournament. It is really so beautiful, that I think I + shall usurp it.” + </p> + <p> + “You will have to settle that with the Count of Ferroll,” said Berengaria. + </p> + <p> + “The betting is about equal,” said the Knight of the Dolphin. + </p> + <p> + “Well, we must have some gloves upon it,” said Berengaria. + </p> + <p> + Endymion walked away. + </p> + <p> + He walked away, and the first persons that met his eye were the prince and + the Count of Ferroll in conversation. It was sickening. They seemed quite + gay, and occasionally examined together a paper which the prince held in + his hand, and which was an official report by the heralds of the day’s + jousting. This friendly conversation might apparently have gone on for + ever had not the music ceased and the count been obliged to seek his + partner for the coming dance. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder you can speak to him,” said Endymion, going up to the prince. + “If the heralds had not—many think, too hastily—closed the + lists this morning, you would have been the victor of the day.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear child! what can you mean?” said the prince. “I believe everything + was closed quite properly, and as for myself, I am entirely satisfied with + my share of the day’s success.” + </p> + <p> + “If you had thrown him,” said Endymion, “he could not with decency have + contended for the golden helm.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that is what you deplore,” said the prince. “The Count of Ferroll and + I shall have to contend for many things more precious than golden helms + before we die.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe he is a very overrated man,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Why?” said the prince. + </p> + <p> + “I detest him,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “That is certainly a reason why <i>you</i> should not overrate him,” said + the prince. + </p> + <p> + “There seems a general conspiracy to run him up,” said Endymion with + pique. + </p> + <p> + “The Count of Ferroll is the man of the future,” said the prince calmly. + </p> + <p> + “That is what Mr. Neuchatel said to me yesterday. I suppose he caught it + from you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is an advantage, a great advantage, for me to observe the Count of + Ferroll in this intimate society,” said the prince, speaking slowly, + “perhaps even to fathom him. But I am not come to that yet. He is a man + neither to love nor to detest. He has himself an intelligence superior to + all passion, I might say all feeling; and if, in dealing with such a + being, we ourselves have either, we give him an advantage.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, all the same, I hope you will win the golden helm to-morrow,” said + Endymion, looking a little perplexed. + </p> + <p> + “The golden casque that I am ordained to win,” said the prince, “is not at + Montfort Castle. This, after all, is but Mambrino’s helmet.” + </p> + <p> + A knot of young dandies were discussing the chances of the morrow as + Endymion was passing by, and as he knew most of them he joined the group. + </p> + <p> + “I hope to heaven,” said one, “that the Count of Ferroll will beat that + foreign chap to-morrow; I hate foreigners.” + </p> + <p> + “So do I,” said a second, and there was a general murmur of assent. + </p> + <p> + “The Count of Ferroll is as much a foreigner as the prince,” said Endymion + rather sharply. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I don’t call him a foreigner at all,” said the first speaker. “He is + a great favourite at White’s; no one rides cross country like him, and he + is a deuced fine shot in the bargain.” + </p> + <p> + “I will back Prince Florestan against him either in field or cover,” said + Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don’t know your friend,” said the young gentleman contemptuously, + “so I cannot bet.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure your friend, Lady Montfort, my dear Dymy, will back the Count + of Ferroll,” lisped a third young gentleman. + </p> + <p> + This completed the programme of mortification, and Endymion, hot and then + cold, and then both at the same time, bereft of repartee, and wishing the + earth would open and Montfort Castle disappear in its convulsed bosom, + stole silently away as soon as practicable, and wandered as far as + possible from the music and the bursts of revelry. + </p> + <p> + These conversations had taken place in the chief saloon, which was + contiguous to the ball-room, and which was nearly as full of guests. + Endymion, moving in the opposite direction, entered another drawing-room, + where the population was sparse. It consisted of couples apparently deeply + interested in each other. Some faces were radiant, and some pensive and a + little agitated, but they all agreed in one expression, that they took no + interest whatever in the solitary Endymion. Even their whispered words + were hushed as he passed by, and they seemed, with their stony, + unsympathising glance, to look upon him as upon some inferior being who + had intruded into their paradise. In short, Endymion felt all that + embarrassment, mingled with a certain portion of self contempt, which + attends the conviction that we are what is delicately called <i>de trop</i>. + </p> + <p> + He advanced and took refuge in another room, where there was only a + single, and still more engrossed pair; but this was even more intolerable + to him. Shrinking from a return to the hostile chamber he had just left, + he made a frantic rush forward with affected ease and alacrity, and found + himself alone in the favourite morning room of Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + He threw himself on a sofa, and hid his face in his hand, and gave a sigh, + which was almost a groan. He was sick at heart; his extremities were cold, + his brain was feeble. All hope, and truly all thought of the future, + deserted him. He remembered only the sorrowful, or the humiliating, + chapters in his life. He wished he had never left Hurstley. He wished he + had been apprenticed to Farmer Thornberry, that he had never quitted his + desk at Somerset House, and never known more of life than Joe’s and the + Divan. All was vanity and vexation of spirit. He contemplated finishing + his days in the neighbouring stream, in which, but a few days ago, he was + bathing in health and joy. + </p> + <p> + Time flew on; he was unconscious of its course; no one entered the room, + and he wished never to see a human face again, when a voice sounded, and + he heard his name. + </p> + <p> + “Endymion!” + </p> + <p> + He looked up; it was Lady Montfort. He did not speak, but gave her, + perhaps unconsciously, a glance of reproach and despair. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter with you?” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “That is nonsense. Something must have happened. I have missed you so + long, but was determined to find you. Have you a headache?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Come back; come back with me. It is so odd. My lord has asked for you + twice.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to see no one.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! but this is absurd—and on a day like this, when every thing has + been so successful, and every one is so happy.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not happy, and I am not successful.” + </p> + <p> + “You perfectly astonish me,” said Lady Montfort; “I shall begin to believe + that you have not so sweet a temper as I always supposed.” + </p> + <p> + “It matters not what my temper is.” + </p> + <p> + “I think it matters a great deal. I like, above all things, to live with + good-tempered people.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you may not be disappointed. My temper is my own affair, and I am + content always to be alone.” + </p> + <p> + “Why! you are talking nonsense, Endymion.” + </p> + <p> + “Probably; I do not pretend to be gifted. I am not one of those gentlemen + who cannot fail. I am not the man of the future.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! I never was so surprised in my life,” exclaimed Lady Montfort. “I + never will pretend to form an opinion of human character again. Now, my + dear Endymion, rouse yourself, and come back with me. Give me your arm. I + cannot stay another moment; I dare say I have already been wanted a + thousand times.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot go back,” said Endymion; “I never wish to see anybody again. If + you want an arm, there is the Count of Ferroll, and I hope you may find he + has a sweeter temper than I have.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort looked at him with a strange and startled glance. It was a + mixture of surprise, a little disdain, some affection blended with + mockery. And then exclaiming “Silly boy!” she swept out of the room. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0061" id="link2HCH0061"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXI + </h2> + <p> + “I do not like the prospect of affairs,” said Mr. Sidney Wilton to + Endymion as they were posting up to London from Montfort Castle; a long + journey, but softened in those days by many luxuries, and they had much to + talk about. + </p> + <p> + “The decline of the revenue is not fitful; it is regular. Our people are + too apt to look at the state of the revenue merely in a financial point of + view. If a surplus, take off taxes; if a deficiency, put them on. But the + state of the revenue should also be considered as the index of the + condition of the population. According to my impression, the condition of + the people is declining; and why? because they are less employed. If this + spreads, they will become discontented and disaffected, and I cannot help + remembering that, if they become troublesome, it is our office that will + have to deal with them.” + </p> + <p> + “This bad harvest is a great misfortune,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but a bad harvest, though unquestionably a great, perhaps the + greatest, misfortune for this country, is not the entire solution of our + difficulties—I would say, our coming difficulties. A bad harvest + touches the whole of our commercial system: it brings us face to face with + the corn laws. I wish our chief would give his mind to that subject. I + believe a moderate fixed duty of about twelve shillings a quarter would + satisfy every one, and nothing then could shake this country.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion listened with interest to other views of his master, who + descanted on them at much length. Private secretaries know everything + about their chiefs, and Endymion was not ignorant that among many of the + great houses of the Whig party, and indeed among the bulk of what was + called “the Liberal” party generally, Mr. Sidney Wilton was looked upon, + so far as economical questions were concerned, as very crotchety, indeed a + dangerous character. Lord Montfort was the only magnate who was entirely + opposed to the corn laws, but then, as Berengaria would remark, “Simon is + against all laws; he is not a practical man.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sidney Wilton reverted to these views more than once in the course of + their journey. “I was not alarmed about the Chartists last year. Political + trouble in this country never frightens me. Insurrections and riots + strengthen an English government; they gave a new lease even to Lord + Liverpool when his ministry was most feeble and unpopular; but economical + discontent is quite another thing. The moment sedition arises from + taxation, or want of employment, it is more dangerous and more difficult + to deal with in this country than any other.” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Roehampton seemed to take rather a sanguine view of the situation + after the Bed-Chamber business in the spring,” observed Endymion, rather + in an inquiring than a dogmatic spirit. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Roehampton has other things to think of,” said Mr. Wilton. “He is + absorbed, and naturally absorbed, in his department, the most important in + the state, and of which he is master. But I am obliged to look at affairs + nearer home. Now, this Anti-Corn-Law League, which they established last + year at Manchester, and which begins to be very busy, though nobody at + present talks of it, is, in my mind, a movement which ought to be watched. + I tell you what; it occurred to me more than once during that wondrous + pageant, that we have just now been taking part in, the government wants + better information than they have as to the state of the country, the real + feelings and condition of the bulk of the population. We used to sneer at + the Tories for their ignorance of these matters, but after all, we, like + them, are mainly dependent on quarter sessions; on the judgment of a + lord-lieutenant and the statistics of a bench of magistrates. It is true + we have introduced into our subordinate administration at Whitehall some + persons who have obtained the reputation of distinguished economists, and + we allow them to guide us. But though ingenious men, no doubt, they are + chiefly bankrupt tradesmen, who, not having been able to manage their own + affairs, have taken upon themselves to advise on the conduct of the + country—pedants and prigs at the best, and sometimes impostors. No; + this won’t do. It is useless to speak to the chief; I did about the + Anti-Corn-Law League; he shrugged his shoulders and said it was a madness + that would pass. I have made up my mind to send somebody, quite privately, + to the great scenes of national labour. He must be somebody whom nobody + knows, and nobody suspects of being connected with the administration, or + we shall never get the truth—and the person I have fixed upon is + yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “But am I equal to such a task?” said Endymion modestly, but sincerely. + </p> + <p> + “I think so,” said Mr. Wilton, “or, of course, I would not have fixed upon + you. I want a fresh and virgin intelligence to observe and consider the + country. It must be a mind free from prejudice, yet fairly informed on the + great questions involved in the wealth of nations. I know you have read + Adam Smith, and not lightly. Well, he is the best guide, though of course + we must adapt his principles to the circumstances with which we have to + deal. You have good judgment, great industry, a fairly quick perception, + little passion—perhaps hardly enough; but that is probably the + consequence of the sorrows and troubles of early life. But, after all, + there is no education like adversity.” + </p> + <p> + “If it will only cease at the right time,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Well, in that respect, I do not think you have anything to complain of,” + said Mr. Wilton. “The world is all before you, and I mistake if you do not + rise. Perseverance and tact are the two qualities most valuable for all + men who would mount, but especially for those who have to step out of the + crowd. I am sure no one can say you are not assiduous, but I am glad + always to observe that you have tact. Without tact you can learn nothing. + Tact teaches you when to be silent. Inquirers who are always inquiring + never learn anything.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0062" id="link2HCH0062"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXII + </h2> + <p> + Lancashire was not so wonderful a place forty years ago as it is at + present, but, compared then with the rest of England, it was infinitely + more striking. For a youth like Endymion, born and bred in our southern + counties, the Berkshire downs varied by the bustle of Pall-Mall and the + Strand—Lancashire, with its teeming and toiling cities, its colossal + manufactories and its gigantic chimneys, its roaring engines and its + flaming furnaces, its tramroads and its railroads, its coal and its + cotton, offered a far greater contrast to the scenes in which he had + hitherto lived, than could be furnished by almost any country of the + European continent. + </p> + <p> + Endymion felt it was rather a crisis in his life, and that his future + might much depend on the fulfilment of the confidential office which had + been entrusted to him by his chief. He summoned all his energies, + concentrated his intelligence on the one subject, and devoted to its study + and comprehension every moment of his thought and time. After a while, he + had made Manchester his head-quarters. It was even then the centre of a + network of railways, and gave him an easy command of the contiguous + districts. + </p> + <p> + Endymion had more than once inquired after the Anti-Corn-Law League, but + had not as yet been so fortunate as to attend any of their meetings. They + were rarer than they afterwards soon became, and the great manufacturers + did not encourage them. “I do not like extreme views,” said one of the + most eminent one day to Endymion. “In my opinion, we should always avoid + extremes;” and he paused and looked around, as if he had enunciated a + heaven-born truth, and for the first time. “I am a Liberal; so we all are + here. I supported Lord Grey, and I support Lord Melbourne, and I am, in + everything, for a liberal policy. I don’t like extremes. A wise minister + should take off the duty on cotton wool. That is what the country really + wants, and then everybody would be satisfied. No; I know nothing about + this League you ask about, and I do not know any one—that is to say, + any one respectable—who does. They came to me to lend my name. ‘No,’ + I said, ‘gentlemen; I feel much honoured, but I do not like extremes;’ and + they went away. They are making a little more noise now, because they have + got a man who has the gift of the gab, and the people like to go and hear + him speak. But as I said to a friend of mine, who seemed half inclined to + join them, ‘Well; if I did anything of that sort, I would be led by a + Lancashire lad. They have got a foreigner to lead them, a fellow out of + Berkshire; an agitator—and only a print-work after all. No; that + will never do.’” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding these views, which Endymion found very generally + entertained by the new world in which he mixed, he resolved to take the + earliest opportunity of attending the meeting of the League, and it soon + arrived. + </p> + <p> + It was an evening meeting, so that workmen—or the operatives, as + they were styled in this part of the kingdom—should be able to + attend. The assembly took place in a large but temporary building; very + well adapted to the human voice, and able to contain even thousands. It + was fairly full to-night; and the platform, on which those who took a part + in the proceedings, or who, by their comparatively influential presence, + it was supposed, might assist the cause, was almost crowded. + </p> + <p> + “He is going to speak to-night,” said an operative to Endymion. “That is + why there is such an attendance.” + </p> + <p> + Remembering Mr. Wilton’s hint about not asking unnecessary questions which + often arrest information, Endymion did not inquire who “he” was; and to + promote communication merely observed, “A fine speaker, then, I conclude?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he is in a way,” said the operative. “He has not got Hollaballoo’s + voice, but he knows what he is talking about. I doubt their getting what + they are after; they have not the working classes with them. If they went + against truck, it would be something.” + </p> + <p> + The chairman opened the proceedings; but was coldly received, though he + spoke sensibly and at some length. He then introduced a gentleman, who was + absolutely an alderman, to move a resolution condemnatory of the corn + laws. The august position of the speaker atoned for his halting rhetoric, + and a city which had only just for the first time been invested with + municipal privileges was hushed before a man who might in time even become + a mayor. + </p> + <p> + Then the seconder advanced, and there was a general burst of applause. + </p> + <p> + “There he is,” said the operative to Endymion; “you see they like him. Oh, + Job knows how to do it!” + </p> + <p> + Endymion listened with interest, soon with delight, soon with a feeling of + exciting and not unpleasing perplexity, to the orator; for he was an + orator, though then unrecognised, and known only in his district. He was a + pale and slender man, with a fine brow and an eye that occasionally + flashed with the fire of a creative mind. His voice certainly was not like + Hollaballoo’s. It was rather thin, but singularly clear. There was nothing + clearer except his meaning. Endymion never heard a case stated with such + pellucid art; facts marshalled with such vivid simplicity, and inferences + so natural and spontaneous and irresistible, that they seemed, as it were, + borrowed from his audience, though none of that audience had arrived at + them before. The meeting was hushed, was rapt in intellectual delight, for + they did not give the speaker the enthusiasm of their sympathy. That was + not shared, perhaps, by the moiety of those who listened to him. When his + case was fairly before them, the speaker dealt with his opponents—some + in the press, some in parliament—with much power of sarcasm, but + this power was evidently rather repressed than allowed to run riot. What + impressed Endymion as the chief quality of this remarkable speaker was his + persuasiveness, and he had the air of being too prudent to offend even an + opponent unnecessarily. His language, though natural and easy, was choice + and refined. He was evidently a man who had read, and not a little; and + there was no taint of vulgarity, scarcely a provincialism, in his + pronunciation. + </p> + <p> + He spoke for rather more than an hour; and frequently during this time, + Endymion, notwithstanding his keen interest in what was taking place, was + troubled, it might be disturbed, by pictures and memories of the past that + he endeavoured in vain to drive away. When the orator concluded, amid + cheering much louder than that which had first greeted him, Endymion, in a + rather agitated voice, whispered to his neighbour, “Tell me—is his + name Thornberry?” + </p> + <p> + “That is your time of day,” said the operative. “Job Thornberry is his + name, and I am on his works.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet you do not agree with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Well; I go as far as he goes, but he does not go so far as I go; that’s + it.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not see how a man can go much farther,” said Endymion. “Where are + his works? I knew your master when he was in the south of England, and I + should like to call on him.” + </p> + <p> + “My employer,” said the operative. “They call themselves masters, but we + do not. I will tell you. His works are a mile out of town; but it seems + only a step, for there are houses all the way. Job Thornberry & Co.‘s + Print-works, Pendleton Road—any one can guide you—and when you + get there, you can ask for me, if you like. I am his overlooker, and my + name is ENOCH CRAGGS.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0063" id="link2HCH0063"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXIII + </h2> + <p> + “You are not much altered,” said Thornberry, as he retained Endymion’s + hand, and he looked at him earnestly; “and yet you have become a man. I + suppose I am ten years your senior. I have never been back to the old + place, and yet I sometimes think I should like to be buried there. The old + man has been here, and more than once, and liked it well enough; at least, + I hope so. He told me a good deal about you all; some sorrows, and, I + hope, some joys. I heard of Miss Myra’s marriage; she was a sweet young + lady; the gravest person I ever knew; I never knew her smile. I remember + they thought her proud, but I always had a fancy for her. Well; she has + married a topsawyer—I believe the ablest of them all, and probably + the most unprincipled; though I ought not to say that to you. However, + public men are spoken freely of. I wish to Heaven you would get him to + leave off tinkering those commercial treaties that he is always making + such a fuss about. More pernicious nonsense was never devised by man than + treaties of commerce. However, their precious most favoured nation clause + will break down the whole concern yet. But you wish to see the works; I + will show them to you myself. There is not much going on now, and the + stagnation increases daily. And then, if you are willing, we will go home + and have a bit of lunch—I live hard by. My best works are my wife + and children: I have made that joke before, as you can well fancy.” + </p> + <p> + This was the greeting, sincere but not unkind, of Job Thornberry to + Endymion on the day after the meeting of the Anti-Corn-Law League. To + Endymion it was an interesting, and, as he believed it would prove, a + useful encounter. + </p> + <p> + The print-works were among the most considerable of their kind at + Manchester, but they were working now with reduced numbers and at + half-time. It was the energy and the taste and invention of Thornberry + that had given them their reputation, and secured them extensive markets. + He had worked with borrowed capital, but had paid off his debt, and his + establishment was now his own; but, stimulated by his success, he had made + a consignment of large amount to the United States, where it arrived only + to be welcomed by what was called the American crash. + </p> + <p> + Turning from the high road, a walk of half a mile brought them to a little + world of villas; varying in style and size, but all pretty, and each in + its garden. “And this is my home,” said Thornberry, opening the wicket, + “and here is my mistress and the young folks”—pointing to a pretty + woman, but with an expression of no inconsiderable self-confidence, and + with several children clinging to her dress and hiding their faces at the + unexpected sight of a stranger. “My eldest is a boy, but he is at school,” + said Thornberry. “I have named him, after one of the greatest men that + ever lived, John Hampden.” + </p> + <p> + “He was a landed proprietor,” observed Endymion rather drily; “and a + considerable one.” + </p> + <p> + “I have brought an old friend to take cheer with us,” continued + Thornberry; “one whom I knew before any here present; so show your faces, + little people;” and he caught up one of the children, a fair child like + its mother, long-haired and blushing like a Worcestershire orchard before + harvest time. “Tell the gentleman what you are.” + </p> + <p> + “A free-trader,” murmured the infant. + </p> + <p> + Within the house were several shelves of books well selected, and the + walls were adorned with capital prints of famous works of art. “They are + chiefly what are called books of reference,” said Thornberry, as Endymion + was noticing his volumes; “but I have not much room, and, to tell you the + truth, they are not merely books of reference to me—I like reading + encyclopaedia. The ‘Dictionary of Dates’ is a favourite book of mine. The + mind sometimes wants tone, and then I read Milton. He is the only poet I + read—he is complete, and is enough. I have got his prose works too. + Milton was the greatest of Englishmen.” + </p> + <p> + The repast was simple, but plenteous, and nothing could be neater than the + manner in which it was served. + </p> + <p> + “We are teetotallers,” said Thornberry; “but we can give you a good cup of + coffee.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a teetotaller too at this time of the day,” said Endymion; “but a + good cup of coffee is, they say, the most delicious and the rarest + beverage in the world.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” continued Thornberry; “it is a long time since we met, Mr. Ferrars—ten + years. I used to think that in ten years one might do anything; and a year + ago, I really thought I had done it; but the accursed laws of this blessed + country, as it calls itself, have nearly broken me, as they have broken + many a better man before me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to hear this,” said Endymion; “I trust it is but a passing + cloud.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not a cloud,” said Thornberry; “it is a storm, a tempest, a wreck—but + not only for me. Your great relative, my Lord Roehampton, must look to it, + I can tell you that. What is happening in this country, and is about to + happen, will not be cured or averted by commercial treaties—mark my + words.” + </p> + <p> + “But what would cure it?” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “There is only one thing that can cure this country, and it will soon be + too late for that. We must have free exchange.” + </p> + <p> + “Free exchange!” murmured Endymion thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Why, look at this,” said Thornberry. “I had been driving a capital trade + with the States for nearly five years. I began with nothing, as you know. + I had paid off all my borrowed capital; my works were my own, and this + house is a freehold. A year ago I sent to my correspondent at New York the + largest consignment of goods I had ever made and the best, and I cannot + get the slightest return for them. My correspondent writes to me that + there is no end of corn and bread-stuffs which he could send, if we could + only receive them; but he knows very well he might as well try and send + them to the moon. The people here are starving and want these + bread-stuffs, and they are ready to pay for them by the products of their + labour—and your blessed laws prevent them!” + </p> + <p> + “But these laws did not prevent your carrying on a thriving trade with + America for five years, according to your own account,” said Endymion. “I + do not question what you say; I am asking only for information.” + </p> + <p> + “What you say is fairly said, and it has been said before,” replied + Thornberry; “but there is nothing in it. We had a trade, and a thriving + trade, with the States; though, to be sure, it was always fitful and ought + to have been ten times as much, even during those five years. But the fact + is, the state of affairs in America was then exceptional. They were + embarked in great public works in which every one was investing his + capital; shares and stocks abounded, and they paid us for our goods with + them.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it would rather seem that they have no capital now to spare to + purchase our goods?” + </p> + <p> + “Not so,” said Thornberry sharply, “as I have shown; but were it so, it + does not affect my principle. If there were free exchange, we should find + employment and compensation in other countries, even if the States were + logged, which I don’t believe thirty millions of people with boundless + territory ever can be.” + </p> + <p> + “But after all,” said Endymion, “America is as little in favour of free + exchange as we are. She may send us her bread-stuffs; but her laws will + not admit our goods, except on the payment of enormous duties.” + </p> + <p> + “Pish!” said Thornberry; “I do not care this for their enormous duties. + Let me have free imports, and I will soon settle their duties.” + </p> + <p> + “To fight hostile tariffs with free imports,” said Endymion; “is not that + fighting against odds?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit. This country has nothing to do but to consider its imports. + Foreigners will not give us their products for nothing; but as for their + tariffs, if we were wise men, and looked to our real interests, their + hostile tariffs, as you call them, would soon be falling down like an old + wall.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I confess,” said Endymion, “I have for some time thought the + principle of free exchange was a sound one; but its application in a + country like this would be very difficult, and require, I should think, + great prudence and moderation.” + </p> + <p> + “By prudence and moderation you mean ignorance and timidity,” said + Thornberry scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “Not exactly that, I hope,” said Endymion; “but you cannot deny that the + home market is a most important element in the consideration of our public + wealth, and it mainly rests upon the agriculture of the country.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it rests upon a very poor foundation,” said Thornberry. + </p> + <p> + “But if any persons should be more tempted than others by free exchange, + it should be the great body of the consumers of this land, who pay unjust + and excessive prices for every article they require. No, my dear Mr. + Ferrars; the question is a very simple one, and we may talk for ever, and + we shall never alter it. The laws of this country are made by the + proprietors of land, and they make them for their own benefit. A man with + a large estate is said to have a great stake in the country because some + hundreds of people or so are more or less dependent on him. How has he a + greater interest in the country than a manufacturer who has sunk 100,000 + pounds in machinery, and has a thousand people, as I had, receiving from + him weekly wages? No home market, indeed! Pah! it is an affair of rent, + and nothing more or less. And England is to be ruined to keep up rents. + Are you going? Well, I am glad we have met. Perhaps we shall have another + talk together some day. I shall not return to the works. There is little + doing there, and I must think now of other things. The subscriptions to + the League begin to come in apace. Say what they like in the House of + Commons and the vile London press, the thing is stirring.” + </p> + <p> + Wishing to turn the conversation a little, Endymion asked Mrs. Thornberry + whether she occasionally went to London. + </p> + <p> + “Never was there,” she said, in a sharp, clear voice; “but I hope to go + soon.” + </p> + <p> + “You will have a great deal to see.” + </p> + <p> + “All I want to see, and hear, is the Rev. Servetus Frost,” replied the + lady. “My idea of perfect happiness is to hear him every Sunday. He comes + here sometimes, for his sister is settled here; a very big mill. He + preached here a month ago. Should not I have liked the bishop to have + heard him, that’s all! But he would not dare to go; he could not answer a + point.” + </p> + <p> + “My wife is of the Unitarian persuasion,” said Thornberry. “I am not. I + was born in our Church, and I keep to it; but I often go to chapel with my + wife. As for religion generally, if a man believes in his Maker and does + his duty to his neighbours, in my mind that is sufficient.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion bade them good-bye, and strolled musingly towards his hotel. + </p> + <p> + Just as he reached the works again, he encountered Enoch Craggs, who was + walking into Manchester. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to our institute,” said Enoch. “I do not know why, but they + have put me on the committee.” + </p> + <p> + “And, I doubt not, they did very wisely,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Master Thornberry was glad to see you?” said Enoch. + </p> + <p> + “And I was glad to see him.” + </p> + <p> + “He has got the gift of speech,” said Enoch. + </p> + <p> + “And that is a great gift.” + </p> + <p> + “If wisely exercised, and I will not say he is not exercising it wisely. + Certainly for his own purpose, but whether that purpose is for the general + good—query?” + </p> + <p> + “He is against monopoly,” observed Endymion inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + “Query again?” said Enoch. + </p> + <p> + “Well; he is opposed to the corn laws.” + </p> + <p> + “The corn laws are very bad laws,” said Enoch, “and the sooner we get rid + of them the better. But there are worse things than the corn laws.” + </p> + <p> + “Hem!” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “There are the money laws,” said Enoch. + </p> + <p> + “I did not know you cared so much about them at Manchester,” said + Endymion. “I thought it was Birmingham that was chiefly interested about + currency.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not care one jot about currency,” said Enoch; “and, so far as I can + judge, the Birmingham chaps talk a deal of nonsense about the matter. + Leastwise, they will never convince me that a slip of irredeemable paper + is as good as the young queen’s head on a twenty-shilling piece. I mean + the laws that secure the accumulation of capital, by which means the real + producers become mere hirelings, and really are little better than + slaves.” + </p> + <p> + “But surely without capital we should all of us be little better than + slaves?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not against capital,” replied Enoch. “What I am against is + capitalists.” + </p> + <p> + “But if we get rid of capitalists we shall soon get rid of capital.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said Enoch, with his broad accent, shaking his head, and with a + laughing eye. “Master Thornberry has been telling you that. He is the most + inveterate capitalist of the whole lot; and I always say, though they keep + aloof from him at present, they will be all sticking to his skirts before + long. Master Thornberry is against the capitalists in land; but there are + other capitalists nearer home, and I know more about them. I was reading a + book the other day about King Charles—Charles the First, whose head + they cut off—I am very liking to that time, and read a good deal + about it; and there was Lord Falkland, a great gentleman in those days, + and he said, when Archbishop Laud was trying on some of his priestly + tricks, that, ‘if he were to have a pope, he would rather the pope were at + Rome than at Lambeth.’ So I sometimes think, if we are to be ruled by + capitalists, I would sooner, perhaps, be ruled by gentlemen of estate, who + have been long among us, than by persons who build big mills, who come + from God knows where, and, when they have worked their millions out of our + flesh and bone, go God knows where. But perhaps we shall get rid of them + all some day—landlords and mill-lords.” + </p> + <p> + “And whom will you substitute for them?” + </p> + <p> + “The producers,” said Enoch, with a glance half savage, half triumphant. + </p> + <p> + “What can workmen do without capital?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, they make the capital,” said Enoch; “and if they make the capital, + is it not strange that they should not be able to contrive some means to + keep the capital? Why, Job was saying the other day that there was nothing + like a principle to work upon. It would carry all before it. So say I. And + I have a principle too, though it is not Master Thornberry’s. But it will + carry all before it, though it may not be in my time. But I am not so sure + of that.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is it?” asked Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “CO-OPERATION.” <a name="link2HCH0064" id="link2HCH0064"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXIV + </h2> + <p> + This strangely-revived acquaintance with Job Thornberry was not an + unfruitful incident in the life of Endymion. Thornberry was a man of + original mind and singular energy; and, although of extreme views on + commercial subjects, all his conclusions were founded on extensive and + various information, combined with no inconsiderable practice. The mind of + Thornberry was essentially a missionary one. He was always ready to + convert people; and he acted with ardour and interest on a youth who, both + by his ability and his social position, was qualified to influence + opinion. But this youth was gifted with a calm, wise judgment, of the + extent and depth of which he was scarcely conscious himself; and + Thornberry, like all propagandists, was more remarkable for his zeal and + his convictions, than for that observation and perception of character + which are the finest elements in the management of men and affairs. + </p> + <p> + “What you should do,” said Thornberry, one day, to Endymion, “is to go to + Scotland; go to the Glasgow district; that city itself, and Paisley, and + Kilmarnock—keep your eye on Paisley. I am much mistaken if there + will not soon be a state of things there which alone will break up the + whole concern. It will burst it, sir; it will burst it.” + </p> + <p> + So Endymion, without saying anything, quietly went to Glasgow and its + district, and noted enough to make him resolve soon to visit there again; + but the cabinet reassembled in the early part of November, and he had to + return to his duties. + </p> + <p> + In his leisure hours, Endymion devoted himself to the preparation of a + report, for Mr. Sidney Wilton, on the condition and prospects of the + manufacturing districts of the North of England, with some illustrative + reference to that of the country beyond the Tweed. He concluded it before + Christmas, and Mr. Wilton took it down with him to Gaydene, to study it at + his leisure. Endymion passed his holidays with Lord and Lady Montfort, at + their southern seat, Princedown. + </p> + <p> + Endymion spoke to Lady Montfort a little about his labours, for he had no + secrets from her; but she did not much sympathise with him, though she + liked him to be sedulous and to distinguish himself. “Only,” she observed, + “take care not to be <i>doctrinaire</i>, Endymion. I am always afraid of + that with you. It is Sidney’s fault; he always was <i>doctrinaire</i>. It + was a great thing for you becoming his private secretary; to be the + private secretary of a cabinet minister is a real step in life, and I + shall always be most grateful to Sidney, whom I love for appointing you; + but still, if I could have had my wish, you should have been Lord + Roehampton’s private secretary. That is real politics, and he is a real + statesman. You must not let Mr. Wilton mislead you about the state of + affairs in the cabinet. The cabinet consists of the prime minister and + Lord Roehampton, and, if they are united, all the rest is vapour. And they + will not consent to any nonsense about touching the corn laws; you may be + sure of that. Besides, I will tell you a secret, which is not yet + Pulchinello’s secret, though I daresay it will be known when we all return + to town—we shall have a great event when parliament meets; a royal + marriage. What think you of that? The young queen is going to be married, + and to a young prince, like a prince in a fairy tale. As Lord Roehampton + wrote to me this morning, ‘Our royal marriage will be much more popular + than the Anti-Corn-Law League.’” + </p> + <p> + The royal marriage was very popular; but, unfortunately, it reflected no + splendour on the ministry. The world blessed the queen and cheered the + prince, but shook its head at the government. Sir Robert Peel also—whether + from his own motive or the irresistible impulse of his party need not now + be inquired into—sanctioned a direct attack on the government, in + the shape of a vote of want of confidence in them, immediately the court + festivities were over, and the attack was defeated by a narrow majority. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing could be more unprincipled,” said Berengaria, “after he had + refused to take office last year. As for our majority, it is, under such + circumstances, twenty times more than we want. As Lord Roehampton says, + one is enough.” + </p> + <p> + Trade and revenue continued to decline. There was again the prospect of a + deficiency. The ministry, too, was kept in by the Irish vote, and the + Irish then were very unpopular. The cabinet itself generally was downcast, + and among themselves occasionally murmured a regret that they had not + retired when the opportunity offered in the preceding year. Berengaria, + however, would not bate an inch of confidence and courage. “You think too + much,” she said to Endymion, “of trade and finance. Trade always comes + back, and finance never ruined a country, or an individual either if he + had pluck. Mr. Sidney Wilton is a croaker. The things he fears will never + happen; or, if they do, will turn out to be unimportant. Look to Lord + Roehampton; he is the man. He does not care a rush whether the revenue + increases or declines. He is thinking of real politics: foreign affairs; + maintaining our power in Europe. Something will happen, before the session + is over, in the Mediterranean;” and she pressed her finger to her lip, and + then she added, “The country will support Lord Roehampton as they + supported Pitt, and give him any amount of taxes that he likes.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, the social world had its incidents as well as the + political, and not less interesting. Not one of the most insignificant, + perhaps, was the introduction into society of the Countess of Beaumaris. + Her husband, sacrificing even his hunting, had come up to town at the + meeting of parliament, and received his friends in a noble mansion on + Piccadilly Terrace. All its equipments were sumptuous and refined, and + everything had been arranged under the personal supervision of Mr. + Waldershare. They commenced very quietly; dinners little but constant, and + graceful and finished as a banquet of Watteau. No formal invitations; men + were brought in to dinner from the House of Lords “just up,” or picked up, + as it were carelessly, in the House of Commons by Mr. Waldershare, or were + asked by Imogene, at a dozen hours’ notice, in billets of irresistible + simplicity. Soon it was whispered about, that the thing to do was to dine + with Beaumaris, and that Lady Beaumaris was “something too delightful.” + Prince Florestan frequently dined there; Waldershare always there, in a + state of coruscation; and every man of fashion in the opposite ranks, + especially if they had brains. + </p> + <p> + Then, in a little time, it was gently hoped that Imogene should call on + their wives and mothers, or their wives and mothers call on her; and then + she received, without any formal invitation, twice a week; and as there + was nothing going on in London, or nothing half so charming, everybody who + was anybody came to Piccadilly Terrace; and so as, after long observation, + a new planet is occasionally discovered by a philosopher, thus society + suddenly and indubitably discovered that there was at last a Tory house. + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton, duly apprised of affairs by her brother, had called on + Lord and Lady Beaumaris, and had invited them to her house. It was the + first appearance of Imogene in general society, and it was successful. Her + large brown eyes, and long black lashes, her pretty mouth and dimple, her + wondrous hair—which, it was whispered, unfolded, touched the ground—struck + every one, and the dignified simplicity of her carriage was attractive. + Her husband never left her side; while Mr. Waldershare was in every part + of the saloons, watching her from distant points, to see how she got on, + or catching the remarks of others on her appearance. Myra was kind to her + as well as courteous, and, when the stream of arriving guests had somewhat + ceased, sought her out and spoke to her; and then put her arm in hers, + walked with her for a moment, and introduced her to one or two great + personages, who had previously intimated their wish or their consent to + that effect. Lady Montfort was not one of these. When parties are equal, + and the struggle for power is intense, society loses much of its sympathy + and softness. Lady Montfort could endure the presence of Tories, provided + they were her kinsfolk, and would join, even at their houses, in + traditionary festivities; but she shrank from passing the line, and at + once had a prejudice against Imogene, who she instinctively felt might + become a power for the enemy. + </p> + <p> + “I will not have you talk so much to that Lady Beaumaris,” she said to + Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “She is an old friend of mine,” he replied. + </p> + <p> + “How could you have known her? She was a shop-girl, was not she, or + something of that sort?” + </p> + <p> + “She and her family were very kind to me when I was not much better than a + shop-boy myself,” replied Endymion, with a mantling cheek. “They are most + respectable people, and I have a great regard for her.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! Well; I will not keep you from your Tory woman,” said Berengaria + rudely; and she walked away. + </p> + <p> + Altogether, this season of ‘40 was not a very satisfactory one in any + respect, as regarded society or the country in general. Party passion was + at its highest. The ministry retained office almost by a casting vote; + were frequently defeated on important questions; and whenever a vacancy + occurred, it was filled by their opponents. Their unpopularity increased + daily, and it was stimulated by the general distress. All that Job + Thornberry had predicted as to the state of manufacturing Scotland duly + occurred. Besides manufacturing distress, they had to encounter a series + of bad harvests. Never was a body of statesmen placed in a more + embarrassing and less enviable position. There was a prevalent, though + unfounded, conviction that they were maintained in power by a combination + of court favour with Irish sedition. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort and Lord Roehampton were the only persons who never lost + heart. She was defiant; and he ever smiled, at least in public. “What + nonsense!” she would say. “Mr. Sidney Wilton talks about the revenue + falling off! As if the revenue could ever really fall off! And then our + bad harvests. Why, that is the very reason we shall have an excellent + harvest this year. You cannot go on always having bad harvests. Besides, + good harvests never make a ministry popular. Nobody thanks a ministry for + a good harvest. What makes a ministry popular is some great <i>coup</i> in + foreign affairs.” + </p> + <p> + Amid all these exciting disquietudes, Endymion pursued a life of + enjoyment, but also of observation and much labour. He lived more and more + with the Montforts, but the friendship of Berengaria was not frivolous. + Though she liked him to be seen where he ought to figure, and required a + great deal of attention herself, she ever impressed on him that his + present life was only a training for a future career, and that his mind + should ever be fixed on the attainment of a high position. Particularly + she impressed on him the importance of being a linguist. “There will be a + reaction some day from all this political economy,” she would say, “and + then there will be no one ready to take the helm.” Endymion was not + unworthy of the inspiring interest which Lady Montfort took in him. The + terrible vicissitudes of his early years had gravely impressed his + character. Though ambitious, he was prudent; and, though born to please + and be pleased, he was sedulous and self-restrained. Though naturally + deeply interested in the fortunes of his political friends, and especially + of Lord Roehampton and Mr. Wilton, a careful scrutiny of existing + circumstances had prepared him for an inevitable change; and, remembering + what was their position but a few years back, he felt that his sister and + himself should be reconciled to their altered lot, and be content. She + would still be a peeress, and the happy wife of an illustrious man; and he + himself, though he would have to relapse into the drudgery of a public + office, would meet duties the discharge of which was once the object of + his ambition, coupled now with an adequate income and with many friends. + </p> + <p> + And among those friends, there were none with whom he maintained his + relations more intimately than with the Neuchatels. He was often their + guest both in town and at Hainault, and he met them frequently in society, + always at the receptions of Lady Montfort and his sister. Zenobia used + sometimes to send him a card; but these condescending recognitions of late + had ceased, particularly as the great dame heard he was “always at that + Lady Beaumaris’s.” One of the social incidents of his circle, not the + least interesting to him, was the close attendance of Adriana and her + mother on the ministrations of Nigel Penruddock. They had become among the + most devoted of his flock; and this, too, when the rapid and startling + development of his sacred offices had so alarmed the easy, though + sagacious, Lord Roehampton, that he had absolutely expressed his wish to + Myra that she should rarely attend them, and, indeed, gradually altogether + drop a habit which might ultimately compromise her. Berengaria had long + ago quitted him. This was attributed to her reputed caprice, yet it was + not so. “I like a man to be practical,” she said. “When I asked for a + deanery for him the other day, the prime minister said he could hardly + make a man a dean who believed in the Real Presence.” Nigel’s church, + however, was more crowded than ever, and a large body of the clergy began + to look upon him as the coming man. + </p> + <p> + Towards the end of the year the “great <i>coup</i> in foreign affairs,” + which Lady Montfort had long brooded over, and indeed foreseen, occurred, + and took the world, who were all thinking of something else, entirely by + surprise. A tripartite alliance of great powers had suddenly started into + life; the Egyptian host was swept from the conquered plains of Asia Minor + and Syria by English blue-jackets; St. Jean d’Acre, which had baffled the + great Napoleon, was bombarded and taken by a British fleet; and the whole + fortunes of the world in a moment seemed changed, and permanently changed. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad it did not occur in the season,” said Zenobia. “I really could + not stand Lady Montfort if it were May.” + </p> + <p> + The ministry was elate, and their Christmas was right merrie. There seemed + good cause for this. It was a triumph of diplomatic skill, national + valour, and administrative energy. Myra was prouder of her husband than + ever, and, amid all the excitement, he smiled on her with sunny fondness. + Everybody congratulated her. She gave a little reception before the + holidays, to which everybody came who was in town or passing through. Even + Zenobia appeared; but she stayed a very short time, talking very rapidly. + Prince Florestan paid his grave devoirs, with a gaze which seemed always + to search into Lady Roehampton’s inmost heart, yet never lingering about + her; and Waldershare, full of wondrous compliments and conceits, and + really enthusiastic, for he ever sympathised with action; and Imogene, + gorgeous with the Beaumaris sapphires; and Sidney Wilton, who kissed his + hostess’s hand, and Adriana, who kissed her cheek. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you what, Mr. Endymion,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “you should make Lord + Roehampton your Chancellor of the Exchequer, and then your government + might perhaps go on a little.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0065" id="link2HCH0065"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXV + </h2> + <p> + But, as Mr. Tadpole observed, with much originality, at the Carlton, they + were dancing on a volcano. It was December, and the harvest was not yet + all got in, the spring corn had never grown, and the wheat was rusty; + there was, he well knew, another deficiency in the revenue, to be counted + by millions; wise men shook their heads and said the trade was leaving the + country, and it was rumoured that the whole population of Paisley lived on + the rates. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Roehampton thinks that something must be done about the corn laws,” + murmured Berengaria one day to Endymion, rather crestfallen; “but they + will try sugar and timber first. I think it all nonsense, but nonsense is + sometimes necessary.” + </p> + <p> + This was the first warning of that famous budget of 1841 which led to such + vast consequences, and which, directly or indirectly, gave such a new form + and colour to English politics. Sidney Wilton and his friends were at + length all-powerful in the cabinet, because, in reality, there was nobody + to oppose them. The vessel was waterlogged. The premier shrugged his + shoulders; and Lord Roehampton said, “We may as well try it, because the + alternative is, we shall have to resign.” + </p> + <p> + Affairs went on badly for the ministry during the early part of the + session. They were more than once in a minority, and on Irish questions, + which then deeply interested the country; but they had resolved that their + fate should be decided by their financial measures, and Mr. Sidney Wilton + and his friends were still sanguine as to the result. On the last day of + April the Chancellor of the Exchequer introduced the budget, and proposed + to provide for the deficiency by reducing the protective duties on sugar + and timber. A few days after, the leader of the House of Commons himself + announced a change in the corn laws, and the intended introduction of + grain at various-priced duties per quarter. + </p> + <p> + Then commenced the struggle of a month. Ultimately, Sir Robert Peel + himself gave notice of a resolution of want of confidence in the ministry; + and after a week’s debate, it was carried, in an almost complete house, by + a majority of one! + </p> + <p> + It was generally supposed that the ministry would immediately resign. + Their new measures had not revived their popularity, and the parliament in + which they had been condemned had been elected under their own advice and + influence. Mr. Sidney Wilton had even told Endymion to get their papers in + order; and all around the somewhat dejected private secretary there were + unmistakable signs of that fatal flitting which is peculiarly sickening to + the youthful politician. + </p> + <p> + He was breakfasting in his rooms at the Albany with not a good appetite. + Although he had for some time contemplated the possibility of such changes—and + contemplated them, as he thought, with philosophy—when it came to + reality and practice, he found his spirit was by no means so calm, or his + courage so firm, as he had counted on. The charms of office arrayed + themselves before him. The social influence, the secret information, the + danger, the dexterity, the ceaseless excitement, the delights of patronage + which everybody affects to disregard, the power of benefiting others, and + often the worthy and unknown which is a real joy—in eight-and-forty + hours or so, all these, to which he had now been used for some time, and + which with his plastic disposition had become a second nature, were to + vanish, and probably never return. Why should they? He took the gloomiest + view of the future, and his inward soul acknowledged that the man the + country wanted was Peel. Why might he not govern as long as Pitt? He + probably would. Peel! his father’s friend! And this led to a train of + painful but absorbing memories, and he sat musing and abstracted, fiddling + with an idle egg-spoon. + </p> + <p> + His servant came in with a note, which he eagerly opened. It ran thus: “I + must see you instantly. I am here in the brougham, Cork Street end. Come + directly. B. M.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion had to walk up half the Albany, and marked the brougham the whole + way. There was in it an eager and radiant face. + </p> + <p> + “You had better get in,” said Lady Montfort, “for in these stirring times + some of the enemy may be passing. And now,” she continued, when the door + was fairly shut, “nobody knows it, not five people. They are going to + dissolve.” + </p> + <p> + “To dissolve!” exclaimed Endymion. “Will that help us?” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely,” said Berengaria. “We have had our share of bad luck, and + now we may throw in. Cheap bread is a fine cry. Indeed it is too shocking + that there should be laws which add to the price of what everybody agrees + is the staff of life. But you do nothing but stare, Endymion; I thought + you would be in a state of the greatest excitement!” + </p> + <p> + “I am rather stunned than excited.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but you must not be stunned, you must act. This is a crisis for our + party, but it is something more for you. It is your climacteric. They may + lose; but you must win, if you will only bestir yourself. See the whips + directly, and get the most certain seat you can. Nothing must prevent your + being in the new parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “I see everything to prevent it,” said Endymion. “I have no means of + getting into parliament—no means of any kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Means must be found,” said Lady Montfort. “We cannot stop now to talk + about means. That would be a mere waste of time. The thing must be done. I + am now going to your sister, to consult with her. All you have got to do + is to make up your mind that you will be in the next parliament, and you + will succeed; for everything in this world depends upon will.” + </p> + <p> + “I think everything in this world depends upon woman,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “It is the same thing,” said Berengaria. + </p> + <p> + Adriana was with Lady Roehampton when Lady Montfort was announced. + </p> + <p> + Adriana came to console; but she herself was not without solace, for, if + there were a change of government, she would see more of her friend. + </p> + <p> + “Well; I was prepared for it,” said Lady Roehampton. “I have always been + expecting something ever since what they called the Bed-Chamber Plot.” + </p> + <p> + “Well; it gave us two years,” said Lady Montfort; “and we are not out + yet.” + </p> + <p> + Here were three women, young, beautiful, and powerful, and all friends of + Endymion—real friends. Property does not consist merely of parks and + palaces, broad acres, funds in many forms, services of plate, and + collections of pictures. The affections of the heart are property, and the + sympathy of the right person is often worth a good estate. + </p> + <p> + These three charming women were cordial, and embraced each other when they + met; but the conversation flagged, and the penetrating eye of Myra read in + the countenance of Lady Montfort the urgent need of confidence. + </p> + <p> + “So, dearest Adriana,” said Lady Roehampton, “we will drive out together + at three o’clock. I will call on you.” And Adriana disappeared. + </p> + <p> + “You know it?” said Lady Montfort when they were alone. “Of course you + know it. Besides, I know you know it. What I have come about is this; your + brother must be in the new parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not seen him; I have not mentioned it to him,” said Myra, somewhat + hesitatingly. + </p> + <p> + “I have seen him; I have mentioned it to him,” said Lady Montfort + decidedly. “He makes difficulties; there must be none. He will consult + you. I came on at once that you might be prepared. No difficulty must be + admitted. His future depends on it.” + </p> + <p> + “I live for his future,” said Lady Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “He will talk to you about money. These things always cost money. As a + general rule, nobody has money who ought to have it. I know dear Lord + Roehampton is very kind to you; but, all his life, he never had too much + money at his command; though why, I never could make out. And my lord has + always had too much money; but I do not much care to talk to him about + these affairs. The thing must be done. What is the use of a diamond + necklace if you cannot help a friend into parliament? But all I want to + know now is that you will throw no difficulties in his way. Help him, too, + if you can.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish Endymion had married,” replied Myra. + </p> + <p> + “Well; I do not see how that would help affairs,” said Lady Montfort. + “Besides, I dislike married men. They are very uninteresting.” + </p> + <p> + “I mean, I wish,” said Lady Roehampton musingly, “that he had made a great + match.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not very easy,” said Lady Montfort, “and great matches are + generally failures. All the married heiresses I have known have + shipwrecked.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet it is possible to marry an heiress and love her,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “It is possible, but very improbable.” + </p> + <p> + “I think one might easily love the person who has just left the room.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Neuchatel?” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana. Do not you agree with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Neuchatel will never marry,” said Lady Montfort, “unless she loses + her fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “Well; do you know, I have sometimes thought that she liked Endymion? I + never could encourage such a feeling; and Endymion, I am sure, would not. + I wish, I almost wish,” added Lady Roehampton, trying to speak with + playfulness, “that you would use your magic influence, dear Lady Montfort, + and bring it about. He would soon get into parliament then.” + </p> + <p> + “I have tried to marry Miss Neuchatel once,” said Lady Montfort, with a + mantling cheek, “and I am glad to say I did not succeed. My match-making + is over.” + </p> + <p> + There was a dead silence; one of those still moments which almost seem + inconsistent with life, certainly with the presence of more than one human + being. Lady Roehampton seemed buried in deep thought. She was quite + abstracted, her eyes fixed, and fixed upon the ground. All the history of + her life passed through her brain—all the history of their lives; + from the nursery to this proud moment, proud even with all its searching + anxiety. And yet the period of silence could be counted almost by seconds. + Suddenly she looked up with a flushed cheek and a dazed look, and said, + “It must be done.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort sprang forward with a glance radiant with hope and energy, + and kissed her on both cheeks. “Dearest Lady Roehampton,” she exclaimed, + “dearest Myra! I knew you would agree with me. Yes! it must be done.” + </p> + <p> + “You will see him perhaps before I do?” inquired Myra rather hesitatingly. + </p> + <p> + “I see him every day at the same time,” replied Lady Montfort. “He + generally walks down to the House of Commons with Mr. Wilton, and when + they have answered questions, and he has got all the news of the lobby, he + comes to me. I always manage to get home from my drive to give him half an + hour before dinner.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0066" id="link2HCH0066"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXVI + </h2> + <p> + Lady Montfort drove off to the private residence of the Secretary of the + Treasury, who was of course in the great secret. She looked over his + lists, examined his books, and seemed to have as much acquaintance with + electioneering details as that wily and experienced gentleman himself. “Is + there anything I can do?” she repeatedly inquired; “command me without + compunction. Is it any use giving any parties? Can I write any letters? + Can I see anybody?” + </p> + <p> + “If you could stir up my lord a little?” said the secretary inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is difficult,” said Lady Montfort, “perhaps impossible. But + you have all his influence, and when there is a point that presses you + must let me know.” + </p> + <p> + “If he would only speak to his agents?” said the secretary, “but they say + he will not, and he has a terrible fellow in ——shire, who I + hear is one of the stewards for a dinner to Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “I have stopped all that,” said Lady Montfort. “That was Odo’s doing, who + is himself not very sound; full of prejudices about O’Connell, and all + that stuff. But he must go with his party. You need not fear about him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! it is a leap in the dark,” said the secretary. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! no,” said Lady Montfort, “all will go right. A starving people must + be in favour of a government who will give them bread for nothing. By the + by, there is one thing, my dear Mr. Secretary, you must remember. I must + have one seat, a certain seat, reserved for my nomination.” + </p> + <p> + “A certain seat in these days is a rare gem,” said the secretary. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I must have it nevertheless,” said Lady Montfort. “I don’t care + about the cost or the trouble—but it must be certain.” + </p> + <p> + Then she went home and wrote a line to Endymion, to tell him that it was + all settled, that she had seen his sister, who agreed with her that it + must be done, and that she had called on the Secretary of the Treasury, + and had secured a certain seat. “I wish you could come to luncheon,” she + added, “but I suppose that is impossible; you are always so busy. Why were + you not in the Foreign Office? I am now going to call on the Tory women to + see how they look, but I shall be at home a good while before seven, and + of course count on seeing you.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, Endymion by no means shared the pleasurable excitement of + his fair friend. His was an agitated walk from the Albany to Whitehall, + where he resumed his duties moody and disquieted. There was a large + correspondence this morning, which was a distraction and a relief, until + the bell of Mr. Sidney Wilton sounded, and he was in attendance on his + chief. + </p> + <p> + “It is a great secret,” said Mr. Wilton, “but I think I ought to tell you; + instead of resigning, the government have decided to dissolve. I think it + a mistake, but I stand by my friends. They believe the Irish vote will be + very large, and with cheap bread will carry us through. I think the + stronger we shall be in Ireland the weaker we shall be in England, and I + doubt whether our cheap bread will be cheap enough. These Manchester + associations have altered the aspect of affairs. I have been thinking a + good deal about your position. I should like, before we broke up, to have + seen you provided for by some permanent office of importance in which you + might have been useful to the state, but it is difficult to manage these + things suddenly. However, now we have time at any rate to look about us. + Still, if I could have seen you permanently attached to this office in a + responsible position, I should have been glad. I impressed upon the chief + yesterday that you are most fit for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! do not think of me, dear sir; you have been always too kind to me. I + shall be content with my lot. All I shall regret is ceasing to serve you.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort’s carriage drove up to Montfort House just as Endymion + reached the door. She took his arm with eagerness; she seemed breathless + with excitement. “I fear I am very late, but if you had gone away I should + never have pardoned you. I have been kept by listening to all the new + appointments from Lady Bellasyse. They quite think we are out; you may be + sure I did not deny it. I have so much to tell you. Come into my lord’s + room; he is away fishing. Think of fishing at such a crisis! I cannot tell + you how pleased I was with my visit to Lady Roehampton. She quite agreed + with me in everything. ‘It must be done,’ she said. How very right! and I + have almost done it. I will have a certain seat; no chances. Let us have + something to fall back upon. If not in office we shall be in opposition. + All men must sometime or other be in opposition. There you will form + yourself. It is a great thing to have had some official experience. It + will save you from mares’ nests, and I will give parties without end, and + never rest till I see you prime minister.” + </p> + <p> + So she threw herself into her husband’s easy chair, tossed her parasol on + the table, and then she said, “But what is the matter with you, Endymion? + you look quite sad. You do not mean you really take our defeat—which + is not certain yet—so much to heart. Believe me, opposition has its + charms; indeed, I sometimes think the principal reason why I have enjoyed + our ministerial life so much is, that it has been from the first a + perpetual struggle for existence.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not pretend to be quite indifferent to the probably impending + change,” said Endymion, “but I cannot say there is anything about it which + would affect my feelings very deeply.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, then?” + </p> + <p> + “It is this business about which you and Myra are so kindly interesting + yourselves,” said Endymion with some emotion; “I do not think I could go + into parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “Not go into parliament!” exclaimed Lady Montfort. “Why, what are men made + for except to go into parliament? I am indeed astounded.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not disparage parliament,” said Endymion; “much the reverse. It is a + life that I think would suit me, and I have often thought the day might + come”—— + </p> + <p> + “The day has come,” said Lady Montfort, “and not a bit too soon. Mr. Fox + went in before he was of age, and all young men of spirit should do the + same. Why! you are two-and-twenty!” + </p> + <p> + “It is not my age,” said Endymion hesitatingly; “I am not afraid about + that, for from the life which I have led of late years, I know a good deal + about the House of Commons.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what is it, dear Endymion?” said Lady Montfort impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “It will make a great change in my life,” said Endymion calmly, but with + earnestness, “and one which I do not feel justified in accepting.” + </p> + <p> + “I repeat to you, that you need give yourself no anxiety about the seat,” + said Lady Montfort. “It will not cost you a shilling. I and your sister + have arranged all that. As she very wisely said, ‘It must be done,’ and it + is done. All you have to do is to write an address, and make plenty of + speeches, and you are M.P. for life, or as long as you like.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly; a parliamentary adventurer, I might swim or I might sink; the + chances are it would be the latter, for storms would arise, when those + disappear who have no root in the country, and no fortune to secure them + breathing time and a future.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I did not expect, when you handed me out of my carriage to-day, + that I was going to listen to a homily on prudence.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not very romantic, I own,” said Endymion, “but my prudence is at + any rate not a commonplace caught up from copy-books. I am only + two-and-twenty, but I have had some experience, and it has been very + bitter. I have spoken to you, dearest lady, sometimes of my earlier life, + for I wished you to be acquainted with it, but I observed also you always + seemed to shrink from such confidence, and I ceased from touching on what + I saw did not interest you.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite a mistake. It greatly interested me. I know all about you and + everything. I know you were not always a clerk in a public office, but the + spoiled child of splendour. I know your father was a dear good man, but he + made a mistake, and followed the Duke of Wellington instead of Mr. + Canning. Had he not, he would probably be alive now, and certainly + Secretary of State, like Mr. Sidney Wilton. But <i>you</i> must not make a + mistake, Endymion. My business in life, and your sister’s too, is to + prevent your making mistakes. And you are on the eve of making a very + great one if you lose this golden opportunity. Do not think of the past; + you dwell on it too much. Be like me, live in the present, and when you + dream, dream of the future.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! the present would be adequate, it would be fascination, if I always + had such a companion as Lady Montfort,” said Endymion, shaking his head. + “What surprises me most, what indeed astounds me, is that Myra should join + in this counsel—Myra, who knows all, and who has felt it perhaps + deeper even than I did. But I will not obtrude these thoughts on you, best + and dearest of friends. I ought not to have made to you the allusions to + my private position which I have done, but it seemed to me the only way to + explain my conduct, otherwise inexplicable.” + </p> + <p> + “And to whom ought you to say these things if not to me,” said Lady + Montfort, “whom you called just now your best and dearest friend? I wish + to be such to you. Perhaps I have been too eager, but, at any rate, it was + eagerness for your welfare. Let us then be calm. Speak to me as you would + to Myra. I cannot be your twin, but I can be your sister in feeling.” + </p> + <p> + He took her hand and gently pressed it to his lips; his eyes would have + been bedewed, had not the dreadful sorrows and trials of his life much + checked his native susceptibility. Then speaking in a serious tone, he + said, “I am not without ambition, dearest Lady Montfort; I have had + visions which would satisfy even you; but partly from my temperament, + still more perhaps from the vicissitudes of my life, I have considerable + waiting powers. I think if one is patient and watches, all will come of + which one is capable; but no one can be patient who is not independent. My + wants are moderate, but their fulfilment must be certain. The break-up of + the government, which deprives me of my salary as a private secretary, + deprives me of luxuries which I can do without—a horse, a brougham, + a stall at the play, a flower in my button-hole—but my clerkship is + my freehold. As long as I possess it, I can study, I can work, I can watch + and comprehend all the machinery of government. I can move in society, + without which a public man, whatever his talents or acquirements, is in + life playing at blind-man’s buff. I must sacrifice this citadel of my life + if I go into parliament. Do not be offended, therefore, if I say to you, + as I shall say to Myra, I have made up my mind not to surrender it. It is + true I have the misfortune to be a year older than Charles Fox when he + entered the senate, but even with this great disadvantage I am sometimes + conceited enough to believe that I shall succeed, and to back myself + against the field.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0067" id="link2HCH0067"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXVII + </h2> + <p> + Mr. Waldershare was delighted when the great secret was out, and he found + that the ministry intended to dissolve, and not resign. It was on a Monday + that Lord John Russell made this announcement, and Waldershare met + Endymion in the lobby of the House of Commons. “I congratulate you, my + dear boy; your fellows, at least, have pluck. If they lose, which I think + they will, they will have gained at least three months of power, and + irresponsible power. Why! they may do anything in the interval, and no + doubt will. You will see; they will make their chargers consuls. It beats + the Bed-Chamber Plot, and I always admired that. One hundred days! Why, + the Second Empire lasted only one hundred days. But what days! what + excitement! They were worth a hundred years at Elba.” + </p> + <p> + “Your friends do not seem quite so pleased as you are,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “My friends, as you call them, are old fogies, and want to divide the + spoil among the ancient hands. It will be a great thing for Peel to get + rid of some of these old friends. A dissolution permits the powerful to + show their power. There is Beaumaris, for example; now he will have an + opportunity of letting them know who Lord Beaumaris is. I have a dream; he + must be Master of the Horse. I shall never rest till I see Imogene riding + in that golden coach, and breaking the line with all the honours of + royalty.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Ferrars,” said the editor of a newspaper, seizing his watched-for + opportunity as Waldershare and Endymion separated, “do you think you could + favour me this evening with Mr. Sidney Wilton’s address? We have always + supported Mr. Wilton’s views on the corn laws, and if put clearly and + powerfully before the country at this junction, the effect might be great, + perhaps even, if sustained, decisive.” + </p> + <p> + Eight-and-forty hours and more had elapsed since the conversation between + Endymion and Lady Montfort; they had not been happy days. For the first + time during their acquaintance there had been constraint and embarrassment + between them. Lady Montfort no longer opposed his views, but she did not + approve them. She avoided the subject; she looked uninterested in all that + was going on around her; talked of joining her lord and going a-fishing; + felt he was right in his views of life. “Dear Simon was always right,” and + then she sighed, and then she shrugged her pretty shoulders. Endymion, + though he called on her as usual, found there was nothing to converse + about; politics seemed tacitly forbidden, and when he attempted small talk + Lady Montfort seemed absent—and once absolutely yawned. + </p> + <p> + What amazed Endymion still more was, that, under these rather distressing + circumstances, he did not find adequate support and sympathy in his + sister. Lady Roehampton did not question the propriety of his decision, + but she seemed quite as unhappy and as dissatisfied as Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “What you say, dearest Endymion, is quite unanswerable, and I alone + perhaps can really know that; but what I feel is, I have failed in life. + My dream was to secure you greatness, and now, when the first occasion + arrives, it seems I am more than powerless.” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest sister! you have done so much for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” said Lady Roehampton; “what I have done for you would have been + done by every sister in this metropolis. I dreamed of other things; I + fancied, with my affection and my will, I could command events, and place + you on a pinnacle. I see my folly now; others have controlled your life, + not I—as was most natural; natural, but still bitter.” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest Myra!” + </p> + <p> + “It is so, Endymion. Let us deceive ourselves no longer. I ought not to + have rested until you were in a position which would have made you a + master of your destiny.” + </p> + <p> + “But if there should be such a thing as destiny, it will not submit to the + mastery of man.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not split words with me; you know what I mean; you feel what I mean; I + mean much more than I say, and you understand much more than I say. My + lord told me to ask you to dine with us, if you called, but I will not ask + you. There is no joy in meeting at present. I feel as I felt in our last + year at Hurstley.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! don’t say that, dear Myra!” and Endymion sprang forward and kissed + her very much. “Trust me; all will come right; a little patience, and all + will come right.” + </p> + <p> + “I have had patience enough in life,” said Lady Roehampton; “years of + patience, the most doleful, the most dreary, the most dark and tragical. + And I bore it all, and I bore it well, because I thought of you, and had + confidence in you, and confidence in your star; and because, like an + idiot, I had schooled myself to believe that, if I devoted my will to you, + that star would triumph.” + </p> + <p> + So, the reader will see, that our hero was not in a very serene and genial + mood when he was buttonholed by the editor in the lobby, and, it is + feared, he was unusually curt with that gentleman, which editors do not + like, and sometimes reward with a leading article in consequence, on the + character and career of our political chief, perhaps with some passing + reference to jacks-in-office, and the superficial impertinence of private + secretaries. These wise and amiable speculators on public affairs should, + however, sometimes charitably remember that even ministers have their + chagrins, and that the trained temper and imperturbable presence of mind + of their aides-de-camp are not absolutely proof to all the infirmities of + human nature. + </p> + <p> + Endymion had returned home from the lobby, depressed and dispirited. The + last incident of our life shapes and colours our feelings. Ever since he + had settled in London, his life might be said to have been happy, + gradually and greatly prosperous. The devotion of his sister and the + eminent position she had achieved, the friendship of Lady Montfort, and + the kindness of society, who had received him with open arms, his easy + circumstances after painful narrowness of means, his honourable and + interesting position—these had been the chief among many other + causes which had justly rendered Endymion Ferrars a satisfied and + contented man. And it was more than to be hoped that not one of these + sources would be wanting in his future. And yet he felt dejected, even to + unhappiness. Myra figured to his painful consciousness only as deeply + wounded in her feelings, and he somehow the cause; Lady Montfort, from + whom he had never received anything but smiles and inspiring kindness, and + witty raillery, and affectionate solicitude for his welfare, offended and + estranged. And as for society, perhaps it would make a great difference in + his position if he were no longer a private secretary to a cabinet + minister and only a simple clerk; he could not, even at this melancholy + moment, dwell on his impending loss of income, though that increase at the + time had occasioned him, and those who loved him, so much satisfaction. + And yet was he in fault? Had his decision been a narrow-minded and craven + one? He could not bring himself to believe so—his conscience assured + him that he had acted rightly. After all that he had experienced, he was + prepared to welcome an obscure, but could not endure a humiliating + position. + </p> + <p> + It was a long summer evening. The House had not sat after the announcement + of the ministers. The twilight lingered with a charm almost as + irresistible as among woods and waters. Endymion had been engaged to dine + out, but had excused himself. Had it not been for the Montfort + misunderstanding, he would have gone; but that haunted him. He had not + called on her that day; he really had not courage to meet her. He was + beginning to think that he might never see her again; never, certainly, on + the same terms. She had the reputation of being capricious, though she had + been constant in her kindness to him. Never see her again, or only see her + changed! He was not aware of the fulness of his misery before; he was not + aware, until this moment, that unless he saw her every day life would be + intolerable. + </p> + <p> + He sat down at his table, covered with notes in every female handwriting + except the right one, and with cards of invitation to banquets and balls + and concerts, and “very earlies,” and carpet dances—for our friend + was a very fashionable young man—but what is the use of even being + fashionable, if the person you love cares for you no more? And so out of + very wantonness, instead of opening notes sealed or stamped with every + form of coronet, he took up a business-like epistle, closed only with a + wafer, and saying in drollery, “I should think a dun,” he took out a + script receipt for 20,000 pounds consols, purchased that morning in the + name of Endymion Ferrars, Esq. It was enclosed in half a sheet of + note-paper, on which were written these words, in a handwriting which gave + no clue of acquaintanceship, or even sex: “Mind—you are to send me + your first frank.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0068" id="link2HCH0068"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXVIII + </h2> + <p> + It was useless to ask who could it be? It could only be one person; and + yet how could it have been managed? So completely and so promptly! Her + lord, too, away; the only being, it would seem, who could have effected + for her such a purpose, and he the last individual to whom, perhaps, she + would have applied. Was it a dream? The long twilight was dying away, and + it dies away in the Albany a little sooner than it does in Park Lane; and + so he lit the candles on his mantel-piece, and then again unfolded the + document carefully, and read it and re-read it. It was not a dream. He + held in his hand firmly, and read with his eyes clearly, the evidence that + he was the uncontrolled master of no slight amount of capital, and which, + if treated with prudence, secured to him for life an absolute and becoming + independence. His heart beat and his cheek glowed. + </p> + <p> + What a woman! And how true were Myra’s last words at Hurstley, that women + would be his best friends in life! He ceased to think; and, dropping into + his chair, fell into a reverie, in which the past and the future seemed to + blend, with some mingling of a vague and almost ecstatic present. It was a + dream of fair women, and even fairer thoughts, domestic tenderness and + romantic love, mixed up with strange vicissitudes of lofty and fiery + action, and passionate passages of eloquence and power. The clock struck + and roused him from his musing. He fell from the clouds. Could he accept + this boon? Was his doing so consistent with that principle of independence + on which he had resolved to build up his life? The boon thus conferred + might be recalled and returned; not legally indeed, but by a stronger + influence than any law—the consciousness on his part that the + feeling of interest in his life which had prompted it might change—would, + must change. It was the romantic impulse of a young and fascinating woman, + who had been to him invariably kind, but who had a reputation for caprice, + which was not unknown to him. It was a wild and beautiful adventure; but + only that. + </p> + <p> + He walked up and down his rooms for a long time, sometimes thinking, + sometimes merely musing; sometimes in a pleased but gently agitated state + of almost unconsciousness. At last he sate down at his writing-table, and + wrote for some time; and then directing the letter to the Countess of + Montfort, he resolved to change the current of his thoughts, and went to a + club. + </p> + <p> + Morning is not romantic. Romance is the twilight spell; but morn is bright + and joyous, prompt with action, and full of sanguine hope. Life has few + difficulties in the morning, at least, none which we cannot conquer; and a + private secretary to a minister, young and prosperous, at his first meal, + surrounded by dry toast, all the newspapers, and piles of correspondence, + asking and promising everything, feels with pride and delight the sense of + powerful and responsible existence. Endymion had glanced at all the + leading articles, had sorted in the correspondence the grain from the + chaff, and had settled in his mind those who must be answered and those + who must be seen. The strange incident of last night was of course not + forgotten, but removed, as it were, from his consciousness in the bustle + and pressure of active life, when his servant brought him a letter in a + handwriting he knew right well. He would not open it till he was alone, + and then it was with a beating heart and a burning cheek. + </p> + <p> + LADY MONTFORT’S LETTER + </p> + <p> + “What is it all about? and what does it all mean? I should have thought + some great calamity had occurred if, however distressing, it did not + appear in some sense to be gratifying. What is gratifying? You deal in + conundrums, which I never could find out. Of course I shall be at home to + you at any time, if you wish to see me. Pray come on at once, as I detest + mysteries. I went to the play last night with your sister. We both of us + rather expected to see you, but it seems neither of us had mentioned to + you we were going. I did not, for I was too low-spirited about your + affairs. You lost nothing. The piece was stupid beyond expression. We + laughed heartily, at least I did, to show we were not afraid. My lord came + home last night suddenly. Odo is going to stand for the county, and his + borough is vacant. What an opportunity it would have been for you! a + certain seat. But I care for no boroughs now. My lord will want you to + dine with him to-day; I hope you can come. Perhaps he will not be able to + see you this morning, as his agent will be with him about these elections. + Adieu!” + </p> + <p> + If Lady Montfort did not like conundrums, she had succeeded, however, in + sending one sufficiently perplexing to Endymion. Could it be possible that + the writer of this letter was the unknown benefactress of the preceding + eve? Lady Montfort was not a mystifier. Her nature was singularly frank + and fearless, and when Endymion told her everything that had occurred, and + gave her the document which originally he had meant to bring with him in + order to return it, her amazement and her joy were equal. + </p> + <p> + “I wish I had sent it,” said Lady Montfort, “but that was impossible. I do + not care who did send it; I have no female curiosity except about matters + which, by knowledge, I may influence. This is finished. You are free. You + cannot hesitate as to your course. I never could speak to you again if you + did hesitate. Stop here, and I will go to my lord. This is a great day. If + we can settle only to-day that you shall be the candidate for our borough, + I really shall not much care for the change of ministry.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort was a long time away. Endymion would have liked to have gone + forth on his affairs, but she had impressed upon him so earnestly to wait + for her return that he felt he could not retire. The room was one to which + he was not unaccustomed, otherwise, its contents would not have been + uninteresting; her portrait by more than one great master, a miniature of + her husband in a Venetian dress upon her writing-table—a table which + wonderfully indicated alike the lady of fashion and the lady of business, + for there seemed to be no form in which paper could be folded and + emblazoned which was there wanting; quires of letter paper, and note + paper, and notelet paper, from despatches of state to billet-doux, all + were ready; great covers with arms and supporters, more moderate ones with + “Berengaria” in letters of glittering fancy, and the destined shells of + diminutive effusions marked only with a golden bee. There was another + table covered with trinkets and precious toys; snuff-boxes and patch-boxes + beautifully painted, exquisite miniatures, rare fans, cups of agate, birds + glittering with gems almost as radiant as the tropic plumage they + imitated, wild animals cut out of ivory, or formed of fantastic pearls—all + the spoils of queens and royal mistresses. + </p> + <p> + Upon the walls were drawings of her various homes; that of her childhood, + as well as of the hearths she ruled and loved. There were a few portraits + on the walls also of those whom she ranked as her particular friends. Lord + Roehampton was one, another was the Count of Ferroll. + </p> + <p> + Time went on; on a little table, by the side of evidently her favourite + chair, was a book she had been reading. It was a German tale of fame, and + Endymion, dropping into her seat, became interested in a volume which + hitherto he had never seen, but of which he had heard much. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps he had been reading for some time; there was a sound, he started + and looked up, and then, springing from his chair, he said, “Something has + happened!” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort was quite pale, and the expression of her countenance + distressed, but when he said these words she tried to smile, and said, + “No, no, nothing, nothing,—at least nothing to distress you. My lord + hopes you will be able to dine with him to-day, and tell him all the + news.” And then she threw herself into a chair and sighed. “I should like + to have a good cry, as the servants say—but I never could cry. I + will tell you all about it in a moment. You were very good not to go.” + </p> + <p> + It seems that Lady Montfort saw her lord before the agent, who was + waiting, had had his interview, and the opportunity being in every way + favourable, she felt the way about obtaining his cousin’s seat for + Endymion. Lord Montfort quite embraced this proposal. It had never + occurred to him. He had no idea that Ferrars contemplated parliament. It + was a capital idea. He could not bear reading the parliament reports, and + yet he liked to know a little of what was going on. Now, when anything + happened of interest, he should have it all from the fountain-head. “And + you must tell him, Berengaria,” he continued, “that he can come and dine + here whenever he likes, in boots. It is a settled thing that M.P.‘s may + dine in boots. I think it a most capital plan. Besides, I know it will + please you. You will have your own member.” + </p> + <p> + Then he rang the bell, and begged Lady Montfort to remain and see the + agent. Nothing like the present time for business. They would make all the + arrangements at once, and he would ask the agent to dine with them to-day, + and so meet Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + So the agent entered, and it was all explained to him, calmly and clearly, + briefly by my lord, but with fervent amplification by his charming wife. + The agent several times attempted to make a remark, but for some time he + was unsuccessful; Lady Montfort was so anxious that he should know all + about Mr. Ferrars, the most rising young man of the day, the son of the + Right Honourable William Pitt Ferrars, who, had he not died, would + probably have been prime minister, and so on. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Ferrars seems to be everything we could wish,” said the agent, “and + as you say, my lady, though he is young, so was Mr. Pitt, and I have + little doubt, after what you say, my lady, that it is very likely he will + in time become as eminent. But what I came up to town particularly to + impress upon my lord is, that if Mr. Odo will not stand again, we are in a + very great difficulty.” + </p> + <p> + “Difficulty about what?” said Lady Montfort impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my lady, if Mr. Odo stands, there is great respect for him. The + other side would not disturb him. He has been member for some years, and + my lord has been very liberal. But the truth is, if Mr. Odo does not + stand, we cannot command the seat.” + </p> + <p> + “Not command the seat! Then our interest must have been terribly + neglected.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not, my lady,” said the agent. “The fact is, the property is + against us.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought it was all my lord’s.” + </p> + <p> + “No, my lady; the strong interest in the borough is my Lord Beaumaris. It + used to be about equal, but all the new buildings are in Lord Beaumaris’ + part of the borough. It would not have signified if things had remained as + in the old days. The grandfather of the present lord was a Whig, and + always supported the Montforts, but that’s all changed. The present earl + has gone over to the other side, and, I hear, is very strong in his + views.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort had to communicate all this to Endymion. “You will meet the + agent at dinner, but he did not give me a ray of hope. Go now; indeed, I + have kept you too long. I am so stricken that I can scarcely command my + senses. Only think of our borough being stolen from us by Lord Beaumaris! + I have brought you no luck, Endymion; I have done you nothing but + mischief; I am miserable. If you had attached yourself to Lady Beaumaris, + you might have been a member of parliament.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0069" id="link2HCH0069"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXIX + </h2> + <p> + In the meantime, the great news being no longer a secret, the utmost + excitement prevailed in the world of politics. The Tories had quite made + up their minds that the ministry would have resigned, and were sanguine, + under such circumstances, of the result. The parliament, which the + ministry was going to dissolve, was one which had been elected by their + counsel and under their auspices. It was unusual, almost unconstitutional, + thus to terminate the body they had created. Nevertheless, the Whigs, + never too delicate in such matters, thought they had a chance, and + determined not to lose it. One thing they immediately succeeded in, and + that was, frightening their opponents. A dissolution with the Tories in + opposition was not pleasant to that party; but a dissolution with a cry of + “Cheap bread!” amid a partially starving population, was not exactly the + conjuncture of providential circumstances which had long been watched and + wished for, and cherished and coddled and proclaimed and promised, by the + energetic army of Conservative wire-pullers. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Tadpole was very restless at the crowded Carlton, speaking to every + one, unhesitatingly answering every question, alike cajoling and + dictatorial, and yet, all the time, watching the door of the morning room + with unquiet anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “They will never be able to get up the steam, Sir Thomas; the Chartists + are against them. The Chartists will never submit to anything that is + cheap. In spite of their wild fancies, they are real John Bulls. I beg + your pardon, but I see a gentleman I must speak to,” and he rushed towards + the door as Waldershare entered. + </p> + <p> + “Well, what is your news?” asked Mr. Tadpole, affecting unconcern. + </p> + <p> + “I come here for news,” said Waldershare. “This is my Academus, and you, + Tadpole, are my Plato.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you want the words of a wise man, listen to me. If I had a great + friend, which Mr. Waldershare probably has, who wants a great place, these + are times in which such a man should show his power.” + </p> + <p> + “I have a great friend whom I wish to have a great place,” said + Waldershare, “and I think he is quite ready to show his power, if he knew + exactly how to exercise it.” + </p> + <p> + “What I am saying to you is not known to a single person in this room, and + to only one out of it, but you may depend upon what I say. Lord Montfort’s + cousin retires from Northborough to sit for the county. They think they + can nominate his successor as a matter of course. A delusion; your friend + Lord Beaumaris can command the seat.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think you can depend on Beaumaris,” said Waldershare, much + interested. + </p> + <p> + “I depend upon you,” said Mr. Tadpole, with a glance of affectionate + credulity. “The party already owes you much. This will be a crowning + service.” + </p> + <p> + “Beaumaris is rather a queer man to deal with,” said Waldershare; “he + requires gentle handling.” + </p> + <p> + “All the world says he consults you on everything.” + </p> + <p> + “All the world, as usual, is wrong,” said Waldershare. “Lord Beaumaris + consults no one except Lady Beaumaris.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then we shall do,” rejoined Mr. Tadpole triumphantly. “Our man that + I want him to return is a connection of Lady Beaumaris, a Mr. Rodney, very + anxious to get into parliament, and rich. I do not know who he is exactly, + but it is a good name; say a cousin of Lord Rodney until the election is + over, and then they may settle it as they like.” + </p> + <p> + “A Mr. Rodney,” said Waldershare musingly; “well, if I hear anything I + will let you know. I suppose you are in pretty good spirits?” + </p> + <p> + “I should like a little sunshine. A cold spring, and now a wet summer, and + the certainty of a shocking harvest combined with manufacturing distress + spreading daily, is not pleasant, but the English are a discriminating + people. They will hardly persuade them that Sir Robert has occasioned the + bad harvests.” + </p> + <p> + “The present men are clearly responsible for all that,” said Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + There was a reception at Lady Roehampton’s this evening. Very few Tories + attended it, but Lady Beaumaris was there. She never lost an opportunity + of showing by her presence how grateful she was to Myra for the kindness + which had greeted Imogene when she first entered society. Endymion, as was + his custom when the opportunity offered, rather hung about Lady Beaumaris. + She always welcomed him with unaffected cordiality and evident pleasure. + He talked to her, and then gave way to others, and then came and talked to + her again, and then he proposed to take her to have a cup of tea, and she + assented to the proposal with a brightening eye and a bewitching smile. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose your friends are very triumphant, Lady Beaumaris?” said + Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; they naturally are very excited. I confess I am not myself.” + </p> + <p> + “But you ought to be,” said Endymion. “You will have an immense position. + I should think Lord Beaumaris would have any office he chose, and yours + will be the chief house of the party.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know that Lord Beaumaris would care to have office, and I hardly + think any office would suit him. As for myself, I am obliged to be + ambitious, but I have no ambition, or rather I would say, I think I was + happier when we all seemed to be on the same side.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, those were happy days,” said Endymion, “and these are happy days. + And few things make me happier than to see Lady Beaumaris admired and + appreciated by every one.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would not call me Lady Beaumaris. That may be, and indeed + perhaps is, necessary in society, but when we are alone, I prefer being + called by a name which once you always and kindly used.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall always love the name,” said Endymion, “and,” he added with some + hesitation, “shall always love her who bears it.” + </p> + <p> + She involuntarily pressed his arm, though very slightly; and then in + rather a hushed and hurried tone she said, “They were talking about you at + dinner to-day. I fear this change of government, if there is to be one, + will be injurious to you—losing your private secretaryship to Mr. + Wilton, and perhaps other things?” + </p> + <p> + “Fortune of war,” said Endymion; “we must bear these haps. But the truth + is, I think it is not unlikely that there may be a change in my life which + may be incompatible with retaining my secretaryship under any + circumstances.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not going to be married?” she said quickly. + </p> + <p> + “Not the slightest idea of such an event.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too young to marry.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am older than you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but men and women are different in that matter. Besides, you have + too many fair friends to marry, at least at present. What would Lady + Roehampton say?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have sometimes thought my sister wished me to marry.” + </p> + <p> + “But then there are others who are not sisters, but who are equally + interested in your welfare,” said Lady Beaumaris, looking up into his face + with her wondrous eyes; but the lashes were so long, that it was + impossible to decide whether the glance was an anxious one or one half of + mockery. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not think I shall ever marry,” said Endymion. “The change in + my life I was alluding to is one by no means of a romantic character. I + have some thoughts of trying my luck on the hustings, and getting into + parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be delightful,” said Lady Beaumaris. “Do you know that it has + been one of my dreams that you should be in parliament?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! dearest Imogene, for you said I might call you Imogene, you must take + care what you say. Remember we are unhappily in different camps. You must + not wish me success in my enterprise; quite the reverse; it is more than + probable that you will have to exert all your influence against me; yes, + canvass against me, and wear hostile ribbons, and use all your + irresistible charms to array electors against me, or to detach them from + my ranks.” + </p> + <p> + “Even in jest, you ought not to say such things,” said Lady Beaumaris. + </p> + <p> + “But I am not in jest, I am in dreadful earnest. Only this morning I was + offered a seat, which they told me was secure; but when I inquired into + all the circumstances, I found the interest of Lord Beaumaris so great, + that it would be folly for me to attempt it.” + </p> + <p> + “What seat?” inquired Lady Beaumaris in a low voice. + </p> + <p> + “Northborough,” said Endymion, “now held by Lord Montfort’s cousin, who is + to come in for his county. The seat was offered to me, and I was told I + was to be returned without opposition.” + </p> + <p> + “Lady Montfort offered it to you?” asked Imogene. + </p> + <p> + “She interested herself for me, and Lord Montfort approved the suggestion. + It was described to me as a family seat, but when I looked into the + matter, I found that Lord Beaumaris was more powerful than Lord Montfort.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought that Lady Montfort was irresistible,” said Imogene; “she + carries all before her in society.” + </p> + <p> + “Society and politics have much to do with each other, but they are not + identical. In the present case, Lady Montfort is powerless.” + </p> + <p> + “And have you formally abandoned the seat?” inquired Lady Beaumaris. + </p> + <p> + “Not formally abandoned it; that was not necessary, but I have dismissed + it from my mind, and for some time have been trying to find another seat, + but hitherto without success. In short, in these days it is no longer + possible to step into parliament as if you were stepping into a club.” + </p> + <p> + “If I could do anything, however little?” said Imogene. “Perhaps Lady + Montfort would not like me to interfere?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I do not know,” and then after some hesitation she added, “Is she + jealous?” + </p> + <p> + “Jealous! why should she be jealous?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps she has had no cause.” + </p> + <p> + “You know Lady Montfort. She is a woman of quick and brilliant feeling, + the best of friends and a dauntless foe. Her kindness to me from the first + moment I made her acquaintance has been inexpressible, and I sincerely + believe she is most anxious to serve me. But our party is not very popular + at present; there is no doubt the country is against us. It is tired of + us. I feel myself the general election will be disastrous. Liberal seats + are not abundant just now, quite the reverse, and though Lady Montfort has + done more than any one could under the circumstances, I feel persuaded, + though you think her irresistible, she will not succeed.” + </p> + <p> + “I hardly know her,” said Imogene. “The world considers her irresistible, + and I think you do. Nevertheless, I wish she could have had her way in + this matter, and I think it quite a pity that Northborough has turned out + not to be a family seat.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0070" id="link2HCH0070"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXX + </h2> + <p> + There was a dinner-party at Mr. Neuchatel’s, to which none were asked but + the high government clique. It was the last dinner before the dissolution: + “The dinner of consolation, or hope,” said Lord Roehampton. Lady Montfort + was to be one of the guests. She was dressed, and her carriage in the + courtyard, and she had just gone in to see her lord before she departed. + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort was extremely fond of jewels, and held that you could not + see them to advantage, or fairly judge of their water or colour, except on + a beautiful woman. When his wife was in grand toilette, and he was under + the same roof, he liked her to call on him in her way to her carriage, + that he might see her flashing rivieres and tiaras, the lustre of her huge + pearls, and the splendour of her emeralds and sapphires and rubies. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Berengaria,” he said in a playful tone, “you look divine. Never + dine out again in a high dress. It distresses me. Bertolini was the only + man who ever caught the tournure of your shoulders, and yet I am not + altogether satisfied with his work. So, you are going to dine with that + good Neuchatel. Remember me kindly to him. There are few men I like + better. He is so sensible, knows so much, and so much of what is going on. + I should have liked very much to have dined with him, but he is aware of + my unfortunate state. Besides, my dear, if I were better I should not have + enough strength for his dinners. They are really banquets; I cannot stand + those ortolans stuffed with truffles and those truffles stuffed with + ortolans. Perhaps he will come and dine with us some day off a joint.” + </p> + <p> + “The Queen of Mesopotamia will be here next week, Simon, and we must + really give her what you call a joint, and then we can ask the Neuchatels + and a few other people.” + </p> + <p> + “I was in hopes the dissolution would have carried everybody away,” said + Lord Montfort rather woefully. “I wish the Queen of Mesopotamia were a + candidate for some borough; I think she would rather like it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we could not return her, Simon; do not touch on the subject. But + what have you got to amuse to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I shall do very well. I have got the head of the French detective + police to dine with me, and another man or two. Besides, I have got here a + most amusing book, ‘Topsy Turvy;’ it comes out in numbers. I like books + that come out in numbers, as there is a little suspense, and you cannot + deprive yourself of all interest by glancing at the last page of the last + volume. I think you must read ‘Topsy Turvy,’ Berengaria. I am mistaken if + you do not hear of it. It is very cynical, which authors, who know a + little of the world, are apt to be, and everything is exaggerated, which + is another of their faults when they are only a trifle acquainted with + manners. A little knowledge of the world is a very dangerous thing, + especially in literature. But it is clever, and the man writes a capital + style; and style is everything, especially in fiction.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is the name of the writer, Simon?” + </p> + <p> + “You never heard of it; I never did; but my secretary, who lives much in + Bohemia, and is a member of the Cosmopolitan and knows everything, tells + me he has written some things before, but they did not succeed. His name + is St. Barbe. I should like to ask him to dinner if I knew how to get at + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, adieu! Simon,” and, with an agitated heart, though apparent + calmness, she touched his forehead with her lips. “I expect an + unsatisfactory dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “Adieu! and if you meet poor Ferrars, which I dare say you will, tell him + to keep up his spirits. The world is a wheel, and it will all come round + right.” + </p> + <p> + The dinner ought not to have been unsatisfactory, for though there was no + novelty among the guests, they were all clever and distinguished persons + and united by entire sympathy. Several of the ministers were there, and + the Roehamptons, and Mr. Sidney Wilton, and Endymion was also a guest. But + the general tone was a little affected and unnatural; forced gaiety, and a + levity which displeased Lady Montfort, who fancied she was unhappy because + the country was going to be ruined, but whose real cause of + dissatisfaction at the bottom of her heart was the affair of “the family + seat.” Her hero, Lord Roehampton, particularly did not please her to-day. + She thought him flippant and in bad taste, merely because he would not + look dismal and talk gloomily. + </p> + <p> + “I think we shall do very well,” he said. “What cry can be better than + that of ‘Cheap bread?’ It gives one an appetite at once.” + </p> + <p> + “But the Corn-Law League says your bread will not be cheap,” said Melchior + Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder whether the League has really any power in the constituencies,” + said Lord Roehampton. “I doubt it. They may have in time, but then in the + interval trade will revive. I have just been reading Mr. Thornberry’s + speech. We shall hear more of that man. You will not be troubled about any + of your seats?” he said, in a lower tone of sympathy, addressing Mrs. + Neuchatel, who was his immediate neighbour. + </p> + <p> + “Our seats?” said Mrs. Neuchatel, as if waking from a dream. “Oh, I know + nothing about them, nor do I understand why there is a dissolution. I + trust that parliament will not be dissolved without voting the money for + the observation of the transit of Venus.” + </p> + <p> + “I think the Roman Catholic vote will carry us through,” said a minister. + </p> + <p> + “Talking of Roman Catholics,” said Mr. Wilton, “is it true that Penruddock + has gone over to Rome?” + </p> + <p> + “No truth in it,” replied a colleague. “He has gone to Rome—there is + no doubt of that, and he has been there some time, but only for + distraction. He had overworked himself.” + </p> + <p> + “He might have been a Dean if he had been a practical man,” whispered Lady + Montfort to Mr. Neuchatel, “and on the high road to a bishopric.” + </p> + <p> + “That is what we want, Lady Montfort,” said Mr. Neuchatel; “we want a few + practical men. If we had a practical man as Chancellor of the Exchequer, + we should not be in the scrape in which we now are.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not likely that Penruddock will leave the Church with a change of + government possibly impending. We could do nothing for him with his views, + but he will wait for Peel.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! Peel will never stand those high-fliers. He put the Church into a Lay + Commission during his last government.” + </p> + <p> + “Penruddock will never give up Anglicanism while there is a chance of + becoming a Laud. When that chance vanishes, trust my word, Penruddock will + make his bow to the Vatican.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I must say,” said Lord Roehampton, “if I were a clergyman I should + be a Roman Catholic.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you could not marry. What a compliment to Lady Roehampton!” + </p> + <p> + “Nay; it is because I could not marry that I am not a clergyman.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion had taken Adriana down to dinner. She looked very well, and was + more talkative than usual. + </p> + <p> + “I fear it will be a very great confusion—this general election,” + she said. “Papa was telling us that you think of being a candidate.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a candidate, but without a seat to captivate at present,” said + Endymion; “but I am not without hopes of making some arrangement.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you must tell me what your colours are.” + </p> + <p> + “And will you wear them?” + </p> + <p> + “Most certainly; and I will work you a banner if you be victorious.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I must win with such a prospect.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will win in everything.” + </p> + <p> + When the ladies retired, Berengaria came and sate by the side of Lady + Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “What a dreary dinner!” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think so?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, perhaps it was my own fault. Perhaps I am not in good cue, but + everything seems to me to go wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “Things sometimes do go wrong, but then they get right.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not think anything will ever get right with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Lady Montfort, how can you say such things? You who have, and have + always had, the world at your feet—and always will have.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know what you mean by having the world at my feet. It seems to + me that I have no power whatever—I can do nothing. I am vexed about + this business of your brother. Our people are so stupid. They have no + resource. When I go to them and ask for a seat, I expect a seat, as I + would a shawl at Howell and James’ if I asked for one. Instead of that + they only make difficulties. What our party wants is a Mr. Tadpole; he + out-manoeuvres them in every corner.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I shall be deeply disappointed—deeply pained,” said Lady + Roehampton, “if Endymion is not in this parliament, but if we fail I will + not utterly despair. I will continue to do what I have done all my life, + exert my utmost will and power to advance him.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought I had will and power,” said Lady Montfort, “but the conceit is + taken out of me. Your brother was to me a source of great interest, from + the first moment that I knew him. His future was an object in life, and I + thought I could mould it. What a mistake! Instead of making his fortune I + have only dissipated his life.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been to him the kindest and the most valuable of friends, and he + feels it.” + </p> + <p> + “It is no use being kind, and I am valuable to no one. I often think if I + disappeared to-morrow no one would miss me.” + </p> + <p> + “You are in a morbid mood, dear lady. To-morrow perhaps everything will be + right, and then you will feel that you are surrounded by devoted friends, + and by a husband who adores you.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort gave a scrutinising glance at Lady Roehampton as she said + this, then shook her head. “Ah! there it is, dear Myra. You judge from + your own happiness; you do not know Lord Montfort. You know how I love + him, but I am perfectly convinced he prefers my letters to my society.” + </p> + <p> + “You see what it is to be a Madame de Sevigne,” said Lady Roehampton, + trying to give a playful tone to the conversation. + </p> + <p> + “You jest,” said Lady Montfort; “I am quite serious. No one can deceive + me; would that they could! I have the fatal gift of reading persons, and + penetrating motives, however deep or complicated their character, and what + I tell you about Lord Montfort is unhappily too true.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, while this interesting conversation was taking place, the + gentleman who had been the object of Lady Montfort’s eulogium, the + gentleman who always out-manoeuvred her friends at every corner, was, + though it was approaching midnight, walking up and down Carlton Terrace + with an agitated and indignant countenance, and not alone. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you, Mr. Waldershare, I know it; I have it almost from Lord + Beaumaris himself; he has declined to support our man, and no doubt will + give his influence to the enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not believe that Lord Beaumaris has made any engagement whatever.” + </p> + <p> + “A pretty state of affairs!” exclaimed Mr. Tadpole. “I do not know what + the world has come to. Here are gentlemen expecting high places in the + Household, and under-secretaryships of state, and actually giving away our + seats to our opponents.” + </p> + <p> + “There is some family engagement about this seat between the Houses of + Beaumaris and Montfort, and Lord Beaumaris, who is a young man, and who + does not know as much about these things as you and I do, naturally wants + not to make a mistake. But he has promised nothing and nobody. I know, I + might almost say I saw the letter, that he wrote to Lord Montfort this + day, asking for an interview to-morrow morning on the matter, and Lord + Montfort has given him an appointment for to-morrow. This I know.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I must leave it to you,” said Mr. Tadpole. “You must remember what + we are fighting for. The constitution is at stake.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Church,” said Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + “And the landed interest, you may rely upon it,” said Mr. Tadpole. + </p> + <p> + “And your Lordship of the Treasury <i>in posse</i>, Tadpole. Truly it is a + great stake.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0071" id="link2HCH0071"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXI + </h2> + <p> + The interview between the heads of the two great houses of Montfort and + Beaumaris, on which the fate of a ministry might depend, for it should + always be recollected that it was only by a majority of one that Sir + Robert Peel had necessitated the dissolution of parliament, was not + carried on exactly in the spirit and with the means which would have + occurred to and been practised by the race of Tadpoles and Tapers. + </p> + <p> + Lord Beaumaris was a very young man, handsome, extremely shy, and one who + had only very recently mixed with the circle in which he was born. It was + under the influence of Imogene that, in soliciting an interview with Lord + Montfort, he had taken for him an unusual, not to say unprecedented step. + He had conjured up to himself in Lord Montfort the apparition of a haughty + Whig peer, proud of his order, prouder of his party, and not + over-prejudiced in favour of one who had quitted those sacred ranks, + freezing with arrogant reserve and condescending politeness. In short, + Lord Beaumaris was extremely nervous when, ushered by many servants + through many chambers, there came forward to receive him the most sweetly + mannered gentleman alive, who not only gave him his hand, but retained his + guest’s, saying, “We are a sort of cousins, I believe, and ought to have + been acquainted before, but you know perhaps my wretched state,” though + what that was nobody exactly did know, particularly as Lord Montfort was + sometimes seen wading in streams breast-high while throwing his skilful + line over the rushing waters. “I remember your grandfather,” he said, “and + with good cause. He pouched me at Harrow, and it was the largest pouch I + ever had. One does not forget the first time one had a five-pound note.” + </p> + <p> + And then when Lord Beaumaris, blushing and with much hesitation, had + stated the occasion of his asking for the interview that they might settle + together about the representation of Northborough in harmony with the old + understanding between the families which he trusted would always be + maintained, Lord Montfort assured him that he was personally obliged to + him by his always supporting Odo, regretted that Odo would retire, and + then said if Lord Beaumaris had any brother, cousin, or friend to bring + forward, he need hardly say Lord Beaumaris might count upon him. “I am a + Whig,” he continued, “and so was your father, but I am not particularly + pleased with the sayings and doings of my people. Between ourselves, I + think they have been in a little too long, and if they do anything very + strong, if, for instance, they give office to O’Connell, I should not be + at all surprised if I were myself to sit on the cross benches.” + </p> + <p> + It seems there was no member of the Beaumaris family who wished at this + juncture to come forward, and being assured of this, Lord Montfort + remarked there was a young man of promise who much wished to enter the + House of Commons, not unknown, he believed, to Lord Beaumaris, and that + was Mr. Ferrars. He was the son of a distinguished man, now departed, who + in his day had been a minister of state. Lord Montfort was quite ready to + support Mr. Ferrars, if Lord Beaumaris approved of the selection, but he + placed himself entirely in his hands. + </p> + <p> + Lord Beaumaris, blushing, said he quite approved of the selection; knew + Mr. Ferrars very well, and liked him very much; and if Lord Montfort + sanctioned it, would speak to Mr. Ferrars himself. He believed Mr. Ferrars + was a Liberal, but he agreed with Lord Montfort, that in these days + gentlemen must be all of the same opinion if not on the same side, and so + on. And then they talked of fishing appropriately to a book of very + curious flies that was on the table, and they agreed if possible to fish + together in some famous waters that Lord Beaumaris had in Hampshire, and + then, as he was saying farewell, Lord Montfort added, “Although I never + pay visits, because really in my wretched state I cannot, there is no + reason why our wives should not know each other. Will you permit Lady + Montfort to have the honour of paying her respects to Lady Beaumaris?” + </p> + <p> + Talleyrand or Metternich could not have conducted an interview more + skilfully. But these were just the things that Lord Montfort did not + dislike doing. His great good nature was not disturbed by a single + inconvenient circumstance, and he enjoyed the sense of his adroitness. + </p> + <p> + The same day the cards of Lord and Lady Montfort were sent to Piccadilly + Terrace, and on the next day the cards of Lord and Lady Beaumaris were + returned to Montfort House. And on the following day, Lady Montfort, + accompanied by Lady Roehampton, would find Lady Beaumaris at home, and + after a charming visit, in which Lady Montfort, though natural to the last + degree, displayed every quality which could fascinate even a woman, when + she put her hand in that of Imogene to say farewell, added, “I am + delighted to find that we are cousins.” + </p> + <p> + A few days after this interview, parliament was dissolved. It was the + middle of a wet June, and the season received its <i>coup de grace</i>. + Although Endymion had no rival, and apparently no prospect of a contest, + his labours as a candidate were not slight. The constituency was numerous, + and every member of it expected to be called upon. To each Mr. Ferrars had + to expound his political views, and to receive from each a cordial + assurance of a churlish criticism. All this he did and endured, + accompanied by about fifty of the principal inhabitants, members of his + committee, who insisted on never leaving his side, and prompting him at + every new door which he entered with contradictory reports of the + political opinions of the indweller, or confidential informations how they + were to be managed and addressed. + </p> + <p> + The principal and most laborious incidents of the day were festivals which + they styled luncheons, when the candidate and the ambulatory committee + were quartered on some principal citizen with an elaborate banquet of + several courses, and in which Mr. Ferrars’ health was always pledged in + sparkling bumpers. After the luncheon came two or three more hours of what + was called canvassing; then, in a state of horrible repletion, the + fortunate candidate, who had no contest, had to dine with another + principal citizen, with real turtle soup, and gigantic turbots, <i>entrees</i> + in the shape of volcanic curries, and rigid venison, sent as a compliment + by a neighbouring peer. This last ceremony was necessarily hurried, as + Endymion had every night to address in some ward a body of the electors. + </p> + <p> + When this had been going on for a few days, the borough was suddenly + placarded with posting bills in colossal characters of true blue, warning + the Conservative electors not to promise their votes, as a distinguished + candidate of the right sort would certainly come forward. At the same time + there was a paragraph in a local journal that a member of a noble family, + illustrious in the naval annals of the country, would, if sufficiently + supported, solicit the suffrages of the independent electors. + </p> + <p> + “We think, by the allusion to the navy, that it must be Mr. Hood of + Acreley,” said Lord Beaumaris’ agent to Mr. Ferrars, “but he has not the + ghost of a chance. I will ride over and see him in the course of the day.” + </p> + <p> + This placard was of course Mr. Tadpole’s last effort, but that worthy + gentleman soon forgot his mortification about Northborough in the general + triumph of his party. The Whigs were nowhere, though Mr. Ferrars was + returned without opposition, and in the month of August, still wondering + at the rapid, strange, and even mysterious incidents, that had so suddenly + and so swiftly changed his position and prospects in life, took his seat + in that House in whose galleries he had so long humbly attended as the + private secretary of a cabinet minister. + </p> + <p> + His friends were still in office, though the country had sent up a + majority of ninety against them, and Endymion took his seat behind the + Treasury bench, and exactly behind Lord Roehampton. The debate on the + address was protracted for three nights, and then they divided at three + o’clock in the morning, and then all was over. Lord Roehampton, who had + vindicated the ministry with admirable vigour and felicity, turned round + to Endymion, and smiling said in the sweetest tone, “I did not enlarge on + our greatest feat, namely, that we had governed the country for two years + without a majority. Peel would never have had the pluck to do that.” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the backsliding of Lord Beaumaris and the unprincipled + conduct of Mr. Waldershare, they were both rewarded as the latter + gentleman projected—Lord Beaumaris accepted a high post in the + Household, and Mr. Waldershare was appointed Under-Secretary of State for + Foreign Affairs. Tadpole was a little glum about it, but it was + inevitable. “The fact is,” as the world agreed, “Lady Beaumaris is the + only Tory woman. They have nobody who can receive except her.” + </p> + <p> + The changes in the House of Commons were still greater than those in the + administration. Never were so many new members, and Endymion watched them, + during the first days, and before the debate on the address, taking the + oaths at the table in batches with much interest. Mr. Bertie Tremaine was + returned, and his brother, Mr. Tremaine Bertie. Job Thornberry was member + for a manufacturing town, with which he was not otherwise connected. + Hortensius was successful, and Mr. Vigo for a metropolitan borough, but + what pleased Endymion more than anything was the return of his valued + friend Trenchard, who a short time before had acceded to the paternal + estate; all these gentlemen were Liberals, and were destined to sit on the + same side of the House as Endymion. + </p> + <p> + After the fatal vote, the Whigs all left town. Society in general had been + greatly dispersed, but parliament had to remain sitting until October. + </p> + <p> + “We are going to Princedown,” Lady Montfort said one day to Endymion, “and + we had counted on seeing you there, but I have been thinking much of your + position since, and I am persuaded, that we must sacrifice pleasure to + higher objects. This is really a crisis in your life, and much, perhaps + everything, depends on your not making a mistake now. What I want to see + you is a great statesman. This is a political economy parliament, both + sides alike thinking of the price of corn and all that. Finance and + commerce are everybody’s subjects, and are most convenient to make + speeches about for men who cannot speak French and who have had no + education. Real politics are the possession and distribution of power. I + want to see you give your mind to foreign affairs. There you will have no + rivals. There are a great many subjects which Lord Roehampton cannot take + up, but which you could very properly, and you will have always the + benefit of his counsel, and, when necessary, his parliamentary assistance; + but foreign affairs are not to be mastered by mere reading. Bookworms do + not make chancellors of state. You must become acquainted with the great + actors in the great scene. There is nothing like personal knowledge of the + individuals who control the high affairs. That has made the fortune of + Lord Roehampton. What I think you ought to do, without doubt ought to do, + is to take advantage of this long interval before the meeting of + parliament, and go to Paris. Paris is now the Capital of Diplomacy. It is + not the best time of the year to go there, but you will meet a great many + people of the diplomatic world, and if the opportunity offers, you can + vary the scene, and go to some baths which princes and ministers frequent. + The Count of Ferroll is now at Paris, and minister for his court. You know + him; that is well. But he is my greatest friend, and, as you know, we + habitually correspond. He will do everything for you, I am sure, for my + sake. It is not pleasant to be separated; I do not wish to conceal that; I + should have enjoyed your society at Princedown, but I am doing right, and + you will some day thank me for it. We must soften the pang of separation + by writing to each other every day, so when we meet again it will only be + as if we had parted yesterday. Besides—who knows?—I may run + over myself to Paris in the winter. My lord always liked Paris; the only + place he ever did, but I am not very sanguine he will go; he is so afraid + of being asked to dinner by our ambassador.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0072" id="link2HCH0072"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXII + </h2> + <p> + In all lives, the highest and the humblest, there is a crisis in the + formation of character, and in the bent of the disposition. It comes from + many causes, and from some which on the surface are apparently even + trivial. It may be a book, a speech, a sermon; a man or a woman; a great + misfortune or a burst of prosperity. But the result is the same; a sudden + revelation to ourselves of our secret purpose, and a recognition of our + perhaps long shadowed, but now masterful convictions. + </p> + <p> + A crisis of this kind occurred to Endymion the day when he returned to his + chambers, after having taken the oaths and his seat in the House of + Commons. He felt the necessity of being alone. For nearly the last three + months he had been the excited actor in a strange and even mysterious + drama. There had been for him no time to reflect; all he could aim at was + to comprehend, and if possible control, the present and urgent + contingency; he had been called upon, almost unceasingly, to do or to say + something sudden and unexpected; and it was only now, when the crest of + the ascent had been reached, that he could look around him and consider + the new world opening to his gaze. + </p> + <p> + The greatest opportunity that can be offered to an Englishman was now his—a + seat in the House of Commons. It was his almost in the first bloom of + youth, and yet after advantageous years of labour and political training, + and it was combined with a material independence on which he never could + have counted. A love of power, a passion for distinction, a noble pride, + which had been native to his early disposition, but which had apparently + been crushed by the enormous sorrows and misfortunes of his childhood, and + which had vanished, as it were, before the sweetness of that domestic love + which had been the solace of his adversity, now again stirred their dim + and mighty forms in his renovated, and, as it were, inspired + consciousness. “If this has happened at twenty-two,” thought Endymion, + “what may not occur if the average life of man be allotted to me? At any + rate, I will never think of anything else. I have a purpose in life, and I + will fulfil it. It is a charm that its accomplishment would be the most + grateful result to the two beings I most love in the world.” + </p> + <p> + So when Lady Montfort shortly after opened her views to Endymion as to his + visiting Paris, and his purpose in so doing, the seeds were thrown on a + willing soil, and he embraced her counsels with the deepest interest. His + intimacy with the Count of Ferroll was the completing event of this epoch + of his life. + </p> + <p> + Their acquaintance had been slight in England, for after the Montfort + Tournament the Count had been appointed to Paris, where he was required; + but he received Endymion with a cordiality which contrasted with his usual + demeanour, which, though frank, was somewhat cynical. + </p> + <p> + “This is not a favourable time to visit Paris,” he said, “so far as + society is concerned. There is some business stirring in the diplomatic + world, which has re-assembled the fraternity for the moment, and the King + is at St. Cloud, but you may make some acquaintances which may be + desirable, and at any rate look about you and clear the ground for the + coming season. I do not despair of our dear friend coming over in the + winter. It is one of the hopes that keep me alive. What a woman! You may + count yourself fortunate in having such a friend. I do. I am not + particularly fond of female society. Women chatter too much. But I prefer + the society of a first-rate woman to that of any man; and Lady Montfort is + a first-rate woman—I think the greatest since Louise of Savoy; + infinitely beyond the Princess d’Ursins.” + </p> + <p> + The “business that was then stirring in the diplomatic world,” at a season + when the pleasures of Parisian society could not distract him, gave + Endymion a rare opportunity of studying that singular class of human + beings which is accustomed to consider states and nations as individuals, + and speculate on their quarrels and misunderstandings, and the remedies + which they require, in a tongue peculiar to themselves, and in language + which often conveys a meaning exactly opposite to that which it seems to + express. Diplomacy is hospitable, and a young Englishman of graceful mien, + well introduced, and a member of the House of Commons—that awful + assembly which produces those dreaded blue books which strike terror in + the boldest of foreign statesmen—was not only received, but courted, + in the interesting circle in which Endymion found himself. + </p> + <p> + There he encountered men grey with the fame and wisdom of half a century + of deep and lofty action, men who had struggled with the first Napoleon, + and had sat in the Congress of Vienna; others, hardly less celebrated, who + had been suddenly borne to high places by the revolutionary wave of 1830, + and who had justly retained their exalted posts when so many competitors + with an equal chance had long ago, with equal justice, subsided into the + obscurity from which they ought never to have emerged. Around these chief + personages were others not less distinguished by their abilities, but a + more youthful generation, who knew how to wait, and were always prepared + or preparing for the inevitable occasion when it arrived—fine and + trained writers, who could interpret in sentences of graceful adroitness + the views of their chiefs; or sages in precedents, walking dictionaries of + diplomacy, and masters of every treaty; and private secretaries reading + human nature at a glance, and collecting every shade of opinion for the + use and guidance of their principals. + </p> + <p> + Whatever their controversies in the morning, their critical interviews and + their secret alliances, all were smiles and graceful badinage at the + banquet and the reception; as if they had only come to Paris to show their + brilliant uniforms, their golden fleeces, and their grand crosses, and + their broad ribbons with more tints than the iris. + </p> + <p> + “I will not give them ten years,” said the Count of Ferroll, lighting his + cigarette, and addressing Endymion on their return from one of these + assemblies; “I sometimes think hardly five.” + </p> + <p> + “But where will the blow come from?” + </p> + <p> + “Here; there is no movement in Europe except in France, and here it will + always be a movement of subversion.” + </p> + <p> + “A pretty prospect!” + </p> + <p> + “The sooner you realise it the better. The system here is supported by + journalists and bankers; two influential classes, but the millions care + for neither; rather, I should say, dislike both.” + </p> + <p> + “Will the change affect Europe?” + </p> + <p> + “Inevitably. You rightly say Europe, for that is a geographical + expression. There is no State in Europe; I exclude your own country, which + belongs to every division of the globe, and is fast becoming more + commercial than political, and I exclude Russia, for she is essentially + oriental, and her future will be entirely the East.” + </p> + <p> + “But there is Germany!” + </p> + <p> + “Where? I cannot find it on the maps. Germany is divided into various + districts, and when there is a war, they are ranged on different sides. + Notwithstanding our reviews and annual encampments, Germany is practically + as weak as Italy. We have some kingdoms who are allowed to play at being + first-rate powers; but it is mere play. They no more command events than + the King of Naples or the Duke of Modena.” + </p> + <p> + “Then is France periodically to overrun Europe?” + </p> + <p> + “So long as it continues to be merely Europe.” + </p> + <p> + A close intimacy occurred between Endymion and the Count of Ferroll. He + not only became a permanent guest at the official residence, but when the + Conference broke up, the Count invited Endymion to be his companion to + some celebrated baths, where they would meet not only many of his late + distinguished colleagues, but their imperial and royal masters, seeking + alike health and relaxation at this famous rendezvous. + </p> + <p> + “You will find it of the first importance in public life,” said the Count + of Ferroll, “to know personally those who are carrying on the business of + the world; so much depends on the character of an individual, his habits + of thought, his prejudices, his superstitions, his social weaknesses, his + health. Conducting affairs without this advantage is, in effect, an affair + of stationery; it is pens and paper who are in communication, not human + beings.” + </p> + <p> + The brother-in-law of Lord Roehampton was a sort of personage. It was very + true that distinguished man was no longer minister, but he had been + minister for a long time, and had left a great name. Foreigners rarely + know more than one English minister at a time, but they compensated for + their ignorance of the aggregate body by even exaggerating the qualities + of the individual with whom they are acquainted. Lord Roehampton had + conducted the affairs of his country always in a courteous, but still in a + somewhat haughty spirit. He was easy and obliging, and conciliatory in + little matters, but where the credit, or honour, or large interests of + England were concerned, he acted with conscious authority. On the + continent of Europe, though he sometimes incurred the depreciation of the + smaller minds, whose self-love he may not have sufficiently spared, by the + higher spirits he was feared and admired, and they knew, when he gave his + whole soul to an affair, that they were dealing with a master. + </p> + <p> + Endymion was presented to emperors and kings, and he made his way with + these exalted personages. He found them different from what he had + expected. He was struck by their intimate acquaintance with affairs, and + by the serenity of their judgment. The life was a pleasant as well as an + interesting one. Where there are crowned heads, there are always some + charming women. Endymion found himself in a delightful circle. Long days + and early hours, and a beautiful country, renovate the spirit as well as + the physical frame. Excursions to romantic forests, and visits to + picturesque ruins, in the noon of summer, are enchanting, especially with + princesses for your companions, bright and accomplished. Yet, + notwithstanding some distractions, Endymion never omitted writing to Lady + Montfort every day. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0073" id="link2HCH0073"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXIII + </h2> + <p> + The season at Paris, which commenced towards the end of the year, was a + lively one, and especially interesting to Endymion, who met there a great + many of his friends. After his visit to the baths he had travelled alone + for a few weeks, and saw some famous places of which he had long heard. A + poet was then sitting on the throne of Bavaria, and was realising his + dreams in the creation of an ideal capital. The Black Forest is a land of + romance. He saw Walhalla, too, crowning the Danube with the genius of + Germany, as mighty as the stream itself. Pleasant it is to wander among + the quaint cities here clustering together: Nuremberg with all its ancient + art, imperial Augsburg, and Wurzburg with its priestly palace, beyond the + splendour of many kings. A summer in Suabia is a great joy. + </p> + <p> + But what a contrast to the Rue de la Paix, bright and vivacious, in which + he now finds himself, and the companion of the Neuchatel family! Endymion + had only returned to Paris the previous evening, and the Neuchatels had + preceded him by a week; so they had seen everybody and could tell him + everything. Lord and Lady Beaumaris were there, and Mrs. Rodney their + companion, her husband detained in London by some mysterious business; it + was thought a seat in parliament, which Mr. Tadpole had persuaded him + might be secured on a vacancy occasioned by a successful petition. They + had seen the Count of Ferroll, who was going to dine with them that day, + and Endymion was invited to meet him. It was Adriana’s first visit to + Paris, and she seemed delighted with it; but Mrs. Neuchatel preferred the + gay capital when it was out of season. Mr. Neuchatel himself was always in + high spirits,—sanguine and self-satisfied. He was an Orleanist, had + always been so, and sympathised with the apparently complete triumph of + his principles—“real liberal principles, no nonsense; there was more + gold in the Bank of France than in any similar establishment in Europe. + After all, wealth is the test of the welfare of a people, and the test of + wealth is the command of the precious metals. Eh! Mr. Member of + Parliament?” And his eye flashed fire, and he seemed to smack his lips at + the very thought and mention of these delicious circumstances. + </p> + <p> + They were in a jeweller’s shop, and Mrs. Neuchatel was choosing a trinket + for a wedding present. She seemed infinitely distressed. “What do you + think of this, Adriana? It is simple and in good taste. I should like it + for myself, and yet I fear it might not be thought fine enough.” + </p> + <p> + “This is pretty, mamma, and new,” and she held before her mother a + bracelet of much splendour. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no! that will never do, dear Adriana; they will say we are + purse-proud.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid they will always say that, mamma,” and she sighed. + </p> + <p> + “It is a long time since we all separated,” said Endymion to Adriana. + </p> + <p> + “Months! Mr. Sidney Wilton said you were the first runaway. I think you + were quite right. Your new life now will be fresh to you. If you had + remained, it would only have been associated with defeat and + discomfiture.” + </p> + <p> + “I am so happy to be in parliament, that I do not think I could ever + associate such a life with discomfiture.” + </p> + <p> + “Does it make you very happy?” said Adriana, looking at him rather + earnestly. + </p> + <p> + “Very happy.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad of that.” + </p> + <p> + The Neuchatels had a house at Paris—one of the fine hotels of the + First Empire. It was inhabited generally by one of the nephews, but it was + always ready to receive them with every luxury and every comfort. But Mrs. + Neuchatel herself particularly disliked Paris, and she rarely accompanied + her husband in his frequent but brief visits to the gay city. She had + yielded on this occasion to the wish of Adriana, whom she had endeavoured + to bring up in a wholesome prejudice against French taste and fashions. + </p> + <p> + The dinner to-day was exquisite, in a chamber of many-coloured marbles, + and where there was no marble there was gold, and when the banquet was + over, they repaired to saloons hung with satin of a delicate tint which + exhibited to perfection a choice collection of Greuse and Vanloo. Mr. + Sidney Wilton dined there as well as the Count of Ferroll, some of the + French ministers, and two or three illustrious Orleanist celebrities of + literature, who acknowledged and emulated the matchless conversational + powers of Mrs. Neuchatel. Lord and Lady Beaumaris and Mrs. Rodney + completed the party. + </p> + <p> + Sylvia was really peerless. She was by birth half a Frenchwoman, and she + compensated for her deficiency in the other moiety, by a series of + exquisite costumes, in which she mingled with the spell-born fashion of + France her own singular genius in dress. She spoke not much, but looked + prettier than ever; a little haughty, and now and then faintly smiling. + What was most remarkable about her was her convenient and complete want of + memory. Sylvia had no past. She could not have found her way to Warwick + Street to save her life. She conversed with Endymion with ease and not + without gratification, but from all she said, you might have supposed that + they had been born in the same sphere, and always lived in the same + sphere, that sphere being one peopled by duchesses and countesses and + gentlemen of fashion and ministers of state. + </p> + <p> + Lady Beaumaris was different from her sister almost in all respects, + except in beauty, though her beauty even was of a higher style than that + of Mrs. Rodney. Imogene was quite natural, though refined. She had a fine + disposition. All her impulses were good and naturally noble. She had a + greater intellectual range than Sylvia, and was much more cultivated. This + she owed to her friendship with Mr. Waldershare, who was entirely devoted + to her, and whose main object in life was to make everything contribute to + her greatness. “I hope he will come here next week,” she said to Endymion. + “I heard from him to-day. He is at Venice. And he gives me such lovely + descriptions of that city, that I shall never rest till I have seen it and + glided in a gondola.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that you can easily do.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so easily. It will never do to interfere with my lord’s hunting—and + when hunting is over there is always something else—Newmarket, or + the House of Lords, or rook-shooting.” + </p> + <p> + “I must say there is something delightful about Paris, which you meet + nowhere else,” said Mr. Sidney Wilton to Endymion. “For my part, it has + the same effect on me as a bottle of champagne. When I think of what we + were doing at this time last year—those dreadful November cabinets—I + shudder! By the by, the Count of Ferroll says there is a chance of Lady + Montfort coming here; have you heard anything?” + </p> + <p> + Endymion knew all about it, but he was too discreet even to pretend to + exclusive information on that head. He thought it might be true, but + supposed it depended on my lord. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! Montfort will never come. He will bolt at the last moment when the + hall is full of packages. Their very sight will frighten him, and he will + steal down to Princedown and read ‘Don Quixote.’” + </p> + <p> + Sidney Wilton was quite right. Lady Montfort arrived without her lord. “He + threw me over almost as we were getting into the carriage, and I had quite + given it up when dear Lady Roehampton came to my rescue. She wanted to see + her brother, and—here we are.” + </p> + <p> + The arrival of these two great ladies gave a stimulant to gaieties which + were already excessive. The court and the ministers rivalled the balls and + the banquets which were profusely offered by the ambassadors and bankers. + Even the great faubourg relaxed, and its halls of high ceremony and + mysterious splendour were opened to those who in London had extended to + many of their order a graceful and abounding hospitality. It was with + difficulty, however, that they persuaded Lady Montfort to honour with her + presence the embassy of her own court. + </p> + <p> + “I dined with those people once,” she said to Endymion, “but I confess + when I thought of those dear Granvilles, their <i>entrees</i> stuck in my + throat.” + </p> + <p> + There was, however, no lack of diplomatic banquets for the successor of + Louise of Savoy. The splendid hotel of the Count of Ferroll was the scene + of festivals not to be exceeded in Paris, and all in honour of this + wondrous dame. Sometimes they were feasts, sometimes they were balls, + sometimes they were little dinners, consummate and select, sometimes large + receptions, multifarious and amusing. Her pleasure was asked every morn, + and whenever she was disengaged, she issued orders to his devoted + household. His boxes at opera or play were at her constant disposal; his + carriages were at her command, and she rode, in his society, the most + beautiful horses in Paris. + </p> + <p> + The Count of Ferroll had wished that both ladies should have taken up + their residence at his mansion. + </p> + <p> + “But I think we had better not,” said Lady Montfort to Myra. “After all, + there is nothing like ‘my crust of bread and liberty,’ and so I think we + had better stay at the Bristol.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0074" id="link2HCH0074"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXIV + </h2> + <p> + “Go and talk to Adriana,” said Lady Roehampton to her brother. “It seems + to me you never speak to her.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion looked a little confused. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Montfort has plenty of friends here,” his sister continued. “You are + not wanted, and you should always remember those who have been our + earliest and kindest friends.” + </p> + <p> + There was something in Lady Roehampton’s words and look which rather + jarred upon him. Anything like reproach or dissatisfaction from those lips + and from that countenance, sometimes a little anxious but always + affectionate, not to say adoring, confused and even agitated him. He was + tempted to reply, but, exercising successfully the self-control which was + the result rather of his life than of his nature, he said nothing, and, in + obedience to the intimation, immediately approached Miss Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + About this time Waldershare arrived at Paris, full of magnificent dreams + which he called plans. He was delighted with his office; it was much the + most important in the government, and more important because it was not in + the cabinet. Well managed, it was power without responsibility. He + explained to Lady Beaumaris that an Under-Secretary of State for Foreign + Affairs, with his chief in the House of Lords, was “master of the + situation.” What the situation was, and what the under-secretary was to + master, he did not yet deign to inform Imogene; but her trust in + Waldershare was implicit, and she repeated to Lord Beaumaris, and to Mrs. + Rodney, with an air of mysterious self-complacency, that Mr. Waldershare + was “master of the situation.” Mrs. Rodney fancied that this was the + correct and fashionable title of an under-secretary of state. Mr. + Waldershare was going to make a collection of portraits of + Under-Secretaries for Foreign Affairs whose chiefs had been in the House + of Lords. It would be a collection of the most eminent statesmen that + England had ever produced. For the rest, during his Italian tour, + Waldershare seemed to have conducted himself with distinguished + discretion, and had been careful not to solicit an audience of the Duke of + Modena in order to renew his oath of allegiance. + </p> + <p> + When Lady Montfort successfully tempted Lady Roehampton to be her + travelling companion to Paris, the contemplated visit was to have been a + short one—“a week, perhaps ten days at the outside.” The outside had + been not inconsiderably passed, and yet the beautiful Berengaria showed no + disposition of returning to England. Myra was uneasy at her own protracted + absence from her lord, and having made a last, but fruitless effort to + induce Lady Montfort to accompany her, she said one day to Endymion, “I + think I must ask you to take me back. And indeed you ought to be with my + lord some little time before the meeting of Parliament.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion was really of the same opinion, though he was conscious of the + social difficulty which he should have to encounter in order to effect his + purpose. Occasionally a statesman in opposition is assisted by the same + private secretary who was his confidant when in office; but this is not + always the case—perhaps not even generally. In the present instance, + the principal of Lord Roehampton’s several secretaries had been selected + from the permanent clerks in the Foreign Office itself, and therefore when + his chief retired from his official duties, the private secretary resumed + his previous post, an act which necessarily terminated all relations + between himself and the late minister, save those of private, though often + still intimate, acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + Now one of the great objects of Lady Roehampton for a long time had been, + that her brother should occupy a confidential position near her husband. + The desire had originally been shared, and even warmly, by Lady Montfort; + but the unexpected entrance of Endymion into the House of Commons had + raised a technical difficulty in this respect which seemed to terminate + the cherished prospect. Myra, however, was resolved not to regard these + technical difficulties, and was determined to establish at once the + intimate relations she desired between her husband and her brother. This + purpose had been one of the principal causes which induced her to + accompany Lady Montfort to Paris. She wanted to see Endymion, to see what + he was about, and to prepare him for the future which she contemplated. + </p> + <p> + The view which Lady Montfort took of these matters was very different from + that of Lady Roehampton. Lady Montfort was in her riding habit, leaning + back in an easy chair, with her whip in one hand and the “Charivari” in + the other, and she said, “Are you not going to ride to-day, Endymion?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not. I wanted to talk to you a little about my plans, Lady + Montfort.” + </p> + <p> + “Your plans? Why should you have any plans?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Lady Roehampton is about to return to England, and she proposes I + should go with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + And then Endymion entered into the whole case, the desirableness of being + with Lord Roehampton before the meeting of parliament, of assisting him, + working with him, acting for him, and all the other expedient + circumstances of the situation. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort said nothing. Being of an eager nature, it was rather her + habit to interrupt those who addressed her, especially on matters she + deemed disagreeable. Her husband used to say, “Berengaria is a charming + companion, but if she would only listen a little more, she would have so + much more to tell me.” On the present occasion, Endymion had no reason to + complain that he had not a fair opportunity of stating his views and + wishes. She was quite silent, changed colour occasionally, bit her + beautiful lip, and gently but constantly lashed her beautiful riding + habit. When he paused, she inquired if he had done, and he assenting, she + said, “I think the whole thing preposterous. What can Lord Roehampton have + to do before the meeting of parliament? He has not got to write the + Queen’s speech. The only use of being in opposition is that we may enjoy + ourselves. The best thing that Lord Roehampton and all his friends can do + is travel for a couple of years. Ask the Count of Ferroll what he thinks + of the situation. He will tell you that he never knew one more hopeless. + Taxes and tariffs—that’s the future of England, and, so far as I can + see, it may go on for ever. The government here desires nothing better + than what they call Peace. What they mean by peace is agiotage, shares at + a premium, and bubble companies. The whole thing is corrupt, as it ever + must be when government is in the hands of a mere middle class, and that, + too, a limited one; but it may last hopelessly long, and in the meantime, + ‘Vive la bagatelle!’” + </p> + <p> + “These are very different views from those which, I had understood, were + to guide us in opposition,” said Endymion, amazed. + </p> + <p> + “There is no opposition,” rejoined Lady Montfort, somewhat tartly. “For a + real opposition there must be a great policy. If your friend, Lord + Roehampton, when he was settling the Levant, had only seized upon Egypt, + we should have been somewhere. Now, we are the party who wanted to give, + not even cheap bread to the people, but only cheaper bread. Faugh!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not think the occupation of Egypt in the present state of our + finances”—— + </p> + <p> + “Do not talk to me about ‘the present state of our finances.’ You are + worse than Mr. Sidney Wilton. The Count of Ferroll says that a ministry + which is upset by its finances must be essentially imbecile. And that, + too, in England—the richest country in the world!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think the state of the finances had something to do with the + French Revolution,” observed Endymion quietly. + </p> + <p> + “The French Revolution! You might as well talk of the fall of the Roman + Empire. The French Revolution was founded on nonsense—on the rights + of man; when all sensible people in every country are now agreed, that man + has no rights whatever.” + </p> + <p> + “But, dearest Lady Montfort,” said Endymion, in a somewhat deprecating + tone, “about my returning; for that is the real subject on which I wished + to trouble you.” + </p> + <p> + “You have made up your mind to return,” she replied. “What is the use of + consulting me with a foregone conclusion? I suppose you think it a + compliment.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be very sorry to do anything without consulting you,” said + Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “The worst person in the world to consult,” said Lady Montfort + impatiently. “If you want advice, you had better go to your sister. Men + who are guided by their sisters seldom make very great mistakes. They are + generally so prudent; and, I must say, I think a prudent man quite + detestable.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion turned pale, his lips quivered. What might have been the winged + words they sent forth it is now impossible to record, for at that moment + the door opened, and the servant announced that her ladyship’s horse was + at the door. Lady Montfort jumped up quickly, and saying, “Well, I suppose + I shall see you before you go,” disappeared. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0075" id="link2HCH0075"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXV + </h2> + <p> + In the meantime, Lady Roehampton was paying her farewell visit to her + former pupil. They were alone, and Adriana was hanging on her neck and + weeping. + </p> + <p> + “We were so happy,” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “And are so happy, and will be,” said Myra. + </p> + <p> + “I feel I shall never be happy again,” sighed Adriana. + </p> + <p> + “You deserve to be the happiest of human beings, and you will be.” + </p> + <p> + “Never, never!” + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton could say no more; she pressed her friend to her heart, + and left the room in silence. + </p> + <p> + When she arrived at her hotel, her brother was leaving the house. His + countenance was disquieted; he did not greet her with that mantling + sunniness of aspect which was natural to him when they met. + </p> + <p> + “I have made all my farewells,” she said; “and how have you been getting + on?” And she invited him to re-enter the hotel. + </p> + <p> + “I am ready to depart at this moment,” he said somewhat fiercely, “and was + only thinking how I could extricate myself from that horrible dinner + to-day at the Count of Ferroll’s.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is not difficult,” said Myra; “you can write a note here if + you like, at once. I think you must have seen quite enough of the Count of + Ferroll and his friends.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion sat down at the table, and announced his intended non-appearance + at the Count’s dinner, for it could not be called an excuse. When he had + finished, his sister said— + </p> + <p> + “Do you know, we were nearly having a travelling companion to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + He looked up with a blush, for he fancied she was alluding to some + previous scheme of Lady Montfort. “Indeed!” he said, “and who?” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana.” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana!” he repeated, somewhat relieved; “would she leave her family?” + </p> + <p> + “She had a fancy, and I am sure I do not know any companion I could prefer + to her. She is the only person of whom I could truly say, that every time + I see her, I love her more.” + </p> + <p> + “She seemed to like Paris very much,” said Endymion a little embarrassed. + </p> + <p> + “The first part of her visit,” said Lady Roehampton, “she liked it + amazingly. But my arrival and Lady Montfort’s, I fear, broke up their + little parties. You were a great deal with the Neuchatels before we came?” + </p> + <p> + “They are such a good family,” said Endymion; “so kind, so hospitable, + such true friends. And Mr. Neuchatel himself is one of the shrewdest men + that probably ever lived. I like talking with him, or rather, I like to + hear him talk.” + </p> + <p> + “O Endymion,” said Lady Roehampton, “if you were to marry Adriana, my + happiness would be complete.” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana will never marry,” said Endymion; “she is afraid of being married + for her money. I know twenty men who would marry her, if they thought + there was a chance of being accepted; and the best man, Eusford, did make + her an offer—that I know. And where could she find a match more + suitable?—high rank, and large estate, and a man that everybody + speaks well of.” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana will never marry except for the affections; there you are right, + Endymion; she must love and she must be loved; but that is not very + unreasonable in a person who is young, pretty, accomplished, and + intelligent.” + </p> + <p> + “She is all that,” said Endymion moodily. + </p> + <p> + “And she loves you,” said Lady Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + Endymion rather started, looked up for a moment at his sister, and then + withdrew as hastily an agitated glance, and then with his eyes on the + ground said, in a voice half murmuring, and yet scoffingly: “I should like + to see Mr. Neuchatel’s face were I to ask permission to marry his + daughter. I suppose he would not kick me downstairs; that is out of + fashion; but he certainly would never ask me to dinner again, and that + would be a sacrifice.” + </p> + <p> + “You jest, Endymion; I am not jesting.” + </p> + <p> + “There are some matters that can only be treated as a jest; and my + marriage with Miss Neuchatel is one.” + </p> + <p> + “It would make you one of the most powerful men in England,” said his + sister. + </p> + <p> + “Other impossible events would do the same.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not impossible; it is very possible,” said his sister, “believe me, + trust in me. The happiness of their daughter is more precious to the + Neuchatels even than their fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not see why, at my age, I should be in such a hurry to marry,” said + Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “You cannot marry too soon, if by so doing you obtain the great object of + life. Early marriages are to be deprecated, especially for men, because + they are too frequently imprudent; but when a man can marry while he is + young, and at once realise, by so doing, all the results which successful + time may bring to him, he should not hesitate.” + </p> + <p> + “I hesitate very much,” said Endymion. “I should hesitate very much, even + if affairs were as promising as I think you may erroneously assume.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must not hesitate, Endymion. We must never forget the great + object for which we two live, for which, I believe, we were born twins—to + rebuild our house; to raise it from poverty, and ignominy, and misery and + squalid shame, to the rank and position which we demand, and which we + believe we deserve. Did I hesitate when an offer of marriage was made to + me, and the most unexpected that could have occurred? True it is, I + married the best and greatest of men, but I did not know that when I + accepted his hand. I married him for your sake, I married him for my own + sake, for the sake of the house of Ferrars, which I wished to release and + raise from its pit of desolation. I married him to secure for us both that + opportunity for our qualities which they had lost, and which I believed, + if enjoyed, would render us powerful and great.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion rose from his seat and kissed his sister. “So long as you live,” + he said, “we shall never be ignominious.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I am nothing; I am not a man, I am not a Ferrars. The best of me + is that I may be a transient help to you. It is you who must do the deed. + I am wearied of hearing you described as Lady Roehampton’s brother, or + Lord Roehampton’s brother-in-law. I shall never be content till you are + greater than we are, and there is but one and only one immediate way of + accomplishing it, it is by this marriage—and a marriage with whom? + with an angelic being!” + </p> + <p> + “You take me somewhat by surprise, Myra. My thoughts have not been upon + this matter. I cannot fairly describe myself at this moment as a marrying + man.” + </p> + <p> + “I know what you mean. You have female friendships, and I approve of them. + They are invaluable to youth, and you have been greatly favoured in this + respect. They have been a great assistance to you; beware lest they become + a hindrance. A few years of such feelings in a woman’s life are a blazoned + page, and when it is turned she has many other chapters, though they may + not be as brilliant or adorned. But these few years in a man’s life may + be, and in your case certainly would be, the very marrow of his destiny. + During the last five or six years, ever since our emancipation, there has + been a gradual but continuous development in your life. All has been + preparatory for a position which you have acquired. That position may lead + to anything—in your case, I will still believe, to everything—but + there must be no faltering. Having crossed the Alps, you must not find a + Capua. I speak to you as I have not spoken to you of late, because it was + not necessary. But here is an opportunity which must not be lost. I feel + half inspired, as when we parted in our misery at Hurstley, and I bade + you, poor and obscure, go forth and conquer the world.” + </p> + <p> + Late on the night of the day, their last day at Paris, on which this + conversation took place, Endymion received a note in well-known + handwriting, and it ran thus: + </p> + <p> + “If it be any satisfaction to you to know that you made me very unhappy by + not dining here to-day, you may be gratified. I am very unhappy. I know + that I was unkind this morning, and rude, but as my anger was occasioned + by your leaving me, my conduct might annoy but surely could not mortify + you. I shall see you to-morrow, however early you may depart, as I cannot + let your dear sister leave Paris without my embracing her. + </p> + <p> + “Your faithful friend, + </p> + <p> + “Berengaria.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0076" id="link2HCH0076"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXVI + </h2> + <p> + In old days, it was the habit to think and say that the House of Commons + was an essentially “queer place,” which no one could understand until he + was a member of it. It may, perhaps, be doubted whether that somewhat + mysterious quality still altogether attaches to that assembly. “Our own + Reporter,” has invaded it in all its purlieus. No longer content with + giving an account of the speeches of its members, he is not satisfied + unless he describes their persons, their dress, and their characteristic + mannerisms. He tells us how they dine, even the wines and dishes which + they favour, and follows them into the very mysteries of their + smoking-room. And yet there is perhaps a certain fine sense of the + feelings, and opinions, and humours of this assembly, which cannot be + acquired by hasty notions and necessarily superficial remarks, but must be + the result of long and patient observation, and of that quick sympathy + with human sentiment, in all its classes, which is involved in the + possession of that inestimable quality styled tact. + </p> + <p> + When Endymion Ferrars first took his seat in the House of Commons, it + still fully possessed its character of enigmatic tradition. It had been + thought that this, in a great degree, would have been dissipated by the + Reform Act of 1832, which suddenly introduced into the hallowed precinct a + number of individuals whose education, manners, modes of thought, were + different from those of the previous inhabitants, and in some instances, + and in some respects, quite contrary to them. But this was not so. After a + short time it was observed that the old material, though at first much + less in quantity, had leavened the new mass; that the tone of the former + House was imitated and adopted, and that at the end of five years, about + the time Endymion was returned to Parliament, much of its serene, and + refined, and even classical character had been recovered. + </p> + <p> + For himself, he entered the chamber with a certain degree of awe, which, + with use, diminished, but never entirely disappeared. The scene was one + over which his boyhood even had long mused, and it was associated with all + those traditions of genius, eloquence, and power that charm and inspire + youth. His practical acquaintance with the forms and habits of the House + from his customary attendance on their debates as private secretary to a + cabinet minister, was of great advantage to him, and restrained that + excitement which dangerously accompanies us when we enter into a new life, + and especially a life of such deep and thrilling interests and such large + proportions. This result was also assisted by his knowledge, at least by + sight, of a large proportion of the old members, and by his personal and + sometimes intimate acquaintance with those of his own party. There was + much in his position, therefore, to soften that awkward feeling of being a + freshman, which is always embarrassing. + </p> + <p> + He took his place on the second bench of the opposition side of the House, + and nearly behind Lord Roehampton. Mr. Bertie Tremaine, whom Endymion + encountered in the lobby as he was escaping to dinner, highly disapproved + of this step. He had greeted Endymion with affable condescension. “You + made your first mistake to-night, my dear Ferrars. You should have taken + your seat below the gangway and near me, on the Mountain. You, like + myself, are a man of the future.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a member of the opposition. I do not suppose it signifies much where + I sit.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, it signifies everything. After this great Tory reaction + there is nothing to be done now by speeches, and, in all probability, very + little that can be effectually opposed. Much, therefore, depends upon + where you sit. If you sit on the Mountain, the public imagination will be + attracted to you, and when they are aggrieved, which they will be in good + time, the public passion, which is called opinion, will look to you for + representation. My advice to my friends now is to sit together and say + nothing, but to profess through the press the most advanced opinions. We + sit on the back bench of the gangway, and we call ourselves the Mountain.” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding Mr. Bertie Tremaine’s oracular revelations, Endymion was + very glad to find his old friend Trenchard generally his neighbour. He had + a high opinion both of Trenchard’s judgment and acquirements, and he liked + the man. In time they always managed to sit together. Job Thornberry took + his seat below the gangway, on the opposition side, and on the floor of + the House. Mr. Bertie Tremaine had sent his brother, Mr. Tremaine Bertie, + to look after this new star, who he was anxious should ascend the + Mountain; but Job Thornberry wishing to know whether the Mountain were + going for “total and immediate,” and not obtaining a sufficiently distinct + reply, declined the proffered intimation. Mr. Bertie Tremaine, being a + landed proprietor as well as leader of the Mountain, was too much devoted + to the rights of labour to sanction such middle-class madness. + </p> + <p> + “Peel with have to do it,” said Job. “You will see.” + </p> + <p> + “Peel now occupies the position of Necker,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine, “and + will make the same <i>fiasco</i>. Then you will at last have a popular + government.” + </p> + <p> + “And the rights of labour?” asked Job. “All I hope is, I may have got safe + to the States before that day.” + </p> + <p> + “There will be no danger,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine. “There is this + difference between the English Mountain and the French. The English + Mountain has its government prepared. And my brother spoke to you because, + when the hour arrives, I wished to see you a member of it.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Endymion,” said Waldershare, “let us dine together before we meet + in mortal conflict, which I suppose will be soon. I really think your Mr. + Bertie Tremaine the most absurd being out of Colney Hatch.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he has a purpose,” said Endymion; “and they say that a man with a + purpose generally sees it realised.’ + </p> + <p> + “What I do like in him,” said Waldershare, “is this revival of the + Pythagorean system, and a leading party of silence. That is rich.” + </p> + <p> + One of the most interesting members of the House of Commons was Sir + Fraunceys Scrope. He was the father of the House, though it was difficult + to believe that from his appearance. He was tall, and had kept his + distinguished figure; a handsome man, with a musical voice, and a + countenance now benignant, though very bright, and once haughty. He still + retained the same fashion of costume in which he had ridden up to + Westminster more than half a century ago, from his seat in Derbyshire, to + support his dear friend Charles Fox; real top-boots, and a blue coat and + buff waistcoat. He was a great friend of Lord Roehampton, had a large + estate in the same county, and had refused an earldom. Knowing Endymion, + he came and sate by him one day in the House, and asked him, + good-naturedly, how he liked his new life. + </p> + <p> + “It is very different from what it was when I was your age. Up to Easter + we rarely had a regular debate, never a party division; very few people + came up indeed. But there was a good deal of speaking on all subjects + before dinner. We had the privilege then of speaking on the presentation + of petitions at any length, and we seldom spoke on any other occasion. + After Easter there was always at least one great party fight. This was a + mighty affair, talked of for weeks before it came off, and then rarely an + adjourned debate. We were gentlemen, used to sit up late, and should have + been sitting up somewhere else had we not been in the House of Commons. + After this party fight, the House for the rest of the session was a mere + club.” + </p> + <p> + “There was not much business doing then,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “There was not much business in the country then. The House of Commons was + very much like what the House of Lords is now. You went home to dine, and + now and then came back for an important division.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must always have had the estimates here,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but they ran through very easily. Hume was the first man who + attacked the estimates. What are you going to do with yourself to-day? + Will you take your mutton with me? You must come in boots, for it is now + dinner-time, and you must return, I fancy. Twenty years ago, no man would + think of coming down to the House except in evening dress. I remember so + late as Mr. Canning, the minister always came down in silk stockings and + pantaloons, or knee breeches. All things change, and quoting Virgil, as + that young gentleman has just done, will be the next thing to disappear. + In the last parliament we often had Latin quotations, but never from a + member with a new constituency. I have heard Greek quoted here, but that + was long ago, and a great mistake. The House was quite alarmed. Charles + Fox used to say as to quotation—‘No Greek; as much Latin as you + like; and never French under any circumstances. No English poet unless he + had completed his century.’ These were like some other good rules, the + unwritten orders of the House of Commons.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0077" id="link2HCH0077"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXVII + </h2> + <p> + While parliaments were dissolving and ministries forming, the disappointed + seeking consolation and the successful enjoying their triumph, Simon, Earl + of Montfort, who just missed being a great philosopher, was reading “Topsy + Turvy,” which infinitely amused him; the style so picturesque and lambent! + the tone so divertingly cynical! And if the knowledge of society in its + pages was not so distinguished as that of human nature generally, this was + a deficiency obvious only to a comparatively limited circle of its + readers. + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort had reminded Endymion of his promise to introduce the + distinguished author to him, and accordingly, after due researches as to + his dwelling-place, Mr. Ferrars called in Jermyn Street and sent up his + card, to know whether Mr. St. Barbe would receive him. This was evidently + not a matter-of-course affair, and some little time had elapsed when the + maid-servant appeared, and beckoned to Endymion to follow her upstairs. + </p> + <p> + In the front drawing-room of the first floor, robed in a flaming + dressing-gown, and standing with his back to the fire and to the + looking-glass, the frame of which was encrusted with cards of invitation, + the former colleague of Endymion received his visitor with a somewhat + haughty and reserved air. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am delighted to see you again,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + No reply but a ceremonious bow. + </p> + <p> + “And to congratulate you,” Endymion added after a moment’s pause. “I hear + of nothing but of your book; I suppose one of the most successful that + have appeared for a long time.” + </p> + <p> + “Its success is not owing to your friends,” said Mr. St. Barbe tartly. + </p> + <p> + “My friends!” said Endymion; “what could they have done to prevent it?” + </p> + <p> + “They need not have dissolved parliament,” said Mr. St. Barbe with + irritation. “It was nearly fatal to me; it would have been to anybody + else. I was selling forty thousand a month; I believe more than Gushy ever + reached; and so they dissolved parliament. The sale went down half at once—and + now you expect me to support your party!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it was unfortunate, but the dissolution could hardly have done you + any permanent injury, and you could scarcely expect that such an event + could be postponed even for the advantage of an individual so + distinguished as yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not,” said St. Barbe, apparently a little mollified, “but they + might have done something to show their regret at it.” + </p> + <p> + “Something!” said Endymion, “what sort of thing?” + </p> + <p> + “The prime minister might have called on me, or at least written to me a + letter. I want none of their honours; I have scores of letters every day, + suggesting that some high distinction should be conferred on me. I believe + the nation expects me to be made a baronet. By the by, I heard the other + day you had got into parliament. I know nothing of these matters; they do + not interest me. Is it the fact?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I was so fortunate, and there are others of your old friends, + Trenchard, for example.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not mean to say that Trenchard is in parliament!” said St. Barbe, + throwing off all his affected reserve. “Well, it is too disgusting! + Trenchard in parliament, and I obliged to think it a great favour if a man + gives me a frank! Well, representative institutions have seen their day. + That is something.” + </p> + <p> + “I have come here on a social mission,” said Endymion in a soothing tone. + “There is a great admirer of yours who much wishes to make your + acquaintance. Trusting to our old intimacy, of which of course I am very + proud, it was even hoped that you might waive ceremony, and come and + dine.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite impossible!” exclaimed St. Barbe, and turning round, he pointed to + the legion of invitations before him. “You see, the world is at my feet. I + remember that fellow Seymour Hicks taking me to his rooms to show me a + card he had from a countess. What would he say to this?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but you cannot be engaged to dinner every day,” said Endymion; “and + you really may choose any day you like.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there are not many dinners among them, to be sure,” said St. Barbe. + “Small and earlies. How I hate a ‘small and early’! Shown into a room + where you meet a select few who have been asked to dinner, and who are + chewing the cud like a herd of kine, and you are expected to tumble before + them to assist their digestion! Faugh! No, sir; we only dine out now, and + we think twice, I can tell you, before we accept even an invitation to + dinner. Who’s your friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, my friend is Lord Montfort.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not mean to say that! And he is an admirer of mine?” + </p> + <p> + “An enthusiastic admirer.” + </p> + <p> + “I will dine with Lord Montfort. There is no one who appreciates so + completely and so highly the old nobility of England as myself. They are a + real aristocracy. None of the pinchbeck pedigrees and ormolu titles of the + continent. Lord Montfort is, I think, an earl. A splendid title, earl! an + English earl; count goes for nothing. The Earl of Montfort! An + enthusiastic admirer of mine! The aristocracy of England, especially the + old aristocracy, are highly cultivated. Sympathy from such a class is to + be valued. I care for no other—I have always despised the million of + vulgar. They have come to me, not I to them, and I have always told them + the truth about themselves, that they are a race of snobs, and they rather + like being told so. And now for your day?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not this day if you be free? I will call for you about eight, and + take you in my brougham to Montfort House.” + </p> + <p> + “You have got a brougham! Well, I suppose so, being a member of + parliament, though I know a good many members of parliament who have not + got broughams. But your family, I remember, married into the swells. I do + not grudge it you. You were always a good comrade to me. I never knew a + man more free from envy than you, Ferrars, and envy is an odious vice. + There are people I know, who, when they hear I have dined with the Earl of + Montfort, will invent all sorts of stories against me, and send them to + what they call the journals of society.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, it shall be to-day,” said Endymion, rising. + </p> + <p> + “It shall be to-day, and to tell the truth, I was thinking this morning + where I should dine to-day. What I miss here are the cafes. Now in Paris + you can dine every day exactly as it suits your means and mood. You may + dine for a couple of francs in a quiet, unknown street, and very well; or + you may dine for a couple of napoleons in a flaming saloon, with windows + opening on a crowded boulevard. London is deficient in dining capability.” + </p> + <p> + “You should belong to a club. Do you not?” + </p> + <p> + “So I was told by a friend of mine the other day,—one of your great + swells. He said I ought to belong to the Athenaeum, and he would propose + me, and the committee would elect me as a matter of course. They rejected + me and selected a bishop. And then people are surprised that the Church is + in danger!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0078" id="link2HCH0078"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXVIII + </h2> + <p> + The condition of England at the meeting of Parliament in 1842 was not + satisfactory. The depression of trade in the manufacturing districts + seemed overwhelming, and continued increasing during the whole of the + year. A memorial from Stockport to the Queen in the spring represented + that more than half the master spinners had failed, and that no less than + three thousand dwelling-houses were untenanted. One-fifth of the + population of Leeds were dependent on the poor-rates. The state of + Sheffield was not less severe—and the blast furnaces of + Wolverhampton were extinguished. There were almost daily meetings, at + Liverpool, Manchester, and Leeds, to consider the great and increasing + distress of the country, and to induce ministers to bring forward remedial + measures; but as these were impossible, violence was soon substituted for + passionate appeals to the fears or the humanity of the government. Vast + bodies of the population assembled in Staleybridge, and Ashton, and + Oldham, and marched into Manchester. + </p> + <p> + For a week the rioting was unchecked, but the government despatched a + strong military force to that city, and order was restored. + </p> + <p> + The state of affairs in Scotland was not more favourable. There were food + riots in several of the Scotch towns, and in Glasgow the multitude + assembled, and then commenced what they called a begging tour, but which + was really a progress of not disguised intimidation. The economic crisis + in Ireland was yet to come, but the whole of that country was absorbed in + a harassing and dangerous agitation for the repeal of the union between + the two countries. + </p> + <p> + During all this time, the Anti-Corn Law League was holding regular and + frequent meetings at Manchester, at which statements were made + distinguished by great eloquence and little scruple. But the able leaders + of this confederacy never succeeded in enlisting the sympathies of the + great body of the population. Between the masters and the workmen there + was an alienation of feeling, which apparently never could be removed. + This reserve, however, did not enlist the working classes on the side of + the government; they had their own object, and one which they themselves + enthusiastically cherished. And this was the Charter, a political + settlement which was to restore the golden age, and which the master + manufacturers and the middle classes generally looked upon with even more + apprehension than Her Majesty’s advisers. It is hardly necessary to add, + that in a state of affairs like that which is here faintly but still + faithfully sketched, the rapid diminution of the revenue was inevitable, + and of course that decline mainly occurred in the two all-important + branches of the customs and excise. + </p> + <p> + There was another great misfortune also which at this trying time hung + over England. The country was dejected. The humiliating disasters of + Afghanistan, dark narratives of which were periodically arriving, had + produced a more depressing effect on the spirit of the country than all + the victories and menaces of Napoleon in the heyday of his wild career. At + home and abroad, there seemed nothing to sustain the national spirit; + financial embarrassment, commercial and manufacturing distress, social and + political agitation on the one hand, and on the other, the loss of armies, + of reputation, perhaps of empire. It was true that these external + misfortunes could hardly be attributed to the new ministry—but when + a nation is thoroughly perplexed and dispirited, it soon ceases to make + distinctions between political parties. The country is out of sorts, and + the “government” is held answerable for the disorder. + </p> + <p> + Thus it will be seen, that, though the new ministry were supported by a + commanding majority in parliament, and that, too, after a recent appeal to + the country, they were not popular, it may be truly said they were even + the reverse. The opposition, on the other hand, notwithstanding their + discomfiture, and, on some subjects, their disgrace, were by no means + disheartened, and believed that there were economical causes at work, + which must soon restore them to power. + </p> + <p> + The minister brought forward his revision of the tariff, which was + denounced by the League as futile, and in which anathema the opposition + soon found it convenient to agree. Had the minister included in his + measure that “total and immediate repeal” of the existing corn laws which + was preached by many as a panacea, the effect would have been probably + much the same. No doubt a tariff may aggravate, or may mitigate, such a + condition of commercial depression as periodically visits a state of + society like that of England, but it does not produce it. It was produced + in 1842, as it had been produced at the present time, by an abuse of + capital and credit, and by a degree of production which the wants of the + world have not warranted. + </p> + <p> + And yet all this time, there were certain influences at work in the great + body of the nation, neither foreseen, nor for some time recognised, by + statesmen and those great capitalists on whose opinion statesmen much + depend, which were stirring, as it were, like the unconscious power of the + forces of nature, and which were destined to baffle all the calculations + of persons in authority and the leading spirits of all parties, strengthen + a perplexed administration, confound a sanguine opposition, render all the + rhetoric, statistics, and subscriptions of the Anti-Corn Law League + fruitless, and absolutely make the Chartists forget the Charter. + </p> + <p> + “My friends will not assist themselves by resisting the government + measures,” said Mr. Neuchatel, with his usual calm smile, half sceptical, + half sympathetic. “The measures will do no good, but they will do no harm. + There are no measures that will do any good at this moment. We do not want + measures; what we want is a new channel.” + </p> + <p> + That is exactly what was wanted. There was abundant capital in the country + and a mass of unemployed labour. But the markets on which they had of late + depended, the American especially, were overworked and overstocked, and in + some instances were not only overstocked, but disturbed by war, as the + Chinese, for example—and capital and labour wanted “a new channel.” + </p> + <p> + The new channel came, and all the persons of authority, alike political + and commercial, seemed quite surprised that it had arrived; but when a + thing or a man is wanted, they generally appear. One or two lines of + railway, which had been long sleepily in formation, about this time were + finished, and one or two lines of railway, which had been finished for + some time and were unnoticed, announced dividends, and not contemptible + ones. Suddenly there was a general feeling in the country, that its + capital should be invested in railways; that the whole surface of the land + should be transformed, and covered, as by a network, with these mighty + means of communication. When the passions of the English, naturally an + enthusiastic people, are excited on a subject of finance, their will, + their determination, and resource, are irresistible. This was signally + proved in the present instance, for they never ceased subscribing their + capital until the sum entrusted to this new form of investment reached an + amount almost equal to the national debt; and this too in a very few + years. The immediate effect on the condition of the country was absolutely + prodigious. The value of land rose, all the blast furnaces were relit, a + stimulant was given to every branch of the home trade, the amount suddenly + paid in wages exceeded that ever known in this country, and wages too at a + high rate. Large portions of the labouring classes not only enjoyed + comfort, but commanded luxury. All this of course soon acted on the + revenue, and both customs and especially excise soon furnished an ample + surplus. + </p> + <p> + It cannot be pretended that all this energy and enterprise were free in + their operation from those evils which, it seems, must inevitably attend + any extensive public speculation, however well founded. Many of the scenes + and circumstances recalled the days of the South Sea Scheme. The gambling + in shares of companies which were formed only in name was without limit. + The principal towns of the north established for that purpose stock + exchanges of their own, and Leeds especially, one-fifth of whose + population had been authoritatively described in the first session of the + new parliament as dependent on the poor-rates, now boasted a stock + exchange which in the extent of its transactions rivalled that of the + metropolis. And the gambling was universal, from the noble to the + mechanic. It was confined to no class and to no sex. The scene which took + place at the Board of Trade on the last day on which plans could be + lodged, and when midnight had arrived while crowds from the country were + still filling the hall, and pressing at the doors, deserved and required + for its adequate representation the genius of a Hogarth. This was the day + on which it was announced that the total number of railway projects, on + which deposits had been paid, had reached nearly to eight hundred. + </p> + <p> + What is remarkable in this vast movement in which so many millions were + produced, and so many more promised, is, that the great leaders of the + financial world took no part in it. The mighty loan-mongers, on whose fiat + the fate of kings and empires sometimes depended, seemed like men who, + witnessing some eccentricity of nature, watch it with mixed feelings of + curiosity and alarm. Even Lombard Street, which never was more wanted, was + inactive, and it was only by the irresistible pressure of circumstances + that a banking firm which had an extensive country connection was + ultimately forced to take the leading part that was required, and almost + unconsciously lay the foundation of the vast fortunes which it has + realised, and organise the varied connection which it now commands. All + seemed to come from the provinces, and from unknown people in the + provinces. + </p> + <p> + But in all affairs there must be a leader, and a leader appeared. He was + more remarkable than the movement itself. He was a London tradesman, + though a member of parliament returned for the first time to this House of + Commons. This leader was Mr. Vigo. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Vigo had foreseen what was coming, and had prepared for it. He agreed + with Mr. Neuchatel, what was wanted was “a new channel.” That channel he + thought he had discovered, and he awaited it. He himself could command no + inconsiderable amount of capital, and he had a following of obscure rich + friends who believed in him, and did what he liked. His daily visits to + the City, except when he was travelling over England, and especially the + north and midland counties, had their purpose and bore fruit. He was a + director, and soon the chairman and leading spirit, of a railway which was + destined to be perhaps our most important one. He was master of all the + details of the business; he had arrived at conclusions on the question of + the gauges, which then was a <i>pons asinorum</i> for the multitude, and + understood all about rolling stock and permanent ways, and sleepers and + branch lines, which were then cabalistic terms to the general. In his + first session in parliament he had passed quietly and almost unnoticed + several bills on these matters, and began to be recognised by the + Committee of Selection as a member who ought to be “put on” for questions + of this kind. + </p> + <p> + The great occasion had arrived, and Mr. Vigo was equal to it. He was one + of those few men who awake one day and find themselves famous. Suddenly it + would seem that the name of Mr. Vigo was in everybody’s mouth. There was + only one subject which interested the country, and he was recognised as + the man who best understood it. He was an oracle, and, naturally, soon + became an idol. The tariff of the ministers was forgotten, the invectives + of the League were disregarded, their motions for the repeal of the corn + laws were invariably defeated by large and contemptuous majorities. The + House of Commons did nothing but pass railway bills, measures which were + welcomed with unanimity by the House of Lords, whose estates were in + consequence daily increasing in value. People went to the gallery to see + Mr. Vigo introduce bills, and could scarcely restrain their enthusiasm at + the spectacle of so much patriotic energy, which secured for them premiums + for shares, which they held in undertakings of which the first sod was not + yet cut. On one morning, the Great Cloudland Company, of which he was + chairman, gave their approval of twenty-six bills, which he immediately + introduced into parliament. Next day, the Ebor and North Cloudland + sanctioned six bills under his advice, and affirmed deeds and agreements + which affected all the principal railway projects in Lancashire and + Yorkshire. A quarter of an hour later, just time to hurry from one meeting + to another, where he was always received with rampant enthusiasm, + Newcastle and the extreme north accepted his dictatorship. During a + portion of two days, he obtained the consent of shareholders to forty + bills, involving an expenditure of ten millions; and the engagements for + one session alone amounted to one hundred and thirty millions sterling. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Neuchatel shrugged his shoulders, but no one would listen even to Mr. + Neuchatel, when the prime minister himself, supposed to be the most wary + of men, and especially on financial subjects, in the very white heat of + all this speculation, himself raised the first sod on his own estate in a + project of extent and importance. + </p> + <p> + Throughout these extraordinary scenes, Mr. Vigo, though not free from + excitement, exhibited, on the whole, much self-control. He was faithful to + his old friends, and no one profited more in this respect than Mr. Rodney. + That gentleman became the director of several lines, and vice-chairman of + one over which Mr. Vigo himself presided. No one was surprised that Mr. + Rodney therefore should enter parliament. He came in by virtue of one of + those petitions that Tadpole was always cooking, or baffling. Mr. Rodney + was a supporter of the ministry, and Mr. Vigo was a Liberal, but Mr. Vigo + returned Mr. Rodney to parliament all the same, and no one seemed + astonished or complained. Political connection, political consistency, + political principle, all vanished before the fascination of premiums. + </p> + <p> + As for Endymion, the great man made him friendly and earnest overtures, + and offered, if he would give his time to business, which, as he was in + opposition, would be no great sacrifice, to promote and secure his + fortune. But Endymion, after due reflection, declined, though with + gratitude, these tempting proposals. Ferrars was an ambitious man, but not + too imaginative a one. He had a main object in life, and that was to + regain the position which had been forfeited, not by his own fault. His + grandfather and his father before him had both been privy councillors and + ministers of state. There had, indeed, been more than the prospect of his + father filling a very prominent position. All had been lost, but the + secret purpose of the life of Endymion was that, from being a clerk in a + public office, he should arrive by his own energies at the station to + which he seemed, as it were, born. To accomplish this he felt that the + entire devotion of his labour and thought was requisite. His character was + essentially tenacious, and he had already realised no inconsiderable + amount of political knowledge and official experience. His object seemed + difficult and distant, but there was nothing wild or visionary in its + pursuit. He had achieved some of the first steps, and he was yet very + young. There were friends about him, however, who were not content with + what they deemed his moderate ambition, and thought they discerned in him + qualities which might enable him to mount to a higher stage. However this + might be, his judgment was that he must resist the offers of Mr. Vigo, + though they were sincerely kind, and so he felt them. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, he frequently met that gentleman, and not merely in the + House of Commons. Mr. St. Barbe would have been frantically envious could + he have witnessed and perused the social invitations that fell like a + continuous snow-storm on the favoured roof of Mr. Vigo. Mr. Vigo was not a + party question. He dined with high patricians who forgot their political + differences, while they agreed in courting the presence of this great + benefactor of his country. The fine ladies were as eager in their homage + to this real patriot, and he might be seen between rival countesses, who + emulated each other in their appreciation of his public services. These + were Mr. Vigo’s dangerous suitors. He confessed to Endymion one day that + he could not manage the great ladies. “Male swells,” he would say + laughingly, “I have measured physically and intellectually.” The golden + youth of the country seemed fascinated by his society, repeated his + sententious bons-mot, and applied for shares in every company which he + launched into prosperous existence. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Vigo purchased a splendid mansion in St. James’ Square, where + invitations to his banquets were looked upon almost as commands. His chief + cook was one of the celebrities of Europe, and though he had served + emperors, the salary he received from Mr. Vigo exceeded any one he had + hitherto condescended to pocket. Mr. Vigo bought estates, hired moors, + lavished his money, not only with profusion, but with generosity. + Everything was placed at his command, and it appeared that there was + nothing that he refused. “When this excitement is over,” said Mr. Bertie + Tremaine, “I hope to induce him to take India.” + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this commanding effulgence, the calmer beam of Mr. Rodney + might naturally pass unnoticed, yet its brightness was clear and + sustained. The Rodneys engaged a dwelling of no mean proportion in that + favoured district of South Kensington, which was then beginning to assume + the high character it has since obtained. Their equipages were + distinguished, and when Mrs. Rodney entered the Park, driving her + matchless ponies, and attended by outriders, and herself bright as Diana, + the world leaning over its palings witnessed her appearance with equal + delight and admiration. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0079" id="link2HCH0079"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXIX + </h2> + <p> + We have rather anticipated, for the sake of the subject, in our last + chapter, and we must now recur to the time when, after his return from + Paris, Endymion entered into what was virtually his first session in the + House of Commons. Though in opposition, and with all the delights of the + most charming society at his command, he was an habitual and constant + attendant. One might have been tempted to believe that he would turn out + to be, though a working, only a silent member, but his silence was only + prudence. He was deeply interested and amused in watching the proceedings, + especially when those took part in them with whom he was acquainted. Job + Thornberry occupied a leading position in the debates. He addressed the + House very shortly after he took his seat, and having a purpose and a most + earnest one, and being what is styled a representative man of his subject, + the House listened to him at once, and his place in debate was immediately + recognised. The times favoured him, especially during the first and second + session, while the commercial depression lasted; afterwards, he was always + listened to, because he had great oratorical gifts, a persuasive style + that was winning, and, though he had no inconsiderable powers of sarcasm, + his extreme tact wisely guided him to restrain for the present that + dangerous, though most effective, weapon. + </p> + <p> + The Pythagorean school, as Waldershare styled Mr. Bertie Tremaine and his + following, very much amused Endymion. The heaven-born minister air of the + great leader was striking. He never smiled, or at any rate contemptuously. + Notice of a question was sometimes publicly given from this bench, but so + abstruse in its nature and so quaint in its expression, that the House + never comprehended it, and the unfortunate minister who had to answer, + even with twenty-four hours’ study, was obliged to commence his reply by a + conjectural interpretation of the query formally addressed to him. But + though they were silent in the House, their views were otherwise + powerfully represented. The weekly journal devoted to their principles was + sedulously circulated among members of the House. It was called the + “Precursor,” and systematically attacked not only every institution, but, + it might be said, every law, and all the manners and customs, of the + country. Its style was remarkable, never excited or impassioned, but + frigid, logical, and incisive, and suggesting appalling revolutions with + the calmness with which one would narrate the ordinary incidents of life. + The editor of the “Precursor” was Mr. Jawett, selected by that great + master of human nature, Mr. Bertie Tremaine. When it got about, that the + editor of this fearful journal was a clerk in a public office, the + indignation of the government, or at least of their supporters, was + extreme, and there was no end to the punishments and disgrace to which he + was to be subjected; but Waldershare, who lived a good deal in Bohemia, + was essentially cosmopolitan, and dabbled in letters, persuaded his + colleagues not to make the editor of the “Precursor” a martyr, and + undertook with their authority to counteract his evil purposes by literary + means alone. + </p> + <p> + Being fully empowered to take all necessary steps for this object, + Waldershare thought that there was no better mode of arresting public + attention to his enterprise than by engaging for its manager the most + renowned pen of the hour, and he opened himself on the subject in the most + sacred confidence to Mr. St. Barbe. That gentleman, invited to call upon a + minister, sworn to secrecy, and brimful of state secrets, could not long + restrain himself, and with admirable discretion consulted on his views and + prospects Mr. Endymion Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “But I thought you were one of us,” said Endymion; “you asked me to put + you in the way of getting into Brooks’!” + </p> + <p> + “What of that?” said Mr. St. Barbe; “and when you remember what the Whigs + owe to literary men, they ought to have elected me into Brooks’ without my + asking for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Still, if you be on the other side?” + </p> + <p> + “It is nothing to do with sides,” said Mr. St. Barbe; “this affair goes + far beyond sides. The ‘Precursor’ wants to put down the Crown; I shall put + down the ‘Precursor.’ It is an affair of the closet, not of sides—an + affair of the royal closet, sir. I am acting for the Crown, sir; the Crown + has appealed to me. I save the Crown, and there must be personal relations + with the highest,” and he looked quite fierce. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you have not written your first article yet,” said Endymion. “I + shall look forward to it with much interest.” + </p> + <p> + After Easter, Lord Roehampton said to Endymion that a question ought to be + put on a subject of foreign policy of importance, and on which he thought + the ministry were in difficulties; “and I think you might as well ask it, + Endymion. I will draw up the question, and you will give notice of it. It + will be a reconnaissance.” + </p> + <p> + The notice of this question was the first time Endymion opened his mouth + in the House of Commons. It was an humble and not a very hazardous office, + but when he got on his legs his head swam, his heart beat so violently, + that it was like a convulsion preceding death, and though he was only on + his legs for a few seconds, all the sorrows of his life seemed to pass + before him. When he sate down, he was quite surprised that the business of + the House proceeded as usual, and it was only after some time that he + became convinced that no one but himself was conscious of his sufferings, + or that he had performed a routine duty otherwise than in a routine + manner. + </p> + <p> + The crafty question, however, led to some important consequences. When + asked, to the surprise of every one the minister himself replied to it. + Waldershare, with whom Endymion dined at Bellamy’s that day, was in no + good humour in consequence. + </p> + <p> + When Lord Roehampton had considered the ministerial reply, he said to + Endymion, “This must be followed up. You must move for papers. It will be + a good opportunity for you, for the House is up to something being in the + wind, and they will listen. It will be curious to see whether the minister + follows you. If so, he will give me an opening.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion felt that this was the crisis of his life. He knew the subject + well, and he had all the tact and experience of Lord Roehampton to guide + him in his statement and his arguments. He had also the great feeling + that, if necessary, a powerful arm would support him. It was about a week + before the day arrived, and Endymion slept very little that week, and the + night before his motion not a wink. He almost wished he was dead as he + walked down to the House in the hope that the exercise might remedy, or + improve, his languid circulation; but in vain, and when his name was + called and he had to rise, his hands and feet were like ice. + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton and Lady Montfort were both in the ventilator, and he knew + it. + </p> + <p> + It might be said that he was sustained by his utter despair. He felt so + feeble and generally imbecile, that he had not vitality enough to be + sensible of failure. + </p> + <p> + He had a kind audience, and an interested one. When he opened his mouth, + he forgot his first sentence, which he had long prepared. In trying to + recall it and failing, he was for a moment confused. But it was only for a + moment; the unpremeditated came to his aid, and his voice, at first + tremulous, was recognised as distinct and rich. There was a murmur of + sympathy, and not merely from his own side. Suddenly, both physically and + intellectually, he was quite himself. His arrested circulation flowed, and + fed his stagnant brain. His statement was lucid, his arguments were + difficult to encounter, and his manner was modest. He sate down amid + general applause, and though he was then conscious that he had omitted + more than one point on which he had relied, he was on the whole satisfied, + and recollected that he might use them in reply, a privilege to which he + now looked forward with feelings of comfort and confidence. + </p> + <p> + The minister again followed him, and in an elaborate speech. The subject + evidently, in the opinion of the minister, was of too delicate and + difficult a character to trust to a subordinate. Overwhelmed as he was + with the labours of his own department, the general conduct of affairs, + and the leadership of the House, he still would undertake the + representation of an office with whose business he was not familiar. Wary + and accurate he always was, but in discussions on foreign affairs, he + never exhibited the unrivalled facility with which he ever treated a + commercial or financial question, or that plausible promptness with which, + at a moment’s notice, he could encounter any difficulty connected with + domestic administration. + </p> + <p> + All these were qualities which Lord Roehampton possessed with reference to + the affairs over which he had long presided, and in the present instance, + following the minister, he was particularly happy. He had a good case, and + he was gratified by the success of Endymion. He complimented him and + confuted his opponent, and, not satisfied with demolishing his arguments, + Lord Roehampton indulged in a little raillery which the House enjoyed, but + which was never pleasing to the more solemn organisation of his rival. + </p> + <p> + No language can describe the fury of Waldershare as to the events of this + evening. He looked upon the conduct of the minister, in not permitting him + to represent his department, as a decree of the incapacity of his + subordinate, and of the virtual termination of the official career of the + Under-Secretary of State. He would have resigned the next day had it not + been for the influence of Lady Beaumaris, who soothed him by suggesting, + that it would be better to take an early opportunity of changing his + present post for another. + </p> + <p> + The minister was wrong. He was not fond of trusting youth, but it is a + confidence which should be exercised, particularly in the conduct of a + popular assembly. If the under-secretary had not satisfactorily answered + Endymion, which no one had a right to assume, for Waldershare was a + brilliant man, the minister could have always advanced to the rescue at + the fitting time. As it was, he made a personal enemy of one who naturally + might have ripened into a devoted follower, and who from his social + influence, as well as from his political talents, was no despicable foe. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0080" id="link2HCH0080"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXX + </h2> + <p> + Notwithstanding the great political, and consequently social, changes that + had taken place, no very considerable alteration occurred in the general + life of those chief personages in whose existence we have attempted to + interest the reader. However vast may appear to be the world in which we + move, we all of us live in a limited circle. It is the result of + circumstances; of our convenience and our taste. Lady Beaumaris became the + acknowledged leader of Tory society, and her husband was so pleased with + her position, and so proud of it, that he in a considerable degree + sacrificed his own pursuits and pleasures for its maintenance. He even + refused the mastership of a celebrated hunt, which had once been an object + of his highest ambition, that he might be early and always in London to + support his wife in her receptions. Imogene herself was universally + popular. Her gentle and natural manners, blended with a due degree of + self-respect, her charming appearance, and her ready but unaffected + sympathy, won every heart. Lady Roehampton was her frequent guest. Myra + continued her duties as a leader of society, as her lord was anxious that + the diplomatic world should not forget him. These were the two principal + and rival houses. The efforts of Lady Montfort were more fitful, for they + were to a certain degree dependent on the moods of her husband. It was + observed that Lady Beaumaris never omitted attending the receptions of + Lady Roehampton, and the tone of almost reverential affection with which + she ever approached Myra was touching to those who were in the secret, but + they were few. + </p> + <p> + No great change occurred in the position of Prince Florestan, except that + in addition to the sports to which he was apparently devoted, he gradually + began to interest himself in the turf. He had bred several horses of + repute, and one, which he had named Lady Roehampton, was the favourite for + a celebrated race. His highness was anxious that Myra should honour him by + being his guest. This had never occurred before, because Lord Roehampton + felt that so avowed an intimacy with a personage in the peculiar position + of Prince Florestan was hardly becoming a Secretary of State for Foreign + Affairs; but that he was no longer, and being the most good-natured man + that ever lived, and easily managed in little things, he could not refuse + Myra when she consulted him, as they call it, on the subject, and it was + settled that Lord and Lady Roehampton were to dine with Prince Florestan. + The prince was most anxious that Mr. Sidney Wilton should take this + occasion of consenting to a reconciliation with him, and Lady Roehampton + exerted herself much for this end. Mr. Sidney Wilton was in love with Lady + Roehampton, and yet on this point he was inexorable. Lord and Lady + Beaumaris went, and Lady Montfort, to whom the prince had addressed a + private note of his own that quite captivated her, and Mr. and Mrs. + Neuchatel and Adriana. Waldershare, Endymion, and Baron Sergius completed + the guests, who were received by the Duke of St. Angelo and a couple of + aides-de-camp. When the prince entered all rose, and the ladies curtseyed + very low. Lord Roehampton resumed his seat immediately, saying to his + neighbour, “I rose to show my respect to my host; I sit down to show that + I look upon him as a subject like myself.” + </p> + <p> + “A subject of whom?” inquired Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “There is something in that,” said Lord Roehampton, smiling. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of St. Angelo was much disturbed by the conduct of Lord + Roehampton, which had disappointed his calculations, and he went about + lamenting that Lord Roehampton had a little gout. + </p> + <p> + They had assembled in the library and dined on the same floor. The prince + was seated between Lady Montfort, whom he accompanied to dinner, and Lady + Roehampton. Adriana fell to Endymion’s lot. She looked very pretty, was + beautifully dressed, and for her, was even gay. Her companion was in good + spirits, and she seemed interested and amused. The prince never spoke + much, but his remarks always told. He liked murmuring to women, but when + requisite, he could throw a fly over the table with adroitness and effect. + More than once during the dinner he whispered to Lady Roehampton: “This is + too kind—your coming here. But you have always been my best friend.” + The dinner would have been lively and successful even if Waldershare had + not been there, but he to-day was exuberant and irresistible. His chief + topic was abuse of the government of which he was a member, and he + lavished all his powers of invective and ridicule alike on the imbecility + of their policy and their individual absurdities. All this much amused + Lady Montfort, and gave Lord Roehampton an opportunity to fool the + Under-Secretary of State to the top of his bent. + </p> + <p> + “If you do not take care,” said Mr. Neuchatel, “they will turn you out.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish they would,” said Waldershare. “That is what I am longing for. I + should go then all over the country and address public meetings. It would + be the greatest thing since Sacheverell.” + </p> + <p> + “Our people have not behaved well to Mr. Waldershare,” whispered Imogene + to Lord Roehampton, “but I think we shall put it all right.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you believe it?” inquired Lady Montfort of Lord Roehampton. He had + been speaking to her for some little time in a hushed tone, and rather + earnestly. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed I do; I cannot well see what there is to doubt about it. We know + the father very well—an excellent man; he was the parish priest of + Lady Roehampton before her marriage, when she lived in the country. And we + know from him that more than a year ago something was contemplated. The + son gave up his living then; he has remained at Rome ever since. And now I + am told he returns to us, the Pope’s legate and an archbishop <i>in + partibus</i>!” + </p> + <p> + “It is most interesting,” said Lady Montfort. “I was always his great + admirer.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that; you and Lady Roehampton made me go and hear him. The father + will be terribly distressed.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not care at all about the father,” said Lady Montfort; “but the son + had such a fine voice and was so very good-looking. I hope I shall see + him.” + </p> + <p> + They were speaking of Nigel Penruddock, whose movements had been a matter + of much mystery during the last two years. Rumours of his having been + received into the Roman Church had been often rife; sometimes flatly, and + in time faintly, contradicted. Now the facts seemed admitted, and it would + appear that he was about to return to England not only as a Roman + Catholic, but as a distinguished priest of the Church, and, it was said, + even the representative of the Papacy. + </p> + <p> + All the guests rose at the same time—a pleasant habit—and went + upstairs to the brilliantly lighted saloons. Lord Roehampton seated + himself by Baron Sergius, with whom he was always glad to converse. “We + seem here quiet and content?” said the ex-minister inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + “I hope so, and I think so,” said Sergius. “He believes in his star, and + will leave everything to its influence. There are to be no more + adventures.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be a great relief to Lord Roehampton to have got quit of office,” + said Mrs. Neuchatel to Lady Roehampton. “I always pitied him so much. I + never can understand why people voluntarily incur such labours and + anxiety.” + </p> + <p> + “You should join us,” said Mr. Neuchatel to Waldershare. “They would be + very glad to see you at Brooks’.” + </p> + <p> + “Brooks’ may join the October Club which I am going to revive,” said + Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + “I never heard of that club,” said Mr. Neuchatel. + </p> + <p> + “It was a much more important thing than the Bill of Rights or the Act of + Settlement,” said Waldershare, “all the same.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to see his mother’s portrait in the farther saloon,” said Lady + Montfort to Myra. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go together.” And Lady Roehampton rose, and they went. + </p> + <p> + It was a portrait of Queen Agrippina by a master hand, and admirably + illumined by reflected light, so that it seemed to live. + </p> + <p> + “She must have been very beautiful,” said Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Sidney Wilton was devotedly attached to her, my lord has told me,” + said Lady Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + “So many were devotedly attached to her,” said Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; she was like Mary of Scotland, whom some men are in love with even + to this day. Her spell was irresistible. There are no such women now.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; there is one,” said Lady Montfort, suddenly turning round and + embracing Lady Roehampton; “and I know she hates me, because she thinks I + prevent her brother from marrying.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Lady Montfort, how can you use such strong expressions? I am sure + there can be only one feeling of Endymion’s friends to you, and that is + gratitude for your kindness to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I have done nothing for him; I can do nothing for him. I felt that when + we were trying to get him into parliament. If he could marry, and be + independent, and powerful, and rich, it would be better, perhaps, for all + of us.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish he were independent, and powerful, and rich,” said Myra musingly. + “That would be a fairy tale. At present, he must be content that he has + some of the kindest friends in the world.” + </p> + <p> + “He interests me very much; no one so much. I am sincerely, even deeply + attached to him; but it is like your love, it is a sister’s love. There is + only one person I really love in the world, and alas! he does not love + me!” And her voice was tremulous. + </p> + <p> + “Do not say such things, dear Lady Montfort. I never can believe what you + sometimes intimate on that subject. Do you know, I think it a little + hallucination.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort shook her head with a truly mournful expression, and then + suddenly, her beautiful face wreathed with smiles, she said in a gay + voice, “We will not think of such sorrows. I wish them to be entombed in + my heart, but the spectres will rise sometimes. Now about your brother. I + do not mean to say that it would not be a great loss to me if he married, + but I wish him to marry if you do. For myself, I must have a male friend, + and he must be very clever, and thoroughly understand politics. You know + you deprived me of Lord Roehampton,” she continued smilingly, “who was + everything I could desire; and the Count of Ferroll would have suited me + excellently, but then he ran away. Now Endymion could not easily run away, + and he is so agreeable and so intelligent, that at last I thought I had + found a companion worth helping—and I meant, and still mean, to work + hard—until he is prime minister.” + </p> + <p> + “I have my dreams too about that,” said Lady Roehampton, “but we are all + about the same age, and can wait a little.” + </p> + <p> + “He cannot be minister too soon,” said Lady Montfort. “It was not being + minister soon that ruined Charles Fox.” + </p> + <p> + The party broke up. The prince made a sign to Waldershare, which meant a + confidential cigar, and in a few minutes they were alone together. + </p> + <p> + “What women!” exclaimed the prince. “Not to be rivalled in this city, and + yet quite unlike each other.” + </p> + <p> + “And which do you admire most, sir?” said Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + The prince trimmed his cigar, and then he said, “I will tell you this day + five years.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0081" id="link2HCH0081"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXI + </h2> + <p> + The ecclesiastical incident mentioned at the dinner described in our last + chapter, produced a considerable effect in what is called society. Nigel + Penruddock had obtained great celebrity as a preacher, while his extreme + doctrines and practices had alike amazed, fascinated, and alarmed a large + portion of the public. For some time he had withdrawn from the popular + gaze, but his individuality was too strong to be easily forgotten, even if + occasional paragraphs as to his views and conduct, published, + contradicted, and reiterated, were not sufficient to sustain, and even + stimulate, curiosity. That he was about to return to his native land, as + the Legate of His Holiness, was an event which made many men look grave, + and some female hearts flutter. + </p> + <p> + The memory of Lady Roehampton could not escape from the past, and she + could not recall it and all the scenes at Hurstley without emotion; and + Lady Montfort remembered with some pride and excitement, that the Legate + of the Pope had been one of her heroes. It was evident that he had no wish + to avoid his old acquaintances, for shortly after his arrival, and after + he had assembled his suffragans, and instructed the clergy of his + district, for dioceses did not then exist, Archbishop Penruddock, for so + the Metropolitan of Tyre simply styled himself, called upon both these + ladies. + </p> + <p> + His first visit was to Myra, and notwithstanding her disciplined + self-control, her intense pride, and the deep and daring spirit which + always secretly sustained her, she was nervous and agitated, but only in + her boudoir. When she entered the saloon to welcome him, she seemed as + calm as if she were going to an evening assembly. + </p> + <p> + Nigel was changed. Instead of that anxious and moody look which formerly + marred the refined beauty of his countenance, his glance was calm and yet + radiant. He was thinner, it might almost be said emaciated, which seemed + to add height to his tall figure. + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton need not have been nervous about the interview, and the + pain of its inevitable associations. Except one allusion at the end of his + visit, when his Grace mentioned some petty grievance, of which he wished + to relieve his clergy, and said, “I think I will consult your brother; + being in the opposition, he will be less embarrassed than some of my + friends in the government, or their supporters,” he never referred to the + past. All he spoke of was the magnitude of his task, the immense but + inspiring labours which awaited him, and his deep sense of his + responsibility. Nothing but the Divine principle of the Church could + sustain him. He was at one time hopeful that His Holiness might have + thought the time ripe for the restoration of the national hierarchy, but + it was decreed otherwise. Had it been accorded, no doubt it would have + assisted him. A prelate <i>in partibus</i> is, in a certain sense, a + stranger, whatever his duties, and the world is more willing when it is + appealed to by one who has “a local habitation and a name;” he is + identified with the people among whom he lives. There was much to do. The + state of the Catholic poor in his own district was heartrending. He never + could have conceived such misery, and that too under the shadow of the + Abbey. The few schools which existed were wretched, and his first + attention must be given to this capital deficiency. He trusted much to + female aid. He meant to invite the great Catholic ladies to unite with him + in a common labour of love. In this great centre of civilisation, and + wealth, and power, there was need of the spirit of a St. Ursula. + </p> + <p> + No one seemed more pleased by the return of Archbishop Penruddock than + Lord Montfort. He appeared to be so deeply interested in his Grace’s + mission, sought his society so often, treated him with such profound + respect, almost ceremony, asked so many questions about what was happening + at Rome, and what was going to be done here—that Nigel might have + been pardoned if he did not despair of ultimately inducing Lord Montfort + to return to the faith of his illustrious ancestors. And yet, all this + time, Lord Montfort was only amusing himself; a new character was to him a + new toy, and when he could not find one, he would dip into the “Memoirs of + St. Simon.” + </p> + <p> + Instead of avoiding society, as was his wont in the old days, the + Archbishop sought it. And there was nothing exclusive in his social + habits; all classes and all creeds, all conditions and orders of men, were + alike interesting to him; they were part of the mighty community, with all + whose pursuits, and passions, and interests, and occupations he seemed to + sympathise, but respecting which he had only one object—to bring + them back once more to that imperial fold from which, in an hour of + darkness and distraction, they had miserably wandered. The conversion of + England was deeply engraven on the heart of Penruddock; it was his + constant purpose, and his daily and nightly prayer. + </p> + <p> + So the Archbishop was seen everywhere, even at fashionable assemblies. He + was a frequent guest at banquets which he never tasted, for he was a + smiling ascetic, and though he seemed to be preaching or celebrating high + mass in every part of the metropolis, organising schools, establishing + convents, and building cathedrals, he could find time to move + philanthropic resolutions at middle-class meetings, attend learned + associations, and even occasionally send a paper to the Royal Society. + </p> + <p> + The person who fell most under the influence of the archbishop was + Waldershare. He was fairly captivated by him. Nothing would satisfy + Waldershare till he had brought the archbishop and Prince Florestan + together. “You are a Roman Catholic prince, sir,” he would say. “It is + absolute folly to forego such a source of influence and power as the Roman + Catholic Church. Here is your man; a man made for the occasion, a man who + may be pope. Come to an understanding with him, and I believe you will + regain your throne in a year.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my dear Waldershare, it is very true I am a Roman Catholic, but I am + also the head of the Liberal party in my country, and perhaps also on the + continent of Europe, and they are not particularly affected to archbishops + and popes.” + </p> + <p> + “Old-fashioned twaddle of the Liberal party,” exclaimed Waldershare. + “There is more true democracy in the Roman Catholic Church than in all the + secret societies of Europe.” + </p> + <p> + “There is something in that,” said the prince musingly, “and my friends + are Roman Catholics, nominally Roman Catholics. If I were quite sure your + man and the priests generally were nominally Roman Catholics, something + might be done.” + </p> + <p> + “As for that,” said Waldershare, “sensible men are all of the same + religion.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray what is that?” inquired the prince. + </p> + <p> + “Sensible men never tell.” + </p> + <p> + Perhaps there was no family which suited him more, and where the + archbishop became more intimate, than the Neuchatels. He very much valued + a visit to Hainault, and the miscellaneous and influential circles he met + there—merchant princes, and great powers of Lombard Street and the + Stock Exchange. The Governor of the Bank happened to be a high churchman, + and listened to the archbishop with evident relish. Mrs. Neuchatel also + acknowledged the spell of his society, and he quite agreed with her that + people should be neither so poor nor so rich. She had long mused over + plans of social amelioration, and her new ally was to teach her how to + carry them into practice. As for Mr. Neuchatel, he was pleased that his + wife was amused, and liked the archbishop as he liked all clever men. “You + know,” he would say, “I am in favour of all churches, provided, my lord + archbishop, they do not do anything very foolish. Eh? So I shall subscribe + to your schools with great pleasure. We cannot have too many schools, even + if they only keep young people from doing mischief.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0082" id="link2HCH0082"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXII + </h2> + <p> + The prosperity of the country was so signal, while Mr. Vigo was + unceasingly directing millions of our accumulated capital, and promises of + still more, into the “new channel,” that it seemed beyond belief that any + change of administration could even occur, at least in the experience of + the existing generation. The minister to whose happy destiny it had fallen + to gratify the large appetites and reckless consuming powers of a class + now first known in our social hierarchy as “Navvies,” was hailed as a + second Pitt. The countenance of the opposition was habitually dejected, + with the exception of those members of it on whom Mr. Vigo graciously + conferred shares, and Lady Montfort taunted Mr. Sidney Wilton with + inquiries, why he and his friends had not made railroads, instead of + inventing nonsense about cheap bread. Job Thornberry made wonderful + speeches in favour of total and immediate repeal of the corn laws, and the + Liberal party, while they cheered him, privately expressed their regret + that such a capital speaker, who might be anything, was not a practical + man. Low prices, abundant harvests, and a thriving commerce had rendered + all appeals, varied even by the persuasive ingenuity of Thornberry, a + wearisome irritation; and, though the League had transplanted itself from + Manchester to the metropolis, and hired theatres for their rhetoric, the + close of 1845 found them nearly reduced to silence. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bertie Tremaine, who was always studying the spirit of the age, + announced to the initiated that Mr. Vigo had something of the character + and structure of Napoleon, and that he himself began to believe, that an + insular nation, with such an enormous appetite, was not adapted to + cosmopolitan principles, which were naturally of a character more + spiritual and abstract. Mr. Bertie Tremaine asked Mr. Vigo to dinner, and + introduced him to several distinguished youths of extreme opinions, who + were dining off gold plate. Mr. Vigo was much flattered by his visit; his + host made much of him; and he heard many things on the principles of + government, and even of society, in the largest sense of the expression, + which astonished and amused him. In the course of the evening he varied + the conversation—one which became the classic library and busts of + the surrounding statesmen—by promising to most of the guests + allotments of shares in a new company, not yet launched, but whose + securities were already at a high premium. + </p> + <p> + Endymion, in the meantime, pursued the even tenor of his way. Guided by + the experience, unrivalled knowledge, and consummate tact of Lord + Roehampton, he habitually made inquiries, or brought forward motions, + which were evidently inconvenient or embarrassing to the ministry; and the + very circumstance, that he was almost always replied to by the prime + minister, elevated him in the estimation of the House as much as the + pertinence of his questions, and the accurate information on which he + founded his motions. He had not taken the House with a rush like Job + Thornberry, but, at the end of three sessions, he was a personage + universally looked upon as one who was “certain to have office.” + </p> + <p> + There was another new member who had also made way, though slowly, and + that was Mr. Trenchard; he had distinguished himself on a difficult + committee, on which he had guided a perplexed minister, who was chairman, + through many intricacies. Mr. Trenchard watched the operations of Mr. + Vigo, with a calm, cold scrutiny, and ventured one day to impart his + conviction to Endymion that there were breakers ahead. “Vigo is exhausting + the floating capital of the country,” he said, and he offered to give him + all the necessary details, if he would call the attention of the House to + the matter. Endymion declined to do this, chiefly because he wished to + devote himself to foreign affairs, and thought the House would hardly + brook his interference also in finance. So he strongly advised Trenchard + himself to undertake the task. Trenchard was modest, and a little timid + about speaking; so it was settled that he should consult the leaders on + the question, and particularly the gentleman who it was supposed would be + their Chancellor of the Exchequer, if ever they were again called upon to + form a ministry. This right honourable individual listened to Trenchard + with the impatience which became a man of great experience addressed by a + novice, and concluded the interview by saying, that he thought “there was + nothing in it;” at the same time, he would turn it in his mind, and + consult some practical men. Accordingly the ex- and future minister + consulted Mr. Vigo, who assured him that he was quite right; that “there + was nothing in it,” and that the floating capital of the country was + inexhaustible. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of all this physical prosperity, one fine day in August, + parliament having just been prorogued, an unknown dealer in potatoes wrote + to the Secretary of State, and informed him that he had reason to think + that a murrain had fallen over the whole of the potato crops in England, + and that, if it extended to Ireland, the most serious consequences must + ensue. + </p> + <p> + This mysterious but universal sickness of a single root changed the + history of the world. + </p> + <p> + “There is no gambling like politics,” said Lord Roehampton, as he glanced + at the “Times,” at Princedown; “four cabinets in one week; the government + must be more sick than the potatoes.” + </p> + <p> + “Berengaria always says,” said Lord Montfort, “that you should see + Princedown in summer. I, on the contrary, maintain it is essentially a + winter residence, for, if there ever be a sunbeam in England, Princedown + always catches it. Now to-day, one might fancy one’s self at Cannes.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort was quite right, but even the most wilful and selfish of men + was generally obliged to pass his Christmas at his northern castle. + Montforts had passed their Christmas in that grim and mighty + dwelling-place for centuries. Even he was not strong enough to contend + against such tradition. Besides, every one loves power, even if they do + not know what to do with it. There are such things as memberships for + counties, which, if public feeling be not outraged, are hereditary, and + adjacent boroughs, which, with a little management and much expense, + become reasonable and loyal. If the flag were rarely to wave on the proud + keep of Montfort, all these satisfactory circumstances would be greatly + disturbed and baffled; and if the ancient ensign did not promise welcome + and hospitality at Christmas, some of the principal uses even of Earls of + Montfort might be questioned. + </p> + <p> + There was another reason, besides the distance and the clime, why Lord + Montfort disliked the glorious pile which every Englishman envied him for + possession. The mighty domain of Montfort was an estate in strict + settlement. Its lord could do nothing but enjoy its convenience and its + beauty, and expend its revenues. Nothing could be sold or bought, not the + slightest alteration—according to Lord Montfort—be made, + without applying to trustees for their sanction. Lord Montfort spoke of + this pitiable state of affairs as if he were describing the serfdom of the + Middle Ages. “If I were to pull this bell-rope, and it came down,” he + would say, “I should have to apply to the trustees before it could be + arranged.” + </p> + <p> + Such a humiliating state of affairs had induced his lordship, on the very + first occasion, to expend half a million of accumulations, which were at + his own disposal, in the purchase of Princedown, which certainly was a + very different residence from Montfort Castle, alike in its clime and + character. + </p> + <p> + Princedown was situate in a southern county, hardly on a southern coast, + for it was ten miles from the sea, though enchanting views of the Channel + were frequent and exquisite. It was a palace built in old days upon the + Downs, but sheltered and screened from every hostile wind. The full warmth + of the south fell upon the vast but fantastic pile of the Renaissance + style, said to have been built by that gifted but mysterious individual, + John of Padua. The gardens were wonderful, terrace upon terrace, and on + each terrace a tall fountain. But the most peculiar feature was the park, + which was undulating and extensive, but its timber entirely ilex: single + trees of an age and size not common in that tree, and groups and clumps of + ilex, but always ilex. Beyond the park, and extending far into the + horizon, was Princedown forest, the dominion of the red deer. + </p> + <p> + The Roehamptons and Endymion were the only permanent visitors at + Princedown at this moment, but every day brought guests who stayed + eight-and-forty hours, and then flitted. Lady Montfort, like the manager + of a theatre, took care that there should be a succession of novelties to + please or to surprise the wayward audience for whom she had to cater. On + the whole, Lord Montfort was, for him, in an extremely good humour; never + very ill; Princedown was the only place where he never was very ill; he + was a little excited, too, by the state of politics, though he did not + exactly know why; “though, I suppose,” he would say to Lord Roehampton, + “if you do come in again, there will be no more nonsense about O’Connell + and all that sort of thing. If you are prudent on that head, and carry a + moderate fixed duty, not too high, say ten shillings—that would + satisfy everybody—I do not see why the thing might not go on as long + as you liked.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Waldershare came down, exuberant with endless combinations of persons + and parties. He foresaw in all these changes that most providential + consummation, the end of the middle class. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Waldershare had become quite a favourite with Lord Montfort, who + delighted to talk with him about the Duke of Modena, and imbibe his + original views of English History. “Only,” Lord Montfort would observe, + “the Montforts have so much Church property, and I fancy the Duke of + Modena would want us to disgorge.” + </p> + <p> + St. Barbe had been invited, and made his appearance. There had been a + degree of estrangement between him and his patron. St. Barbe was very + jealous; he was indeed jealous of everybody and everything, and of late + there was a certain Doctor Comeley, an Oxford don of the new school, who + had been introduced to Lord Montfort, and was initiating him in all the + mysteries of Neology. This celebrated divine, who, in a sweet silky voice, + quoted Socrates instead of St. Paul, and was opposed to all symbols and + formulas as essentially unphilosophical, had become the hero of “the + little dinners” at Montfort House, where St. Barbe had been so long wont + to shine, and who in consequence himself had become every day more + severely orthodox. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps we may meet to-day,” said Endymion one morning to St. Barbe in + Pall Mall as they were separating. “There is a little dinner at Montfort + House.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound your little dinners!” exclaimed the indignant St. Barbe; “I hope + never to go to another little dinner, and especially at Montfort House. I + do not want to be asked to dinner to tumble and play tricks to amuse my + host. I want to be amused myself. One cannot be silent at these little + dinners, and the consequence is, you say all the good things which are in + your next number, and when it comes out, people say they have heard them + before. No, sir, if Lord Montfort, or any other lord, wishes me to dine + with him, let him ask me to a banquet of his own order, and where I may + hold my tongue like the rest of his aristocratic guests.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trenchard had come down and brought the news that the ministry had + resigned, and that the Queen had sent for the leader of the opposition, + who was in Scotland. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose we shall have to go to town,” said Lady Roehampton to her + brother, in a room, busy and full. “It is so difficult to be alone here,” + she continued in a whisper; “let us get into the gardens.” And they + escaped. And then, when they were out of hearing and of sight of any one, + she said, “This is a most critical time of your life, Endymion; it makes + me very anxious. I look upon it as certain that you will be in office, and + in all probability under my lord. He has said nothing to me about it, but + I feel quite assured it will happen. It will be a great event. Poor papa + began by being an under-secretary of state!” she continued in a moody + tone, half speaking to herself, “and all seemed so fair then, but he had + no root. What I want, Endymion, is that you should have a root. There is + too much chance and favour in your lot. They will fail you some day, some + day too when I may not be by you. Even this great opening, which is at + hand, would never have been at your command, but for a mysterious gift on + which you never could have counted.” + </p> + <p> + “It is very true, Myra, but what then?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, I think we should guard against such contingencies. You know + what is in my mind; we have spoken of it before, and not once only. I want + you to marry, and you know whom.” + </p> + <p> + “Marriage is a serious affair!” said Endymion, with a distressed look. + </p> + <p> + “The most serious. It is the principal event for good or for evil in all + lives. Had I not married, and married as I did, we should not have been + here—and where, I dare not think.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but you made a happy marriage; one of the happiest that was ever + known, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “And I wish you, Endymion, to make the same. I did not marry for love, + though love came, and I brought happiness to one who made me happy. But + had it been otherwise, if there had been no sympathy, or prospect of + sympathy, I still should have married, for it was the only chance of + saving you.” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest sister! Everything I have, I owe to you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not much,” said Myra, “but I wish to make it much. Power in every + form, and in excess, is at your disposal if you be wise. There is a woman, + I think with every charm, who loves you; her fortune may have no limit; + she is a member of one of the most powerful families in England—a + noble family I may say, for my lord told me last night that Mr. Neuchatel + would be instantly raised to the peerage, and you hesitate! By all the + misery of the past—which never can be forgotten—for Heaven’s + sake, be wise; do not palter with such a chance.” + </p> + <p> + “If all be as you say, Myra, and I have no reason but your word to believe + it is so—if, for example, of which I never saw any evidence, Mr. + Neuchatel would approve, or even tolerate, this alliance—I have too + deep and sincere a regard for his daughter, founded on much kindness to + both of us, to mock her with the offer of a heart which she has not + gained.” + </p> + <p> + “You say you have a deep and sincere regard for Adriana,” said his sister. + “Why, what better basis for enduring happiness can there be? You are not a + man to marry for romantic sentiment, and pass your life in writing sonnets + to your wife till you find her charms and your inspiration alike + exhausted; you are already wedded to the State, you have been nurtured in + the thoughts of great affairs from your very childhood, and even in the + darkest hour of our horrible adversity. You are a man born for power and + high condition, whose name in time ought to rank with those of the great + statesmen of the continent, the true lords of Europe. Power, and power + alone, should be your absorbing object, and all the accidents and + incidents of life should only be considered with reference to that main + result.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am only five-and-twenty after all. There is time yet to consider + this.” + </p> + <p> + “Great men should think of Opportunity, and not of Time. Time is the + excuse of feeble and puzzled spirits. They make time the sleeping partner + of their lives to accomplish what ought to be achieved by their own will. + In this case, there certainly is no time like the present. The opportunity + is unrivalled. All your friends would, without an exception, be delighted + if you now were wise.” + </p> + <p> + “I hardly think my friends have given it a thought,” said Endymion, a + little flushed. + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing that would please Lady Montfort more.” + </p> + <p> + He turned pale. “How do you know that?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “She told me so, and offered to help me in bringing about the result.” + </p> + <p> + “Very kind of her! Well, dearest Myra, you and Lord Roehampton have much + to think of at this anxious moment. Let this matter drop. We have + discussed it before, and we have discussed it enough. It is more than pain + for me to differ from you on any point, but I cannot offer to Adriana a + heart which belongs to another.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0083" id="link2HCH0083"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXIII + </h2> + <p> + All the high expectations of December at Princedown were doomed to + disappointment; they were a further illustration of Lord Roehampton’s + saying, that there was no gambling like politics. The leader of the + opposition came up to town, but he found nothing but difficulties, and a + few days before Christmas he had resigned the proffered trust. The + protectionist ministry were to remain in office, and to repeal the corn + laws. The individual who was most baulked by this unexpected result was + perhaps Lord Roehampton. He was a man who really cared for nothing but + office and affairs, and being advanced in life, he naturally regretted a + lost opportunity. But he never showed his annoyance. Always playful, and + even taking refuge in a bantering spirit, the world seemed to go light + with him when everything was dark and everybody despondent. + </p> + <p> + The discontent or indignation which the contemplated revolution in policy + was calculated to excite in the Conservative party generally were to a + certain degree neutralised for the moment by mysterious and confidential + communications, circulated by Mr. Tadpole and the managers of the party, + that the change was to be accompanied by “immense compensations.” As + parliament was to meet as soon as convenient after Christmas, and the + statement of the regenerated ministry was then to be made immediately, + every one held his hand, as they all felt the blow must be more efficient + when the scheme of the government was known. + </p> + <p> + The Montforts were obliged to go to their castle, a visit the sad + necessity of which the formation of a new government, at one time, they + had hoped might have prevented. The Roehamptons passed their Christmas + with Mr. Sidney Wilton at Gaydene, where Endymion also and many of the + opposition were guests. Waldershare took refuge with his friends the + Beaumaris’, full of revenge and unceasing combinations. He took down St. + Barbe with him, whose services in the session might be useful. There had + been a little misunderstanding between these two eminent personages during + the late season. St. Barbe was not satisfied with his position in the new + journal which Waldershare had established. He affected to have been + ill-treated and deceived, and this with a mysterious shake of the head + which seemed to intimate state secrets that might hereafter be revealed. + The fact is, St. Barbe’s political articles were so absurd that it was + impossible to print them; but as his name stood high as a clever writer on + matters with which he was acquainted, they permitted him, particularly as + they were bound to pay him a high salary, to contribute essays on the + social habits and opinions of the day, which he treated in a happy and + taking manner. St. Barbe himself had such quick perception of + peculiarities, so fine a power of observation, and so keen a sense of the + absurd, that when he revealed in confidence the causes of his discontent, + it was almost impossible to believe that he was entirely serious. It seems + that he expected this connection with the journal in question to have + been, to use his own phrase, “a closet affair,” and that he was habitually + to have been introduced by the backstairs of the palace to the presence of + Royalty to receive encouragement and inspiration. “I do not complain of + the pay,” he added, “though I could get more by writing for Shuffle and + Screw, but I expected a decoration. However, I shall probably stand for + next parliament on the principles of the Mountain, so perhaps it is just + as well.” + </p> + <p> + Parliament soon met, and that session began which will long be memorable. + The “immense compensations” were nowhere. Waldershare, who had only waited + for this, resigned his office as Under-Secretary of State. This was a bad + example and a blow, but nothing compared to the resignation of his great + office in the Household by the Earl of Beaumaris. This involved unhappily + the withdrawal of Lady Beaumaris, under whose bright, inspiring roof the + Tory party had long assembled, sanguine and bold. Other considerable peers + followed the precedent of Lord Beaumaris, and withdrew their support from + the ministry. Waldershare moved the amendment to the first reading of the + obnoxious bill; but although defeated by a considerable majority, the + majority was mainly formed by members of the opposition. Among these was + Mr. Ferrars, who it was observed never opened his lips during the whole + session. + </p> + <p> + This was not the case with Mr. Bertie Tremaine and the school of + Pythagoras. The opportunity long waited for had at length arrived. There + was a great parliamentary connection deserted by their leaders. This + distinguished rank and file required officers. The cabinet of Mr. Bertie + Tremaine was ready, and at their service. Mr. Bertie Tremaine seconded the + amendment of Waldershare, and took the occasion of expounding the new + philosophy, which seemed to combine the principles of Bentham with the + practice of Lord Liverpool. “I offered to you this,” he said reproachfully + to Endymion; “you might have been my secretary of state. Mr. Tremaine + Bertie will now take it. He would rather have had an embassy, but he must + make the sacrifice.” + </p> + <p> + The debates during the session were much carried on by the Pythagoreans, + who never ceased chattering. They had men ready for every branch of the + subject, and the debate was often closed by their chief in mystical + sentences, which they cheered like awestruck zealots. + </p> + <p> + The great bill was carried, but the dark hour of retribution at length + arrived. The ministry, though sanguine to the last of success, and not + without cause, were completely and ignominiously defeated. The new + government, long prepared, was at once formed. Lord Roehampton again + became secretary of state, and he appointed Endymion to the post under + him. “I shall not press you unfairly,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine to + Endymion, with encouraging condescension. “I wish my men for a season to + comprehend what is a responsible opposition. I am sorry Hortensius is your + solicitor-general, for I had intended him always for my chancellor.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0084" id="link2HCH0084"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXIV + </h2> + <p> + Very shortly after the prorogation of parliament, an incident occurred + which materially affected the position of Endymion. Lord Roehampton had a + serious illness. Having a fine constitution, he apparently completely + rallied from the attack, and little was known of it by the public. The + world also, at that moment, was as usual much dispersed and distracted; + dispersed in many climes, and distracted by the fatigue and hardships they + annually endure, and which they call relaxation. Even the colleagues of + the great statesman were scattered, and before they had realised that he + had been seriously ill, they read of him in the fulfilment of his official + duties. But there was no mistake as to his state under his own roof. Lord + Roehampton had, throughout the later period of his life, been in the habit + of working at night. It was only at night that he could command that + abstraction necessary for the consideration of great affairs. He was also + a real worker. He wrote his own despatches, whenever they referred to + matters of moment. He left to the permanent staff of his office little but + the fulfilment of duties which, though heavy and multifarious, were duties + of routine. The composition of these despatches was a source to Lord + Roehampton of much gratification and excitement. They were of European + fame, and their terse argument, their clear determination, and often their + happy irony, were acknowledged in all the cabinets, and duly apprehended. + </p> + <p> + The physicians impressed upon Lady Roehampton that this night-work must + absolutely cease. A neglect of their advice must lead to serious + consequences; following it, there was no reason why her husband should not + live for years, and continue to serve the State. Lord Roehampton must + leave the House of Commons; he must altogether change the order of his + life; he must seek more amusement in society, and yet keep early hours; + and then he would find himself fresh and vigorous in the morning, and his + work would rather benefit than distress him. It was all an affair of + habit. + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton threw all her energies into this matter. She entertained + for her lord a reverential affection, and his life to her seemed a + precious deposit, of which she was the trustee. She succeeded where the + physicians would probably have failed. Towards the end of the year Lord + Roehampton was called up to the House of Lords for one of his baronies, + and Endymion was informed that when parliament met, he would have to + represent the Foreign Office in the House of Commons. + </p> + <p> + Waldershare heartily congratulated him. “You have got what I most wished + to have in the world; but I will not envy you, for envy is a vile passion. + You have the good fortune to serve a genial chief. I had to deal with a + Harley,—cold, suspicious, ambiguous, pretending to be profound, and + always in a state of perplexity.” + </p> + <p> + It was not a very agreeable session. The potato famine did something more + than repeal the corn laws. It proved that there was no floating capital + left in the country; and when the Barings and Rothschilds combined, almost + as much from public spirit as from private speculation, to raise a loan of + a few millions for the minister, they absolutely found the public purse + was exhausted, and had to supply the greater portion of the amount from + their own resources. In one of the many financial debates that + consequently occurred, Trenchard established himself by a clear and + comprehensive view of the position of affairs, and by modestly reminding + the House, that a year ago he had predicted the present condition of + things, and indicated its inevitable cause. + </p> + <p> + This was the great speech on a great night, and Mr. Bertie Tremaine walked + home with Trenchard. It was observed that Mr. Bertie Tremaine always + walked home with the member who had made the speech of the evening. + </p> + <p> + “Your friends did not behave well to you,” he said in a hollow voice to + Trenchard. “They ought to have made you Secretary of the Treasury. Think + of this. It is an important post, and may lead to anything; and, so far as + I am concerned, it would give me real pleasure to see it.” + </p> + <p> + But besides the disquietude of domestic affairs, famine and failures + competing in horrible catastrophe and the Bank Act suspended, as the year + advanced matters on the Continent became not less dark and troubled. Italy + was mysteriously agitated; the pope announced himself a reformer; there + were disturbances in Milan, Ancona, and Ferrara; the Austrians threatened + the occupation of several States, and Sardinia offered to defend His + Holiness from the Austrians. In addition to all this, there were reform + banquets in France, a civil war in Switzerland, and the King of Prussia + thought it prudent to present his subjects with a Constitution. + </p> + <p> + The Count of Ferroll about this time made a visit to England. He was + always a welcome guest there, and had received the greatest distinction + which England could bestow upon a foreigner; he had been elected an + honorary member of White’s. “You may have troubles here,” he said to Lady + Montfort, “but they will pass; you will have mealy potatoes again and + plenty of bank notes, but we shall not get off so cheaply. Everything is + quite rotten throughout the Continent. This year is tranquillity to what + the next will be. There is not a throne in Europe worth a year’s purchase. + My worthy master wants me to return home and be minister; I am to fashion + for him a new constitution. I will never have anything to do with new + constitutions; their inventors are always the first victims. Instead of + making a constitution, he should make a country, and convert his + heterogeneous domains into a patriotic dominion.” + </p> + <p> + “But how is that to be done?” + </p> + <p> + “There is only one way; by blood and iron.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear count, you shock me!” + </p> + <p> + “I shall have to shock you a great deal more before the inevitable is + brought about.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am glad that there is something,” said Lady Montfort, “which is + inevitable. I hope it will come soon. I am sure this country is ruined. + What with cheap bread at famine prices and these railroads, we seem quite + finished. I thought one operation was to counteract the other; but they + appear both to turn out equally fatal.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion had now one of those rare opportunities which, if men be equal to + them, greatly affect their future career. As the session advanced, debates + on foreign affairs became frequent and deeply interesting. So far as the + ministry was concerned, the burthen of these fell on the Under-Secretary + of State. He was never wanting. The House felt that he had not only the + adequate knowledge, but that it was knowledge perfectly digested; that his + remarks and conduct were those of a man who had given constant thought to + his duties, and was master of his subject. His oratorical gifts also began + to be recognised. The power and melody of his voice had been before + remarked, and that is a gift which much contributes to success in a + popular assembly. He was ready without being too fluent. There were light + and shade in his delivery. He repressed his power of sarcasm; but if + unjustly and inaccurately attacked, he could be keen. Over his temper he + had a complete control; if, indeed, his entire insensibility to violent + language on the part of an opponent was not organic. All acknowledged his + courtesy, and both sides sympathised with a young man who proved himself + equal to no ordinary difficulties. In a word, Endymion was popular, and + that popularity was not diminished by the fact of his being the brother of + Lady Roehampton, who exercised great influence in society, and who was + much beloved. + </p> + <p> + As the year advanced external affairs became daily more serious, and the + country congratulated itself that its interests were entrusted to a + minister of the experience and capacity of Lord Roehampton. That statesman + seemed never better than when the gale ran high. Affairs in France began + to assume the complexion that the Count of Ferroll had prophetically + announced. If a crash occurred in that quarter, Lord Roehampton felt that + all Europe might be in a blaze. Affairs were never more serious than at + the turn of the year. Lord Roehampton told his wife that their holidays + must be spent in St. James’ Square, for he could not leave London; but he + wished her to go to Gaydene, where they had been invited by Mr. Sidney + Wilton to pass their Christmas as usual. Nothing, however, would induce + her to quit his side. He seemed quite well, but the pressure of affairs + was extreme; and sometimes, against all her remonstrances, he was again + working at night. Such remonstrances on other subjects would probably have + been successful, for her influence over him was extreme. But to a minister + responsible for the interests of a great country they are vain, futile, + impossible. One might as well remonstrate with an officer on the field of + battle on the danger he was incurring. She said to him one night in his + library, where she paid him a little visit before she retired, “My heart, + I know it is no use my saying anything, and yet—remember your + promise. This night-work makes me very unhappy.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember my promise, and I will try not to work at night again in a + hurry, but I must finish this despatch. If I did not, I could not sleep, + and you know sleep is what I require.” + </p> + <p> + “Good night, then.” + </p> + <p> + He looked up with his winning smile, and held out his lips. “Kiss me,” he + said; “I never felt better.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton after a time slumbered; how long she knew not, but when + she woke, her lord was not at her side. She struck a light and looked at + her watch. It was past three o’clock; she jumped out of bed, and, merely + in her slippers and her <i>robe de chambre</i>, descended to the library. + It was a large, long room, and Lord Roehampton worked at the extreme end + of it. The candles were nearly burnt out. As she approached him, she + perceived that he was leaning back in his chair. When she reached him, she + observed he was awake, but he did not seem to recognise her. A dreadful + feeling came over her. She took his hand. It was quite cold. Her intellect + for an instant seemed to desert her. She looked round her with an air void + almost of intelligence, and then rushing to the bell she continued ringing + it till some of the household appeared. A medical man was near at hand, + and in a few minutes arrived, but it was a bootless visit. All was over, + and all had been over, he said, “for some time.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0085" id="link2HCH0085"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXV + </h2> + <p> + “Well, you have made up your government?” asked Lady Montfort of the prime + minister as he entered her boudoir. He shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen her?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “No, not yet; I suppose she will see me as soon as any one.” + </p> + <p> + “I am told she is utterly overwhelmed.” + </p> + <p> + “She was devoted to him; it was the happiest union I ever knew; but Lady + Roehampton is not the woman to be utterly overwhelmed. She has too + imperial a spirit for that.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a great misfortune,” said the prime minister. “We have not been + lucky since we took the reins.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there is no use in deploring. There is nobody else to take the + reins, so you may defy misfortunes. The question now is, what are you + going to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there seems to me only one thing to do. We must put Rawchester + there.” + </p> + <p> + “Rawchester!” exclaimed Lady Montfort, “what, ‘Niminy-Piminy’?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he is conciliatory,” said the premier, “and if you are not very + clever, you should be conciliatory.” + </p> + <p> + “He never knows his own mind for a week together.” + </p> + <p> + “We will take care of his mind,” said the prime minister, “but he has + travelled a good deal, and knows the public men.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Lady Montfort, “and the public men, I fear, know him.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he can make a good House of Lords’ speech, and we have a first-rate + man in the Commons; so it will do.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think your first-rate man in the House of Commons will remain,” + said Lady Montfort drily. + </p> + <p> + “You do not mean that?” said the prime minister, evidently alarmed. + </p> + <p> + “His health is delicate,” said Lady Montfort; “had it not been for his + devotion to Lord Roehampton, I know he thought of travelling for a couple + of years.” + </p> + <p> + “Ferrars’ health delicate?” said the premier; “I thought he was the + picture of health and youthful vigour. Health is one of the elements to be + considered in calculating the career of a public man, and I have always + predicted an eminent career for Ferrars, because, in addition to his + remarkable talents, he had apparently such a fine constitution.” + </p> + <p> + “No health could stand working under Lord Rawchester.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but what am I to do? I cannot make Mr. Ferrars secretary of state.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + The prime minister looked considerably perplexed. Such a promotion could + not possibly have occurred to him. Though a man of many gifts, and a + statesman, he had been educated in high Whig routine, and the proposition + of Lady Montfort was like recommending him to make a curate a bishop. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “Ferrars is a very clever fellow. He is our rising young + man, and there is no doubt that, if his health is not so delicate as you + fear, he will mount high; but though our rising young man, he is a young + man, much too young to be a secretary of state. He wants age, larger + acquaintance with affairs, greater position, and more root in the + country.” + </p> + <p> + “What was Mr. Canning’s age, who held Mr. Ferrars’ office, when he was + made secretary of state? and what root in the country had he?” + </p> + <p> + When the prime minister got back to Downing Street, he sent immediately + for his head whip. “Look after Ferrars,” he said; “they are trying to + induce him to resign office. If he does, our embarrassments will be + extreme. Lord Rawchester will be secretary of state; send a paragraph at + once to the papers announcing it. But look after Ferrars, and immediately, + and report to me.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Roehampton had a large entailed estate, though his affairs were + always in a state of confusion. That seems almost the inevitable result of + being absorbed in the great business of governing mankind. If there be + exceptions among statesmen of the highest class, they will generally be + found among those who have been chiefly in opposition, and so have had + leisure and freedom of mind sufficient to manage their estates. Lord + Roehampton had, however, extensive powers of charging his estate in lieu + of dower, and he had employed them to their utmost extent; so his widow + was well provided for. The executors were Mr. Sidney Wilton and Endymion. + </p> + <p> + After a short period, Lady Roehampton saw Adriana, and not very long + after, Lady Montfort. They both of them, from that time, were her + frequent, if not constant, companions, but she saw no one else. Once only, + since the terrible event, was she seen by the world, and that was when a + tall figure, shrouded in the darkest attire, attended as chief mourner at + the burial of her lord in Westminster Abbey. She remained permanently in + London, not only because she had no country house, but because she wished + to be with her brother. As time advanced, she frequently saw Mr. Sidney + Wilton, who, being chief executor of the will, and charged with all her + affairs, had necessarily much on which to consult her. One of the greatest + difficulties was to provide her with a suitable residence, for of course, + she was not to remain in the family mansion in St. James’ Square. That + difficulty was ultimately overcome in a manner highly interesting to her + feelings. Her father’s mansion in Hill Street, where she had passed her + prosperous and gorgeous childhood, was in the market, and she was most + desirous to occupy it. “It will seem like a great step towards the + restoration,” she said to Endymion. “My plans are, that you should give up + the Albany, and that we should live together. I should like to live + together in Hill Street; I should like to see our nursery once more. The + past then will be a dream, or at least all the past that is disagreeable. + My fortune is yours; as we are twins, it is likely that I may live as long + as you do. But I wish you to be the master of the house, and in time + receive your friends in a manner becoming your position. I do not think + that I shall ever much care to go out again, but I may help you at home, + and then you can invite women; a mere bachelor’s house is always dull.” + </p> + <p> + There was one difficulty still in this arrangement. The mansion in Hill + Street was not to be let, it was for sale, and the price naturally for + such a mansion in such a situation, was considerable; quite beyond the + means of Lady Roehampton who had a very ample income, but no capital. This + difficulty, however, vanished in a moment. Mr. Sidney Wilton purchased the + house; he wanted an investment, and this was an excellent one; so Lady + Roehampton became his tenant. + </p> + <p> + The change was great in the life of Myra, and she felt it. She loved her + lord, and had cut off her beautiful hair, which reached almost to her + feet, and had tied it round his neck in his coffin. But Myra, + notwithstanding she was a woman, and a woman of transcendent beauty, had + never had a romance of the heart. Until she married, her pride and love + for her brother, which was part of her pride, had absorbed her being. When + she married, and particularly as time advanced, she felt all the misery of + her existence had been removed, and nothing could exceed the tenderness + and affectionate gratitude, and truly unceasing devotion, which she + extended to the gifted being to who she owed this deliverance. But it was + not in the nature of things that she could experience those feelings which + still echo in the heights of Meilleraie, and compared with which all the + glittering accidents of fortune sink into insignificance. + </p> + <p> + The year rolled on, an agitated year of general revolution. Endymion + himself was rarely in society, for all the time which the House of Commons + spared to him he wished chiefly to dedicate to his sister. His brougham + was always ready to take him up to Hill Street for one of those somewhat + hurried, but amusing little dinners, which break the monotony of + parliamentary life. And sometimes he brought a companion, generally Mr. + Wilton, and sometimes they met Lady Montfort or Adriana, now ennobled as + the daughter of Lord Hainault. There was much to talk about, even if they + did not talk about themselves and their friends, for every day brought + great events, fresh insurrections, new constitutions, changes of + dynasties, assassinations of ministers, states of siege, evanescent + empires, and premature republics. + </p> + <p> + On one occasion, having previously prepared his sister, who seemed not + uninterested by the suggestion, Endymion brought Thornberry to dine in + Hill Street. There was no one else present except Adriana. Job was a great + admirer of Lady Roehampton, but was a little awestruck by her. He + remembered her in her childhood, a beautiful being who never smiled. She + received him very graciously, and after dinner, inviting him to sit by her + on the sofa, referred with delicacy to old times. + </p> + <p> + “Your ladyship,” said Thornberry, “would not know that I live myself now + at Hurstley.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Myra, unaffectedly surprised. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it happened in this way; my father now is in years, and can no + longer visit us as he occasionally did in Lancashire; so wishing to see us + all, at least once more, we agreed to pay him a visit. I do not know how + it exactly came about, but my wife took a violent fancy to the place. They + all received us very kindly. The good rector and his dear kind wife made + it very pleasant, and the archbishop was there—whom we used to call + Mr. Nigel—only think! That is a wonderful affair. He is not at all + high and mighty, but talked with us, and walked with us, just the same as + in old days. He took a great fancy to my boy, John Hampden, and, after + all, my boy is to go to Oxford, and not to Owens College, as I had first + intended.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a great change.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I wanted him to go to Owens College, I confess, but I did not care + so much about Mill Hill. That was his mother’s fancy; she was very strong + about that. It is a Nonconformist school, but I am not a Nonconformist. I + do not much admire dogmas, but I am a Churchman as my fathers were. + However, John Hampden is not to go to Mill Hill. He has gone to a sort of + college near Oxford, which the archbishop recommended to us; the + principal, and all the tutors are clergyman—of course of our Church. + My wife was quite delighted with it all.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is a good thing.” + </p> + <p> + “And so,” continued Thornberry, “she got it into her head she should like + to live at Hurstley, and I took the place. I am afraid I have been foolish + enough to lay out a great deal of money there—for a place not my + own. Your ladyship would not know the old hall. I have, what they call, + restored it, and upon my word, except the new hall of the Clothworkers’ + Company, where I dined the other day, I do not know anything of the kind + that is prettier.” + </p> + <p> + “The dear old hall!” murmured Lady Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + In time, though no one mentioned it, everybody thought that if an alliance + ultimately took place between Lady Roehampton and Mr. Sidney Wilton, it + would be the most natural thing in the world, and everybody would approve + it. True, he was her father’s friend, and much her senior, but then he was + still good-looking, very clever, very much considered, and lord of a large + estate, and at any rate he was a younger man than her late husband. + </p> + <p> + When these thoughts became more rife in society, and began to take the + form of speech, the year was getting old, and this reminds us of a little + incident which took place many months previously, at the beginning of the + year, and which we ought to record. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after the death of Lord Roehampton, Prince Florestan called one + morning in St. James’ Square. He said he would not ask Lady Roehampton to + see him, but he was obliged suddenly to leave England, and he did not like + to depart without personally inquiring after her. He left a letter and a + little packet. And the letter ran thus: + </p> + <p> + “I am obliged, madam, to leave England suddenly, and it is probable that + we shall never meet again. I should be happy if I had your prayers! This + little jewel enclosed belonged to my mother, the Queen Agrippina. She told + me that I was never to part with it, except to somebody I loved as much as + herself. There is only one person in the world to whom I owe affection. It + is to her who from the first was always kind to me, and who, through + dreary years of danger and anxiety, has been the charm and consolation of + the life of + </p> + <p> + “Florestan.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0086" id="link2HCH0086"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXVI + </h2> + <p> + On the evening of the day on which Prince Florestan personally left the + letter with Lady Roehampton, he quitted London with the Duke of St. Angelo + and his aides-de-camp, and, embarking in his steam yacht, which was lying + at Southampton, quitted England. They pursued a prosperous course for + about a week, when they passed through the Straits of Gibraltar, and, not + long afterwards, cast anchor in a small and solitary bay. There the prince + and his companions, and half-a-dozen servants, well armed and in military + attire, left the yacht, and proceeded on foot into the country for a short + distance, when they arrived at a large farmhouse. Here, it was evident, + they were expected. Men came forward with many horses, and mounted, and + accompanied the party which had arrived. They advanced about ten miles, + and halted as they were approaching a small but fortified town. + </p> + <p> + The prince sent the Duke of St. Angelo forward to announce his arrival to + the governor, and to require him to surrender. The governor, however, + refused, and ordered the garrison to fire on the invaders. This they + declined to do; the governor, with many ejaculations, and stamping with + rage, broke his sword, and the prince entered the town. He was warmly + received, and the troops, amounting to about twelve hundred men, placed + themselves at his disposal. The prince remained at this town only a couple + of hours, and at the head of his forces advanced into the country. At a + range of hills he halted, sent out reconnoitring parties, and pitched his + camp. In the morning, the Marquis of Vallombrosa, with a large party of + gentlemen well mounted, arrived, and were warmly greeted. The prince + learnt from them that the news of his invasion had reached the governor of + the province, who was at one of the most considerable cities of the + kingdom, with a population exceeding two hundred thousand, and with a + military division for its garrison. “They will not wait for our arrival,” + said Vallombrosa, “but, trusting to their numbers, will come out and + attack us.” + </p> + <p> + The news of the scouts being that the mountain passes were quite + unoccupied by the enemy, the prince determined instantly to continue his + advance, and take up a strong position on the other side of the range, and + await his fate. The passage was well effected, and on the fourth day of + the invasion the advanced guard of the enemy were in sight. The prince + commanded that no one should attend him, but alone and tying a white + handkerchief round his sword, he galloped up to the hostile lines, and + said in a clear, loud voice, “My men, this is the sword of my father!” + </p> + <p> + “Florestan for ever!” was the only and universal reply. The cheers of the + advanced guard reached and were re-echoed by the main body. The + commander-in-chief, bareheaded, came up to give in his allegiance and + receive his majesty’s orders. They were for immediate progress, and at the + head of the army which had been sent out to destroy him, Florestan in due + course entered the enthusiastic city which recognised him as its + sovereign. The city was illuminated, and he went to the opera in the + evening. The singing was not confined to the theatre. During the whole + night the city itself was one song of joy and triumph, and that night no + one slept. + </p> + <p> + After this there was no trouble and no delay. It was a triumphal march. + Every town opened its gates, and devoted municipalities proffered golden + keys. Every village sent forth its troop of beautiful maidens, scattering + roses, and singing the national anthem which had been composed by Queen + Agrippina. On the tenth day of the invasion King Florestan, utterly + unopposed, entered the magnificent capital of his realm, and slept in the + purple bed which had witnessed his princely birth. + </p> + <p> + Among all the strange revolutions of this year, this adventure of + Florestan was not the least interesting to the English people. Although + society had not smiled on him, he had always been rather a favourite with + the bulk of the population. His fine countenance, his capital + horsemanship, his graceful bow that always won a heart, his youth, and + love of sport, his English education, and the belief that he was sincere + in his regard for the country where he had been so long a guest, were + elements of popularity that, particularly now he was successful, were + unmistakable. And certainly Lady Roehampton, in her solitude, did not + disregard his career or conduct. They were naturally often in her + thoughts, for there was scarcely a day in which his name did not figure in + the newspapers, and always in connection with matters of general interest + and concern. The government he established was liberal, but it was + discreet, and, though conciliatory, firm. “If he declares for the English + alliance,” said Waldershare, “he is safe;” and he did declare for the + English alliance, and the English people were very pleased by his + declaration, which in their apprehension meant national progress, the + amelioration of society, and increased exports. + </p> + <p> + The main point, however, which interested his subjects was his marriage. + That was both a difficult and a delicate matter to decide. The great + continental dynasties looked with some jealousy and suspicion on him, and + the small reigning houses, who were all allied with the great continental + dynasties, thought it prudent to copy their example. All these reigning + families, whether large or small, were themselves in a perplexed and + alarmed position at this period, very disturbed about their present, and + very doubtful about their future. At last it was understood that a + Princess of Saxe-Babel, though allied with royal and imperial houses, + might share the diadem of a successful adventurer, and then in time, and + when it had been sufficiently reiterated, paragraphs appeared + unequivocally contradicting the statement, followed with agreeable + assurances that it was unlikely that a Princess of Saxe-Babel, allied with + royal and imperial houses, should unite herself to a parvenu monarch, + however powerful. Then in turn these articles were stigmatised as libels, + and entirely unauthorised, and no less a personage than a princess of the + house of Saxe-Genesis was talked of as the future queen; but on referring + to the “Almanach de Gotha,” it was discovered that family had been extinct + since the first French Revolution. So it seemed at last that nothing was + certain, except that his subjects were very anxious that King Florestan + should present them with a queen. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0087" id="link2HCH0087"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXVII + </h2> + <p> + As time flew on, the friends of Lady Roehampton thought and spoke, with + anxiety about her re-entrance into society. Mr. Sidney Wilton had lent + Gaydene to her for the autumn, when he always visited Scotland, and the + winter had passed away uninterruptedly, at a charming and almost unknown + watering-place, where she seemed the only visitant, and where she wandered + about in silence on the sands. The time was fast approaching when the + inevitable year of seclusion would expire, and Lady Roehampton gave no + indication of any change in her life and habits. At length, after many + appeals, and expostulations, and entreaties, and little scenes, the second + year of the widowhood having advanced some months, it was decided that + Lady Roehampton should re-enter society, and the occasion on which this + was to take place was no mean one. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort was to give a ball early in June, and Royalty itself was to + be her guests. The entertainments at Montfort House were always + magnificent, but this was to exceed accustomed splendour. All the world + was to be there, and all the world, who were not invited, were in as much + despair as if they had lost their fortune or their character. + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton had a passion for light, provided the light was not + supplied by gas or oil. Her saloons, even when alone, were always + brilliantly illuminated. She held that the moral effect of such a + circumstance on her temperament was beneficial, and not slight. It is a + rare, but by no means a singular, belief. When she descended into her + drawing-room on the critical night, its resplendence was some preparation + for the scene which awaited her. She stood for a moment before the tall + mirror which reflected her whole person. What were her thoughts? What was + the impression that the fair vision conveyed? + </p> + <p> + Her countenance was grave, but it was not sad. Myra had now completed, or + was on the point of completing, her thirtieth year. She was a woman of + transcendent beauty; perhaps she might justly be described as the most + beautiful woman then alive. Time had even improved her commanding mien, + the graceful sweep of her figure and the voluptuous undulation of her + shoulders; but time also had spared those charms which are more incidental + to early youth, the splendour of her complexion, the whiteness of her + teeth, and the lustre of her violet eyes. She had cut off in her grief the + profusion of her dark chestnut locks, that once reached to her feet, and + she wore her hair as, what was then and perhaps is now called, a crop, but + it was luxuriant in natural quantity and rich in colour, and most + effectively set off her arched brow, and the oval of her fresh and + beauteous cheek. The crop was crowned to-night by a coronet of brilliants. + </p> + <p> + “Your carriage is ready, my lady,” said a servant; “but there is a + gentleman below who has brought a letter for your ladyship, and which, he + says, he must personally deliver to you, madam. I told him your ladyship + was going out and could not see him, but he put his card in this envelope, + and requested that I would hand it to you, madam. He says he will only + deliver the letter to your ladyship, and not detain you a moment.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Roehampton opened the envelope, and read the card, “The Duke of St. + Angelo.” + </p> + <p> + “The Duke of St. Angelo!” she murmured to herself, and looked for a moment + abstracted. Then turning to the servant, she said, “He must be shown up.” + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” said the duke as he entered, and bowed with much ceremony, “I am + ashamed of appearing to be an intruder, but my commands were to deliver + this letter to your ladyship immediately on my arrival, whatever the hour. + I have only this instant arrived. We had a bad passage. I know your + ladyship’s carriage is at the door. I will redeem my pledge and not + trespass on your time for one instant. If your ladyship requires me, I am + ever at your command.” + </p> + <p> + “At Carlton Gardens?” + </p> + <p> + “No; at our embassy.” + </p> + <p> + “His Majesty, I hope, is well?” + </p> + <p> + “In every sense, my lady,” and bowing to the ground the duke withdrew. + </p> + <p> + She broke the seal of the letter while still standing, and held it to a + sconce that was on the mantel-piece, and then she read: + </p> + <p> + “You were the only person I called upon when I suddenly left England. I + had no hope of seeing you, but it was the homage of gratitude and + adoration. Great events have happened since we last met. I have realised + my dreams, dreams which I sometimes fancied you, and you alone, did not + depreciate or discredit, and, in the sweetness of your charity, would not + have been sorry were they accomplished. + </p> + <p> + “I have established what I believe to be a strong and just government in a + great kingdom. I have not been uninfluenced by the lessons of wisdom I + gained in your illustrious land. I have done some things which it was a + solace for me to believe you would not altogether disapprove. + </p> + <p> + “My subjects are anxious that the dynasty I have re-established should not + be evanescent. Is it too bold to hope that I may find a companion in you + to charm and to counsel me? I can offer you nothing equal to your + transcendent merit, but I can offer you the heart and the throne of + </p> + <p> + “Florestan.” + </p> + <p> + Still holding the letter in one hand, she looked around as if some one + might be present. Her cheek was scarlet, and there was for a moment an + expression of wildness in her glance. Then she paced the saloon with an + agitated step, and then she read the letter again and again, and still she + paced the saloon. The whole history of her life revolved before her; every + scene, every character, every thought, and sentiment, and passion. The + brightness of her nursery days, and Hurstley with all its miseries, and + Hainault with its gardens, and the critical hour, which had opened to her + a future of such unexpected lustre and happiness. + </p> + <p> + The clock had struck more than once during this long and terrible + soliloquy, wherein she had to search and penetrate her inmost heart, and + now it struck two. She started, and hurriedly rang the bell. + </p> + <p> + “I shall not want the carriage to-night,” she said, and when again alone, + she sat down and, burying her face in her alabaster arms, for a long time + remained motionless. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0088" id="link2HCH0088"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXVIII + </h2> + <p> + Had he been a youth about to make a <i>debut</i> in the great world, + Sidney Wilton could not have been more agitated than he felt at the + prospect of the fete at Montfort House. Lady Roehampton, after nearly two + years of retirement, was about to re-enter society. During this interval + she had not been estranged from him. On the contrary, he had been her + frequent and customary companion. Except Adriana, and Lady Montfort, and + her brother, it might almost be said, her only one. Why then was he + agitated? He had been living in a dream for two years, cherishing wild + thoughts of exquisite happiness. He would have been content, had the dream + never been disturbed; but this return to hard and practical life of her + whose unconscious witchery had thrown a spell over his existence, roused + him to the reality of his position, and it was one of terrible emotion. + </p> + <p> + During the life of her husband, Sidney Wilton had been the silent adorer + of Myra. With every accomplishment and every advantage that are supposed + to make life delightful—a fine countenance, a noble mien, a manner + natural and attractive, an ancient lineage, and a vast estate—he was + the favourite of society, who did more than justice to his talents, which, + though not brilliant, were considerable, and who could not too much + appreciate the high tone of his mind; his generosity and courage, and true + patrician spirit which inspired all his conduct, and guided him ever to do + that which was liberal, and gracious, and just. + </p> + <p> + There was only one fault which society found in Sidney Wilton; he would + not marry. This was provoking, because he was the man of all others who + ought to marry, and make a heroine happy. Society did not give it up till + he was forty, about the time he became acquainted with Lady Roehampton; + and that incident threw no light on his purposes or motives, for he was as + discreet as he was devoted, and Myra herself was unconscious of his being + anything to her save the dearest friend of her father, and the most + cherished companion of her husband. + </p> + <p> + When one feels deeply, one is apt to act suddenly, perhaps rashly. There + are moments in life when suspense can be borne no longer. And Sidney + Wilton, who had been a silent votary for more than ten years, now felt + that the slightest delay in his fate would be intolerable. It was the ball + at Montfort House that should be the scene of this decision of destiny. + </p> + <p> + She was about to re-enter society, radiant as the morn, amid flowers and + music, and all the accidents of social splendour. His sympathetic heart + had been some solace to her in her sorrow and her solitude. Now, in the + joyous blaze of life, he was resolved to ask her whether it were + impossible that they should never again separate, and in the crowd, as + well as when alone, feel their mutual devotion. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Wilton was among those who went early to Montfort House, which was not + his wont; but he was restless and disquieted. She could hardly have + arrived; but there would be some there who would speak of her. That was a + great thing. Sidney Wilton had arrived at that state when conversation can + only interest on one subject. When a man is really in love, he is disposed + to believe that, like himself, everybody is thinking of the person who + engrosses his brain and heart. + </p> + <p> + The magnificent saloons, which in half an hour would be almost impassable, + were only sprinkled with guests, who, however, were constantly arriving. + Mr. Wilton looked about him in vain for the person who, he was quite sure, + could not then be present. He lingered by the side of Lady Montfort, who + bowed to those who came, but who could spare few consecutive words, even + to Mr. Wilton, for her watchful eye expected every moment to be summoned + to descend her marble staircase and receive her royal guests. + </p> + <p> + The royal guests arrived; there was a grand stir, and many gracious bows, + and some cordial, but dignified, shake-hands. The rooms were crowded; yet + space in the ball-room was well preserved, so that the royal vision might + range with facility from its golden chairs to the beauteous beings, and + still more beautiful costumes, displaying with fervent loyalty their + fascinating charms. + </p> + <p> + There was a new band to-night, that had come from some distant but + celebrated capital; musicians known by fame to everybody, but whom nobody + had ever heard. They played wonderfully on instruments of new invention, + and divinely upon old ones. It was impossible that anything could be more + gay and inspiring than their silver bugles, and their carillons of + tinkling bells. + </p> + <p> + They found an echo in the heart of Sidney Wilton, who, seated near the + entrance of the ball-room, watched every arrival with anxious expectation. + But the anxiety vanished for a moment under the influence of the fantastic + and frolic strain. It seemed a harbinger of happiness and joy. He fell + into a reverie, and wandered with a delightful companion in castles of + perpetual sunshine, and green retreats, and pleasant terraces. + </p> + <p> + But the lady never came. + </p> + <p> + “Where can your sister be?” said Lady Montfort to Endymion. “She promised + me to come early; something must have happened. Is she ill?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite well; I saw her before I left Hill Street. She wished me to come + alone, as she would not be here early. + </p> + <p> + “I hope she will be in time for the royal supper table; I quite count on + her.” + </p> + <p> + “She is sure to be here.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Hainault was in earnest conversation with Baron Sergius, now the + minister of King Florestan at the Court of St. James’s. It was a wise + appointment, for Sergius knew intimately all the English statesmen of + eminence, and had known them for many years. They did not look upon him as + the mere representative of a revolutionary and parvenu sovereign; he was + quite one of themselves, had graduated at the Congress of Vienna, and, it + was believed, had softened many subsequent difficulties by his sagacity. + He had always been a cherished guest at Apsley House, and it was known the + great duke often consulted him. “As long as Sergius sways his councils, He + will indulge in no adventures,” said Europe. “As long as Sergius remains + here, the English alliance is safe,” said England. After Europe and + England, the most important confidence to obtain was that of Lord + Hainault, and Baron Sergius had not been unsuccessful in that respect. + </p> + <p> + “Your master has only to be liberal and steady,” said Lord Hainault, with + his accustomed genial yet half-sarcastic smile, “and he may have anything + he likes. But we do not want any wars; they are not liked in the City.” + </p> + <p> + “Our policy is peace,” said Sergius. + </p> + <p> + “I think we ought to congratulate Sir Peter,” said Mr. Waldershare to + Adriana, with whom he had been dancing, and whom he was leading back to + Lady Hainault. “Sir Peter, here is a lady who wishes to congratulate you + on your deserved elevation.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do not know what to say about it,” said the former Mr. Vigo, + highly gratified, but a little confused; “my friends would have it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay,” said Waldershare, “‘at the request of friends;’ the excuse I + gave for publishing my sonnets.” And then, advancing, he delivered his + charge to her <i>chaperon</i>, who looked dreamy, abstracted, and + uninterested. + </p> + <p> + “We have just been congratulating the new baronet, Sir Peter Vigo,” said + Waldershare. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said Lady Hainault with a contemptuous sigh, “he is, at any rate, + not obliged to change his name. The desire to change one’s name does + indeed appear to me to be a singular folly. If your name had been + disgraced, I could understand it, as I could understand a man then going + about in a mask. But the odd thing is, the persons who always want to + change their names are those whose names are the most honoured.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you are here!” said Mr. St. Barbe acidly to Mr. Seymour Hicks. “I + think you are everywhere. I suppose they will make you a baronet next. + Have you seen the batch? I could not believe my eyes when I read it. I + believe the government is demented. Not a single literary man among them. + Not that I wanted their baronetcy. Nothing would have tempted me to accept + one. But there is Gushy; he, I know, would have liked it. I must say I + feel for Gushy; his works only selling half what they did, and then thrown + over in this insolent manner!” + </p> + <p> + “Gushy is not in society,” said Mr. Seymour Hicks in a solemn tone of + contemptuous pity. + </p> + <p> + “That is society,” said St. Barbe, as he received a bow of haughty grace + from Mrs. Rodney, who, fascinating and fascinated, was listening to the + enamoured murmurs of an individual with a very bright star and a very red + ribbon. + </p> + <p> + “I dined with the Rodneys yesterday,” said Mr. Seymour Hicks; “they do the + thing well.” + </p> + <p> + “You dined there!” exclaimed St. Barbe. “It is very odd, they have never + asked me. Not that I would have accepted their invitation. I avoid + parvenus. They are too fidgety for my taste. I require repose, and only + dine with the old nobility.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0089" id="link2HCH0089"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXXIX + </h2> + <p> + The Right Honourable Job Thornberry and Mrs. Thornberry had received an + invitation to the Montfort ball. Job took up the card, and turned it over + more than once, and looked at it as if it were some strange animal, with + an air of pleased and yet cynical perplexity; then he shrugged his + shoulders and murmured to himself, “No, I don’t think that will do. + Besides, I must be at Hurstley by that time.” + </p> + <p> + Going to Hurstley now was not so formidable an affair as it was in + Endymion’s boyhood. Then the journey occupied a whole and wearisome day. + Little Hurstley had become a busy station of the great Slap-Bang railway, + and a despatch train landed you at the bustling and flourishing hostelry, + our old and humble friend, the Horse Shoe, within the two hours. It was a + rate that satisfied even Thornberry, and almost reconciled him to the too + frequent presence of his wife and family at Hurstley, a place to which + Mrs. Thornberry had, it would seem, become passionately attached. + </p> + <p> + “There is a charm about the place, I must say,” said Job to himself, as he + reached his picturesque home on a rich summer evening; “and yet I hated it + as a boy. To be sure, I was then discontented and unhappy, and now I have + every reason to be much the reverse. Our feelings affect even scenery. It + certainly is a pretty place; I really think one of the prettiest places in + England.” + </p> + <p> + Job was cordially welcomed. His wife embraced him, and the younger + children clung to him with an affection which was not diminished by the + remembrance that their father never visited them with empty hands. His + eldest son, a good-looking and well-grown stripling, just home for the + holidays, stood apart, determined to show he was a man of the world, and + superior to the weakness of domestic sensibility. When the hubbub was a + little over, he advanced and shook hands with his father with a certain + dignity. + </p> + <p> + “And when did you arrive, my boy? I was looking up your train in Bradshaw + as I came along. I made out you should get the branch at Culvers Gate.” + </p> + <p> + “I drove over,” replied the son; “I and a friend of mine drove tandem, and + I’ll bet we got here sooner than we should have done by the branch.” + </p> + <p> + “Hem!” said Job Thornberry. + </p> + <p> + “Job,” said Mrs. Thornberry, “I have made two engagements for you this + evening. First, we will go and see your father, and then we are to drink + tea at the rectory.” + </p> + <p> + “Hem!” said Job Thornberry; “well, I would rather the first evening should + have been a quiet one; but let it be so.” + </p> + <p> + The visit to the father was kind, dutiful, and wearisome. There was not a + single subject on which the father and son had thoughts in common. The + conversation of the father took various forms of expressing his wonder + that his son had become what he was, and the son could only smile, and + turn the subject, by asking after the produce of some particular field + that had been prolific or obstinate in the old days. Mrs. Thornberry + looked absent, and was thinking of the rectory; the grandson who had + accompanied them was silent and supercilious; and everybody felt relieved + when Mrs. Thornberry, veiling her impatience by her fear of keeping her + father-in-law up late, made a determined move and concluded the domestic + ceremony. + </p> + <p> + The rectory afforded a lively contrast to the late scene. Mr. and Mrs. + Penruddock were full of intelligence and animation. Their welcome of Mr. + Thornberry was exactly what it ought to have been; respectful, even + somewhat deferential, but cordial and unaffected. They conversed on all + subjects, public and private, and on both seemed equally well informed, + for they not only read more than one newspaper, but Mrs. Penruddock had an + extensive correspondence, the conduct of which was one of the chief + pleasures and excitements of her life. Their tea-equipage, too, was a + picture of abundance and refinement. Such pretty china, and such various + and delicious cakes! White bread, and brown bread, and plum cakes, and + seed cakes, and no end of cracknels, and toasts, dry or buttered. Mrs. + Thornberry seemed enchanted and gushing with affection,—everybody + was dear or dearest. Even the face of John Hampden beamed with + condescending delight as he devoured a pyramid of dainties. + </p> + <p> + Just before the tea-equipage was introduced Mrs. Penruddock rose from her + seat and whispered something to Mrs. Thornberry, who seemed pleased and + agitated and a little blushing, and then their hostess addressed Job and + said, “I was mentioning to your wife that the archbishop was here, and + that I hope you would not dislike meeting him.” + </p> + <p> + And very shortly after this, the archbishop, who had been taking a village + walk, entered the room. It was evident that he was intimate with the + occupiers of Hurstley Hall. He addressed Mrs. Thornberry with the ease of + habitual acquaintance, while John Hampden seemed almost to rush into his + arms. Job himself had seen his Grace in London, though he had never had + the opportunity of speaking to him, but yielded to his cordiality, when + the archbishop, on his being named, said, “It is a pleasure to meet an old + friend, and in times past a kind one.” + </p> + <p> + It was a most agreeable evening. The archbishop talked to every one, but + never seemed to engross the conversation. He talked to the ladies of + gardens, and cottages, and a little of books, seemed deeply interested in + the studies and progress of the grandson Thornberry, who evidently + idolised him; and in due course his Grace was engaged in economical + speculations with Job himself, who was quite pleased to find a priest as + liberal and enlightened as he was able and thoroughly informed. An hour + before midnight they separated, though the archbishop attended them to the + hall. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Thornberry’s birthday was near at hand, which Job always commemorated + with a gift. It had commenced with some severe offering, like “Paradise + Lost,” then it fell into the gentler form of Tennyson, and, of late, + unconsciously under the influence of his wife, it had taken the shape of a + bracelet or a shawl. + </p> + <p> + This evening, as he was rather feeling his way as to what might please her + most, Mrs. Thornberry embracing him, and hiding her face on his breast, + murmured, “Do not give me any jewel, dear Job. What I should like would be + that you should restore the chapel here.” + </p> + <p> + “Restore the chapel here! oh, oh!” said Job Thornberry. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0090" id="link2HCH0090"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XC + </h2> + <p> + The archbishop called at Hurstley House the next day. It was a visit to + Mr. Thornberry, but all the family were soon present, and clustered round + the visitor. Then they walked together in the gardens, which had become + radiant under the taste and unlimited expenditure of Mrs. Thornberry; beds + glowing with colour or rivalling mosaics, choice conifers with their green + or purple fruit, and rare roses with their fanciful and beauteous names; + one, by the by, named “Mrs. Penruddock,” and a very gorgeous one, “The + Archbishop.” + </p> + <p> + As they swept along the terraces, restored to their pristine comeliness, + and down the green avenues bounded by copper beeches and ancient yews, + where men were sweeping away every leaf and twig that had fallen in the + night and marred the consummate order, it must have been difficult for the + Archbishop of Tyre not to recall the days gone by, when this brilliant and + finished scene, then desolate and neglected, the abode of beauty and + genius, yet almost of penury, had been to him a world of deep and familiar + interest. Yes, he was walking in the same glade where he had once pleaded + his own cause with an eloquence which none of his most celebrated sermons + had excelled. Did he think of this? If he did, it was only to wrench the + thought from his memory. Archbishops who are yet young, who are resolved + to be cardinals, and who may be popes, are superior to all human weakness. + </p> + <p> + “I should like to look at your chapel,” said his Grace to Mr. Thornberry; + “I remember it a lumber room, and used to mourn over its desecration.” + </p> + <p> + “I never was in it,” said Job, “and cannot understand why my wife is so + anxious about it as she seems to be. When we first went to London, she + always sate under the Reverend Socinus Frost, and seemed very satisfied. I + have heard him; a sensible man—but sermons are not much in my way, + and I do not belong to his sect, or indeed any other.” + </p> + <p> + However, they went to the chapel all the same, for Mrs. Thornberry was + resolved on the visit. It was a small chamber but beautifully + proportioned, like the mansion itself—of a blended Italian and + Gothic style. The roof was flat, but had been richly gilt and painted, and + was sustained by corbels of angels, divinely carved. There had been some + pews in the building; some had fallen to pieces, and some remained, but + these were not in the original design. The sacred table had disappeared, + but two saintly statues, sculptured in black oak, seemed still to guard + the spot which it had consecrated. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what became of the communion table?” said Job. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! my dear father, do not call it a communion table,” exclaimed John + Hampden pettishly. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what should I call it, my boy?” + </p> + <p> + “The altar.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what does it signify what we call it? The thing is the same.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” exclaimed the young gentleman, in a tone of contemptuous enthusiasm, + “it is all the difference in the world. There should be a stone altar and + a reredos. We have put up a reredos in our chapel at Bradley. All the + fellows subscribed; I gave a sovereign.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I must say,” said the archbishop, who had been standing in advance + with Mrs. Thornberry and the children, while this brief and becoming + conversation was taking place between father and son, “I think you could + hardly do a better thing than restore this chapel, Mr. Thornberry, but + there must be no mistake about it. It must be restored to the letter, and + it is a style that is not commonly understood. I have a friend, however, + who is a master of it, the most rising man in his profession, as far as + church architecture is concerned, and I will get him just to run down and + look at this, and if, as I hope, you resolve to restore it, rest assured + he will do you justice, and you will be proud of your place of worship.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not care how much we spend on our gardens,” said Job, “for they are + transitory pleasures, and we enjoy what we produce; but why I should + restore a chapel in a house which does not belong to myself is not so + clear to me.” + </p> + <p> + “But it should belong to yourself,” rejoined the archbishop. “Hurstley is + not in the market, but it is to be purchased. Take it altogether, I have + always thought it one of the most enviable possessions in the world. The + house, when put in order, would be one of the ornaments of the kingdom. + The acreage, though considerable, is not overwhelming, and there is a + range of wild country of endless charm. I wandered about it in my + childhood and my youth, and I have never known anything equal to it. Then + as to the soil and all that, you know it. You are a son of the soil. You + left it for great objects, and you have attained those objects. They have + given you fame as well as fortune. There would be something wonderfully + dignified and graceful in returning to the land after you have taken the + principal part in solving the difficulties which pertained to it, and + emancipating it from many perils.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure it would be the happiest day of my life, if Job would purchase + Hurstley,” said Mrs. Thornberry. + </p> + <p> + “I should like to go to Oxford, and my father purchase Hurstley,” said the + young gentleman. “If we have not landed property, I would sooner have + none. If we have not land, I should like to go into the Church, and if I + may not go to Oxford, I would go to Cuddesdon at once. I know it can be + done, for I know a fellow who has done it.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Job Thornberry! He had ruled multitudes, and had conquered and + commanded senates. His Sovereign had made him one of her privy + councillors, and half a million of people had returned him their + representative to parliament. And here he stood silent, and a little + confused; sapped by his wife, bullied by his son, and after having passed + a great part of his life in denouncing sacerdotalism, finding his whole + future career chalked out, without himself being consulted, by a priest + who was so polite, sensible, and so truly friendly, that his manner seemed + to deprive its victims of every faculty of retort or repartee. Still he + was going to say something when the door opened, and Mrs. Penruddock + appeared, exclaiming in a cheerful voice, “I thought I should find you + here. I would not have troubled your Grace, but this letter marked + ‘private, immediate, and to be forwarded,’ has been wandering about for + some time, and I thought it was better to bring it to you at once.” + </p> + <p> + The Archbishop of Tyre took the letter, and seemed to start as he read the + direction. Then he stood aside, opened it, and read its contents. The + letter was from Lady Roehampton, desiring to see him as soon as possible + on a matter of the utmost gravity, and entreating him not to delay his + departure, wherever he might be. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to quit you all,” said his Grace; “but I must go up to town + immediately. The business is urgent.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0091" id="link2HCH0091"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCI + </h2> + <p> + Endymion arrived at home very late from the Montfort ball, and rose in + consequence at an unusually late hour. He had taken means to become + sufficiently acquainted with the cause of his sister’s absence the night + before, so he had no anxiety on that head. Lady Roehampton had really + intended to have been present, was indeed dressed for the occasion; but + when the moment of trial arrived, she was absolutely unequal to the + effort. All this was amplified in a little note from his sister, which his + valet brought him in the morning. What, however, considerably surprised + him in this communication was her announcement that her feelings last + night had proved to her that she ought not to remain in London, and that + she intended to find solitude and repose in the little watering-place + where she had passed a tranquil autumn during the first year of her + widowhood. What completed his astonishment, however, was the closing + intimation that, in all probability, she would have left town before he + rose. The moment she had got a little settled she would write to him, and + when business permitted, he must come and pay her a little visit. + </p> + <p> + “She was always capricious,” exclaimed Lady Montfort, who had not + forgotten the disturbance of her royal supper-table. + </p> + <p> + “Hardly that, I think,” said Endymion. “I have always looked on Myra as a + singularly consistent character.” + </p> + <p> + “I know, you never admit your sister has a fault.” + </p> + <p> + “You said the other day yourself that she was the only perfect character + you knew.” + </p> + <p> + “Did I say that? I think her capricious.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think you are capricious,” said Endymion, “and yet the world + sometimes says you are.” + </p> + <p> + “I change my opinion of persons when my taste is offended,” said Lady + Montfort. “What I admired in your sister, though I confess I sometimes + wished not to admire her, was that she never offended my taste.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope satisfied it,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, satisfied it, always satisfied it. I wonder what will be her lot, + for, considering her youth, her destiny has hardly begun. Somehow or + other, I do not think she will marry Sidney Wilton.” + </p> + <p> + “I have sometimes thought that would be,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it would be, I think, a happy match. All the circumstances would be + collected that form what is supposed to be happiness. But tastes differ + about destinies as well as about manners. For my part, I think to have a + husband who loved you, and he clever, accomplished, charming, ambitious, + would be happiness; but I doubt whether your sister cares so much about + these things. She may, of course does, talk to you more freely; but with + others, in her most open hours, there seems a secret fund of reserve in + her character which I never could penetrate, except, I think, it is a + reserve which does not originate in a love of tranquillity, but quite the + reverse. She is a strong character.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, hardly a capricious one.” + </p> + <p> + “No, not capricious; I only said that to tease you. I am capricious; I + know it. I disregard people sometimes that I have patronised and + flattered. It is not merely that I have changed my opinion of them, but I + positively hate them.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will never hate me,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “You have never offended my taste yet,” said Lady Montfort with a smile. + </p> + <p> + Endymion was engaged to dine to-day with Mr. Bertie Tremaine. Although now + in hostile political camps, that great leader of men never permitted their + acquaintance to cease. “He is young,” reasoned Mr. Bertie Tremaine; “every + political party changes its principles on an average once in ten years. + Those who are young must often then form new connections, and Ferrars will + then come to me. He will be ripe and experienced, and I could give him a + good deal. I do not want numbers. I want men. In opposition, numbers often + only embarrass. The power of the future is ministerial capacity. The + leader with a cabinet formed will be the minister of England. He is not to + trouble himself about numbers; that is an affair of the constituencies.” + </p> + <p> + Male dinners are in general not amusing. When they are formed, as they + usually are, of men who are supposed to possess a strong and common + sympathy—political, sporting, literary, military, social—there + is necessarily a monotony of thought and feeling, and of the materials + which induce thought and feeling. In a male dinner of party politicians, + conversation soon degenerates into what is termed “shop;” anecdotes about + divisions, criticism of speeches, conjectures about office, speculations + on impending elections, and above all, that heinous subject on which + enormous fibs are ever told, the registration. There are, however, + occasional glimpses in their talk which would seem to intimate that they + have another life outside the Houses of Parliament. But that extenuating + circumstance does not apply to the sporting dinner. There they begin with + odds and handicaps, and end with handicaps and odds, and it is doubtful + whether it ever occurs to any one present, that there is any other + existing combination of atoms than odds and handicaps. A dinner of wits is + proverbially a place of silence; and the envy and hatred which all + literary men really feel for each other, especially when they are + exchanging dedications of mutual affection, always ensure, in such + assemblies, the agreeable presence of a general feeling of painful + constraint. If a good thing occurs to a guest, he will not express it, + lest his neighbour, who is publishing a novel in numbers, shall + appropriate it next month, or he himself, who has the same responsibility + of production, be deprived of its legitimate appearance. Those who desire + to learn something of the manoeuvres at the Russian and Prussian reviews, + or the last rumour at Aldershot or the military clubs, will know where to + find this feast of reason. The flow of soul in these male festivals is + perhaps, on the whole, more genial when found in a society of young + gentlemen, graduates of the Turf and the Marlborough, and guided in their + benignant studies by the gentle experience and the mild wisdom of White’s. + The startling scandal, the rattling anecdote, the astounding leaps, and + the amazing shots, afford for the moment a somewhat pleasing distraction, + but when it is discovered that all these habitual flim-flams are, in + general, the airy creatures of inaccuracy and exaggeration—that the + scandal is not true, the anecdote has no foundation, and that the feats + and skill and strength are invested with the organic weakness of + tradition, the vagaries lose something of the charm of novelty, and are + almost as insipid as claret from which the bouquet has evaporated. + </p> + <p> + The male dinners of Mr. Bertie Tremaine were an exception to the general + reputation of such meetings. They were never dull. In the first place, + though to be known at least by reputation was an indispensable condition + of being present, he brought different classes together, and this, at + least for once, stimulates and gratifies curiosity. His house too was open + to foreigners of celebrity, without reference to their political parties + or opinions. Every one was welcome except absolute assassins. The host too + had studied the art of developing character and conversation, and if + sometimes he was not so successful in this respect as he deserved, there + was no lack of amusing entertainment, for in these social encounters Mr. + Bertie Tremaine was a reserve in himself, and if nobody else would talk, + he would avail himself of the opportunity of pouring forth the treasures + of his own teeming intelligence. His various knowledge, his power of + speech, his eccentric paradoxes, his pompous rhetoric, relieved by some + happy sarcasm, and the obvious sense, in all he said and did, of innate + superiority to all his guests, made these exhibitions extremely amusing. + </p> + <p> + “What Bertie Tremaine will end in,” Endymion would sometimes say, + “perplexes me. Had there been no revolution in 1832, and he had entered + parliament for his family borough, I think he must by this time have been + a minister. Such tenacity of purpose could scarcely fail. But he has had + to say and do so many odd things, first to get into parliament, and + secondly to keep there, that his future now is not so clear. When I first + knew him, he was a Benthamite; at present, I sometimes seem to foresee + that he will end by being the leader of the Protectionists and the + Protestants.” + </p> + <p> + “And a good strong party too,” said Trenchard, “but query whether strong + enough?” + </p> + <p> + “That is exactly what Bertie Tremaine is trying to find out.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bertie Tremaine’s manner in receiving his guests was courtly and + ceremonious; a contrast to the free and easy style of the time. But it was + adopted after due reflection. “No man can tell you what will be the + position he may be called upon to fill. But he has a right to assume he + will always be ascending. I, for example, may be destined to be the + president of a republic, the regent of a monarchy, or a sovereign myself. + It would be painful and disagreeable to have to change one’s manner at a + perhaps advanced period of life, and become liable to the unpopular + imputation that you had grown arrogant and overbearing. On the contrary, + in my case, whatever my elevation, there will be no change. My brother, + Mr. Tremaine Bertie, acts on a different principle. He is a Sybarite, and + has a general contempt for mankind, certainly for the mob and the middle + class, but he is ‘Hail fellow, well met!’ with them all. He says it + answers at elections; I doubt it. I myself represent a popular + constituency, but I believe I owe my success in no slight measure to the + manner in which I gave my hand when I permitted it to be touched. As I say + sometimes to Mr. Tremaine Bertie, ‘You will find this habit of social + familiarity embarrassing when I send you to St. Petersburg or Vienna.’” + </p> + <p> + Waldershare dined there, now a peer, though, as he rejoiced to say, not a + peer of parliament. An Irish peer, with an English constituency, filled, + according to Waldershare, the most enviable of positions. His rank gave + him social influence, and his seat in the House of Commons that power + which all aspire to obtain. The cynosure of the banquet, however, was a + gentleman who had, about a year before, been the president of a republic + for nearly six weeks, and who being master of a species of rhapsodical + rhetoric, highly useful in troubled times, when there is no real business + to transact, and where there is nobody to transact it, had disappeared + when the treasury was quite empty, and there were no further funds to + reward the enthusiastic citizens who had hitherto patriotically maintained + order at wages about double in amount to what they had previously received + in their handicrafts. This great reputation had been brought over by Mr. + Tremaine Bertie, now introducing him into English political society. Mr. + Tremaine Bertie hung upon the accents of the oracle, every word of which + was intended to be picturesque or profound, and then surveyed his friends + with a glance of appreciating wonder. Sensible Englishmen, like Endymion + and Trenchard, looked upon the whole exhibition as fustian, and received + the revelations with a smile of frigid courtesy. + </p> + <p> + The presence, however, of this celebrity of six weeks gave occasionally a + tone of foreign politics to the conversation, and the association of + ideas, which, in due course, rules all talk, brought them, among other + incidents and instances, to the remarkable career of King Florestan. + </p> + <p> + “And yet he has his mortifications,” said a sensible man. “He wants a + wife, and the princesses of the world will not furnish him with one.” + </p> + <p> + “What authority have you for saying so?” exclaimed the fiery Waldershare. + “The princesses of the world would be great fools if they refused such a + man, but I know of no authentic instance of such denial.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is the common rumour.” + </p> + <p> + “And, therefore, probably a common falsehood.” + </p> + <p> + “Were he wise,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine, “King Florestan would not marry. + Dynasties are unpopular; especially new ones. The present age is + monarchical, but not dynastic. The king, who is a man of reach, and who + has been pondering such circumstances all his life, is probably well aware + of this, and will not be such a fool as to marry.” + </p> + <p> + “How is the monarchy to go on, if there is to be no successor?” inquired + Trenchard. “You would not renew the Polish constitution?” + </p> + <p> + “The Polish constitution, by the by, was not so bad a thing,” said Mr. + Bertie Tremaine. “Under it a distinguished Englishman might have mixed + with the crowned heads of Europe, as Sir Philip Sidney nearly did. But I + was looking to something superior to the Polish constitution, or perhaps + any other; I was contemplating a monarchy with the principle of adoption. + That would give you all the excellence of the Polish constitution, and the + order and constancy in which it failed. It would realise the want of the + age; monarchical, not dynastical, institutions, and it would act + independent of the passions and intrigues of the multitude. The principle + of adoption was the secret of the strength and endurance of Rome. It gave + Rome alike the Scipios and the Antonines.” + </p> + <p> + “A court would be rather dull without a woman at its head.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine. “It was Louis Quatorze who + made the court; not his queen.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Waldershare, “all the same, I fear King Florestan will adopt + no one in this room, though he has several friends here, and I am one; and + I believe that he will marry, and I cannot help fancying that the partner + of this throne will not be as insignificant as Louis the Fourteenth’s + wife, or Catherine of Braganza.” + </p> + <p> + Jawett dined this day with Mr. Bertie Tremaine. He was a frequent guest + there, and still was the editor of the “Precursor,” though it sometimes + baffled all that lucidity of style for which he was celebrated to + reconcile the conduct of the party, of which the “Precursor” was alike the + oracle and organ, with the opinions with which that now well-established + journal first attempted to direct and illuminate the public mind. It + seemed to the editor that the “Precursor” dwelt more on the past than + became a harbinger of the future. Not that Mr. Bertie Tremaine ever for a + moment admitted that there was any difficulty in any case. He never + permitted any dogmas that he had ever enunciated to be surrendered, + however contrary at their first aspect. + </p> + <p> + “All are but parts of one stupendous whole,” + </p> + <p> + and few things were more interesting than the conference in which Mr. + Bertie Tremaine had to impart his views and instructions to the master of + that lucid style, which had the merit of making everything so very clear + when the master himself was, as at present, extremely perplexed and + confused. Jawett lingered after the other guests, that he might have the + advantage of consulting the great leader on the course which he ought to + take in advocating a measure which seemed completely at variance with all + the principles they had ever upheld. + </p> + <p> + “I do not see your difficulty,” wound up the host. “Your case is clear. + You have a principle which will carry you through everything. That is the + charm of a principle. You have always an answer ready.” + </p> + <p> + “But in this case,” somewhat timidly inquired Mr. Jawett, “what would be + the principle on which I should rest?” + </p> + <p> + “You must show,” said Mr. Bertie Tremaine, “that democracy is aristocracy + in disguise; and that aristocracy is democracy in disguise. It will carry + you through everything.” + </p> + <p> + Even Jawett looked a little amazed. + </p> + <p> + “But”—he was beginning, when Mr. Bertie Tremaine arose. “Think of + what I have said, and if on reflection any doubt or difficulty remain in + your mind, call on me to-morrow before I go to the House. At present, I + must pay my respects to Lady Beaumaris. She is the only woman the Tories + can boast of; but she is a first-rate woman, and is a power which I must + secure.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0092" id="link2HCH0092"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCII + </h2> + <p> + A month had nearly elapsed since the Montfort ball; the season was over + and the session was nearly finished. The pressure of parliamentary life + for those in office is extreme during this last month, yet Endymion would + have contrived, were it only for a day, to have visited his sister, had + Lady Roehampton much encouraged his appearance. Strange as it seemed to + him, she did not, but, on the contrary, always assumed that the + prorogation of parliament would alone bring them together again. When he + proposed on one occasion to come down for four-and-twenty hours, she + absolutely, though with much affection, adjourned the fulfilment of the + offer. It seemed that she was not yet quite settled. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort lingered in London even after Goodwood. She was rather + embarrassed, as she told Endymion, about her future plans. Lord Montfort + was at Princedown, where she wished to join him, but he did not respond to + her wishes; on the contrary, while announcing that he was indisposed, and + meant to remain at Princedown for the summer, he suggested that she should + avail herself of the opportunity, and pay a long visit to her family in + the north. “I know what he means,” she observed; “he wants the world to + believe that we are separated. He cannot repudiate me—he is too + great a gentleman to do anything coarsely unjust; but he thinks, by tact + and indirect means, he may achieve our virtual separation. He has had this + purpose for years, I believe now ever since our marriage, but hitherto I + have baffled him. I ought to be with him; I really believe he is + indisposed, his face has become so pale of late; but were I to persist in + going to Princedown I should only drive him away. He would go off into the + night without leaving his address, and something would happen—dreadful + or absurd. What I had best do, I think, is this. You are going at last to + pay your visit to your sister; I will write to my lord and tell him that + as he does not wish me to go to Princedown, I propose to go to Montfort + Castle. When the flag is flying at Montfort, I can pay a visit of any + length to my family. It will only be a neighbouring visit from Montfort to + them; perhaps, too, they might return it. At any rate, then they cannot + say my lord and I are separated. We need not live under the same roof, but + so long as I live under his roof the world considers us united. It is a + pity to have to scheme in this manner, and rather degrading, particularly + when one might be so happy with him. But you know, my dear Endymion, all + about our affairs. Your friend is not a very happy woman, and if not a + very unhappy one, it is owing much to your dear friendship, and a little + to my own spirit which keeps me up under what is frequent and sometimes + bitter mortification. And now adieu! I suppose you cannot be away less + than a week. Probably on your return you will find me here. I cannot go to + Montfort without his permission. But he will give it. I observe that he + will always do anything to gain his immediate object. His immediate object + is, that I shall not go to Princedown, and so he will agree that I shall + go to Montfort.” + </p> + <p> + For the first time in his life, Endymion felt some constraint in the + presence of Myra. There was something changed in her manner. No diminution + of affection, for she threw her arms around him and pressed him to her + heart; and then she looked at him anxiously, even sadly, and kissed both + his eyes, and then she remained for some moments in silence with her face + hid on his shoulder. Never since the loss of Lord Roehampton had she + seemed so subdued. + </p> + <p> + “It is a long separation,” she at length said, with a voice and smile + equally faint, “and you must be a little wearied with your travelling. + Come and refresh yourself, and then I will show you my boudoir I have made + here; rather pretty, out of nothing. And then we will sit down and have a + long talk together, for I have much to tell you, and I want your advice.” + </p> + <p> + “She is going to marry Sidney Wilton,” thought Endymion; “that is clear.” + </p> + <p> + The boudoir was really pretty, “made out of nothing;” a gay chintz, some + shelves of beautiful books, some fanciful chairs, and a portrait of Lord + Roehampton. + </p> + <p> + It was a long interview, very long, and if one could judge by the + countenance of Endymion, when he quitted the boudoir and hastened to his + room, of grave import. Sometimes his face was pale, sometimes scarlet; the + changes were rapid, but the expression was agitated rather than one of + gratification. + </p> + <p> + He sent instantly for his servant, and then penned this telegram to Lady + Montfort: “My visit here will be short. I am to see you immediately. + Nothing must prevent your being at home when I call to-morrow, about four + o’clock. Most, most important.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0093" id="link2HCH0093"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCIII + </h2> + <p> + “Well, something has happened at last,” said Lady Montfort with a + wondering countenance; “it is too marvellous.” + </p> + <p> + “She goes to Osborne to-day,” continued Endymion, “and I suppose after + that, in due course, it will be generally known. I should think the formal + announcement would be made abroad. It has been kept wonderfully close. She + wished you to know it first, at least from her. I do not think she ever + hesitated about accepting him. There was delay from various causes; + whether there should be a marriage by proxy first in this country, and + other points; about religion, for example.” + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “She enters the Catholic Church, the Archbishop of Tyre has received her. + There is no difficulty and no great ceremonies in such matters. She was + re-baptized, but only by way of precaution. It was not necessary, for our + baptism, you know, is recognised by Rome.” + </p> + <p> + “And that was all!” + </p> + <p> + “All, with a first communion and confession. It is all consummated now; as + you say, ‘It is too wonderful.’ A first confession, and to Nigel + Penruddock, who says life is flat and insipid!” + </p> + <p> + “I shall write to her: I must write to her. I wonder if I shall see her + before she departs.” + </p> + <p> + “That is certain if you wish it; she wishes it.” + </p> + <p> + “And when does she go? And who goes with her?” + </p> + <p> + “She will be under my charge,” said Endymion. “It is fortunate that it + should happen at a time when I am free. I am personally to deliver her to + the king. The Duke of St. Angelo, Baron Sergius, and the archbishop + accompany her, and Waldershare, at the particular request of his Majesty.” + </p> + <p> + “And no lady?” + </p> + <p> + “She takes Adriana with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Adriana!” repeated Lady Montfort, and a cloud passed over her brow. There + was a momentary pause, and then Lady Montfort said, “I wish she would take + me.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be delightful,” said Endymion, “and most becoming—to + have for a companion the greatest lady of our court.” + </p> + <p> + “She will not take me with her,” said Lady Montfort, sorrowfully but + decisively, and shaking her head. “Dear woman! I loved her always, often + most when I seemed least affectionate—but there was between us + something”—and she hesitated. “Heigho! I may be the greatest lady of + our court, but I am a very unhappy woman, Endymion, and what annoys and + dispirits me most, sometimes quite breaks me down, is that I cannot see + that I deserve my lot.” + </p> + <p> + It happened as Endymion foresaw; the first announcement came from abroad. + King Florestan suddenly sent a message to his parliament, that his Majesty + was about to present them with a queen. She was not the daughter of a + reigning house, but she came from the land of freedom and political + wisdom, and from the purest and most powerful court in Europe. His + subjects soon learnt that she was the most beautiful of women, for the + portrait of the Countess of Roehampton, as it were by magic, seemed + suddenly to fill every window in every shop in the teeming and brilliant + capital where she was about to reign. + </p> + <p> + It was convenient that these great events should occur when everybody was + out of town. Lady Montfort alone remained, the frequent, if not constant, + companion of the new sovereign. Berengaria soon recovered her high + spirits. There was much to do and prepare in which her hints and advice + were invaluable. Though she was not to have the honour of attending Myra + to her new home, which, considering her high place in the English court, + was perhaps hardly consistent with etiquette, for so she now cleverly put + it, she was to pay her Majesty a visit in due time. The momentary + despondency that had clouded her brilliant countenance had not only + disappeared, but she had quite forgotten, and certainly would not admit, + that she was anything but the most sanguine and energetic of beings, and + rallied Endymion unmercifully for his careworn countenance and too + frequent air of depression. The truth is, the great change that was + impending was one which might well make him serious, and sometimes sad. + </p> + <p> + The withdrawal of a female influence, so potent on his life as that of his + sister, was itself a great event. There had been between them from the + cradle, which, it may be said, they had shared, a strong and perfect + sympathy. They had experienced together vast and strange vicissitudes of + life. Though much separated in his early youth, there had still been a + constant interchange of thought and feeling between them. For the last + twelve years or so, ever since Myra had become acquainted with the + Neuchatel family, they may be said never to have separated—at least + they had maintained a constant communication, and generally a personal + one. She had in a great degree moulded his life. Her unfaltering, though + often unseen, influence had created his advancement. Her will was more + powerful than his. He was more prudent and plastic. He felt this keenly. + He was conscious that, left to himself, he would probably have achieved + much less. He remembered her words when they parted for the first time at + Hurstley, “Women will be your best friends in life.” And that brought his + thoughts to the only subject on which they had ever differed—her + wished-for union between himself and Adriana. He felt he had crossed her + there—that he had prevented the fulfilment of her deeply-matured + plans. Perhaps, had that marriage taken place, she would never have + quitted England. Perhaps; but was that desirable? Was it not fitter that + so lofty a spirit should find a seat as exalted as her capacity? Myra was + a sovereign! In this age of strange events, not the least strange. No + petty cares and griefs must obtrude themselves in such majestic + associations. And yet the days at Hainault were very happy, and the bright + visits to Gaydene, and her own pleasant though stately home. His heart was + agitated, and his eyes were often moistened with emotion. He seemed to + think that all the thrones of Christendom could be no compensation for the + loss of this beloved genius of his life, whom he might never see again. + Sometimes, when he paid his daily visit to Berengaria, she who knew him by + heart, who studied every expression of his countenance and every tone of + his voice, would say to him, after a few minutes of desultory and feeble + conversation, “You are thinking of your sister, Endymion?” + </p> + <p> + He did not reply, but gave a sort of faint mournful smile. + </p> + <p> + “This separation is a trial, a severe one, and I knew you would feel it,” + said Lady Montfort. “I feel it; I loved your sister, but she did not love + me. Nobody that I love ever does love me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! do not say that, Lady Montfort.” + </p> + <p> + “It is what I feel. I cannot console you. There is nothing I can do for + you. My friendship, if you value it, which I will not doubt you do, you + fully possessed before your sister was a Queen. So that goes for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “I must say, I feel sometimes most miserable.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, Endymion; if anything could annoy your sister more than + another, it would be to hear of such feelings on your part. I must say she + has courage. She has found her fitting place. Her brother ought to do the + same. You have a great object in life, at least you had, but I have no + faith in sentimentalists. If I had been sentimental, I should have gone + into a convent long ago.” + </p> + <p> + “If to feel is to be sentimental, I cannot help it.” + </p> + <p> + “All feeling which has no object to attain is morbid and maudlin,” said + Lady Montfort. “You say you are very miserable, and at the same time you + do not know what you want. Would you have your sister dethroned? And if + you would, could you accomplish your purpose? Well, then, what nonsense to + think about her except to feel proud of her elevation, and prouder still + that she is equal to it!” + </p> + <p> + “You always have the best of every argument,” said Endymion. + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” said Lady Montfort. “What I want you to do is to exert + yourself. You have now a strong social position, for Sidney Wilton tells + me the Queen has relinquished to you her mansion and the whole of her + income, which is no mean one. You must collect your friends about you. Our + government is not too strong, I can tell you. We must brush up in the + recess. What with Mr. Bertie Tremaine and his friends joining the + Protectionists, and the ultra-Radicals wanting, as they always do, + something impossible, I see seeds of discomfiture unless they are met with + energy. You stand high, and are well spoken of even by our opponents. + Whether we stand or fall, it is a moment for you to increase your personal + influence. That is the element now to encourage in your career, because + you are not like the old fogies in the cabinet, who, if they go out, will + never enter another again. You have a future, and though you may not be an + emperor, you may be what I esteem more, prime minister of this country.” + </p> + <p> + “You are always so sanguine.” + </p> + <p> + “Not more sanguine than your sister. Often we have talked of this. I wish + she were here to help us, but I will do my part. At present let us go to + luncheon.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0094" id="link2HCH0094"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCIV + </h2> + <p> + There was a splendid royal yacht, though not one belonging to our gracious + Sovereign, lying in one of Her Majesty’s southern ports, and the yacht was + convoyed by a smart frigate. The crews were much ashore, and were very + popular, for they spent a great deal of money. Everybody knew what was the + purpose of their bright craft, and every one was interested in it. A + beautiful Englishwoman had been selected to fill a foreign and brilliant + throne occupied by a prince, who had been educated in our own country, who + ever avowed his sympathies with “the inviolate island of the sage and + free.” So in fact there was some basis for the enthusiasm which was felt + on this occasion by the inhabitants of Nethampton. What every one wanted + to know was when she would sail. Ah! that was a secret that could hardly + be kept for the eight-and-forty hours preceding her departure, and + therefore, one day, with no formal notice, all the inhabitants of + Nethampton were in gala; streets and ships dressed out with the flags of + all nations; the church bells ringing; and busy little girls running about + with huge bouquets. + </p> + <p> + At the very instant expected, the special train was signalled, and drove + into the crimson station amid the thunder of artillery, the blare of + trumpets, the beating of drums, and cheers from thousands even louder and + longer than the voices of the cannon. Leaning on the arm of her brother, + and attended by the Princess of Montserrat, and the Honourable Adriana + Neuchatel, Baron Sergius, the Duke of St. Angelo, the Archbishop of Tyre, + and Lord Waldershare, the daughter of William Ferrars, gracious, yet + looking as if she were born to empire, received the congratulatory address + of the mayor and corporation and citizens of Nethampton, and permitted her + hand to be kissed, not only by his worship, but by at least two aldermen. + </p> + <p> + They were on the waters, and the shores of Albion, fast fading away, had + diminished to a speck. It is a melancholy and tender moment, and Myra was + in her ample and splendid cabin and alone. “It is a trial,” she felt, “but + all that I love and value in this world are in this vessel,” and she + thought of Endymion and Adriana. The gentlemen were on deck, chiefly + smoking or reconnoitring their convoy through their telescopes. + </p> + <p> + “I must say,” said Waldershare, “it was a grand idea of our kings making + themselves sovereigns of the sea. The greater portion of this planet is + water; so we at once became a first-rate power. We owe our navy entirely + to the Stuarts. King James the Second was the true founder and hero of the + British navy. He was the worthy son of his admirable father, that blessed + martyr, the restorer at least, if not the inventor, of ship money; the + most patriotic and popular tax that ever was devised by man. The + Nonconformists thought themselves so wise in resisting it, and they have + got the naval estimates instead!” + </p> + <p> + The voyage was propitious, the weather delightful, and when they had + entered the southern waters Waldershare confessed that he felt the + deliciousness of life. If the scene and the impending events, and their + own fair thoughts, had not been adequate to interest them, there were + ample resources at their command; all the ladies were skilled musicians, + their concerts commenced at sunset, and the sweetness of their voices long + lingered over the moonlit waters. + </p> + <p> + Adriana, one evening, bending over the bulwarks of the yacht, was watching + the track of phosphoric light, struck into brilliancy from the dark blue + waters by the prow of their rapid vessel. “It is a fascinating sight, Miss + Neuchatel, and it seems one might gaze on it for ever.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Lord Waldershare, you caught me in a reverie.” + </p> + <p> + “What more sweet?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that depends on its subject. To tell the truth, I was thinking that + these lights resembled a little your conversation; all the wondrous things + you are always saying or telling us.” + </p> + <p> + The archbishop was a man who never recurred to the past. One could never + suppose that Endymion and himself had been companions in their early + youth, or, so far as their intercourse was concerned, that there was such + a place in the world as Hurstley. One night, however, as they were pacing + the deck together, he took the arm of Endymion, and said, “I trace the + hand of Providence in every incident of your sister’s life. What we deemed + misfortunes, sorrows, even calamities, were forming a character originally + endowed with supreme will, and destined for the highest purposes. There + was a moment at Hurstley when I myself was crushed to the earth, and cared + not to live; vain, short-sighted mortal! Our great Master was at that + moment shaping everything to His ends, and preparing for the entrance into + His Church of a woman who may be, who will be, I believe, another St. + Helena.” + </p> + <p> + “We have not spoken of this subject before,” said Endymion, “and I should + not have cared had our silence continued, but I must now tell you frankly, + the secession of my sister from the Church of her fathers was to me by no + means a matter of unmixed satisfaction.” + </p> + <p> + “The time will come when you will recognise it as the consummation of a + Divine plan,” said the archbishop. + </p> + <p> + “I feel great confidence that my sister will never be the slave of + superstition,” said Endymion. “Her mind is too masculine for that; she + will remember that the throne she fills has been already once lost by the + fatal influence of the Jesuits.” + </p> + <p> + “The influence of the Jesuits is the influence of Divine truth,” said his + companion. “And how is it possible for such influence not to prevail? What + you treat as defeats, discomfitures, are events which you do not + comprehend. They are incidents all leading to one great end—the + triumph of the Church—that is, the triumph of God.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not decide what are great ends; I am content to ascertain what is + wise conduct. And it would not be wise conduct, in my opinion, for the + King to rest upon the Jesuits.” + </p> + <p> + “The Jesuits never fell except from conspiracy against them. It is never + the public voice that demands their expulsion or the public effort that + accomplishes it. It is always the affair of sovereigns and statesmen, of + politicians, of men, in short, who feel that there is a power at work, and + that power one not favourable to their schemes or objects of government.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we shall see,” said Endymion; “I candidly tell you, I hope the + Jesuits will have as little influence in my brother-in-law’s kingdom as in + my own country.” + </p> + <p> + “As little!” said Nigel, somewhat sarcastically; “I should be almost + content if the holy order in every country had as much influence as they + now have in England.” + </p> + <p> + “I think your Grace exaggerates.” + </p> + <p> + “Before two years are past,” said the archbishop, speaking very slowly, “I + foresee that the Jesuits will be privileged in England, and the hierarchy + of our Church recognised.” + </p> + <p> + It was a delicious afternoon; it had been sultry, but the sun had now + greatly declined, when the captain of the yacht came down to announce to + the Queen that they were in sight of her new country, and she hastened on + deck to behold the rapidly nearing shore. A squadron of ships of war had + stood out to meet her, and in due time the towers and spires of a + beautiful city appeared, which was the port of the capital, and itself + almost worthy of being one. A royal barge, propelled by four-and-twenty + rowers, and bearing the lord chamberlain, awaited the queen, and the + moment her Majesty and the Princess of Montserrat had taken their seats, + salutes thundered from every ship of war, responded to by fort and battery + ashore. + </p> + <p> + When they landed, they were conducted by chief officers of the court to a + pavilion which faced the western sky, now glowing like an opal with every + shade of the iris, and then becoming of a light green colour varied only + by some slight clouds burnished with gold. A troop of maidens brought + flowers as bright as themselves, and then a company of pages advanced, and + kneeling, offered to the Queen chocolate in a crystal cup. + </p> + <p> + According to the programme drawn up by the heralds, and every tittle of it + founded on precedents, the King and the royal carriages were to have met + the travellers on their arrival at the metropolis; but there are feelings + which heralds do not comprehend, and which defy precedents. Suddenly there + was a shout, a loud cheer, and a louder salute. Some one had arrived + unexpectedly. A young man, stately but pale, moved through the swiftly + receding crowd, alone and unattended, entered the pavilion, advanced to + the Queen, kissed her hand, and then both her cheeks, just murmuring, “My + best beloved, this, this indeed is joy.” + </p> + <p> + The capital was fortified, and the station was without the walls; here the + royal carriages awaited them. The crowd was immense; the ramparts on this + occasion were covered with people. It was an almost sultry night, with + every star visible, and clear and warm and sweet. As the royal carriage + crossed the drawbridge and entered the chief gates, the whole city was in + an instant suddenly illuminated—in a flash. The architectural lines + of the city walls, and of every street, were indicated, and along the + ramparts at not distant intervals were tripods, each crowned with a silver + flame, which cast around the radiance of day. + </p> + <p> + He held and pressed her hand as in silence she beheld the wondrous scene. + They had to make a progress of some miles; the way was kept throughout by + soldiery and civic guards, while beyond them was an infinite population, + all cheering and many of them waving torches. They passed through many + streets, and squares with marvellous fountains, until they arrived at the + chief and royal street, which has no equal in the world. It is more than a + mile long, never swerving from a straight line, broad, yet the houses so + elevated that they generally furnish the shade this ardent clime requires. + The architecture of this street is so varied that it never becomes + monotonous, some beautiful church, or palace, or ministerial hotel + perpetually varying the effect. All the windows were full on this + occasion, and even the roofs were crowded. Every house was covered with + tapestry, and the line of every building was marked out by artificial + light. The moon rose, but she was not wanted; it was as light as day. + </p> + <p> + They were considerate enough not to move too rapidly through this heart of + the metropolis, and even halted at some stations, where bands of music and + choirs of singers welcomed and celebrated them. They moved on more quickly + afterwards, made their way through a pretty suburb, and then entered a + park. At the termination of a long avenue was the illumined and beautiful + palace of the Prince of Montserrat, where Myra was to reside and repose + until the momentous morrow, when King Florestan was publicly to place on + the brow of his affianced bride the crown which to his joy she had + consented to share. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0095" id="link2HCH0095"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCV + </h2> + <p> + There are very few temperaments that can resist an universal and unceasing + festival in a vast and beautiful metropolis. It is inebriating, and the + most wonderful of all its accidents is how the population can ever calm + and recur to the monotony of ordinary life. When all this happens, too, in + a capital blessed with purple skies, where the moonlight is equal to our + sunshine, and where half the population sleep in the open air and wish for + no roof but the heavens, existence is a dream of phantasy and perpetual + loveliness, and one is at last forced to believe that there is some + miraculous and supernatural agency that provides the ever-enduring + excitement and ceaseless incidents of grace and beauty. + </p> + <p> + After the great ceremony of the morrow in the cathedral, and when Myra, + kneeling at the altar with her husband, received, under a canopy of silver + brocade, the blessings of a cardinal and her people, day followed day with + court balls and municipal banquets, state visits to operas, and reviews of + sumptuous troops. At length the end of all this pageantry and enthusiasm + approached, and amid a blaze of fireworks, the picturesque population of + this fascinating city tried to return to ordinary feeling and to common + sense. + </p> + <p> + If amid this graceful hubbub and this glittering riot any one could have + found time to remark the carriage and conduct of an individual, one might + have observed, and perhaps been surprised at, the change in those of Miss + Neuchatel. That air of pensive resignation which distinguished her seemed + to have vanished. She never wore that doleful look for which she was too + remarkable in London saloons, and which marred a countenance favoured by + nature and a form intended for gaiety and grace. Perhaps it was the + influence of the climate, perhaps the excitement of the scene, perhaps + some rapture with the wondrous fortunes of the friend whom she adored, but + Adriana seemed suddenly to sympathise with everybody and to appreciate + everything; her face was radiant, she was in every dance, and visited + churches and museums, and palaces and galleries, with keen delight. With + many charms, the intimate friend of their sovereign, and herself known to + be noble and immensely rich, Adriana became the fashion, and a crowd of + princes were ever watching her smiles, and sometimes offering her their + sighs. + </p> + <p> + “I think you enjoy our visit more than any one of us,” said Endymion to + her one day, with some feeling of surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Well, one cannot mope for ever,” said Miss Neuchatel; “I have passed my + life in thinking of one subject, and I feel now it made me very stupid.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion felt embarrassed, and, though generally ready, had no repartee at + command. Lord Waldershare, however, came to his relief, and claimed + Adriana for the impending dance. + </p> + <p> + This wondrous marriage was a grand subject for “our own correspondents,” + and they abounded. Among them were Jawett and St. Barbe. St. Barbe hated + Jawett, as indeed he did all his brethren, but his appointment in this + instance he denounced as an infamous job. “Merely to allow him to travel + in foreign parts, which he has never done, without a single qualification + for the office! However, it will ruin his paper, that is some consolation. + Fancy sending here a man who has never used his pen except about those + dismal statistics, and what he calls first principles! I hate his style, + so neat and frigid. No colour, sir. I hate his short sentences, like a dog + barking; we want a word-painter here, sir. My description of the wedding + sold one hundred and fifty thousand, and it is selling now. If the + proprietors were gentlemen, they would have sent me an unlimited credit, + instead of their paltry fifty pounds a day and my expenses; but you never + meet a liberal man now,—no such animal known. What I want you to do + for me, Lord Waldershare, is to get me invited to the Villa Aurea when the + court moves there. It will be private life there, and that is the article + the British public want now. They are satiated with ceremonies and + festivals. They want to know what the royal pair have for dinner when they + are alone, how they pass their evenings, and whether the queen drives + ponies.” + </p> + <p> + “So far as I am concerned,” said Waldershare, “they shall remain state + secrets.” + </p> + <p> + “I have received no special favours here,” rejoined St. Barbe, “though, + with my claims, I might have counted on the uttermost. However, it is + always so. I must depend on my own resources. I have a retainer, I can + tell you, my lord, from the ‘Rigdum Funidos,’ in my pocket, and it is in + my power to keep up such a crackling of jokes and sarcasms that a very + different view would soon be entertained in Europe of what is going on + here than is now the fashion. The ‘Rigdum Funidos’ is on the + breakfast-table of all England, and sells thousands in every capital of + the world. You do not appreciate its power; you will now feel it.” + </p> + <p> + “I also am a subscriber to the ‘Rigdum Funidos,’” said Waldershare, “and + tell you frankly, Mr. St. Barbe, that if I see in its columns the + slightest allusion to any persons or incident in this country, I will take + care that you be instantly consigned to the galleys; and, this being a + liberal government, I can do that without even the ceremony of a primary + inquiry.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not mean that?” said St. Barbe; “of course, I was only jesting. It + is not likely that I should say or do anything disagreeable to those whom + I look upon as my patrons—I may say friends—through life. It + makes me almost weep when I remember my early connection with Mr. Ferrars, + now an under-secretary of state, and who will mount higher. I never had a + chance of being a minister, though I suppose I am not more incapable than + others who get the silver spoon into their mouths. And then his divine + sister! Quite an heroic character! I never had a sister, and so I never + had even a chance of being nearly related to royalty. But so it has been + throughout my life. No luck, my lord; no luck. And then they say one is + misanthropical. Hang it! who can help being misanthropical when he finds + everybody getting on in life except himself?” + </p> + <p> + The court moved to their favourite summer residence, a Palladian palace on + a blue lake, its banks clothed with forests abounding with every species + of game, and beyond them loftier mountains. The king was devoted to sport, + and Endymion was always among his companions. Waldershare rather attached + himself to the ladies, who made gay parties floating in gondolas, and + refreshed themselves with picnics in sylvan retreats. It was supposed Lord + Waldershare was a great admirer of the Princess of Montserrat, who in + return referred to him as that “lovable eccentricity.” As the autumn + advanced, parties of guests of high distinction, carefully arranged, + periodically arrived. Now, there was more ceremony, and every evening the + circle was formed, while the king and queen exchanged words, and sometimes + ideas, with those who were so fortunate as to be under their roof. + Frequently there were dramatic performances, and sometimes a dance. The + Princess of Montserrat was invaluable in these scenes; vivacious, + imaginative, a consummate mimic, her countenance, though not beautiful, + was full of charm. What was strange, Adriana took a great fancy to her + Highness, and they were seldom separated. The only cloud for Endymion in + this happy life was, that every day the necessity of his return to England + was more urgent, and every day the days vanished more quickly. That return + to England, once counted by weeks, would soon be counted by hours. He had + conferred once or twice with Waldershare on the subject, who always turned + the conversation; at last Endymion reminded him that the time of his + departure was at hand, and that, originally, it had been agreed they + should return together. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my dear Ferrars, we did so agree, but the agreement was permissive, + not compulsory. My views are changed. Perhaps I shall never return to + England again; I think of being naturalised here.” + </p> + <p> + The queen was depressed at the prospect of being separated from her + brother. Sometimes she remonstrated with him for his devotion to sport + which deprived her of his society; frequently in a morning she sent for + him to her boudoir, that they might talk together as in old times. “The + king has invited Lord and Lady Beaumaris to pay us a visit, and they are + coming at once. I had hoped the dear Hainaults might have visited us here. + I think she would have liked it. However, they will certainly pass the + winter with us. It is some consolation to me not to lose Adriana.” + </p> + <p> + “The greatest,” said Endymion, “and she seems so happy here. She seems + quite changed.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope she is happier,” said the queen, “but I trust she is not changed. + I think her nearly perfection. So pure, even so exalted a mind, joined + with so sweet a temper, I have never met. And she is very much admired + too, I can tell you. The Prince of Arragon would be on his knees to her + to-morrow, if she would only give a single smile. But she smiles enough + with the Princess of Montserrat. I heard her the other day absolutely in + uncontrollable laughter. That is a strange friendship; it amuses me.” + </p> + <p> + “The princess has immense resource.” + </p> + <p> + The queen suddenly rose from her seat; her countenance was disturbed. + </p> + <p> + “Why do we talk of her, or of any other trifler of the court, when there + hangs over us so great a sorrow, Endymion, as our separation? Endymion, my + best beloved,” and she threw her arms round his neck, “my heart! my life! + Is it possible that you can leave me, and so miserable as I am?” + </p> + <p> + “Miserable!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! miserable when I think of your position—and even my own. Mine + own has risen like a palace in a dream, and may vanish like one. But that + would not be a calamity if you were safe. If I quitted this world + to-morrow, where would you be? It gives me sleepless nights and anxious + days. If you really loved me as you say, you would save me this. I am + haunted with the perpetual thought that all this glittering prosperity + will vanish as it did with our father. God forbid that, under any + circumstances, it should lead to such an end—but who knows? Fate is + terribly stern; ironically just. O Endymion! if you really love me, your + twin, half of your blood and life, who have laboured for you so much, and + thought for you so much, and prayed for you so much—and yet I + sometimes feel have done so little—O Endymion! my adored, my own + Endymion, if you wish to preserve my life—if you wish me not only to + live, but really to be happy as I ought to be and could be, but for one + dark thought, help me, aid me, save me—you can, and by one single + act.” + </p> + <p> + “One single act!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! marry Adriana.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” and he sighed. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Adriana, to whom we both of us owe everything. Were it not for + Adriana, you would not be here, you would be nothing,” and she whispered + some words which made him start, and alternately blush and look pale. + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible?” he exclaimed. “My sister, my beloved sister, I have + tried to keep my brain cool in many trials. But I feel, as it were, as if + life were too much for me. You counsel me to that which we should all + repent.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I know it; you may for a moment think it a sacrifice, but believe + me, that is all phantasy. I know you think your heart belongs to another. + I will grant everything, willingly grant everything you could say of her. + Yes, I admit, she is beautiful, she has many charms, has been to you a + faithful friend, you delight in her society; such things have happened + before to many men, to every man they say they happen, but that has not + prevented them from being wise, and very happy too. Your present position, + if you persist in it, is one most perilous. You have no root in the + country; but for an accident you could not maintain the public position + you have nobly gained. As for the great crowning consummation of your + life, which we dreamed over at unhappy Hurstley, which I have sometimes + dared to prophesy, that must be surrendered. The country at the best will + look upon you only as a reputable adventurer to be endured, even trusted + and supported, in some secondary post, but nothing more. I touch on this, + for I see it is useless to speak of myself and my own fate and feelings; + only remember, Endymion, I have never deceived you. I cannot endure any + longer this state of affairs. When in a few days we part, we shall never + meet again. And all the devotion of Myra will end in your destroying her.” + </p> + <p> + “My own, my beloved Myra, do with me what you like. If ——” + </p> + <p> + At this moment there was a gentle tap at the door, and the king entered. + </p> + <p> + “My angel,” he said, “and you too, my dear Endymion. I have some news from + England which I fear may distress you. Lord Montfort is dead.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0096" id="link2HCH0096"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCVI + </h2> + <p> + There was ever, when separated, an uninterrupted correspondence between + Berengaria and Endymion. They wrote to each other every day, so that when + they met again there was no void in their lives and mutual experience, and + each was acquainted with almost every feeling and incident that had been + proved, or had occurred, since they parted. The startling news, however, + communicated by the king had not previously reached Endymion, because he + was on the eve of his return to England, and his correspondents had been + requested to direct their future letters to his residence in London. + </p> + <p> + His voyage home was an agitated one, and not sanguine or inspiriting. + There was a terrible uncertainty in the future. What were the feelings of + Lady Montfort towards himself? Friendly, kind, affectionate, in a certain + sense, even devoted, no doubt; but all consistent with a deep and + determined friendship which sought and wished for no return more ardent. + But now she was free. Yes, but would she again forfeit her freedom? And if + she did, would it not be to attain some great end, probably the great end + of her life? Lady Montfort was a woman of far-reaching ambition. In a + certain degree, she had married to secure her lofty aims; and yet it was + only by her singular energy, and the playfulness and high spirit of her + temperament, that the sacrifice had not proved a failure; her success, + however, was limited, for the ally on who she had counted rarely assisted + and never sympathised with her. It was true she admired and even loved her + husband; her vanity, which was not slight, was gratified by her conquest + of one whom it had seemed no one could subdue, and who apparently placed + at her feet all the power and magnificence which she appreciated. + </p> + <p> + Poor Endymion, who loved her passionately, over whom she exercised the + influence of a divinity, who would do nothing without consulting her, and + who was moulded, and who wished to be moulded, by her inspiring will, was + also a shrewd man of the world, and did not permit his sentiment to cloud + his perception of life and its doings. He felt that Lady Montfort had + fallen from a lofty position, and she was not of a temperament that would + quietly brook her fate. Instead of being the mistress of castles and + palaces, with princely means, and all the splendid accidents of life at + her command, she was now a dowager with a jointure! Still young, with her + charms unimpaired, heightened even by the maturity of her fascinating + qualities, would she endure this? She might retain her friendship for one + who, as his sister ever impressed upon him, had no root in the land, and + even that friendship, he felt conscious, must yield much of its entireness + and intimacy to the influence of new ties; but for their lives ever being + joined together, as had sometimes been his wild dreams, his cheek, though + alone, burned with the consciousness of his folly and self-deception. + </p> + <p> + “He is one of our rising statesmen,” whispered the captain of the vessel + to a passenger, as Endymion, silent, lonely, and absorbed, walked, as was + his daily custom, the quarterdeck. “I daresay he has a good load on his + mind. Do you know, I would sooner be a captain of a ship than a minister + of state?” + </p> + <p> + Poor Endymion! Yes, he bore his burthen, but it was not secrets of state + that overwhelmed him. If his mind for a moment quitted the contemplation + of Lady Montfort, it was only to encounter the recollection of a + heart-rending separation from his sister, and his strange and now + perplexing relations with Adriana. + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort had passed the summer, as he had announced, at Princedown, + and alone; that is to say, without Lady Montfort. She wrote to him + frequently, and if she omitted doing so for a longer interval than usual, + he would indite to her a little note, always courteous, sometimes even + almost kind, reminding her that her letters amused him, and that of late + they had been rarer than he wished. Lady Montfort herself made Montfort + Castle her home, paying sometimes a visit to her family in the + neighbourhood, and sometimes receiving them and other guests. Lord + Montfort himself did not live in absolute solitude. He had society always + at command. He always had a court about him; equerries, and secretaries, + and doctors, and odd and amusing men whom they found out for him, and who + were well pleased to find themselves in his beautiful and magnificent + Princedown, wandering in woods and parks and pleasaunces, devouring his + choice <i>entrees</i>, and quaffing his curious wines. Sometimes he dined + with them, sometimes a few dined with him, sometimes he was not seen for + weeks; but whether he were visible or not, he was the subject of constant + thought and conversation by all under his roof. + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort, it may be remembered, was a great fisherman. It was the + only sport which retained a hold upon him. The solitude, the charming + scenery, and the requisite skill, combined to please him. He had a love + for nature, and he gratified it in this pursuit. His domain abounded in + those bright chalky streams which the trout love. He liked to watch the + moor-hens, too, and especially a kingfisher. + </p> + <p> + Lord Montfort came home late one day after much wading. It had been a fine + day for anglers, soft and not too bright, and he had been tempted to + remain long in the water. He drove home rapidly, but it was in an open + carriage, and when the sun set there was a cold autumnal breeze. He + complained at night, and said he had been chilled. There was always a + doctor under the roof, who felt his patient’s pulse, ordered the usual + remedies, and encouraged him. Lord Montfort passed a bad night, and his + physician in the morning found fever, and feared there were symptoms of + pleurisy. He prescribed accordingly, but summoned from town two great + authorities. The great authorities did not arrive until the next day. They + approved of everything that had been done, but shook their heads. “No + immediate danger, but serious.” + </p> + <p> + Four-and-twenty hours afterwards they inquired of Lord Montfort whether + they should send for his wife. “On no account whatever,” he replied. “My + orders on this head are absolute.” Nevertheless, they did send for Lady + Montfort, and as there was even then a telegraph to the north, Berengaria, + who departed from her castle instantly, and travelled all night, arrived + in eight-and-forty hours at Princedown. The state of Lord Montfort then + was critical. + </p> + <p> + It was broken to Lord Montfort that his wife had arrived. + </p> + <p> + “I perceive then,” he replied, “that I am going to die, because I am + disobeyed.” + </p> + <p> + These were the last words he uttered. He turned in his bed as it were to + conceal his countenance, and expired without a sigh or sound. + </p> + <p> + There was not a single person at Princedown in whom Lady Montfort could + confide. She had summoned the family solicitor, but he could not arrive + until the next day, and until he came she insisted that none of her late + lord’s papers should be touched. She at first thought he had made a will, + because otherwise all his property would go to his cousin, whom he + particularly hated, and yet on reflection she could hardly fancy his + making a will. It was a trouble to him—a disagreeable trouble; and + there was nobody she knew whom he would care to benefit. He was not a man + who would leave anything to hospitals and charities. Therefore, on the + whole, she arrived at the conclusion he had not made a will, though all + the guests at Princedown were of a different opinion, and each was + calculating the amount of his own legacy. + </p> + <p> + At last the lawyer arrived, and he brought the will with him. It was very + short, and not very recent. Everything he had in the world except the + settled estates, Montfort Castle and Montfort House, he bequeathed to his + wife. It was a vast inheritance; not only Princedown, but great + accumulations of personal property, for Lord Montfort was fond of + amassing, and admired the sweet simplicity of the three per cents. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0097" id="link2HCH0097"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCVII + </h2> + <p> + When Endymion arrived in London he found among his letters two brief notes + from Lady Montfort; one hurriedly written at Montfort Castle at the moment + of her departure, and another from Princedown, with these words only, “All + is over.” More than a week had elapsed since the last was written, and he + had already learnt from the newspapers that the funeral had taken place. + It was a painful but still necessary duty to fulfil, to write to her, + which he did, but he received no answer to his letter of sympathy, and to + a certain degree, of condolence. Time flew on, but he could not venture to + write again, and without any absolute cause for his discomfort, he felt + harassed and unhappy. He had been so accustomed all his life to exist + under the genial influence of women that his present days seemed lone and + dark. His sister and Berengaria, two of the most gifted and charming + beings in the world, had seemed to agree that their first duty had ever + been to sympathise with his fortunes and to aid them. Even his + correspondence with Myra was changed. There was a tone of constraint in + their communications; perhaps it was the great alteration in her position + that occasioned it? His heart assured him that such was not the case. He + felt deeply and acutely what was the cause. The subject most interesting + to both of them could not be touched on. And then he thought of Adriana, + and contrasted his dull and solitary home in Hill Street with what it + might have been, graced by her presence, animated by her devotion, and + softened by the sweetness of her temper. + </p> + <p> + Endymion began to feel that the run of his good fortune was dried. His + sister, when he had a trouble, would never hear of this; she always held + that the misery and calamities of their early years had exhausted the + influence of their evil stars, and apparently she had been right, and + perhaps she would have always been right had he not been perverse, and + thwarted her in the most important circumstances of his life. + </p> + <p> + In this state of mind, there was nothing for him to do but to plunge into + business; and affairs of state are a cure for many cares and sorrows. What + are our petty annoyances and griefs when we have to guard the fortunes and + the honour of a nation? + </p> + <p> + The November cabinets had commenced, and this brought all the chiefs to + town, Sidney Wilton among them; and his society was always a great + pleasure to Endymion; the only social pleasure now left to him was a + little dinner at Mr. Wilton’s, and little dinners there abounded. Mr. + Wilton knew all the persons that he was always thinking about, but whom, + it might be noticed, they seemed to agree now rarely to mention. As for + the rest, there was nobody to call upon in the delightful hours between + official duties and dinner. No Lady Roehampton now, no brilliant + Berengaria, and not even the gentle Imogene with her welcome smile. He + looked in at the Coventry Club, a club of fashion, and also much + frequented by diplomatists. There were a good many persons there, and a + foreign minister immediately buttonholed the Under-Secretary of State. + </p> + <p> + “I called at the Foreign Office to-day,” said the foreign minister. “I + assure you it is very pressing.” + </p> + <p> + “I had the American with me,” said Endymion, “and he is very lengthy. + However, as to your business, I think we might talk it over here, and + perhaps settle it.” And so they left the room together. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what is going to happen to that gentleman,” said Mr. Ormsby, + glancing at Endymion, and speaking to Mr. Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + “Why?” replied Mr. Cassilis, “is anything up?” + </p> + <p> + “Will he marry Lady Montfort?” + </p> + <p> + “Poh!” said Mr. Cassilis. + </p> + <p> + “You may poh!” said Mr. Ormsby, “but he was a great favourite.” + </p> + <p> + “Lady Montfort will never marry. She had always a poodle, and always will + have. She was never so <i>liee</i> with Ferrars as with the Count of + Ferroll, and half a dozen others. She must have a slave.” + </p> + <p> + “A very good mistress with thirty thousand a year.” + </p> + <p> + “She has not that,” said Mr. Cassilis doubtingly. + </p> + <p> + “What do you put Princedown at?” said Mr. Ormsby. + </p> + <p> + “That I can tell you to a T,” replied Mr. Cassilis, “for it was offered to + me when old Rambrooke died. You will never get twelve thousand a year out + of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I will answer for half a million consols,” said Ormsby, “for my + lawyer, when he made a little investment for me the other day, saw the + entry himself in the bank-books; our names are very near, you know—M, + and O. Then there is her jointure, something like ten thousand a year.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no; not seven.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that would do.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is the amount of your little investment in consols altogether, + Ormsby?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I believe I top Montfort,” said Mr. Ormsby with a complacent smile, + “but then you know, I am not a swell like you; I have no land.” + </p> + <p> + “Lady Montfort, thirty thousand a year,” said Mr. Cassilis musingly. “She + is only thirty. She is a woman who will set the Thames on fire, but she + will never marry. Do you dine to-day, by any chance, with Sidney Wilton?” + </p> + <p> + When Endymion returned home this evening, he found a letter from Lady + Montfort. It was a month since he had written to her. He was so nervous + that he absolutely for a moment could not break the seal, and the + palpitation of his heart was almost overpowering. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort thanked him for his kind letter, which she ought to have + acknowledged before, but she had been very busy—indeed, quite + overwhelmed with affairs. She wished to see him, but was sorry she could + not ask him to come down to Princedown, as she was living in complete + retirement, only her aunt with her, Lady Gertrude, whom, she believed, he + knew. He was aware, probably, how good Lord Montfort had been to her. + Sincerely she could say, nothing could have been more unexpected. If she + could have seen her husband before the fatal moment, it would have been a + consolation to her. He had always been kind to Endymion; she really + believed sometimes that Lord Montfort was even a little attached to him. + She should like Endymion to have some souvenir of her late husband. Would + he choose something, or would he leave it to her? + </p> + <p> + One would rather agree, from the tone of this letter, that Mr. Cassilis + knew what he was talking about. It fell rather odd on Endymion’s heart, + and he passed a night of some disquietude; not one of those nights, + exactly, when we feel that the end of the world has at length arrived, and + that we are the first victim, but a night when you slumber rather than + sleep, and wake with the consciousness of some indefinable chagrin. + </p> + <p> + This was a dull Christmas for Endymion Ferrars. He passed it, as he had + passed others, at Gaydene, but what a contrast to the old assemblies + there! Every source of excitement that could make existence absolutely + fascinating seemed then to unite in his happy fate. Entrancing love and + the very romance of domestic affection, and friendships of honour and + happiness, and all the charms of an accomplished society, and the feeling + of a noble future, and the present and urgent interest in national affairs—all + gone, except some ambition which might tend to consequences not more + successful than those that had ultimately visited his house with + irreparable calamity. + </p> + <p> + The meeting of parliament was a great relief to Endymion. Besides his + office, he had now the House of Commons to occupy him. He was never absent + from his place; no little runnings up to Montfort House or Hill Street + just to tell them the authentic news, or snatch a hasty repast with + furtive delight, with persons still more delightful, and flattering one’s + self all the time that, so far as absence was concerned, the fleetness of + one’s gifted brougham horse really made it no difference between Mayfair + and Bellamy’s. + </p> + <p> + Endymion had replied, but not very quickly, to Lady Montfort’s letter, and + he had heard from her again, but her letter requiring no reply, the + correspondence had dropped. It was the beginning of March when she wrote + to him to say, that she was obliged to come to town to see her lawyer and + transact some business; that she would be “at papa’s in Grosvenor Square,” + though the house was shut up, on a certain day, that she much wished to + see Endymion, and begged him to call on her. + </p> + <p> + It was a trying moment when about noon he lifted the knocker to Grosvenor + Square. The door was not opened rapidly, and the delay made him more + nervous. He almost wished the door would never open. He was shown into a + small back room on the ground floor in which was a bookcase, and which + chamber, in the language of Grosvenor Square, is called a library. + </p> + <p> + “Her ladyship will see you presently,” said the servant, who had come up + from Princedown. + </p> + <p> + Endymion was standing before the fire, and as nervous as a man could well + be. He sighed, and he sighed more than once. His breathing was oppressed; + he felt that life was too short to permit us to experience such scenes and + situations. He heard the lock of the door move, and it required all his + manliness to endure it. + </p> + <p> + She entered; she was in weeds, but they became her admirably; her + countenance was grave and apparently with an effort to command it. She did + not move hurriedly, but held out both her hands to Endymion and retained + his, and all without speaking. Her lips then seemed to move, when, rather + suddenly, withdrawing her right hand, and placing it on his shoulder and + burying her face in her arm, she wept. + </p> + <p> + He led her soothingly to a seat, and took a chair by her side. Not a word + had yet been spoken by either of them; only a murmur of sympathy on the + part of Endymion. Lady Montfort spoke first. + </p> + <p> + “I am weaker than I thought, but it is a great trial.” And then she said + how sorry she was, that she could not receive him at Princedown; but she + thought it best that he should not go there. “I have a great deal of + business to transact—you would not believe how much. I do not + dislike it, it occupies me, it employs my mind. I have led so active a + life, that solitude is rather too much for me. Among other business, I + must buy a town house, and that is the most difficult of all affairs. + There never was so great a city with such small houses. I shall feel the + loss of Montfort House, though I never used it half so much as I wished. I + want a mansion; I should think you could help me in this. When I return to + society, I mean to receive. There must be therefore good reception rooms; + if possible, more than good. And now let us talk about our friends. Tell + me all about your royal sister, and this new marriage; it rather surprised + me, but I think it excellent. Ah! you can keep a secret, but you see it is + no use having a secret with me. Even in solitude everything reaches me.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you most seriously, that I can annex no meaning to what you are + saying.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I can hardly think it true; and yet it came from high authority, and + it was not told me as a real secret.” + </p> + <p> + “A marriage, and whose?” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Neuchatel’s,—Adriana.” + </p> + <p> + “And to whom?” inquired Endymion, changing colour. + </p> + <p> + “To Lord Waldershare.” + </p> + <p> + “To Lord Waldershare!” + </p> + <p> + “And has not your sister mentioned it to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a word; it cannot be true.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give to you my authority,” said Lady Montfort. “Though I came here + in the twilight of a hired brougham, and with a veil, I was caught before + I could enter the house by, of all people in the world, Mrs. Rodney. And + she told me this in what she called ‘real confidence,’ and it was + announced to her in a letter from her sister, Lady Beaumaris. They seem + all delighted with the match.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0098" id="link2HCH0098"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCVIII + </h2> + <p> + The marriage of Adriana was not an event calculated to calm the uneasy and + dissatisfied temperament of Endymion. The past rendered it impossible that + this announcement should not in some degree affect him. Then the silence + of his sister on such a subject was too significant; the silence even of + Waldershare. Somehow or other, it seemed that all these once dear and + devoted friends stood in different relations to him and to each other from + what they once filled. They had become more near and intimate together, + but he seemed without the pale; he, that Endymion, who once seemed the + prime object, if not the centre, of all their thoughts and sentiment. And + why was this? What was the influence that had swayed him to a line + contrary to what was once their hopes and affections? Had he an evil + genius? And was it she? Horrible thought! + </p> + <p> + The interview with Lady Montfort had been deeply interesting—had for + a moment restored him to himself. Had it not been for this news, he might + have returned home, soothed, gratified, even again indulging in dreams. + But this news had made him ponder; had made him feel what he had lost, and + forced him to ask himself what he had gained. + </p> + <p> + There was one thing he had gained, and that was the privilege of calling + on Lady Montfort the next day. That was a fact that sometimes dissipated + all the shadows. Under the immediate influence of her presence, he became + spell-bound as of yore, and in the intoxication of her beauty, the + brightness of her mind, and her ineffable attraction, he felt he would be + content with any lot, provided he might retain her kind thoughts and pass + much of his life in her society. + </p> + <p> + She was only staying three or four days in town, and was much engaged in + the mornings; but Endymion called on her every afternoon, and sate talking + with her till dinner-time, and they both dined very late. As he really on + personal and domestic affairs never could have any reserve with her, he + told her, in that complete confidence in which they always indulged, of + the extraordinary revelation which his sister had made to him about the + parliamentary qualification. Lady Montfort was deeply interested in this; + she was even agitated, and looked very grave. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry,” she said, “we know this. Things cannot remain now as they + are. You cannot return the money, that would be churlish; besides, you + cannot return all the advantages which it gained for you, and they must + certainly be considered part of the gift, and the most precious; and then, + too, it would betray what your sister rightly called a ‘sacred + confidence.’ And yet something must be done—you must let me think. + Do not mention it again.” And then they talked a little of public affairs. + Lady Montfort saw no one, and heard from no one now; but judging from the + journals, she thought the position of the government feeble. “There cannot + be a Protectionist government,” she said; “and yet that is the only + parliamentary party of importance. Things will go on till some blow, and + perhaps a slight one, will upset you all. And then who is to succeed? I + think some queer <i>melange</i> got up perhaps by Mr. Bertie Tremaine.” + </p> + <p> + The last day came. She parted from Endymion with kindness, but not with + tenderness. He was choking with emotion, and tried to imitate her + calmness. + </p> + <p> + “Am I to write to you?” he asked in a faltering voice. + </p> + <p> + “Of course you are,” she said, “every day, and tell me all the news.” + </p> + <p> + The Hainaults, and the Beaumaris, and Waldershare, did not return to + England until some time after Easter. The marriage was to take place in + June—Endymion was to be Waldershare’s best man. There were many + festivities, and he was looked upon as an indispensable guest in all. + Adriana received his congratulations with animation, but with affection. + She thanked him for a bracelet which he had presented to her; “I value it + more,” she said, “than all my other presents together, except what dear + Waldershare has given to me.” Even with that exception, the estimate was + high, for never a bride in any land ever received the number of splendid + offerings which crowded the tables of Lord Hainault’s new palace, which he + had just built in Park Lane. There was not a Neuchatel in existence, and + they flourished in every community, who did not send her, at least, a + riviere of brilliants. King Florestan and his queen sent offerings worthy + of their resplendent throne and their invaluable friendship. But nothing + surpassed, nothing approached, the contents of a casket, which, a day + before the wedding, arrived at Hainault House. It came from a foreign + land, and Waldershare superintended the opening of the case, and the + appearance of a casket of crimson velvet, with genuine excitement. But + when it was opened! There was a coronet of brilliants; a necklace of + brilliants and emeralds, and all the stones more than precious; gems of + Golconda no longer obtainable, and lustrous companions which only could + have been created in the hot earth of Asia. From whom? Not a glimpse of + meaning. All that was written, in a foreign handwriting on a sheet of + notepaper, was, “For the Lady Viscountess Waldershare.” + </p> + <p> + “When the revolution comes,” said Lord Hainault, “Lord Waldershare and my + daughter must turn jewellers. Their stock in trade is ready.” + </p> + <p> + The correspondence between Lady Montfort and Endymion had resumed its + ancient habit. They wrote to each other every day, and one day she told + him that she had purchased a house, and that she must come up to town to + examine and to furnish it. She probably should be a month in London, and + remaining there until the end of the season, in whose amusements and + business, of course, she could not share. She should “be at papa’s,” + though he and his family were in town; but that was no reason why Endymion + should not call on her. And he came, and called every day. Lady Montfort + was full of her new house; it was in Carlton Gardens, the house she always + wished, always intended to have. There is nothing like will; everybody can + do exactly what they like in this world, provided they really like it. + Sometimes they think they do, but in general, it is a mistake. Lady + Montfort, it seemed, was a woman who always could do what she liked. She + could do what she liked with Endymion Ferrars; that was quite certain. + Supposed by men to have a strong will and a calm judgment, he was a nose + of wax with this woman. He was fascinated by her, and he had been + fascinated now for nearly ten years. What would be the result of this + irresistible influence upon him? Would it make or mar those fortunes that + once seemed so promising? The philosophers of White’s and the Coventry + were generally of opinion that he had no chance. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort was busy every morning with her new house, but she never + asked Endymion to accompany her, though it seemed natural to do so. But he + saw her every day, and “papa,” who was a most kind and courtly gentleman, + would often ask him, “if he had nothing better to do,” to dine there, and + he dined there frequently; and if he were engaged, he was always of + opinion that he had nothing better to do. + </p> + <p> + At last, however, the season was over; the world had gone to Goodwood, and + Lady Montfort was about to depart to Princedown. It was a dreary prospect + for Endymion, and he could not conceal his feelings. He could not help + saying one day, “Do you know, now that you are going I almost wish to + die.” + </p> + <p> + Alas! she only laughed. But he looked grave. “I am very unhappy,” he + sighed rather than uttered. + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with seriousness. “I do not think our separation need be + very long. Papa and all my family are coming to me in September to pay me + a very long visit. I really do not see why you should not come too.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion’s countenance mantled with rapture. “If I might come, I think I + should be the happiest of men!” + </p> + <p> + The month that was to elapse before his visit, Endymion was really, as he + said, the happiest of men; at least, the world thought him so. He seemed + to walk upon tip-toe. Parliament was prorogued, office was consigned to + permanent secretaries, and our youthful statesman seemed only to live to + enjoy, and add to, the revelry of existence. Now at Cowes, now stalking in + the Highlands, dancing at balls in the wilderness, and running races of + fantastic feats, full of health, and frolic, and charm; he was the delight + of society, while, the whole time, he had only one thought, and that was + the sacred day when he should again see the being whom he adored, and that + in her beautiful home, which her presence made more lovely. + </p> + <p> + Yes! he was again at Princedown, in the bosom of her family; none others + there; treated like one of themselves. The courtly father pressed his + hand; the amiable and refined mother smiled upon him; the daughters, + pretty, and natural as the air, treated him as if they were sisters, and + even the eldest son, who generally hates you, after a little stiffness, + announced in a tone never questioned under the family roof, that “Ferrars + was a first-rate shot.” + </p> + <p> + And so a month rolled on; immensely happy, as any man who has loved, and + loved in a beautiful scene, alone can understand. One morning Lady + Montfort said to him, “I must go up to London about my house. I want to go + and return the same day. Do you know, I think you had better come with me? + You shall give me a luncheon in Hill Street, and we shall be back by the + last train. It will be late, but we shall wake in the morning in the + country, and that I always think a great thing.” + </p> + <p> + And so it happened; they rose early and arrived in town in time to give + them a tolerably long morning. She took him to her house in Carlton + Gardens, and showed to him exactly how it was all she wanted; + accommodation for a first-rate establishment; and then the reception + rooms, few houses in London could compare with them; a gallery and three + saloons. Then they descended to the dining-room. “It is a dining-room, not + a banqueting hall,” she said, “which we had at Montfort House, but still + it is much larger than most dining-rooms in London. But, I think this + room, at least I hope you do, quite charming,” and she took him to a room + almost as large as the dining-room, and looking into the garden. It was + fitted up with exquisite taste; calm subdued colouring, with choice marble + busts of statesmen, ancient and of our times, but the shelves were empty. + </p> + <p> + “They are empty,” she said, “but the volumes to fill them are already + collected. Yes,” she added in a tremulous voice, and slightly pressing the + arm on which she leant. “If you will deign to accept it, this is the + chamber I have prepared for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest of women!” and he took her hand. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she murmured, “help me to realise the dream of my life;” and she + touched his forehead with her lips. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0099" id="link2HCH0099"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XCIX + </h2> + <p> + The marriage of Mr. Ferrars with Lady Montfort surprised some, but, on the + whole, pleased everybody. They were both of them popular, and no one + seemed to envy them their happiness and prosperity. The union took place + at a season of the year when there was no London world to observe and to + criticise. It was a quiet ceremony; they went down to Northumberland to + Lady Montfort’s father, and they were married in his private chapel. After + that they went off immediately to pay a visit to King Florestan and his + queen; Myra had sent her a loving letter. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps it will be the first time that your sister ever saw me with + satisfaction,” remarked Lady Montfort, “but I think she will love me now! + I always loved her; perhaps because she is so like you.” + </p> + <p> + It was a happy meeting and a delightful visit. They did not talk much of + the past. The enormous change in the position of their host and hostess + since the first days of their acquaintance, and, on their own part, some + indefinite feeling of delicate reserve, combined to make them rather dwell + on a present which was full of novelty so attractive and so absorbing. In + his manner, the king was unchanged; he was never a demonstrative person, + but simple, unaffected, rather silent; with a sweet temper and a tender + manner, he seemed to be gratified that he had the power of conferring + happiness on those around him. His feeling to his queen was one of + idolatry, and she received Berengaria as a sister and a much-loved one. + Their presence and the season of the year made their life a festival, and + when they parted, there were entreaties and promises that the visit should + be often repeated. + </p> + <p> + “Adieu! my Endymion,” said Myra at the last moment they were alone. “All + has happened for you beyond my hopes; all now is safe. I might wish we + were in the same land, but not if I lost my husband, whom I adore.” + </p> + <p> + The reason that forced them to curtail their royal visit was the state of + politics at home, which had suddenly become critical. There were symptoms, + and considerable ones, of disturbance and danger when they departed for + their wedding tour, but they could not prevail on themselves to sacrifice + a visit on which they had counted so much, and which could not be + fulfilled on another occasion under the same interesting circumstances. + Besides, the position of Mr. Ferrars, though an important, was a + subordinate one, and though cabinet ministers were not justified in + leaving the country, an under-secretary of state and a bridegroom might, + it would seem, depart on his irresponsible holiday. Mr. Sidney Wilton, + however, shook his head; “I do not like the state of affairs,” he said, “I + think you will have to come back sooner than you imagine.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not going to be so foolish as to have an early session?” inquired + Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + He only shrugged his shoulders, and said, “We are in a mess.” + </p> + <p> + What mess? and what was the state of affairs? + </p> + <p> + This had happened. At the end of the autumn, his Holiness the Pope had + made half a dozen new cardinals, and to the surprise of the world, and the + murmurs of the Italians, there appeared among them the name of an + Englishman, Nigel Penruddock, archbishop <i>in partibus</i>. Shortly after + this, a papal bull, “given at St. Peter’s, Rome, under the seal of the + fisherman,” was issued, establishing a Romish hierarchy in England. This + was soon followed by a pastoral letter by the new cardinal “given out of + the Appian Gate,” announcing that “Catholic England had been restored to + its orbit in the ecclesiastical firmament.” + </p> + <p> + The country at first was more stupefied than alarmed. It was conscious + that something extraordinary had happened, and some great action taken by + an ecclesiastical power, which from tradition it was ever inclined to view + with suspicion and some fear. But it held its breath for a while. It so + happened that the prime minister was a member of a great house which had + become illustrious by its profession of Protestant principles, and even by + its sufferings in a cause which England had once looked on as sacred. The + prime minister, a man of distinguished ability, not devoid even of genius, + was also a wily politician, and of almost unrivalled experience in the + management of political parties. The ministry was weak and nearly worn + out, and its chief, influenced partly by noble and historical sentiments, + partly by a conviction that he had a fine occasion to rally the confidence + of the country round himself and his friends, and to restore the repute of + his political connection, thought fit, without consulting his colleagues, + to publish a manifesto denouncing the aggression of the Pope upon our + Protestantism as insolent and insidious, and as expressing a pretension of + supremacy over the realm of England which made the minister indignant. + </p> + <p> + A confused public wanted to be led, and now they were led. They sprang to + their feet like an armed man. The corporation of London, the universities + of Oxford and Cambridge had audiences of the Queen; the counties met, the + municipalities memorialised; before the first of January there had been + held nearly seven thousand public meetings, asserting the supremacy of the + Queen and calling on Her Majesty’s Government to vindicate it by stringent + measures. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately, it was soon discovered by the minister that there had been + nothing illegal in the conduct of the Pope or the Cardinal, and a + considerable portion of the Liberal party began to express the + inconvenient opinion, that the manifesto of their chief was opposed to + those principles of civil and religious liberty of which he was the + hereditary champion. Some influential members of his own cabinet did not + conceal their disapprobation of a step on which they had not been + consulted. + </p> + <p> + Immediately after Christmas, Endymion and Lady Montfort settled in London. + She was anxious to open her new mansion as soon as parliament met, and to + organise continuous receptions. She looked upon the ministry as in a + critical state, and thought it was an occasion when social influences + might not inconsiderably assist them. + </p> + <p> + But though she exhibited for this object her wonted energy and high + spirit, a fine observer—Mr. Sidney Wilton, for example—might + have detected a change in the manner of Berengaria. Though the strength of + her character was unaltered, there was an absence of that restlessness, it + might be said, that somewhat feverish excitement, from which formerly she + was not always free. The truth is, her heart was satisfied, and that + brought repose. Feelings of affection, long mortified and pent up, were + now lavished and concentrated on a husband of her heart and adoration, and + she was proud that his success and greatness might be avowed as the + objects of her life. + </p> + <p> + The campaign, however, for which such preparations were made, ended almost + before it began. The ministry, on the meeting of parliament, found + themselves with a discontented House of Commons, and discordant counsels + among themselves. The anti-papal manifesto was the secret cause of this + evil state, but the prime minister, to avoid such a mortifying admission, + took advantage of two unfavourable divisions on other matters, and + resigned. + </p> + <p> + Here was a crisis—another crisis! Could the untried Protectionists, + without men, form an administration? It was whispered that Lord Derby had + been sent for, and declined the attempt. Then there was another rumour, + that he was going to try. Mr. Bertie Tremaine looked mysterious. The time + for the third party had clearly arrived. It was known that he had the list + of the next ministry in his breast-pocket, but it was only shown to Mr. + Tremaine Bertie, who confided in secrecy to the initiated that it was the + strongest government since “All the Talents.” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding this great opportunity, “All the Talents” were not + summoned. The leader of the Protectionists renounced the attempt in + despair, and the author of the anti-papal manifesto was again sent for, + and obliged to introduce the measure which had already destroyed a + government and disorganised a party. + </p> + <p> + “Sidney Wilton,” said Lady Montfort to her husband, “says that they are in + the mud, and he for one will not go back—but he will go. I know him. + He is too soft-hearted to stand an appeal from colleagues in distress. But + were I you, Endymion, I would not return. I think you want a little rest, + or you have got a great deal of private business to attend to, or + something of that kind. Nobody notices the withdrawal of an + under-secretary except those in office. There is no necessity why you + should be in the mud. I will continue to receive, and do everything that + is possible for our friends, but I think my husband has been an + under-secretary long enough.” + </p> + <p> + Endymion quite agreed with his wife. The minister offered him preferment + and the Privy Council, but Lady Montfort said it was really not so + important as the office he had resigned. She was resolved that he should + not return to them, and she had her way. Ferrars himself now occupied a + rather peculiar position, being the master of a great fortune and of an + establishment which was the headquarters of the party of which he was now + only a private member; but, calm and collected, he did not lose his head; + always said and did the right thing, and never forgot his early + acquaintances. Trenchard was his bosom political friend. Seymour Hicks, + who, through Endymion’s kindness, had now got into the Treasury, and was + quite fashionable, had the run of the House, and made himself marvellously + useful, while St. Barbe, who had become by mistake a member of the + Conservative Club, drank his frequent claret cup every Saturday evening at + Lady Montfort’s receptions with many pledges to the welfare of the Liberal + administration. + </p> + <p> + The flag of the Tory party waved over the magnificent mansion of which + Imogene Beaumaris was the graceful life. As parties were nearly equal, and + the ministry was supposed to be in decay, the rival reception was as well + attended as that of Berengaria. The two great leaders were friends, + intimate, but not perhaps quite so intimate as a few years before. “Lady + Montfort is very kind to me,” Imogene would say, “but I do not think she + now quite remembers we are cousins.” Both Lord and Lady Waldershare seemed + equally devoted to Lady Beaumaris. “I do not think,” he would say, “that I + shall ever get Adriana to receive. It is an organic gift, and very rare. + What I mean to do is to have a first-rate villa and give the party + strawberries. I always say Adriana is like Nell Gwyn, and she shall go + about with a pottle. One never sees a pottle of strawberries now. I + believe they went out, like all good things, with the Stuarts.” + </p> + <p> + And so, after all these considerable events, the season rolled on and + closed tranquilly. Lord and Lady Hainault continued to give banquets, over + which the hostess sighed; Sir Peter Vigo had the wisdom to retain his + millions, which few manage to do, as it is admitted that it is easier to + make a fortune than to keep one. Mrs. Rodney, supremely habited, still + drove her ponies, looking younger and prettier than ever, and getting more + fashionable every day, and Mr. Ferrars and Berengaria, Countess of + Montfort, retired in the summer to their beautiful and beloved Princedown. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0100" id="link2HCH0100"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER C + </h2> + <p> + Although the past life of Endymion had, on the whole, been a happy life, + and although he was destined also to a happy future, perhaps the four + years which elapsed from the time he quitted office, certainly in his + experience had never been exceeded, and it was difficult to imagine could + be exceeded, in felicity. He had a great interest, and even growing + influence in public life without any of its cares; he was united to a + woman whom he had long passionately loved, and who had every quality and a + fortune which secured him all those advantages which are appreciated by + men of taste and generosity. He became a father, and a family name which + had been originally borne by a courtier of the elder Stuarts was now + bestowed on the future lord of Princedown. + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort herself had no thought but her husband. His happiness, his + enjoyment of existence, his success and power in life, entirely absorbed + her. The anxiety which she felt that in everything he should be master was + touching. Once looked upon as the most imperious of women, she would not + give a direction on any matter without his opinion and sanction. One would + have supposed from what might be observed under their roof, that she was + some beautiful but portionless maiden whom Endymion had raised to wealth + and power. + </p> + <p> + All this time, however, Lady Montfort sedulously maintained that + commanding position in social politics for which she was singularly + fitted. Indeed, in that respect, she had no rival. She received the world + with the same constancy and splendour, as if she were the wife of a + minister. Animated by Waldershare, Lady Beaumaris maintained in this + respect a certain degree of rivalry. She was the only hope and refuge of + the Tories, and rich, attractive, and popular, her competition could not + be disregarded. But Lord Beaumaris was a little freakish. Sometimes he + would sail in his yacht to odd places, and was at Algiers or in Egypt + when, according to Tadpole, he ought to have been at Piccadilly Terrace. + Then he occasionally got crusty about his hunting. He would hunt, whatever + were the political consequences, but whether he were in Africa or + Leicestershire, Imogene must be with him. He could not exist without her + constant presence. There was something in her gentleness, combined with + her quick and ready sympathy and playfulness of mind and manner, which + alike pleased and soothed his life. + </p> + <p> + The Whigs tottered on for a year after the rude assault of Cardinal + Penruddock, but they were doomed, and the Protectionists were called upon + to form an administration. As they had no one in their ranks who had ever + been in office except their chief, who was in the House of Lords, the + affair seemed impossible. The attempt, however, could not be avoided. A + dozen men, without the slightest experience of official life, had to be + sworn in as privy councillors, before even they could receive the seals + and insignia of their intended offices. On their knees, according to the + constitutional custom, a dozen men, all in the act of genuflexion at the + same moment, and headed, too, by one of the most powerful peers in the + country, the Lord of Alnwick Castle himself, humbled themselves before a + female Sovereign, who looked serene and imperturbable before a spectacle + never seen before, and which, in all probability, will never be seen + again. + </p> + <p> + One of this band, a gentleman without any official experience whatever, + was not only placed in the cabinet, but was absolutely required to become + the leader of the House of Commons, which had never occurred before, + except in the instance of Mr. Pitt in 1782. It has been said that it was + unwise in the Protectionists assuming office when, on this occasion and on + subsequent ones, they were far from being certain of a majority in the + House of Commons. It should, however, be remembered, that unless they had + dared these ventures, they never could have formed a body of men + competent, from their official experience and their practice in debate, to + form a ministry. The result has rather proved that they were right. Had + they continued to refrain from incurring responsibility, they must have + broken up and merged in different connections, which, for a party + numerically so strong as the Protectionists, would have been a sorry + business, and probably have led to disastrous results. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bertie Tremaine having been requested to call on the Protectionist + prime minister, accordingly repaired to headquarters with the list of his + colleagues in his pocket. He was offered for himself a post of little real + importance, but which secured to him the dignity of the privy council. Mr. + Tremaine Bertie and several of his friends had assembled at his house, + awaiting with anxiety his return. He had to communicate to them that he + had been offered a privy councillor’s post, and to break to them that it + was not proposed to provide for any other member of his party. Their + indignation was extreme; but they naturally supposed that he had rejected + the offer to himself with becoming scorn. Their leader, however, informed + them that he had not felt it his duty to be so peremptory. They should + remember that the recognition of their political status by such an offer + to their chief was a considerable event. For his part, he had for some + time been painfully aware that the influence of the House of Commons in + the constitutional scheme was fast waning, and that the plan of Sir + William Temple for the reorganisation of the privy council, and depositing + in it the real authority of the State, was that to which we should be + obliged to have recourse. This offer to him of a seat in the council was, + perhaps, the beginning of the end. It was a crisis; they must look to + seats in the privy council, which, under Sir William Temple’s plan, would + be accompanied with ministerial duties and salaries. What they had all, at + one time, wished, had not exactly been accomplished, but he had felt it + his duty to his friends not to shrink from responsibility. So he had + accepted the minister’s offer. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bertie Tremaine was not long in the busy enjoyment of his easy post. + Then the country was governed for two years by all its ablest men, who, by + the end of that term, had succeeded, by their coalesced genius, in + reducing that country to a state of desolation and despair. “I did not + think it would have lasted even so long,” said Lady Montfort; “but then I + was acquainted with their mutual hatreds and their characteristic + weaknesses. What is to happen now? Somebody must be found of commanding + private character and position, and with as little damaged a public one as + in this wreck of reputations is possible. I see nobody but Sidney Wilton. + Everybody likes him, and he is the only man who could bring people + together.” + </p> + <p> + And everybody seemed to be saying the same thing at the same time. The + name of Sidney Wilton was in everybody’s mouth. It was unfortunate that he + had been a member of a defunct ministry, but then it had always been + understood that he had always disapproved of all their measures. There was + not the slightest evidence of this, but everybody chose to believe it. + </p> + <p> + Sidney Wilton was chagrined with life, and had become a martyr to the + gout, which that chagrin had aggravated; but he was a great gentleman, and + too chivalric to refuse a royal command when the Sovereign was in + distress. Sidney Wilton became Premier, and the first colleague he + recommended to fill the most important post after his own, the + Secretaryship of State for Foreign Affairs, was Mr. Ferrars. + </p> + <p> + “It ought to last ten years,” said Lady Montfort. “I see no danger except + his health. I never knew a man so changed. At his time of life five years + ought to make no difference in a man. I cannot believe he is the person + who used to give us those charming parties at Gaydene. Whatever you may + say, Endymion, I feel convinced that something must have passed between + your sister and him. Neither of them ever gave me a hint of such a matter, + or of the possibility of its ever happening, but feminine instinct assures + me that something took place. He always had the gout, and his ancestors + have had the gout for a couple of centuries; and all prime ministers have + the gout. I dare say you will not escape, darling, but I hope it will + never make you look as if you had just lost paradise, or, what would be + worst, become the last man.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort was right. The ministry was strong and it was popular. There + were no jealousies in it; every member was devoted to his chief, and felt + that he was rightly the chief, whereas, as Lady Montfort said, the Whigs + never had a ministry before in which there were not at least a couple of + men who had been prime ministers, and as many more who thought they ought + to be. + </p> + <p> + There were years of war, and of vast and critical negotiations. Ferrars + was equal to the duties, for he had much experience, and more thought, and + he was greatly aided by the knowledge of affairs, and the clear and + tranquil judgment of the chief minister. There was only one subject on + which there was not between them that complete and cordial unanimity which + was so agreeable and satisfactory. And even in this case, there was no + difference of opinion, but rather of sentiment and feeling. It was when + Prince Florestan expressed his desire to join the grand alliance, and + become our active military ally. It was perhaps impossible, under any + circumstances, for the Powers to refuse such an offer, but Endymion was + strongly in favour of accepting it. It consolidated our interests in a + part of Europe where we required sympathy and support, and it secured for + us the aid and influence of the great Liberal party of the continent as + distinguished from the secret societies and the socialist republicans. The + Count of Ferroll, also, whose opinion weighed much with Her Majesty’s + Government, was decidedly in favour of the combination. The English prime + minister listened to their representations frigidly; it was difficult to + refute the arguments which were adverse to his own feelings, and to resist + the unanimous opinion not only of his colleagues, but of our allies. But + he was cold and silent, or made discouraging remarks. + </p> + <p> + “Can you trust him?” he would say. “Remember he himself has been, and + still is, a member of the very secret societies whose baneful influence we + are now told he will neutralise or subdue. Whatever the cabinet decides, + and I fear that with this strong expression of opinion on the part of our + allies we have little option left, remember I gave you my warning. I know + the gentleman, and I do not trust him.” + </p> + <p> + After this, the prime minister had a most severe attack of the gout, + remained for weeks at Gaydene, and saw no one on business except Endymion + and Baron Sergius. + </p> + <p> + While the time is elapsing which can alone decide whether the distrust of + Mr. Wilton were well-founded or the reverse, let us see how the world is + treating the rest of our friends. + </p> + <p> + Lord Waldershare did not make such a pattern husband as Endymion, but he + made a much better one than the world ever supposed he would. Had he + married Berengaria, the failure would have been great; but he was united + to a being capable of deep affection and very sensitive, yet grateful for + kindness from a husband to a degree not easily imaginable. And Waldershare + had really a good heart, though a bad temper, and he was a gentleman. + Besides, he had a great admiration and some awe of his father-in-law, and + Lord Hainault, with his good-natured irony, and consummate knowledge of + men and things, quite controlled him. With Lady Hainault he was a + favourite. He invented plausible theories and brilliant paradoxes for her, + which left her always in a state of charmed wonder, and when she met him + again, and adopted or refuted them, for her intellectual power was + considerable, he furnished her with fresh dogmas and tenets, which + immediately interested her intelligence, though she generally forgot to + observe that they were contrary to the views and principles of the last + visit. Between Adriana and Imogene there was a close alliance, and Lady + Beaumaris did everything in her power to develop Lady Waldershare + advantageously before her husband; and so, not forgetting that + Waldershare, with his romance, and imagination, and fancy, and taste, and + caprice, had a considerable element of worldliness in his character, and + that he liked to feel that, from living in lodgings, he had become a Monte + Cristo, his union with Adriana may be said to be a happy and successful + one. + </p> + <p> + The friendship between Sir Peter Vigo and his brother M.P., Mr. Rodney, + never diminished, and Mr. Rodney became richer every year. He experienced + considerable remorse at sitting in opposition to the son of his right + honourable friend, the late William Pitt Ferrars, and frequently consulted + Sir Peter on his embarrassment and difficulty. Sir Peter, who never + declined arranging any difficulty, told his friend to be easy, and that + he, Sir Peter, saw his way. It became gradually understood, that if ever + the government was in difficulties, Mr. Rodney’s vote might be counted on. + He was peculiarly situated, for, in a certain sense, his friend the Right + Honourable William Pitt Ferrars had entrusted the guardianship of his + child to his care. But whenever the ministry was not in danger, the + ministry must not depend upon his vote. + </p> + <p> + Trenchard had become Secretary of the Treasury in the Wilton + administration, had established his reputation, and was looked upon as a + future minister. Jawett, without forfeiting his post and promotion at + Somerset House, had become the editor of a new periodical magazine, called + the “Privy Council.” It was established and maintained by Mr. Bertie + Tremaine, and was chiefly written by that gentleman himself. It was full + of Greek quotations, to show that it was not Grub Street, and written in a + style as like that of Sir William Temple, as a paper in “Rejected + Addresses” might resemble the classic lucubrations of the statesman-sage + who, it is hoped, will be always remembered by a grateful country for + having introduced into these islands the Moor Park apricot. What the pages + of the “Privy Council” meant no human being had the slightest conception + except Mr. Tremaine Bertie. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thornberry remained a respected member of the cabinet. It was thought + his presence there secured the sympathies of advanced Liberalism + throughout the country; but that was a tradition rather than a fact. + Statesmen in high places are not always so well acquainted with the + changes and gradations of opinion in political parties at home as they are + with those abroad. We hardly mark the growth of the tree we see every day. + Mr. Thornberry had long ceased to be popular with his former friends, and + the fact that he had become a minister was one of the causes of this + change of feeling. That was unreasonable, but in politics unreasonable + circumstances are elements of the problem to be solved. It was generally + understood that, on the next election, Mr. Thornberry would have to look + out for another seat; his chief constituents, those who are locally styled + the leaders of the party, were still faithful to him, for they were proud + of having a cabinet minister for their member, to be presented by him at + court, and occasionally to dine with him; but the “masses,” who do not go + to court, and are never asked to dinner, required a member who would + represent their whims, and it was quite understood that, on the very first + occasion, this enlightened community had resolved to send up to + Westminster—Mr. Enoch Craggs. + </p> + <p> + It is difficult to say, whether in his private life Job found affairs + altogether more satisfactory than in his public. His wife had joined the + Roman Communion. An ingrained perverseness which prevented his son from + ever willingly following the advice or example of his parents, had + preserved John Hampden in the Anglican faith, but he had portraits of Laud + and Strafford over his mantelpiece, and embossed in golden letters on a + purple ground the magical word “THOROUGH.” His library chiefly consisted + of the “Tracts for the Times,” and a colossal edition of the Fathers + gorgeously bound. He was a very clever fellow, this young Thornberry, a + natural orator, and was leader of the High Church party in the Oxford + Union. He brought home his friends occasionally to Hurstley, and Job had + the opportunity of becoming acquainted with a class and school of humanity—with + which, notwithstanding his considerable experience of life, he had no + previous knowledge—young gentlemen, apparently half-starved and + dressed like priests, and sometimes an enthusiastic young noble, in much + better physical condition, and in costume becoming a cavalier, ready to + raise the royal standard at Edgehill. What a little annoyed Job was that + his son always addressed him as “Squire,” a habit even pedantically + followed by his companions. He was, however, justly entitled to this + ancient and reputable honour, for Job had been persuaded to purchase + Hurstley, was a lord of several thousand acres, and had the boar’s head + carried in procession at Christmas in his ancient hall. It is strange, but + he was rather perplexed than annoyed by all these marvellous metamorphoses + in his life and family. His intelligence was as clear as ever, and his + views on all subjects unchanged; but he was, like many other men, governed + at home by his affections. He preferred the new arrangement, if his wife + and family were happy and contented, to a domestic system founded on his + own principles, accompanied by a sullen or shrewish partner of his own + life and rebellious offspring. + </p> + <p> + What really vexed him, among comparatively lesser matters, was the + extraordinary passion which in time his son exhibited for game-preserving. + He did at last interfere on this matter, but in vain. John Hampden + announced that he did not value land if he was only to look at it, and + that sport was the patriotic pastime of an English gentleman. “You used in + old days never to be satisfied with what I got out of the land,” said the + old grandfather to Job, with a little amiable malice; “there is enough, at + any rate now for the hares and rabbits, but I doubt for anybody else.” + </p> + <p> + We must not forget our old friend St. Barbe. Whether he had written + himself out or had become lazy in the luxurious life in which he now + indulged, he rarely appealed to the literary public, which still admired + him. He was, by way of intimating that he was engaged in a great work, + which, though written in his taking prose, was to be really the epogee of + social life in this country. Dining out every day, and ever arriving, + however late, at those “small and earlies,” which he once despised; he + gave to his friends frequent intimations that he was not there for + pleasure, but rather following his profession; he was in his studio, + observing and reflecting on all the passions and manners of mankind, and + gathering materials for the great work which was eventually to enchant and + instruct society, and immortalise his name. + </p> + <p> + “The fact is, I wrote too early,” he would say. “I blush when I read my + own books, though compared with those of the brethren, they might still be + looked on as classics. They say no artist can draw a camel, and I say no + author ever drew a gentleman. How can they, with no opportunity of ever + seeing one? And so with a little caricature of manners, which they catch + second-hand, they are obliged to have recourse to outrageous nonsense, as + if polished life consisted only of bigamists, and that ladies of fashion + were in the habit of paying black mail to returned convicts. However, I + shall put an end to all this. I have now got the materials, or am + accumulating them daily. You hint that I give myself up too much to + society. You are talking of things you do not understand. A dinner party + is a chapter. I catch the Cynthia of the minute, sir, at a <i>soiree</i>. + If I only served a grateful country, I should be in the proudest position + of any of its sons; if I had been born in any country but this, I should + have been decorated, and perhaps made secretary of state like Addison, who + did not write as well as I do, though his style somewhat resembles mine.” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding these great plans, it came in time to Endymion’s ear, that + poor St. Barbe was in terrible straits. Endymion delicately helped him and + then obtained for him a pension, and not an inconsiderable one. Relieved + from anxiety, St. Barbe resumed his ancient and natural vein. He passed + his days in decrying his friend and patron, and comparing his miserable + pension with the salary of a secretary of state, who, so far as his + experience went, was generally a second-rate man. Endymion, though he knew + St. Barbe was always decrying him, only smiled, and looked upon it all as + the necessary consequence of his organisation, which involved a singular + combination of vanity and envy in the highest degree. St. Barbe was not + less a guest in Carlton Terrace than heretofore, and was even kindly + invited to Princedown to profit by the distant sea-breeze. Lady Montfort, + whose ears some of his pranks had reached, was not so tolerant as her + husband. She gave him one day her views of his conduct. St. Barbe was + always a little afraid of her, and on this occasion entirely lost himself; + vented the most solemn affirmations that there was not a grain of truth in + these charges; that he was the victim, as he had been all his life, of + slander and calumny—the sheer creatures of envy, and then began to + fawn upon his hostess, and declared that he had ever thought there was + something godlike in the character of her husband. + </p> + <p> + “And what is there in yours, Mr. St. Barbe?” asked Lady Montfort. + </p> + <p> + The ministry had lasted several years; its foreign policy had been + successful; it had triumphed in war and secured peace. The military + conduct of the troops of King Florestan had contributed to these results, + and the popularity of that sovereign in England was for a foreigner + unexampled. During this agitated interval, Endymion and Myra had met more + than once through the providential medium of those favoured spots of + nature—German baths. + </p> + <p> + There had arisen a public feeling, that the ally who had served us so well + should be invited to visit again a country wherein he had so long + sojourned, and where he was so much appreciated. The only evidence that + the Prime Minister gave that he was conscious of this feeling was an + attack of gout. Endymion himself, though in a difficult and rather painful + position in this matter, did everything to shield and protect his chief, + but the general sentiment became so strong, sanctioned too, as it was + understood, in the highest quarter, that it could no longer be passed by + unnoticed; and, in due time, to the great delight and satisfaction of the + nation, an impending visit from our faithful ally King Florestan and his + beautiful wife, Queen Myra, was authoritatively announced. + </p> + <p> + Every preparation was made to show them honour. They were the guests of + our Sovereign; but from the palace which they were to inhabit, to the + humblest tenement in the meanest back street, there was only one feeling + of gratitude, and regard, and admiration. The English people are the most + enthusiastic people in the world; there are other populations which are + more excitable, but there is no nation, when it feels, where the sentiment + is so profound and irresistible. + </p> + <p> + The hour arrived. The season and the weather were favourable. From the + port where they landed to their arrival at the metropolis, the whole + country seemed poured out into the open air; triumphal arches, a way of + flags and banners, and bits of bunting on every hovel. The King and Queen + were received at the metropolitan station by Princes of the blood, and + accompanied to the palace, where the great officers of state and the + assembled ministry were gathered together to do them honour. A great + strain was thrown upon Endymion throughout these proceedings, as the Prime + Minister, who had been suffering the whole season, and rarely present in + his seat in parliament, was, at this moment, in his worst paroxysm. He + could not therefore be present at the series of balls and banquets, and + brilliant public functions, which greeted the royal guests. Their visit to + the City, when they dined with the Lord Mayor, and to which they drove in + royal carriages through a sea of population tumultuous with devotion, was + the most gratifying of all these splendid receptions, partly from the + associations of mysterious power and magnificence connected with the title + and character of LORD MAYOR. The Duke of St. Angelo, the Marquis of + Vallombrosa, and the Prince of Montserrat, quite lost their presence of + mind. Even the Princess of Montserrat, with more quarterings on her own + side than any house in Europe, confessed that she trembled when Her Serene + Highness courtesied before the Lady Mayoress. Perhaps, however, the most + brilliant, the most fanciful, infinitely the most costly entertainment + that was given on this memorable occasion, was the festival at Hainault. + The whole route from town to the forest was lined with thousands, perhaps + hundreds of thousands, of spectators; a thousand guests were received at + the banquet, and twelve palaces were raised by that true magician, Mr. + Benjamin Edgington, in the park, for the countless visitors in the + evening. At night the forest was illuminated. Everybody was glad except + Lady Hainault, who sighed, and said, “I have no doubt the Queen would have + preferred her own room, and that we should have had a quiet dinner, as in + old days, in the little Venetian parlour.” + </p> + <p> + When Endymion returned home at night, he found a summons to Gaydene; the + Prime Minister being, it was feared, in a dangerous state. + </p> + <p> + The next day, late in the afternoon, there was a rumour that the Prime + Minister had resigned. Then it was authoritatively contradicted, and then + at night another rumour rose that the minister had resigned, but that the + resignation would not be accepted until after the termination of the royal + visit. The King and Queen had yet to remain a short week. + </p> + <p> + The fact is, the resignation had taken place, but it was known only to + those who then could not have imparted the intelligence. The public often + conjectures the truth, though it clothes its impression or information in + the vague shape of a rumour. In four-and-twenty hours the great fact was + authoritatively announced in all the journals, with leading articles + speculating on the successor to the able and accomplished minister of + whose services the Sovereign and the country were so unhappily deprived. + Would his successor be found in his own cabinet? And then several names + were mentioned; Rawchester, to Lady Montfort’s disgust. Rawchester was a + safe man, and had had much experience, which, as with most safe men, + probably left him as wise and able as before he imbibed it. Would there be + altogether a change of parties? Would the Protectionists try again? They + were very strong, but always in a minority, like some great continental + powers, who have the finest army in the world, and yet get always beaten. + Would that band of self-admiring geniuses, who had upset every cabinet + with whom they were ever connected, return on the shoulders of the people, + as they always dreamed, though they were always the persons of whom the + people never seemed to think? + </p> + <p> + Lady Montfort was in a state of passive excitement. She was quite pale, + and she remained quite pale for hours. She would see no one. She sat in + Endymion’s room, and never spoke, while he continued writing and + transacting his affairs. She thought she was reading the “Morning Post,” + but really could not distinguish the advertisements from leading articles. + </p> + <p> + There was a knock at the library door, and the groom of the chambers + brought in a note for Endymion. He glanced at the handwriting of the + address, and then opened it, as pale as his wife. Then he read it again, + and then he gave it to her. She threw her eyes over it, and then her arms + around his neck. + </p> + <p> + “Order my brougham at three o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0101" id="link2HCH0101"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER CI + </h2> + <h3> + Endymion was with his sister. + </h3> + <p> + “How dear of you to come to me,” she said, “when you cannot have a moment + to yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you know,” he replied, “it is not like forming a government. That + is an affair. I have reason to think all my colleagues will remain with + me. I shall summon them for this afternoon, and if we agree, affairs will + go on as before. I should like to get down to Gaydene to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “To-night!” said the queen musingly. “We have only one day left, and I + wanted you to do something for me.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be done, if possible; I need not say that.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not difficult to do, if we have time—if we have to-morrow + morning, and early. But if you go to Gaydene you will hardly return + to-night, and I shall lose my chance,—and yet it is to me a business + most precious.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be managed; tell me then.” + </p> + <p> + “I learnt that Hill Street is not occupied at this moment. I want to visit + the old house with you, before I leave England, probably for ever. I have + only got the early morn to-morrow, but with a veil and your brougham, I + think we might depart unobserved, before the crowd begins to assemble. Do + you think you could be here at nine o’clock?” + </p> + <p> + So it was settled, and being hurried, he departed. + </p> + <p> + And next morning he was at the palace before nine o’clock; and the queen, + veiled, entered his brougham. There were already some loiterers, but the + brother and sister passed through the gates unobserved. + </p> + <p> + They reached Hill Street. The queen visited all the principal rooms, and + made many remarks appropriate to many memories. “But,” she said, “it was + not to see these rooms I came, though I was glad to do so, and the + corridor on the second story whence I called out to you when you returned, + and for ever, from Eton, and told you there was bad news. What I came for + was to see our old nursery, where we lived so long together, and so + fondly! Here it is; here we are. All I have desired, all I have dreamed, + have come to pass. Darling, beloved of my soul, by all our sorrows, by all + our joys, in this scene of our childhood and bygone days, let me give you + my last embrace.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Endymion, by Benjamin Disraeli + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ENDYMION *** + +***** This file should be named 7926-h.htm or 7926-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/7/9/2/7926/ + +Produced by John Bickers; Dagny; 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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