As regards his interest, I mentioned that he should be guaranteed, for three years, L1,000 per annum, and should take an eighth of every paper which was established, without risk, his income ceasing on his so doing.  These are much better terms than we had imagined we could have made.  The agreement is thought extremely handsome, both by him and the Chevalier; but the income is not imagined to be too large.  However, I dropped that point, as it should be arranged with you when we all meet.

The Chevalier breakfasted here to-day, and afterwards we were all three closeted together.  The Chevalier entered into it excellently.  He thought, however, that we could not depend upon Malcolm, Barrow, etc., keeping to it; but this I do not fear.  He, of course, has no idea of your influence or connections.  With regard to the delicate point I mentioned, the Chevalier is willing to make any sacrifice in his personal comforts for Lockhart’s advancement; but he feels that his son-in-law will “lose caste” by going to town without anything ostensible.  He agrees with me that M. cannot accept an official situation of any kind, as it would compromise his independence, but he thinks Parliament for M. indispensable, and also very much to our interest.  I dine at Abbotsford to-day, and we shall most probably again discuss matters.

Now, these are the points which occur to me.  When M. comes to town, it will be most important that it should be distinctly proved to him that he will be supported by the great interests I have mentioned to him.  He must see that, through Powles, all America and the Commercial Interest is at our beck; that Wilmot H., etc., not as mere under-secretary, but as our private friend, is most staunch; that the Chevalier is firm; that the West India Interest will pledge themselves that such men and in such situations as Barrow, etc., etc., are distinctly in our power; and finally, that he is coming to London, not to be an Editor of a Newspaper, but the Director-General of an immense organ, and at the head of a band of high-bred gentlemen and important interests.

The Chevalier and M. have unburthened themselves to me in a manner the most confidential that you can possibly conceive.  Of M.’s capability, perfect complete capability, there is no manner of doubt.  Of his sound principles, and of his real views in life, I could in a moment satisfy you.  Rest assured, however, that you are dealing with a perfect gentleman.  There has been no disguise to me of what has been done, and the Chevalier had a private conversation with me on the subject, of a nature the most satisfactory.  With regard to other plans of ours, if we could get him up, we should find him invaluable.  I have a most singular and secret history on this subject when we meet.