’It is the only pleasure in life which has been enjoyed without alloy by your affectionate father,

‘Omnium.’

The Duke in writing this letter was able for a few moments to forget Mrs Finn, and to enjoy the work which he had on hand.

CHAPTER 16

Poor Boy

The new member for Silverbridge, when he entered the House to take the oath, was supported on the right and left by two staunch old Tories.  Mr Monk had seen him a few minutes previously,—­Mr Monk who of all Liberals was the firmest and than whom no one had been more staunch to the Duke,—­and had congratulated him on his election, expressing at the same time some gentle regrets.  ’I only wish you could have come among us on the other side,’ he said.

‘But I couldn’t,’ said the young Lord.

’I am sure nothing but a conscientious feeling would have separated you from your father’s friends,’ said the old Liberal.  And then they were parted, and the member for Silverbridge was bustled up to the table between the two staunch Tories.

Of what else was done on that occasion nothing shall be said here.  No political work was required from him, except that of helping for an hour or two to crowd the Government benches.  But we will follow him as he left the House.  There were one or two others quite as anxious as to his political career as any staunch old Liberal.  At any rate one other.  He had promised that as soon as he could get away from the House he would go to Belgrave Square and tell Lady Mabel Grex all about it.  When he reached the square it was past seven, but Lady Mabel and Miss Cassewary were still in the drawing-room.  ’There seemed to be a great deal of bustle, and I didn’t understand much about it, said the Member.

‘But you heard speeches?’ These were the speeches made on the proposing and seconding of the address.

’Oh yes;—­Lupon did it very well.  Lord George didn’t seem to be quite as good.  Then Sir Timothy Beeswax made a speech, and then Mr Monk.  After that I saw other fellows going away, so I bolted too.’

’If I were a member of Parliament I would never leave it while the House was sitting,’ said Miss Cassewary.

’If all were like that there wouldn’t be seats for them to sit on, said Silverbridge.

‘A persistent member will always find a seat,’ continued the positive old lady.

‘I am sure that Lord Silverbridge means to do his duty,’ said Lady Mabel.

’Oh yes;—­I’ve thought a good deal about it, and I mean to try.  As long as a man isn’t called upon to speak I don’t see why it shouldn’t be easy enough.’

’I’m so glad to hear you say so!  Of course after a little time you will speak.  I should like to hear you make your first speech.’

’If I thought you were there, I’m sure I should not make it at all.’  Just at this period Miss Cassewary, saying something as to the necessity of dressing, and cautioning her young friend that there was not much time to be lost, left the room.