“Nothing of the kind. He was as ready to offer compensation as we ourselves are when we superannuate a clerk or suppress an office. His sole mistake was that he proposed a robbery at the unlucky moment that the nation had taken its periodical attack of virtue,--we were in the height of our honest paroxysm when he asked us to be knaves; and hence all that has followed.” “You estimate our national morality somewhat cheaply, sir,” said the Commissioner. “As to morals, I think we are good political economists. We buy cheaply, and endeavor, at least, to sell in the dearest markets.” “No more wine, thank you,” said the Secretary, rising. “A cup of coffee, with pleasure.” It was a part of Davenport Dunn's policy to sprinkle his dinner company with men like Lindley. They were what physicians call a sort of mild irritants, and occasionally very useful in their way; but, in the present instance, he rather suspected that the application had been pushed too far, and he approached the Secretary in the drawing-room with a kind of half apology for his guest. “Ireland,” said he, “has always possessed two species of place-hunters: the one, patiently supporting Government for years, look calmly for the recognition of their services as a debt to be paid; the other, by an irritating course of action, seem to indicate how vexatious and annoying they may prove if not satisfactorily dealt with. Lindley is one of these, and he ought to be provided for.” “I declare to you, Dunn,” said the Secretary, as he drew his arm within the other's, and walked with him into the back drawing-room, “these kind of men make government very difficult in Ireland. There is no reserve--no caution about them. They compromise one at every step. You are the only Irishman I ever met who would seem to understand the necessity of reserve.” Dunn bowed twice. It was like the acknowledgment of what he felt to be a right. “I go further,” said the other, warming; “you are the only man here who has given us real and effective support, and yet never asked for anything.” “What could I wish for better than to see the country governed as it is?” said Dunn, courteously. “All are not inspired so patriotically, Dunn. Personal advantages have their influence on most men.” “Of course,--naturally enough. But I stand in no need of aid in this respect I don't want for means. I could n't, if you offered it, take office; my hands are too full already, and of work which another might not be able to carry out. Rank, of course--distinction--” and he stopped, and seemed confused. “Well, come, we might meet you there, Dunn,” said the other, coaxingly. “Be frank with me. What do you wish for?” “My family is of humble origin, it is true,” said Dunn; “but, without invidious reflection, I might point to some others--” Again he hesitated. “_That_ need not be an obstacle,” said the Secretary. “Well, then, on the score of fortune, there are some poorer than myself in--in--” He stopped again.