The conclusion of this speech was far more satisfactory to his Lordship than its commencement seemed to promise; and Lord Glengariff smiled half graciously as he said, “I 'm not in the habit of neglecting those who serve me.” “Yes, my Lord,” said Driscoll, again. “I may safely say that any influence I possess has always been exercised in favor of those who have been, so to say, supporters of my family.” Had his Lordship uttered a sentiment of the most exalted and self-denying import, he could not have assumed a prouder air than when he had finished these words. “And now, Mr. Driscoll, to business. I want five thousand pounds--” A long, low whistle from Terry, as he threw up both his hands in the air, abruptly stopped his Lordship. “What do you mean? Does the sum appear so tremendous, sir?” “Five thousand! Where would I get it? Five thousand pounds? By the mortial man! your Lordship might as well ax me for five millions. I thought it was a hundred; or, maybe, a hundred and fifty; or, at the outside, two hundred pounds, just to take you over to London for what they call the sayson, or to cut a figure at Paris; but, five thousand! By my conscience, that's the price of an estate nowadays!” “It is upon estated property I intend to raise this loan, sir,” said his Lordship, angrily. “Not Cushnacreena, my Lord?” asked Terry, eagerly. “No, sir; that is secured by settlement.” “Nor Ballyrennin?” “No; the townland of Ballyrennin is, in a manner, tied up.” “Tory's Mill, maybe?” inquired Terry, with more eagerness. “Well, sir,” said his Lordship, drawing himself up, “I must really make you my compliments upon the very accurate knowledge you appear to possess about my estate. Since what period, may I venture to ask, have you conceived this warm interest in my behalf?”