“_We are anxious to secure your parliamentary influence in C------ to the proper quarter, namely, to your own family, as the best defenders of the administration, which you honour by your support. We wish signally, at the same time, to express our confidence in your principles, and our gratitude for your countenance._” “D-----d sour countenance!” muttered Lord Saxingham. “_Accordingly,_” continued Ferrers, “_as one whose connection with you permits the liberty, allow me to request that you will suffer our joint relation, Mr. Ferrers, to be put into immediate nomination._” Lord Saxingham threw down the pen and laughed for two minutes without ceasing. “Capital, Lumley, capital--Very odd I did not think of it before.” “Each man for himself, and God for us all,” returned Lumley, gravely: “pray go on, my dear lord.” “_We are sure you could not have a representative that would, more faithfully reflect your own opinions and our interests. One word more. A creation of peers will probably take place in the spring, among which I am sure your name would be to his Majesty a gratifying addition; the title will of course be secured to your sons--and failing the latter, to your nephew._ “_With great regard and respect,_ “_Truly yours,_ “_SAXINGHAM._” “There, inscribe that ‘Private and confidential,’ and send it express to my uncle’s villa.” “It shall be done, my dear Lumley--and this contents me as much as it does you. You are really a man to do us credit. You think it will be arranged?” “No doubt of it.” “Well, good day. Lumley, come to me when it is all settled: Florence is always glad to see you; she says no one amuses her more. And I am sure that is rare praise, for she is a strange girl,--quite a Timon in petticoats.” Away went Lord Saxingham. “Florence glad to see me!” said Lumley, throwing his arms behind him, and striding to and fro the room--“Scheme the Second begins to smile upon me behind the advancing shadow of Scheme One. If I can but succeed in keeping away other suitors from my fair cousin until I am in a condition to propose myself, why, I may carry off the greatest match in the three kingdoms. _Courage, mon brave Ferrers, courage!_”