Whether the colonel had any meaning, when he said that Lord Spoonbill was peculiarly situated, we cannot say, but there is in general a very great and comprehensive meaning in that phrase. If, for instance, a man is looking for a piece of preferment, or is in any way dependent on the powers that be, or the powers that may be, and if he is requested to give a vote on any occasion according to his own views or opinions, he is very ready to say that he wishes well to that person or object for whom the vote is solicited, but that it is not in his power to vote as he wishes, because he is peculiarly situated. In short, wherever a man’s interest interferes with his duty or conscience, and the principle of selfish interest is stronger than duty or conscience, then it is that he is peculiarly situated. Now the Right Honorable Lord Spoonbill was a man of title and high rank, and his associates were of a select and superfine description; if therefore he fixed his affections on a lady in a humbler sphere, or less distinguished society, he could not make advances regularly and honorably, because he was peculiarly situated. To the remark of Colonel Crop, that Lord Spoonbill was peculiarly situated, the worthy magistrate of Neverden Hall considerately replied: “Clearly so, I am perfectly aware of it: but still you must acknowledge that it would have been more correct if his lordship had communicated his intentions to Arabella without the intervention of a third person. However, I will not say or do anything that shall be the means of preventing the poor girl from having a good establishment in life. I know that these high people have very peculiar notions.” Then the gallant colonel launched forth right liberally in praise of Lord Spoonbill, and well he might, seeing that not only was he indebted to his lordship for access to a most excellent table, but he was also under obligation to him for the distinction and consideration derived from such noble patronage and countenance. “I suppose,” continued the baronet, “that it must be a private marriage?” “No doubt,” replied the colonel; “for his lordship is entirely dependent on the Earl his father, and it would be a serious affair to act in direct and open opposition to his will.” “Exactly so,” answered the magistrate; “but when the marriage has taken place, and the Earl sees that opposition must be fruitless, and especially when he is introduced to the young lady, then he will think more calmly on the subject. Well, it will be a fine match for Arabella. Her father little thought when he sent her to Neverden what good luck was in store for her. I think I will not write to her father about the affair, but let him be taken by surprise.”