"He knows we're on the respectable side," said Mr. Trigger. "The Wesleyans now are most as one as the Church of England,--in the way of not being roughs and rowdies." Sir Thomas, who did not know Mr. Pabsby, was afraid that he would be offended at this; but he showed no sign of offence as he continued to rub his hands. Mr. Pabsby was meditating his speech. "We're a little hurried, Mr. Pabsby," said Mr. Trigger; "perhaps you'll think of it." But Mr. Pabsby was not going to let them escape in that way. It was not every day that he had a Sir Thomas, or a candidate for the borough, or even a Mr. Trigger, in that little parlour. The fact was that Mr. Trigger, who generally knew what he was about, had made a mistake. Sir Thomas, who was ready enough to depart, saw that an immediate escape was impossible. "Sir Thomas," began Mr. Pabsby, in a soft, greasy voice,--a voice made up of pretence, politeness and saliva,--"if you will give me three minutes to express myself on this subject I shall be obliged to you." "Certainly," said Sir Thomas, sitting bolt upright in his chair, and holding his hat as though he were determined to go directly the three minutes were over. "A minister of the Gospel in this town is placed in a peculiar position, Sir Thomas," said Mr. Pabsby very slowly, "and of all the ministers of religion in Percycross mine is the most peculiar. In this matter I would wish to be guided wholly by duty, and if I could see my way clearly I would at once declare it to you. But, Sir Thomas, I owe much to the convictions of my people." "Which way do you mean to vote?" asked Mr. Trigger. Mr. Pabsby did not even turn his face at this interruption. "A private man, Sir Thomas, may follow the dictates of--of--of his own heart, perhaps." Here he paused, expecting to be encouraged by some words. But Sir Thomas had acquired professionally a knowledge that to such a speaker as Mr. Pabsby any rejoinder or argument was like winding up a clock. It is better to allow such clocks to run down. "With me, I have to consider every possible point. What will my people wish? Some of them are eager in the cause of reform, Sir Thomas; and some others--" "We shall lose the train," said Mr. Trigger, jumping up and putting on his hat. "I'm afraid we shall," said Sir Thomas rising, but not putting on his.