"When I was young I should not have been contented with what now pleases me. Harry will soon have had enough of this sort of life, and then will take to more useful pastimes." "Come, Harry, let's be off," said Mr. Sleech, taking him by the arm. Harry did not resist. Mr. Sleech gave him a capital dinner at the "Blue Posts," and looked in afterwards at the "Pearl Drinkers' Club." "Come now," he said, "we will steer for the `Saracen's Head,' Gerard Street, Soho. I will introduce you there to some liberal-minded men, who will make you open your eyes a little." Mr. Sleech was a rapid walker, and they quickly got over the ground. Giving his name, they were admitted into a large room, already full of persons. A considerable number were young men, but there were some already advanced in life. In address and appearance the greater number had imitated the French Republicans, while all, as a sign of their liberality, kept on their hats. A young man was on his legs, his hair escaping from under his hat, hanging over his shoulders. His eyes rolled wildly, while he flung his arms about in every direction, every now and then bringing his doubled fist down upon the palm of his other hand. His oratory was fluent and bold. "The past must be buried in oblivion!" he exclaimed. "We dare not look at it. A hideous system of the domination of one class over the souls and minds and bodies of the vast majority. A new era must be organised, but before a better system can be raised up, the ancient must be levelled with the dust. On a new foundation--the whole of the people-- we must build up a glorious temple, a superb superstructure, in which people of all nations, united in the bonds of fraternity, must come and worship together the great Goddess of Reason." CHAPTER TWELVE. IN DANGEROUS COMPANY. Harry's visit to the Jacobin Club was several times repeated. He met there more than one man of note. The members were, however, chiefly those who, carried away by their ardent love of freedom, which in France had degenerated into unbridled licence, and their hatred of tyranny, failed to perceive the happy mean where a settled government and just laws exist. It would have been surprising had Harry not felt somewhat of the enthusiasm of the speakers. Silas Sleech only once or twice took a part in the debates, and on these occasions he advocated the most extreme measures; and although the assassination of the King of England was not mentioned, the regicides of the first Charles were lauded to the skies, as among the truest patriots of which history makes note. "I wonder what your old mentor would say, if he heard of your attending our meetings," said Sleech, as they were walking home. "However, it's your own fault if he finds out. To-morrow we'll play a different sort of game. I am sadly in want of a few hundred pounds, and I have an idea that I shall get them; if you will stand by me, Harry, I will explain matters you by-and-bye."