“Sir, if you go, you go as an emissary from me,” said the Chief, naughtily, and by a look recalling Haire to all his habitual deference. “But only imagine if it got abroad--if the papers got hold of it; think of what a scandal it would be, that the Chief Baron of the Exchequer was actually in direct communication with a man charged with treason-felony. I would n't take a thousand pounds, and be accessory to such an allegation.” “You shall do it for less, sir. Yes, I repeat it, Haire, for less. Five shillings' car-hire will amply cover the cost. You shall drive over to the head-office and ask Mr. Spencer if--of course with the prisoner's permission--you may be admitted to see him. When I have the reply I will give you your instructions.” “I protest I don't see--I mean, I cannot imagine--it's not possible--in fact, I know, that when you reflect a little over it, you will be satisfied that this would be a most improper thing to do.” “And what is this improper thing I am about to do? Let us hear, sir, what you condemn so decidedly! I declare my libellers must have more reason than I ever conceded to them. I am growing very, very old! There must be the blight of age upon my faculties, or you would not have ventured to administer this lesson to me! this lesson on discretion and propriety. I would, however, warn you to be cautious. The wounded tiger is dangerous, though the ball should have penetrated his vitals. I would counsel you to keep out of reach of his spring, even in his dying moments.” He actually shook with passion as he said this, and his hands closed and opened with a convulsive movement that showed the anger that possessed him. “I have never lectured any one; least of all would it occur to me to lecture you,” said Haire, with much dignity. “In all our intercourse I have never forgotten the difference between us,--I mean intellectually; for I hope, as to birth and condition, there is no inequality.” Though he spoke this slowly and impressively, the Chief Baron heard nothing of it. He was so overwhelmed by the strong passions of his own mind that he could not attend to another. “I shall soon be called incorrigible as well as incompetent,” uttered he, “if the wise counsels of my ablest friends are powerless to admonish me.” “I must be moving,” said Haire, rising and taking his hat. “I promised to dine with Beattie at the Rock.” “Say nothing of what has taken place here to-day; or if you mention me at all, say you found me in my usual health.” Haire nodded.