Whilst his carriage was coming to the door, in the shortest manner possible Lord Oldborough stated the facts to his secretary, that letters had been forged in his lordship’s name, promising to certain persons promotion in the army--and navy--gratification--and pensions. Some were addressed to persons who had actually obtained promotion, shortly after the time of these letters; others contained reproaches for having been ill-used. Even from the rapid glance Lord Oldborough had taken of these papers, he had retained the names of several of the persons to whom they were addressed--and the nature of the promotion obtained. They were persons who could have had no claim upon an honest minister. His lordship left a list of them with Mr. Temple--also the cover of the letter, on which was a specimen of the forged writing and the private seal. “I am going to the king. In my absence, Mr. Temple, think for me--I know you feel for me. The object is to discover the authors of this forgery.” “My lord, may I consult with Mr. Alfred Percy?” “Yes--with no other person.” It was not Lord Oldborough’s day for doing business with the king. He was late--the king was going out to ride. His majesty received the minister as usual; but notwithstanding the condescension of his majesty’s words and manner, it was evident to Lord Oldborough’s penetration, that there was a coldness and formality in the king’s countenance. “I beg I may not detain your majesty--I see I am late,” said Lord Oldborough. “Is the business urgent, my lord?” “No, sir; for it concerns principally myself: it can, therefore, wait your majesty’s leisure at any hour your majesty may appoint.” The king dismounted instantly. “This moment, my lord, I am at leisure for any business that concerns your lordship.” The king returned to the palace--Lord Oldborough followed, and all the spectators on foot and horseback were left full of curiosity. Notwithstanding the condescension of his majesty’s words and manner, and the polite promptitude to attend to any business that concerned his lordship, it was evident to Lord Oldborough’s penetration that there was an unusual coldness and formality in the king’s countenance and deportment, unlike the graciousness of his reception when satisfied and pleased. As soon as the business of the day had been gone through, Lord Oldborough said he must now beg his majesty’s attention on a subject which principally concerned himself. The king looked as one prepared to hear, but determined to say as little as possible. Lord Oldborough placed himself so as to give the king the advantage of the light, which he did not fear to have full on his own countenance. “Sir, certain letters, signed with my name, and sealed with my seal, have, I am informed, been laid before your majesty.” “Your lordship has been rightly informed.” “I trust--I hope that your majesty--”