n twenty years plead
for him in his stead. Which, then, of the two candidates do you choose
as your member,--a renowned statesman, or a beardless boy? Both have
ambition and ability; the one has identified those qualities with the
history of a country, and (as it is now alleged to his prejudice) with
a devotion that has broken a vigorous frame and injured a princely
fortune. The other evinces his ambition by inviting you to prefer him
to his benefactor, and proves his ability by the excuses he makes for
ingratitude. Choose between the two,--an Egerton or a Leslie."

"Egerton forever!" cried all the assembly, as with a single voice,
followed by a hiss for Leslie.

"But," said a grave and prudent Committee-man, "have we really the
choice? Does not that rest with the Yellows? Is not your Lordship too
sanguine?"

"Open that door behind; a deputation from our opponents waits in the
room on the other side the passage. Admit them."

The Committee were hushed in breathless silence while Harley's order was
obeyed. And soon, to their great surprise, Leonard Fairfield himself,
attended by six of the principal members of the Yellow party, entered
the room.

LORD L'ESTRANGE.--"You have a proposition to make to us, Mr. Fairfield,
on behalf of yourself and Mr. Avenel, and with the approval of your
Committee?"

LEONARD (advancing to the table).--"I have. We are convinced that
neither party can carry both its candidates. Mr. Avenel is safe. The
only question is, which of the two candidates on your side it best
becomes the honour of this constituency to select. My resignation, which
I am about to tender, will free sufficient votes to give the triumph
either to Mr. Egerton or to Mr. Leslie."

"Egerton forever!" cried once more the excited Blues. "Yes, Egerton
forever!" said Leonard, with a glow upon his cheek. "We may differ from
his politics, but who can tell us those of Mr. Leslie? We may differ
from the politician, but who would not feel proud of the senator? A
great and incalculable advantage is bestowed on that constituency which
returns to parliament a distinguished man. His distinction ennobles the
place he represents, it sustains public spirit, it augments the manly
interest in all that affects the nation. Every time his voice hushes the
assembled parliament, it reminds us of our common country; and even the
discussion amongst his constituents which his voice provokes, clears
their perceptions of the public interest, and