s,
which, if they did not startle the men of the world whom he addressed
(smoothed away, as such doctrines were, by speciousness of manner and
delivery), created deep disgust in those even of his own politics who
read their naked exposition in the daily papers. Never did Lord
Vargrave utter one of those generous sentiments which, no matter whether
propounded by Radical or Tory, sink deep into the heart of the people,
and do lasting service to the cause they adorn. But no man defended an
abuse, however glaring, with a more vigorous championship, or hurled
defiance upon a popular demand with a more courageous scorn. In some
times, when the anti-popular principle is strong; such a leader may
be useful; but at the moment of which we treat he was a most equivocal
auxiliary. A considerable proportion of the ministers, headed by the
premier himself, a man of wise views and unimpeachable honour, had
learned to view Lord Vargrave with dislike and distrust. They might have
sought to get rid of him; but he was not one whom slight mortifications
could induce to retire of his own accord, nor was the sarcastic and bold
debater a person whose resentment and opposition could be despised.
Lord Vargrave, moreover, had secured a party of his own,--a party
more formidable than himself. He went largely into society; he was the
special favourite of the female diplomats, whose voices at that time
were powerful suffrages, and with whom, by a thousand links of gallantry
and intrigue, the agreeable and courteous minister formed a close
alliance. All that _salons_ could do for him was done. Added to this, he
was personally liked by his royal master; and the Court gave him their
golden opinions; while the poorer, the corrupter, and the more bigoted
portion of the ministry regarded him with avowed admiration.

In the House of Commons, too, and in the bureaucracy, he had no
inconsiderable strength; for Lumley never contracted the habits of
personal abruptness and discourtesy common to men in power who wish
to keep applicants aloof. He was bland and conciliating to all men of
ranks; his intellect and self-complacency raised him far above the petty
jealousies that great men feel for rising men. Did any tyro earn the
smallest distinction in parliament, no man sought his acquaintance so
eagerly as Lord Vargrave; no man complimented, encouraged, "brought on"
the new aspirants of his party with so hearty a good will.

Such a minister could not fail of ha