k.
In reality they had before them Marsham's aspect at the declaration of
the poll--head and face thrown back defiantly, hollow eyes of bitterness
and fatigue; and the scene outside--in front, a booing crowd--and beside
the new member, Alicia's angry and insolent look.

The election represented a set-back in a man's career, in spite of the
bare victory. And Lankester did not think it would be retrieved. With a
prophetic insight which seldom failed him, he saw that Marsham's chapter
of success was closed. He might get some small office out of the
Government. Nevertheless, the scale of life had dropped--on the wrong
side. Through Lankester's thought there shot a pang of sympathy. Defeat
was always more winning to him than triumph.

* * * * *

Meanwhile the new member himself was in no melting mood.

Forbes was right. Marsham, in his room, looking over the letters which
his servant had brought him, was only conscious of two feelings--disgust
and loathing with regard to the contest just over, and a dogged
determination with regard to the future. He had been deserted by the
moderates--by the Ferrierites--in spite of all his endeavors to keep
within courteous and judicial bounds; and he had been all but sacrificed
to a forbearance which had not saved him apparently a single moderate
vote, and had lost him scores on the advanced side.

With regard to Ferrier personally, he was extremely sore, A letter from
him during the preceding week would certainly have influenced votes.
Marsham denied hotly that his speeches had been of a character to offend
or injure his old friend and leader. A man must really be allowed some
honest latitude of opinion, even under party government!--and in
circumstances of personal obligation. He had had to steer a most
difficult course. But why must he give up his principles--not to speak
of his chances of political advancement--because John Ferrier had
originally procured him his seat in Parliament, and had been his
parents' intimate friend for many years? Let the Whig deserters answer
that question, if they could!

His whole being was tingling with anger and resentment. The contest had
steeped him in humiliations which stuck to him like mud-stains.

The week before, he had written to Ferrier, imploring him if possible to
come and speak for him--or at least to write a letter; humbling his
pride; and giving elaborate explanations of the line which he had taken.

T