On February 7, 1899, I was introduced to the House of Peers, and took
my seat.

I chose for my name and designation the title of Baron Brampton, which
her Majesty was pleased to approve. My little property, therefore,
which I mentioned earlier in my reminiscences, conferred on me what
was more valuable than its income--the title by which I am now known.

Speaking with reference to those long years ago when I was dissuaded
from my career by those who doubtless had the most affectionate
interest in my welfare, and to whose advice I proved to be so
undutiful, I cannot help, whether vanity be attributed to me or not,
contrasting the position of the penniless articled clerk in the
attorney's office and the situation which came to me as the result of
unremitting labour.

Let me state it with pride as well as humility that my rewards have
been beyond my dreams and far above my deserts.

On February 7, in a committee room of the House, I was met by my
supporters and those whose duties made them a portion of the ceremony,
and realized the ambition that came to me only in my later life.

Some members of my family would have preferred the family name to be
associated with the title. I must confess I had some attachment for
it, as it had rendered me such good service, and it was somewhat hard
to give it up.

If, however, I had had any hesitation, it would have been removed
when one afternoon Lord ---- called on me, and in his chaffing manner
said,--

"Well, I hear you are to be Lord '_Awkins_ of '_Itchin_, 'Erts."

"Be ---- if I will!" said I; "Brampton's the only landed estate I have
inherited, and although the old ladies who are life-tenants kept me
out of it as long as they could, I shall take my title from it as the
only thing I am likely to get out of it."

"Bravo!" said he. "I don't like 'Awkins of 'Itchin, 'Erts. _Brampton_
sounds like a title; and so my hearty congratulations, and may you and
her ladyship live long to enjoy it!"

"Mr. Punch" was good enough to furnish me with a beautiful and
humorous coat of arms, done by that very talented artist Mr. E.T.
Reed.

* * * * *

Since the commencement of this volume many of the old friends
mentioned in it with affectionate remembrance have gone to their rest,
and I am steadily approaching my own end. Trusting to the mercy and
goodness of God, I patiently await my summons. I can but humbly add
that to the best of my poor ability I ha