me indifference was manifested on the part of
the English aristocracy present, which, causing a momentary suspension
of the speech, produced a very unexpected calm, much to the
astonishment of Flum's own dear self. 'Well, I apprehends the gist
on't--democracy don't go down, no way, this side the big pond. But, if
John is old, and has got his noddle so full of antiquated nonsense
that he can't get an idea into his head suited to the exigencies of
the times, democracy, with its all-elevating power, will stand by him,
give him new sinners to sustain himself, and carry him through those
struggles aristocracy has not nerve to surmount.' (Cheers). Having
literally illustrated every beauty to which democracy was heir, wasted
several well-constructed and not badly directed compliments on General
Pierce's patriotism, called upon those present to come boldly out and
imitate Young America in all his go-ahead proficiencies, Flum turned
to his worship, on which wonderful embodiment of statesmanship and
experience he intended to return the compliments that functionary had
so flatteringly bestowed. As disappointments will occur, even with the
greatest of men, so did Flum find himself totally inadequate to the
discharge of this duty. There was, however, a responsibility resting
upon him, which he must, considering that it touched that which was an
honor to England and the English nation, discharge. It was, that he
had to congratulate old England on the possession of such men as his
Worship--men born to the exigencies of an age, and in whose charge the
distracted affairs of Europe, now threatening the peace of nations,
would be sure to find a satisfactory solution. Here his honor made a
most appropriate bow in acknowledgment, while a few gentlemen, rather
loquaciously disposed, smiled and Miss Mapplebank, from Arkansas,
covered her face with her white handkerchief. It was evident to all
present that the two greatest men of the two greatest countries had
met on a great international platform (the banqueting table), and as
the exchange of verdicts upon the capacity of each other only served
to make stronger the opinion they had always entertained of
themselves, everyone present was ready to throw up his or her hat in
compliment of a discovery which must reflect to the great good of
nations in general. Flum ended his speech, the mediums had met;
international unity was perfect. Mr. Peabody bowed, the great men
signified their acknowledgment