of the few. Now there is much in the social hierarchy, even as at present constituted, which deserves to survive the shock of battle that will soon be upon us. It ought to survive, for it has proved its worth. And in identifying myself with it I shall be glad when the time comes to help your people here if only you will help me now."
"In a word, you are ready to throw over your friends," said the Duke with a narrowing eye.
"By no means! I have not the least intention of doing that."
His Grace was hard to convince; besides the man's nonchalance incensed him. "Well, as I have told you already, the only terms on which we can begin to think of having you here are that you quit your present stable."
"Don't you think you take a parochial view?" The considered coolness had the power to infuriate. "Whichever stable one happens to occupy at the moment is not very material. It is simply a means to an end."
"To what end?"
"The better government of the country—of the Empire, if you prefer it."
"You aim at the top?"
"Undoubtedly. And I think I shall get there."
The note of self-confidence was a little too much for his Grace. He shot out an ugly lower lip and plucked savagely at the small tuft of hair upon it. "That remains to be seen, my friend." And he added in a tone of ice, "When you have got there you can come and ask me again."
"But it is going to take time," Sir Dugald spoke lightly and readily, not deigning to accept the challenge.
