This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
96
VIVIAN GREY.

Statesman, I was now addressing an idiot Earl, I should not see, that the great end might not equally be consummated."

"Say you so, my merry man, and how?"

"Why, my Lord,—but,—but, I feel that I am trespassing on your Lordship's time, otherwise I think I could show why society is of opinion that your Lordship can do all and every thing—how, indeed, your Lordship might, in a very short time, be—Prime Minister."

"No, Mr. Grey;—this conversation must be finished. I'll first give orders that we may not be disturbed, and then we'll proceed immediately. Come, now! your manner takes me, and we will converse in the spirit of the most perfect confidence."

Here, as the Marquess settled at the same time his chair and his countenance, and looked as anxious as if Majesty itself was consulting him on the formation of a ministry, in burst the Marchioness, notwithstanding all the remonstrances,