interfere with any such laudable intention! but you must return to dinner," said Sir George, "and then Mr. Maynard and I will tell you how we like each other; not but what I have quite made up my mind on the subject."
The next hour was devoted to making a favourable impression on his secretary during their tête-à-tête, and in this he completely succeeded. Walter could scarcely help being pleased with the graceful flattery of his host, which, to him, seemed to be so wholly without motive; but, to be popular, was Sir George's passion; moreover, he fully intended to use Maynard's talents to the utmost, and he knew enough of human nature to know, that when we serve those we like, the service is well performed. He showed the stranger to his rooms, attended to several minute arrangements for his comfort, and ended by shewing him into the library, where every luxury of literature was lavished.
"And now," said he, balancing himself on one of the tables, "as I intend we are to
