out an embassy for Chaffont. You will be in, somehow, before Christmas."
"Not before Christmas, if at all. Nobody has time to be turned out during the holidays."
"How ver droll!" exclaimed La Grange; "but it is a truth of the most striking. We in England are so occupied with the chase and the sport, and with the life of the castle in the winter, that we forget entirely our politique. I am ver much delight to think I will meet Mr. G. in the ease of the country. He is one hero of mine. Does he voyage alone, my lord?"
"Ah! who comes with him, Teviot?"
"Only his private secretary, the faithful Fisherwick."
"Fisherwick!" repeated Colonel Stuart; "Heavens and earth! I trust not."
"Why, what harm do you know of him, Colonel Stuart?" said Lady Teviot.
"The gods forfend that I should know anything more or anything worse of him than his extraordinary cognomen; but imagine travelling with one of that curious species. Think of being shut up alone in a carriage with a live Fisherwick! It makes my blood run cold."
"Fisherveke!" repeated La Grange. "It is a difficult word, but I do know oder of that name—at least, I know a Mrs. Fisher very well, who live at Hampton Veke; so I suppose she is one relation. She is made to be painted, and most charming. Does your ladyship know Mrs. Fisher?" addressing Lady Portmore.
"Oh dear no; never heard of her," said Lady Portmore, tartly. She began to think La Grange not worth a civil answer. "But, Teviot, to return to this idea of your coming into office. It is what I have always wished for you; and I shall insist on G.'s making some arrangement that will bring you in. I can promise you Lord Portmore's support; he has a very high opinion of G."
