"My friend," said Mr. Kriver, "you know England; but I know this county. Our countrymen cannot understand and appreciate your ideas."
"Yes!" said Mr. James, highly flattered, "I am sure they cannot. But the army we must have."
"Of course, if you wish it. But the great thing is to make it a regular, downright, out-and-out, drinking bout."
"But what in the world are we to do? My brother and I have gone all lengths. We have spent a year's income on this confounded election."
"Nor is money the thing we want, if we can but make some grand demonstration. But unless our people get their feathers and colours, we are winged. Do but induce your brother to act like a man; we are sure to gain the day."
"We have promised to employ none but honourable means——"
"To get the majority. But the means which I propose are, in my opinion, most honourable. Is there any thing dishonourable in hospitality?"
"Certainly not; and I grant you the resolution admits of various interpretations. But some people there are who do not think so."
"Nonsense! When we passed that silly resolution, there were indeed lots of fools that voted with Tengelyi; but why did they do it? Because they were not booked for a place, and because they were afraid for their money. But with your own money you are quite at liberty to buy as many Cortes as you please."
"But Tengelyi!"