“I go, therefore, without any concert with your Lordship at present. I take this step entirely at my own instance?”
“You do, sir. If matters eventually should take the turn which admits of any intervention on my part—any expression of opinion—any elucidation of sentiments attributed to me—I will be free to make such in the manner I deem suitable.”
“In case this person should prove one, either from his character or the degree in which he has implicated himself, unfitted for your Lordship's object, I am to drop the negotiation?”
“Rather, I should say, sir, you are not to open it.”
“I meant as much,” said Sewell, with some irritation.
“It is an occasion, sir, for careful action and precise expression. I have no doubt you will acquit yourself creditably in each of these respects. Are you already acquainted with Mr. Spencer?”
“We have met at the Club, my Lord; he at least knows who I am.”
“That will be quite sufficient. One point more—I have no need to caution you as to secrecy—this is a matter which cannot be talked of.”
“That you may rely on, my Lord; reserve is so natural to me, that I have to put no strain upon my manner to remember it.”
“I shall be curious to hear the result of your visit,—that is, if you be permitted to visit the Bridewell. Will you do me the favor to come to me at once?”