“Pavilion, Brighton.
“Dear Upton,—Let me be the first to congratulate you on an appointment which it affords me the greatest pleasure to confirm—
“What does he allude to?” cried she, stopping suddenly, while a slight tinge of color showed surprise, and a little displeasure, perhaps, mingled in her emotions.
“I have not the very remotest conception,” said Upton, calmly. “Let us see what that large despatch contains; it comes from the Duke of Agecombe. Oh,” said he, with a great effort to appear as calm and unmoved as possible, “I see what it is, they have given me India!”
“India!” exclaimed she, in amazement.
“I mean, my dear Princess, they have given me the Governor-Generalship.”
“Which, of course, you would not accept.”
“Why not, pray?”
“India!” It is banishment, barbarism, isolation from all that really interests or embellishes existence,—a despotism that is wanting in the only element which gives a despot dignity, that he founds or strengthens a dynasty.”
“No, no, charming Princess,” said he, smiling; “it is a very glorious sovereignty, with unlimited resources and—a very handsome stipend.”