“Did papa really say that?”
Edward nodded.
“Oh! won’t that be glorious! And I can go up to town for the season. Shall we be so very poor, Edward? Shall we have to live in a garret when we go to London, and shall I have to sit in the Ladies’ Gallery in a print frock whilst you make your maiden speech in fustian.”
“Not so bad as that, Eleanor mine. But I’m not in yet. Can you wait; will you wait?”
“Wait, you know I will wait, sir. Besides, we shan’t have to wait long. You’re sure to be elected as soon as you try. I wish there was an election to-morrow. I’ll canvas for you, Edward!”
“And bribe the electors as the Duchess bribed for Fox?”
“Are Yorkshiremen very fond of kisses, sir?”
“What should you say?”
“Well, yes. Pretty fair. There, that will do. Oh! I am so happy. Edward Beaumont, M.P. You’ll be Sir Edward in no time and a Peer before your first twinge of the gout.”
“They don’t make Peers of men whose greatest worldly wealth is a beautiful wife. At least, they don’t now-a-days.”