About the same time that the cannon announced that the corporation had quitted the town-hall, some one tapped at the chamber-door of Lord Eskdale, who was sealing a letter in his private room.
‘Well, Harris?’ said Lord Eskdale, looking up, and recognising his valet.
‘His Grace has been inquiring for your lordship several times,’ replied Mr. Harris, with a perplexed air.
‘I shall be with him in good time,’ replied his lordship, again looking down.
‘If you could manage to come down at once, my lord,’ said Mr. Harris.
‘Why?’
‘Mr. Leander wishes to see your lordship very much.’
‘Ah! Leander!’ said Lord Eskdale, in a more interested tone. ‘What does he want?’
‘I have not seen him,’ said Mr. Harris; ‘but Mr. Prevost tells me that his feelings are hurt.’
‘I hope he has not struck,’ said Lord Eskdale, with a comical glance.