“Yes, my lady. Her father has shares in one of the great music-halls, the Orphoean. I am told that she is quite the rage. You see, some of the young people here knew her at school. Such things quite spoil them for service.”
“And all originating in this dreadful racing, Mr Trimmer. If it had not been for this, Mr Simpkins—”
“Exactly, my lady; but I beg your pardon for introducing so unpleasant a subject.”
“Do not apologise, Mr Trimmer; it was quite right. I must see the parents of any of the girls who have tendencies in that direction, and Daniel Smart’s daughter must certainly be brought back.”
“Yes, my lady,” said the agent. “Now let us change the subject. How is Sir Hilton’s canvass progressing?”
“Admirably, my lady. You see, we have all the influence upon our side; but I think it is about time now for Sir Hilton to show a little—just a little—more interest in the matter.”
“Of course, Mr Trimmer; he shall.”
“He need not do much, my lady, beyond a little visiting amongst the voters, and, say, addressing three or four meetings. Our Parliamentary agent has prepared the heads of a very telling speech for him, a summary of which, my lady, you will find in that packet marked ‘b’ and endorsed ‘Address.’”
“Certainly! Will go into the matter with Sir Hilton. His election will follow in due course.”
“Yes, my lady—it is a certainty. Lord Beltower has withdrawn.”