“Dr. Shrapnel thinks it will not be loss of time for Captain Beauchamp to grow familiar with the place, and observe as well as read.”
“It sounds almost as if Captain Beauchamp had submitted to be Dr. Shrapnel’s pupil.”
“It is natural, madam, that Dr. Shrapnel should know more of political ways at present than Captain Beauchamp.”
“To Captain Beauchamp’s friends and relatives it appears very strange that he should have decided to contest this election so suddenly. May I inquire whether he and Dr. Shrapnel are old acquaintances?”
“No, madam, they are not. They had never met before Captain Beauchamp landed, the other day.”
“I am surprised, I confess. I cannot understand the nature of an influence that induces him to abandon a profession he loves and shines in, for politics, at a moment’s notice.”
Miss Denham was silent, and then said:
“I will tell you, madam, how it occurred, as far as circumstances explain it. Dr. Shrapnel is accustomed to give a little country feast to the children I teach, and their parents if they choose to come, and they generally do. They are driven to Northeden Heath, where we set up a booth for them, and try with cakes and tea and games to make them spend one of their happy afternoons and evenings. We succeed, I know, for the little creatures talk of it and look forward to the day. When they are at their last romp, Dr. Shrapnel speaks to the parents.”
“Can he obtain a hearing?” Rosamund asked.
“He has not so very large a crowd to address, madam, and he is much beloved by those that come.”