‘That’s my name, sir.’
‘I am Sir Watkin Strahan,’ was the reply, as he handed his card to Wentworth.
‘Pray walk in, Sir Watkin.’
Sir Watkin complied with the request.
Taking a chair, and lighting a cigar offered him by Wentworth, who did the same, the stranger continued:
‘I am commissioned to call on you by Mr. Blank,’ naming the proprietor of a morning journal with which Mr. Wentworth was connected. ‘The fact is, we are on the eve of a General Election.’
‘I am perfectly aware of that,’ said Wentworth, smiling.
‘Undoubtedly; and I come to solicit your aid.’
‘How can I help you?’
‘Why, the fact is, I am anxious for a seat in Parliament.’