"I thought," he said, "ours was government by discussion."
Ashe laughed, and, turning on the steps, he pointed to the splendid gardens and finely wooded park.
"Or government by country-houses—which? If you support us in this—as I gather you will—this walk will have been worth a debate—now won't it?"
The flattered journalist smiled, and they entered the house. From the inner hall Lord Grosville perceived them.
"Geoffrey Cliffe's arrived," he said to Ashe, as they reached him.
"Has he?" said Ashe, and turned to go up-stairs.
But Kershaw showed a lively interest. "You mean the traveller?" he asked of his host.
"I do. As mad as usual," said the old man. "He and my niece Kitty make a pair."