"Oh, no, certainly!—we cannot be too cautious," echoed the two repeaters.
"It is a glorious circumstance, however," said Dr. Hardman, "that the choice of the Queen rests entirely with the people; their voice alone will decide the glorious struggle, and their free unbiassed opinions alone give the Monarchy its future Queen."
"Yes," said Lord Maysworth, "it is true, it rests with them alone to decide the question; and for this reason do you not think it will be as well, my lords, for each of us to repair to his country seat, and endeavour, by his influence in the neighbourhood, to procure the election of such deputies as may be disposed to vote favourably to our wishes."
"The plan is excellent!" cried Dr. Hardman.
"Excellent!" exclaimed Lord Gustavus.
"Excellent!" echoed his attendant satellites.
"Then it only remains for us to put it in execution," said Lord Maysworth.
"If the princess will excuse my absence—" began Lord Gustavus.
"Oh, my Lord!" interrupted Rosabella hastily, for she dreaded his long speeches beyond the power of description, "think not of me: I must be, indeed, unreasonable, if I could complain of your absence, when it is for my service you will be employed."
"The princess speaks like an oracle," said Dr. Hardman; "and I think we cannot do better than put her wishes in execution."