"One of them has just entered the council-chamber," observed Lord Gustavus; "I presume he brings the usual daily bulletin of her Majesty's health: is it your pleasure, my lords, that he be examined?"
"By all means!" cried all the noble lords simultaneously, and Dr. Hardman advanced.
"How is her most gracious Majesty?" asked Lord Gustavus, with his usual solemnity.
"Alas! my lord," said Dr. Hardman, "her Majesty has slept badly, and is much worse this morning."
"Is she still delirious?" asked the Duke of Essex.
"Quite, your Grace," returned the doctor, shaking his head.
"Then I fear there is no hope?" said the duke.
"None!" said Lord Noodle, shaking his head.
"None!" echoed Lord Doodle, shaking his.
"Thinking as I think, and as I am sure every one here must think," said Lord Gustavus, "we must not suffer the interests of the people to be invaded with impunity. The constitution requires watching over, and I consider this a matter that ought to be inquired into."