DUM BARTON."

_Business done._--More than ever.

_Friday._--Met BROOKFIELD in corridor just now. Capital fellow
BROOKFIELD, though not very well known in House, much less to
fame outside. Was in the 13th Hussars; is now promoted to the
Lieutenant-Colonelcy of 1st Cinque Ports Rifle Volunteers. Has sat for
Rye these seven years, but never yet spoke. This the more remarkable
since he is a trained student of art of public speaking; has, indeed,
just written profound treatise on the business. FISHER UNWIN sent me
copy from Paternoster Square. Sat up all night reading it. The speech
of "our worthy Member," proposing "The Town and Trade of X," is
thrilling. Another, put into the mouth of "the youngest bachelor
present," responding for "the Ladies," makes your flesh creep.
BROOKFIELD's idea novel and ingenious. Sets forth what he calls a
conventional speech. This fills up Column A. In Column B. he comments
on it, rather severely sometimes; in Column C. throws out suggestions
which, duly followed, make speech perfect. All possible occasions
are dealt with, whether responding for Bishop and Clergy, Army, Navy,
Reserve Forces, House of Commons, or House of Lords. BROOKFIELD,
moreover, goes behind the scenes; shows the wretched man who has to
make speech preparing it. You see him making up his mind what he has
to say; jotting down a note; revising it after asking everyone he
meets what he thinks of it. Then you write out your speech; learn it
off; get up to address company; things swim before your eyes; tongue
cleaves to roof of mouth; and you sit down.

[Illustration: An Apt Pupil.]