"I don't think we ought to do it," interrupted the King.

"If the Bishops give way in time, sir, it will be unnecessary."

"Will you consent to my seeing the Archbishop about it?" inquired the
King, much perturbed.

"Sir, I have already seen him."

"Well, what did he say?"

"He said a good many things, and said them very well. His general
impression seemed to be that we should not dare to do it. That is where
he is mistaken."

"You have to consult me also," remarked the King.

"Sir, that is what I am now doing." The Prime Minister bowed with the
utmost deference.

"You put me in a great difficulty!"

"I am sorry that your Majesty should make difficulty," retorted the
Premier dryly.

"You seem to forget," pursued the King, "that I am sworn to maintain
both Church and Constitution as established by law."

"Sir, we propose nothing unconstitutional."