'I thought that--the two sides were--'

She was going to express an opinion that the two parties might be
supposed to stand as equal in the respect of the country, when he
interrupted her. 'The Pallisers have always been Liberal. It will
be a blow to me, indeed, if Silverbridge deserts his colours. I
know that as yet he himself has had no deep thoughts on the
subject, that unfortunately he does not give himself much to
thinking, and that in this matter he is being taken over by a
young man whose position in life hardly justified the great
intimacy which has existed.'

This was very far from being comfortable to her, but of course she
said nothing in defence of Tregear's politics. Nor at present was
she disposed to say anything to his position in life, though at
some future time she might not be so silent. A few days later they
were again walking together, when he spoke to her about himself.
'I cannot bear that you should be left her alone while I am away,'
he said.

'You will not be long gone, I suppose?'

'Only for three of four days now.'

'I shall not mind, papa.'

'But very probably I may have to go to Barsetshire. Would you not
be happier if you would let me write to Lady Cantrip, and tell her
that you will go to her?'