all mere parish parsons, and among them not one we could push. Very odd,
with more than forty livings too. But the Viponts seldom take to the
Church kindly: George must be pushed. The more I think of it, the more
we want a bishop: a bishop would be useful in the present CRISIS."
(Looking round the rooms proudly, and softening his voice), "A numerous
gathering, Morley! This demonstration will strike terror in Downing
Street, eh! The old House stands firm,--never was a family so united:
all here, I think,--that is, all worth naming,--all, except Sir James,
whom Montfort chooses to dislike, and George--and George comes
to-morrow."

COLONEL MORLEY.--"You forget the most eminent of all our connections,--
the one who could indeed strike terror into Downing Street, were his
voice to be heard again!"

CARR VIPONT.--"Whom do you mean? Ah, I know! Guy Darrell. His wife was
a Vipont; and he is not here. But he has long since ceased to
communicate with any of us; the only connection that ever fell away from
the House of Vipont, especially in a CRISIS like the present. Singular
man! For all the use he is to us, he might as well be dead! But he has
a fine fortune: what will he do with it?"

THE DUCHESS.--"My dear Lady Montfort, you have hurt yourself with that
paper cutter."

LADY MONTFORT.--"NO, indeed. Hush! we are disturbing Mr. Carr Vipont!"

The Duchess, in awe of Carr Vipont, sinks her voice, and gabbles on,
whisperously.