of his cool judgment, and had he been in any other than the desperate
circumstances in which he was placed. His secret conscience whispered that
his recall was in consequence of the detection of some of his intrigues,
and he dreaded to appear before the haughty, irritated minister. Deceived
also by news from England that Lord Oldborough's dismission or resignation
could not be distant, Cunningham had ventured upon this bold stroke for an
embassy.

On Lord Oldborough's return from council, the commissioner, finding, from
his secret informants, that every thing had gone on smoothly, and being
over-awed by the confident security of the minister, began to doubt his
former belief; and, in spite of all the symptoms of change, was now
inclined to think that none would take place. The sorrow and contrition
with which he next appeared before Lord Oldborough were, therefore, truly
sincere; and when he found himself alone once more with his lordship,
earnest was the vehemence with which he disclaimed his unworthy son, and
disavowed all knowledge of the transaction.

"If I had seen cause to believe that you had any part in this transaction,
sir, you would not be here at this moment: therefore your protestations are
superfluous--none would be accepted if any were necessary."

The very circumstance of the son's not having trusted the father
completely, saved the commissioner, for this time, from utter ruin: he took
breath; and presently--oh, weak man! doomed never to know how to deal with
a strong character--fancying that his intercession might avail for his
son, and that the pride of Lord Oldborough might be appeased, and might be
suddenly wrought to forgiveness, by that tone and posture of submission
and supplication used only by the subject to offended majesty, he actually
threw himself at the feet of the minister.