there are others equally influential, equally ill-treated. How is it
that I see no concert, among these individuals? How is it that, jealous
of each other, or each trusting that he may ultimately prove an
exception to the system of which he is a victim; how is it, I say, that
you look with cold hearts on each other's situation? My Lord Marquess,
it is at the head of these that I would place you, it is these that I
would have act with you; and this is the union which is strength."

"You are right, you are right; there is Courtown, but we do not speak;
there is Beaconsfield, but we are not intimate: but much might be done."

"My Lord, you must not be daunted at a few difficulties, or at a little
exertion. But as for Courtown, or Beaconsfield, or fifty other offended
men, if it can be shown to them that their interest is to be your
Lordship's friend, trust me, that ere six months are over, they will
have pledged their troth. Leave all this to me, give me your Lordship's
name," said Vivian, whispering most earnestly in the Marquess's ear, and
laying his hand upon his Lordship's arm; "give me your Lordship's name,
and your Lordship's influence, and I will take upon myself the whole
organisation of the Carabas party."

"The Carabas party! Ah! we must think more of this."

The Marquess's eyes smiled with triumph, as he shook Vivian cordially by
the hand, and begged him to call upon him on the morrow.




CHAPTER III