human
How long is it, inquired the earl, addressing his daughter,
gpt
Lady Cecilia could not say.
human
Stay--now I recollect--surely it was just before my appointment to the Household. Yes; it was about that time, I now recollect. I am alluding, Mr. Titmouse, continued the earl, addressing him in a very gracious manner,
gpt
Dear me, my Lord! Indeed! Only to think, your Lordship!
human
That, sir, was an office of great importance, and I had some hesitation in undertaking its responsibility. But, sir, when I had once committed myself to my sovereign and my country, I resolved to give them my best services. I had formed plans for effecting very extensive alterations, sir, in that department of the public service, which I have no doubt would have given great satisfaction to the country, as soon as the nature of my intentions became generally understood; when faction, sir, unfortunately prevailed, and we were compelled to relinquish office.
gpt
Dear me, my Lord! How particular sorry I am to hear it, my Lord!
human
Sir, it gives me sincere satisfaction, said the earl, after a pause,
gpt
Oh yes! my Lord, quite; _sure_ of that
human
I assure you, sir, that some little acquaintance with the genius and spirit of the British constitution has satisfied me that this country can never be safely or advantageously governed except on sound Whig principles.
gpt
Yes, my Lord; it's quite true, your Lordship
human
That, sir, is the only way I know of, by which aristocratic institutions can be brought to bear effectively upon, to blend harmoniously with the interests of the lower orders--_the people_, Mr. Titmouse. Titmouse thought this wonderfully fine, and sat listening as to an oracle of political wisdom. The earl, observing it, began to form a much higher opinion of his little kinsman.
gpt
The unfortunate gentleman, your predecessor at Yatton, sir, if he had but allowed himself to have been guided by those who had mixed in public affairs before he was born,
human
Shall I have the honor of taking another glass of wine with you, sir?