"
"Yes," replied his lordship, "I recollect--I think I did so, at your
request, and I think I heard some one say that you have behaved well,
and had been mentioned in the despatches."
"Yes, my lord," replied I, "and I have since passed my examination for
lieutenant."
"Well, child, I'm glad to hear it. Remember me to your father and
family." And his lordship cast his eyes down upon the book which he had
been reading.
My father's observations appeared to be well grounded, but I would not
leave the room until I had made some further attempt.
"Has your lordship heard from my uncle?"
"Yes," replied he, "I had a letter from him yesterday. The child is
quite well. I expect them all here in a fortnight or three weeks, to
live with me altogether. I am old--getting very old, and I shall have
much to arrange with your uncle before I die."
"If I might request a favour of your lordship, it would be to beg that
you would interest yourself a little in obtaining my promotion. A letter
from your lordship to the First Lord--only a few lines--"
"Well, child, I see no objection--only--I am very old, too old to write
now." And his lordship again commenced reading.
I must do Lord Privilege the justice to state that he evidently was fast
verging to a state of second childhood. He was much bowed down since I
had last seen him, and appeared infirm in body as well as mind.
I waited at least a quarter of an hour before his lordship looked up.
"What, not gone yet, child? I thought you had gone home.
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