It understood that fundamental principle of good government which lays down the axiom that none were to be trusted but those who had a visible and an extended interest in the country; for without these pledges of honesty and independence what had the elector to expect but bribery and corruption--a traffic in his dearest rights, and a bargaining that might destroy the glorious institutions under which he dwelt.

This part of the harangue was listened to in respectful silence, and shortly after the orator concluded; when the electors dispersed, with, no doubt, a better opinion of themselves and the constitution than it had probably been their good fortune to entertain since the previous election.
Accident placed me at dinner (the house being crowded) at the same table with an attorney who had been very active the whole morning among the Householders, and who I soon learned, from himself, was the especial agent of the owner of the independent borough in question.

He told me that he had came down with the expectation of disposing of the whole property to Lord Pledge, the ministerial candidate named; but the means had not been forthcoming as he had been led to hope, and the bargain was unluckily broken off at the very moment when it was of the utmost importance to know to whom the independent electors rightfully belonged.
"His lordship, however," continued the attorney, winking, "has done what is handsome; and there can be no more doubt of his election than there would be of yours did you happen to own the borough." "And is the property now open for sale ?" I asked.
"Certainly-my principal can hold out no longer.

The price is settled, and I have his power of attorney to make the preliminary bargain.

'Tis a thousand pities that the public mind should be left in this undecided state on the eve of an election." "Then, sir, I will be the purchaser." My companion looked at me with astonishment and doubt.