That fellow Hugh will never do--by the way, that might be the beginning of an election rhyme! He's too much of a blackguard, and nowadays, you know, even a Tory candidate must preserve the decencies of life." Denzil mused, and muttered something indistinct.
"Now listen," pursued the speaker, shifting about in his chair.

"What I want to say is this: why shouldn't _you_ come forward ?" Quarrier pursed his lips, knit his brows, and grunted.
"I am very serious in thinking that you might be the best man we could find." And Mr.Liversedge went on to exhibit his reasons at some length.

As he listened, Denzil became restless, crossing and recrossing his legs, spreading his shoulders, smiling, frowning, coughing; and at length he jumped up.
"Look here, Toby!" he exclaimed, "is this a self-denying ordinance?
have you and Molly put your heads together to do me what you think a good turn ?" "I haven't spoken to her, I assure you.

I am sincere in saying that I don't wish to go through with it.

And I should be right heartily glad to see you come out instead." The face of the younger man worked with subdued excitement.