Well, Ratler, my guide and philosopher, how is it going to be ?" Mr.Ratler had joined them, but was still standing before the seat they occupied, not condescending to sit down in amicable intercourse with a man as to whom he did not yet know whether to regard him as a friend or foe.

"We shall be very quiet for the next month or six weeks," said Ratler.
"And then ?" asked Phineas.
"Well, then it will depend on what may be the number of a few insane men who never ought to have seats in the House." "Such as Mr.Monk and Mr.Turnbull ?" Now it was well known that both those gentlemen, who were recognised as leading men, were strong Radicals, and it was supposed that they both would support any bill, come whence it might, which would separate Church and State.
"Such as Mr.Monk," said Ratler.

"I will grant that Turnbull may be an exception.

It is his business to go in for everything in the way of agitation, and he at any rate is consistent.

But when a man has once been in office,--why then--" "When he has taken the shilling ?" said Phineas.