"Because it cannot be ready sooner," said Mr.Daubeny.

"When the honourable gentleman has achieved a position which will throw upon him the responsibility of bringing forward some great measure for the benefit of his country, he will probably find it expedient to devote some little time to details.

If he do not, he will be less anxious to avoid attack than I am." A Minister can always give a reason; and, if he be clever, he can generally when doing so punish the man who asks for it.

The punishing of an influential enemy is an indiscretion; but an obscure questioner may often be crushed with good effect.
Mr.Monk's advice to Phineas was both simple and agreeable.

He intended to support Mr.Gresham, and of course counselled his friend to do the same.
"But you supported Mr.Daubeny on the Address before Christmas," said Phineas.
"And shall therefore be bound to explain why I oppose him now;--but the task will not be difficult.