His opponent was a most worthy and estimable squire, who resided in the neighbourhood.

It was, of course, my business to prove that he was a despicable knave and a drivelling idiot.

This I was engaged in doing at a public meeting in the town-hall.

The Philippics of Demosthenes were milk and water in comparison with my denunciations--when just at the critical moment--as I was carrying conviction into the breasts of the stolid Britons who were listening to me, the gas flickered and went out.

Three candles were brought in.