He had an opponent, who, though not dangerous at first and not much of an orator, was rich and was reported to be gaining votes every day.

Hippolyte Ceres, banishing both dull security and foolish alarm from his mind, redoubled his care.

His chief method of action was by public meetings at which he spoke vehemently against the rival candidate.

His committee held huge meetings on Saturday evenings and at three o'clock on Sunday afternoons.

One Sunday, as he called on the Clarences, he found Eveline alone in the drawing-room.