He explained that, as the political lead was no longer in his hands, the chances were nine in ten that if he stirred at all he should make a blunder; that his friends expected him to do something when, in fact, nothing could be done; that every preparation had already been made, and that for him to go on an excursion to Mount Vernon, at this moment, with the British Minister, was, on the whole, about the best use he could make of his time, since it would hide him for one day at least.
Lord Skye had fallen into the habit of consulting Mrs.Lee when his own social resources were low, and it was she who had suggested this party to Mount Vernon, with Carrington for a guide and Mr.Gore for variety, to occupy the time of the Irish friend whom Lord Skye was bravely entertaining.
This gentleman, who bore the title of Dunbeg, was a dilapidated peer, neither wealthy nor famous.

Lord Skye brought him to call on Mrs.Lee, and in some sort put him under her care.

He was young, not ill-looking, quite intelligent, rather too fond of facts, and not quick at humour.
He was given to smiling in a deprecatory way, and when he talked, he was either absent or excited; he made vague blunders, and then smiled in deprecation of offence, or his words blocked their own path in their rush.

Perhaps his manner was a little ridiculous, but he had a good heart, a good head, and a title.

He found favour in the eyes of Sybil and Victoria Dare, who declined to admit other women to the party, although they offered no objection to Mr.
Ratcliffe's admission.