"Now, what I am going to propose to you may seem disagreeable. I
take it for granted that we deal honourably--for my own purpose is
nothing to be ashamed of; and if, after hearing what I ask, you
don't care to undertake it, say so at once, and there's no harm
done."
"Well, let me know what it is?" replied the other, plucking at his
throat.
"Plainly then, I am engaged in election work. My motives are
political."
"Oh!"
"The man of whom we spoke the other day is standing as candidate for
a borough not very far from here--not _this_ town. Not long ago I
discovered that secret of his private life. I am going to use it
against him--to floor him with this disgrace. You understand?"
"Which side is he?"
"Liberal. But to a man of your large views, that of course makes no
difference."
"Not a bit!" Northway replied, obviously flattered. "You are a
Conservative, then?"
"Yes; I am Conservative. I think (as I am sure _you_ do) that
Liberalism is a mere name, used for the most part by men who want to
make tools of the people."
"Yes, I agree with that," said Northway, putting his head aside and
drawing in his cheeks.
Glazzard repressed a smile, and smoked for a moment.
"What I want you to do," he continued, "is this. To-morrow, by an
early train, you will go down to this borough I speak of. You will
find your way to the Court-house, and will get leave to make an
appeal for the magistrate's advice.
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