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138 ferently than we would the humblest labourer on your estate."

"I shall make no plea for preference, sir."

"But as I understand it, you are making a plea for preference. You have broken the law, and you ask us to do the same in your behalf."

"I sincerely beg your pardon, sir, but I come here with no such intention. If you tell me that the Council have not the power to authorise my cottages to remain, then I shall not say another word."

"Oh, it possesses the power right enough," replied he truculent Timmins.

"Then I submit, with all due respect, that in asking you to exercise this power I am not attempting to make you break the law."

"He's got you there, Timmins," said Mr. Grice, one of the farmers, with a hoarse laugh.

"What is it you propose, Lord Stranleigh?" asked Mr. Bennet, the other farmer, leaning forward.

"I propose, sir, to submit at once the plans of my cottages, which should have been placed before you at the beginning. When you examine them, I shall be pleased to carry out any alterations that are suggested."

"Well, I must say that seems a fair and reasonable proposition," said Mr. Bennet, looking toward the chairman.

"I agree with that," added Mr. Grice,

"May I say a word, Mr. Chairman?" put in a