Page:Eliot - Felix Holt, the Radical, vol. II, 1866.djvu/148

138 Labron might have shown himself, if not Lukyn. I could have alleged business myself if I had thought proper."

"Here he comes, I think," said Mr Wace, turning round on hearing a movement near the small door on a level with the platform. "By George! it's Mr Debarry. Come now, this is handsome."

Mr Wace and Mr Pendrell clapped their hands, and the example was followed even by most of the Dissenters. Philip was aware that he was doing a popular thing, of a kind that Treby was not used to from the elder Debarrys; but his appearance had not been long premeditated. He was driving through the town towards an engagement at some distance, but on calling at Labron's office he had found that the affair which demanded his presence had been deferred, and so had driven round to the Free School. Christian came in behind him.

Mr Lyon was now roused from his abstraction, and, stepping from his slight elevation, begged Mr Debarry to act as moderator or president on the occasion.

"With all my heart," said Philip. "But Mr Sherlock has not arrived, apparently?"

"He tarries somewhat unduly," said Mr Lyon.

"Nevertheless there may be a reason of which we