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36 convenient for the gaieties and the waters of the medicinal city.

As soon as the Earl had rubbed his eyes, stretched himself, and prepared for the untimeous colloquy, Brandon poured forth his excuses for the hour he had chosen for a visit.

"Mention it not, my dear Brandon," said the good-natured nobleman, with a sigh; "I am glad at any hour to see you, and I am very sure, that what you have to communicate is always worth listening to."

"It was only upon public business, though of rather a more important description than usual, that I ventured to disturb you," answered Brandon, seating himself on a chair by the bedside. "This morning—an hour ago—I received by private express, a letter from London, stating that a new arrangement will positively be made in the Cabinet—nay, naming the very promotions and changes; I confess, that as my name occurred, as also your own, in these nominations, I was anxious to have the benefit of your necessarily accurate knowledge on the subject, as well as of your advice."