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Rh in parliament; yet he invariably talked so like a man of honour—(except when with Mauleverer)—that his urbanity seemed attachment to individuals, and his concessions to power, sacrifices of private opinion for the sake of obliging his friends.

"I am very glad indeed," said the Royal Personage, "to see Mr. Brandon looking so much better. Never was the Crown in greater want of his services, and, if rumour speak true, they will soon be required in another department of his profession."

Brandon bowed, and answered:—

"So please your Royal Highness, they will always be at the command of a King from whom I have experienced such kindness—in any capacity for which His Majesty may deem them fitting."

"It is true then!" said His Royal Highness, significantly—"I congratulate you! The quiet dignity of the bench must seem to you a great change, after a career so busy and restless?"