Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/180

 would arouse the country in two directions; first, regarding the ease with which you landed your men, and secondly, through sympathy with you, whose intention had been to awake the people to their danger. There would be agitation for your release, and the whole question of coastal defence would be ventilated thoroughly."

"Excellent, excellent! I will finance the expedition, and you, Blake, shall lead it. The glory of martyrdom shall be yours."

"I'm so capable a private secretary that I could not think of depriving your lordship of my services."

"True, Blake, true. Besides, we are both going in for the rest-cure."

"Nothing better for that than one of his Majesty's prisons, my lord."

"I never contradict a man of experience, Blake. Send the writer of this letter fifty pounds for it; tell him it will be thought over, and if adopted, an additional four hundred and fifty forwarded. We are now heading for the simple life, and freedom from brain work. How long will it take you to pack up?"

"Oh, half an hour."

"All right! Tell the chauffeur to have the car round in that time, with petrol enough to run us