Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/212

 "They don't think."

The Minister laughed.

"You are pessimistic, I see, but we must talk further about your project and the cause of its failure. It seems to me that in the hands of the right man it should succeed, that is, premising the scheme were sound. Now, in a couple of weeks I shall take up residence by the sea, in Walmer Castle, which has been very kindly placed at my disposal during the hot weather by my friend, the Warden of the Cinque Ports. I shall have with me some of the minor members of the Government, who are quite interesting, although they hold subordinate positions. I should be delighted if you would spend a week-end with me, when we could thresh out these important matters."

"Walmer Castle," mused Stranleigh. "That's near Deal, isn't it?"

"Within half a mile of Deal and golf."

"Well, I'll visit you if I can, and many thanks for the invitation. I hope the spirit of the ancient stronghold will act upon that Celtic temperament of yours."

"What do you mean?"

"Why, in Walmer Castle the great of England have resided. The Duke of Wellington died there,