Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/78

 Yes, my lord."

"Did the villagers apply to Mr. Barnacle themselves?"

"I believe they did, my lord. A public meeting was held some months ago, at which it was stated that the books at the Village Hall had all been read over and over again, and it was unanimously voted that application should be made to Mr. Barnacle. After some investigation that gentleman agreed to build and equip a library."

"I see. Did any one propose application to me?"

"I think not, my lord."

"Do you know why?"

"Well; I suppose they did not wish to trouble your lordship, as you had already done a great deal for the village."

"That's all very well, Wilson, but I think you should have looked after my affairs a little more closely than has been the case, and I ought to have been communicated with, as lord of the manor, before an appeal was made to a stranger."

"It never occurred to me that Mr. Barnacle would consent, because Stranleigh village is rather an unimportant hamlet. Still, your lordship has now an opportunity of assisting. It is proposed that a delegation wait upon you for the purpose of obtaining