Page:The life and letters of Sir John Henniker Heaton bt. (IA lifelettersofsi00port).pdf/54

 young officer entreated and implored. Labouchere was adamant, and his visitor left vowing he was a ruined man.

A few hours later a weeping woman, accompanied by two sobbing children, was shown in. The young wife threw herself on her knees and begged Labouchère to forgive her husband's debt, as he had not got the money and threatened to commit suicide—she would be left a widow, her children fatherless. Labouchère remained unmoved, and explained he could under no circumstances overlook the debt. Early the next morning the Russian officer, looking wild and haggard, strode into Labouchère's office. "I am a dead man," he said, "and my blood is on your head. I have not the money to pay you and I cannot face the disgrace." He pulled a loaded pistol from his pocket and held it at his head. Still Labouchère made no move. The Russian then said, "I shall count ten slowly and if you do not alter your decision, you will be to all intents a murderer. One—two—three—four—five—six." At "six" Labouchère produced a cigar and lighted it. "Seven—eight—nine—ten." At the word "ten" the Russian plunged his left hand into his coat and dashed down a pocketbook with bank notes for the full amount due. "Ten thousand curses on you, cold-blooded Englishman," he shouted, as he flung himself from the room.

"I knew he was lying from the first," explained Labouchère blandly.

H. H., like many another onlooker, saw much of the game. The courtesies of the House never lost their interest for him. When the word is passed that a new Member has risen for his maiden speech, the members will come trooping in to give him an