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 "He's a surprising clever man!" said Lord Courtown.

" [sic]He's a surprising clever man!" echoed Lord Beaconsfield.

"Stop, my Lords," burst forth Vivian, "your good opinion deserves my gratitude, but these important matters do indeed require a moment's consideration. I trust that Sir Berdmore Scrope does not imagine that I am the vain idiot, to be offended at his most excellent remarks, even for a moment. Are we not met here for the common good—and to consult for the success of the common cause? Whatever my talents are, they are at your service—and, in your service, will I venture any thing; but surely, my Lords, you will not unnecessarily entrust this great business to a raw hand! I need only aver, that I am ready to follow any leader, who can play his great part in a becoming manner."

"Noble!" halloed the Marquess; who was now quite drunk.