"I am the only proprietor of Ahadarra," he proceeded,
"and, as a matter of course, the whole fine falls on my shoulders."
"Ay, that's the devil of it; but at all events, Bryan, there is nothing
got in this world without exertion and energy. Mr. Chevydale,
the Member, is now at home: he has come down to canvass for the
coming-election. I would recommend you to see him at once. You know--but
perhaps you don't though--that his brother is one of the Commissioners
of Excise; so that I don't know any man who can serve you more
effectually than Chevydale, if he wishes."
"But what could he do?" asked Bryan.
"Why, by backing a memorial from you, stating the particulars, and
making out a strong case, he might get the fine reduced. I shall draw up
such a memorial if you wish."
"Thank you, Hycy--I'm obliged to you--these, I dare say, will be the
proper steps to take--thank you."
"Nonsense! but perhaps I may serve you a little in another way. I'm
very intimate with Harry Clinton, and who knows but I may be able to
influence the uncle a little through the nephew."
"It's whispered that you might do more through the niece," replied
Bryan, laughing; "is that true?"
"Nonsense, I tell you," replied Hycy, affecting confusion; "for Heaven's
sake, Bryan, say nothing about that; how did it come to your ears?"
"Faith, and that's more than I can tell you," replied the other; "but I
know I heard it somewhere of late.
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