The feeling of doubt and uncertainty with which Bryan M'Mahon parted
from his landlord and Fethertonge, the agent, after the interview we
have already described, lost none of their strength by time. Hycy's
memorial had been entrusted to Chevydale, who certainly promised to put
his case strongly before the Commissioners of Excise; and Bryan at first
had every reason to suppose that he would do so. Whether in consequence
of that negligence of his promise, for which he was rather remarkable,
or from some sinister influence that may have been exercised over him,
it is difficult to say, but the fact was that Bryan had now only ten
days between him and absolute ruin. He had taken the trouble to write
to the Secretary of Excise to know if his memorial had been laid
before them, and supported by Mr. Chevydale, who, he said, knew the
circumstances, and received a reply, stating that no such memorial
had been sent, and that Mr. Chevydale had taken no steps in the matter
whatsoever. We shall not now enter into a detail of all the visits
he had made to his landlord, whom he could never see a second time,
however, notwithstanding repeated solicitations to that effect.
Fethertonge he did see, and always was assured by him that his case was
safe and in good hands.
"You are quite mistaken, Bryan," said he, "if you think that either he
or I have any intention of neglecting your affair.
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