They would have thought, who heard his words,
They saw in Britain's cause a patriot stand,
The proud defender of his land,
To aw'd and list'ning senates speaking;--
But as his fingers touch'd the purse's strings,
The chinking metal made a magic sound,
While hungry placemen gather'd fast around:
And he, as if by chance or play,
Or that he would their venal votes repay,
The golden treasures round upon them flings.
* * * * *
SIR ROBERT PEEL AND THE QUEEN.
Upon the first interview of the Queen with Sir Robert Peel, her Majesty
was determined to answer only in monosyllables to all he said; and, in
fact, to make her replies _an echo_, and nothing more, to whatever he said
to her. The following dialogue, which we have thrown into verse for the
purpose of smoothing it--the tone of it, as spoken, having been on one
side, at least, rather rough--ensued between the illustrious persons
alluded to.
HE.--Before we into minor details go,
Do I possess your confidence or no?
SHE.--_No._
HE.--You shall not vex me, though your treatment's rough;
No, madam, I am made of sterner stuff.
SHE.--_Stuff._
HE.--Really, if thus your minister you flout,
A single syllable he can't get out.
SHE.
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