Alice Volume 1; Or, the Mysteries, a Sequel to "Ernest Maltravers" (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1838 Excerpt: ...of a sudden resignation in a formidable body, the whole government might be broken up, and a new one formed from among the resignees, it would obviously be the best plan. But, then, Lord Vargrave was doubtful of his own strength, and fearful to play into the hands of his colleagues, who might be able to stand even better without himself and his allies, and, by conciliating the opposition, take a step onward in political movement which might leave Vargrave placeless and powerless for years to come. He repented his own rashness in the recent debate, which was, indeed, a premature boldness that had sprung POLITICAL INTRIGUES.. 119 out of momentary excitement; for the craftiest orator must be indiscreet sometimes. He spent the next few days in alternately seeking to explain away to one party, and to sound, unite, and consolidate the other. His attempts in the one quarter were received by the premier with the cold politeness of an offended but careful statesman, who believed just as much as he chose, and preferred taking his own opportunity for a breach with a subordinate, to risking any imprudence by the gratification of resentment. In the last quarter, the penetrating adventurer saw that his ground was more insecure than he had anticipated. He perceived, in dismay and secret rage, that many of those most loud in his favour while he was with the government, would desert him the soonest if thrown out. Liked as a subordinate minister, he was viewed with very different eyes the moment it was a question whether, instead of cheering his sentiments, men should trust themselves to his guidance. Some did not wish to displease the government; others did not seek to weaken, but to correct them. One of his stanchest allies in the commons was a candidate for a peerage; ano...