And Mr. Scruby at last did as much for George Vavasor as he had done for the hero of the Hamlets. At the close of the poll Vavasor's name stood at the head by a considerable majority, and Scruby comforted him by saying that Travers certainly wouldn't stand the expense of a petition, as the seat was to be held only for a few months.
"And you've done it very cheap, Mr. Vavasor," said Scruby, "considering that the seat is metropolitan. I do say that you have done it cheap. Another thousand, or twelve hundred, will cover everything--say thirteen, perhaps, at the outside. And when you shall have fought the battle once again, you'll have paid your footing, and the fellows will let you in almost for nothing after that."
A further sum of thirteen hundred pounds was wanted at once, and then the whole thing was to be repeated over again in six months' time! This was not consolatory. But, nevertheless, there was a triumph in the thing itself which George Vavasor was man enough to enjoy. It would be something to have sat in the House of Commons, though it should only have been for half a session.
And Mr. Scruby at last did as much for George. At the close of the poll, Vavasor's name stood at the head by a considerable majority.
"You've done it very cheap, Mr. Vavasor," said Scruby. "Another thousand, or twelve hundred, will cover everything - say thirteen, perhaps. And when you've fought the battle once again, you'll have paid your footing, and the fellows will let you in almost for nothing after that."
A further thirteen hundred pounds was wanted at once, and then the whole thing was to be repeated in six months' time! This was not a comfort. But, nevertheless, it was a triumph which George Vavasor was man enough to enjoy. It would be something to have sat in the House of Commons, even if only for half a session.