Sir Leicester is distinctly heard to gasp before speaking. “Did I understand you? Did you say that Mr. Rouncewell had been very active in this election?”
“Uncommonly active.”
“Against—”
“Oh, dear yes, against you. He is a very good speaker. Plain and emphatic. He made a damaging effect, and has great influence. In the business part of the proceedings he carried all before him.”
It is evident to the whole company, though nobody can see him, that Sir Leicester is staring majestically.
“And he was much assisted,” says Mr. Tulkinghorn as a windup, “by his son.”
“By his son, sir?” repeats Sir Leicester with awful politeness.
“By his son.”
“The