“Nothing has been left undone, my dear sir⁠—nothing whatever. There are twenty washed men at the street door for you to shake hands with; and six children in arms that you’re to pat on the head, and inquire the age of; be particular about the children, my dear sir⁠—it has always a great effect, that sort of thing.”

“I’ll take care,” said the Honourable Samuel Slumkey.

“And, perhaps, my dear Sir,” said the cautious little man, “perhaps if you could ⁠—I don’t mean to say it’s indispensable⁠—but if you could manage to kiss one of ’em, it would produce a very great impression on the crowd.”

“Wouldn’t it have as good an effect if the proposer or seconder did that?” said the Honourable Samuel Slumkey.

“Why, I am afraid it wouldn’t,” replied the agent; “if it were done by yourself, my dear Sir, I think it would make you very popular.”