When Alfred arrived, Lord Oldborough was engaged with some gentlemen from the city about a loan. By the length of time which the negotiators stayed, they tried Alfred's patience; but the minister sat with immoveable composure, till they knew their own minds, and till they departed. Then, the loan at once dismissed from his thoughts, he was ready for Alfred.
"You have married, I think, Mr. Alfred Percy, since I saw you last--I congratulate you."
His lordship was not in the habit of noticing such common events; Alfred was surprised and obliged by the interest in his private affairs which this congratulation denoted.
"I congratulate you, sir, because I understand you have married a woman of sense. To marry a fool--to form or to have any connexion with a fool," continued his lordship, his c
