should resolve ourselves into a committee for the election of the Lord

Protector, the member who had nominated Ryland, rose and informed us that

this candidate had resigned his pretensions. His information was at first

received with silence; a confused murmur succeeded; and, when the chairman

declared Lord Raymond duly chosen, it amounted to a shout of applause and

victory. It seemed as if, far from any dread of defeat even if Mr. Ryland

had not resigned, every voice would have been united in favour of our

candidate. In fact, now that the idea of contest was dismissed, all hearts

returned to their former respect and admiration of our accomplished friend.

Each felt, that England had never seen a Protector so capable of fulfilling

the arduous duties of that high office. One voice made of many voices,

resounded through the chamber; it syllabled the name of Raymond.

He entered. I was on one of the highest seats, and saw him walk up the

passage to the table of the speaker. The native modesty of his disposition

conquered the joy of his triumph. He looked round timidly; a mist seemed

before his eyes. Adrian, who was beside me, hastened to him, and jumping

down the benches, was at his side in a moment. His appearance re-animated

our friend; and, when he came to speak and act, his hesitation vanished,

and he shone out supreme in majesty and victory. The former Protector

tendered him the oaths, and presented him with the insignia of office,

performing the ceremonies of installation. The house then dissolved. The

chief members of the state crowded round the new magistrate, and conducted

him to the palace of government. Adrian suddenly vanished; and, by the time

that Raymond's supporters were reduced to our intimate friends merely,

returned leading Idris to congratulate her friend on his success.

133

The Last Man