"And supposing these five points conceded," said Lord
Valentine, "what do you mean to do?"
"The people then being at length really represented," replied
one of the delegates, "they would decide upon the measures
which the interests of the great majority require."
"I am not so clear about that," said Lord Valentine; "that is
the very point at issue. I do not think the great majority
are the best judges of their own interests. At all events,
gentlemen, the respective advantages of aristocracy and
democracy are a moot point. Well then, finding the question
practically settled in this country, you will excuse me for
not wishing to agitate it. I give you complete credit for the
sincerity of your convictions; extend the same confidence to
me. You are democrats; I am an aristocrat. My family has
been ennobled for nearly three centuries; they bore a knightly
name before their elevation. They have mainly and materially
assisted in making England what it is. They have shed their
blood in many battles; I have had two ancestors killed in the
command of our fleets. You will not underrate such services,
even if you do not appreciate their conduct as statesmen,
though that has often been laborious, and sometimes
distinguished.
Pages:
371
372
373
374
375
376
377
378
379
380
381
382
383
384
385
386
387
388
389
390
391
392
393
394
395