I arrived at Chiefswood yesterday. M. [Lockhart] had conceived that it was my father who was coming. He was led to believe this through Wright’s letter. In addition, therefore, to his natural reserve, there was, of course, an evident disappointment at seeing me. Everything looked as black as possible. I shall not detain you now by informing
* A solicitor in London, and friend of both parties, who had been consulted in the negotiations. |
| BENJAMIN DISRAELI AT CHIEFSWOOD. | 191 |
As regards his interest, I mentioned that he should be guaranteed, for three years, £1000 per annum, and should take an eighth of every paper which was established, without risk, his income ceasing on his so doing. These are much better terms than we had imagined we could have made. The agreement is thought extremely handsome, both by him and the Chevalier; but the income is not imagined to be too large. However, I dropped that point, as it should be arranged with you when we all meet.
The Chevalier breakfasted here to-day, and afterwards we were all three closeted together. The Chevalier entered into it excellently. He thought, however, that we could not depend upon Malcolm, Barrow, &c., keeping to it; but this I do not fear. He, of course, has no idea of your influence or connections. With regard to the delicate point I mentioned, the Chevalier is willing to make any sacrifice in his personal comforts for Lockhart’s advancement; but he feels that his son-in-law will “lose caste” by going to town without anything ostensible. He agrees with me that M. cannot accept an official situation of any kind, as it would compromise his independence, but he thinks Parliament for M. indispensable, and also very much to our interest. I dine at Abbotsford to-day, and we shall most probably again discuss matters.
Now, these are the points which occur to me. When M. comes to
town, it will be most important that it should be distinctly proved to him that
he will be supported by the great interests I have mentioned to him. He must
see that, through Powles, all America
and the Commercial Interest is at our beck; that Wilmot H., &c., not as mere under-secretary, but as our
private friend, is most staunch; that the Chevalier is firm; that the West India Interest
| 192 | MEMOIRS OF JOHN MURRAY |
The Chevalier and M. have unburthened themselves to me in a manner the most confidential that you can possibly conceive. Of M.’s capability, perfect complete capability, there is no manner of doubt. Of his sound principles, and of his real views in life, I could in a moment satisfy you. Rest assured, however, that you are dealing with a perfect gentleman. There has been no disguise to me of what has been done, and the Chevalier had a private conversation with me on the subject, of a nature the most satisfactory. With regard to other plans of ours, if we could get him up, we should find him invaluable. I have a most singular and secret history on this subject when we meet.
Now, on the grand point—Parliament. M. cannot be a representative of a Government borough. It is impossible. He must be free as air. I am sure that if this could be arranged, all would be settled; but it is “indispensable” without you can suggest anything else. M. was two days in company with X. this summer, as well as X.’s and our friend, but nothing transpired of our views. This is a most favourable time to make a parliamentary arrangement. What do you think of making a confidant of Wilmot H[orton]? He is the kind of man who would be right pleased by such conduct. There is no harm of Lockhart’s coming in for a Tory borough, because he is a Tory; but a Ministerial borough is impossible to be managed.
If this point could be arranged, I have no doubt that I shall
be able to organise, in the interest with which I am now engaged, a most
immense party, and a most serviceable one. Be so kind as not to leave the
vicinity of London, in case M. and myself come up suddenly; but I pray you, if
you have any real desire to establish a mighty engine, to exert yourself at
this present moment, and assist me to your very utmost. Write as soon as
possible, to give me some idea of your movements, and direct to me here, as I
shall then be sure to obtain your communication. The Chevalier and all here have the highest idea of Wright’s
| A DELICATE NEGOTIATION. | 193 |
