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., etc., not as mere
under-secretary, but as our private friend, is most staunch; that the
Chevalier is firm; that the West India Interest will pledge themselves
that such men and in such situations as Barrow, etc., etc., are
_distinctly in our power_; and finally, that he is coming to London, not
to be an Editor of a Newspaper, but the Director-General of an immense
organ, and at the head of a band of high-bred gentlemen and important
interests.

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