loyment
to which the nation called me, though there may have been passion and
mistakes, I have endeavored to discharge the duty of an honest man."

There was a low murmur of assent, then a pause, then a hush, and then
Michael Sunlocks continued:

"But, gentlemen, I have come to see that I am not able for such a
trust as the burden of this government, and I now beg to be dismissed
of my charge."

Then the silence was broken by many exclamations of surprise. They
fell on the ear of Michael Sunlocks like the ground-swell of a
distant sea. His white face quivered, but his eye was bright, and he
did not flinch.

"It is no doubt your concernment to know what events and what
convictions have so suddenly influenced me, and I can only claim your
indulgence in withholding that part of both that touches the interests
of others. For myself, I can but say that I have made mistakes and
lost self-confidence; that being unable to manage my own affairs I am
unwilling to undertake the affairs of the nation; that I am convinced
I am unfit for the great place I hold; that any name were fitter than
mine for my post, any person fitter than I am for its work; and I say
this from my heart, God knows."

He was listened to in silence but amid a tumult of unheard emotion,
and as he went on his voice, though still low, was so charged with
suppressed feeling that it seemed in that dead stillness to rise to a
cry.

"Gentlemen," he said, "though this may come on you with surprise do
not think it has been lightly resolved upon, or that it is to me a
little thing to renounce the honor with the burden of government; I
will deal plainly and faithfully with you and say that all my heart
was in the work you gave me, and though I held my life in my hand, I
was willing to adventure it in that high place where the judgment of
Althing placed me. So if I beg of you to release me I sacrifice more
by my resignation than you by your dismissal. If I had pride, heaven
has humbled it, and that is a righteous judgment of God. Young and
once hopeful, I am withdrawing from all sight of hope. I am giving up
my cherished ambitions and the chances of success. When I leave this
place you will see me no more. I am to be as nothing henceforward,
for the pole-star of my life is gone out. So not without feeling, not
without pain, I ask you to dismiss me and let me go my ways."

He sat down upon these words amid the stunned stupefaction of those
who heard him, and when