it, for it struck him as a most
sensible and, in his own particular case, essential formality.

"But, on the present occasion, sir," proceeded the speaker, "I feel, as
all present must feel, that it would be unnecessary--nay, almost
impertinent--were I to weary the public ear by a halting recapitulation
of deeds with which it is already so appreciatively familiar." At this
he was interrupted by deafening and long-continued applause, at the end
of which he continued: "I have only therefore, to greet you in the name
of the Corporation, and to offer you the right hand of fellowship as a
Freeman, and Citizen, and Candlestick-maker of London."

As he shook hands he presented Horace with a copy of the Oath of
Allegiance, intimating that he was to read it aloud. Naturally,
Ventimore had not the least objection to swear to be good and true to
our Sovereign Lady Queen Victoria, or to be obedient to the Lord Mayor,
and warn him of any conspiracies against the Queen's peace which might
chance to come under his observation; so he took the oath cheerfully
enough, and hoped that this was really the end of the ceremony.

However, to his great chagrin and apprehension, the Lord Mayor rose with
the evident intention of making a speech. He said that the conclusion of
the City to bestow the highest honour in their gift upon Mr. Horace
Ventimore had been--here he hesitated--somewhat hastily arrived at.
Personally, he would have liked a longer time to prepare, to make the
display less inadequate to, and worthier of, this exceptional occasion.
He thought that was the general feeling. (It evidently was, judging from
the loud and unanimous cheering). However, for reasons which--for
reasons with which they were as well acquainted as himself, the notice
had been short. The Corporation had yielded (as they always did, as it
would always be their pride and pleasure to yield) to popular pressure
which was practically irresistible, and had done the best they could in
the limited--he might almost say the unprecedentedly limited--period
allowed them. The proudest leaf in Mr. Ventimore's chaplet of laurels
to-day was, he would venture to assert, the sight of the extraordinary
enthusiasm and assemblage, not only in that noble hall, but in the
thoroughfares of this mighty Metropolis. Under the circumstances, this
was a marvellous tribute to the admiration and affection which Mr.
Ventimore had succeeded in inspiring in the great heart of the people,
ric