It is related of a Lord Radnor in Chesterfield’s time, that, with many
good qualities, and no inconsiderable share of learning, he had a strong
desire of being thought skilful in physic, and was very expert in
bleeding. Lord Chesterfield knew his foible, and on a particular
occasion, wanting his vote, came to him, and, after having conversed
upon indifferent matters, complained of the headach, and desired his
lordship to feel his pulse. Lord Radnor immediately advised him to lose
blood. Chesterfield complimented his lordship on his chirurgical skill,
and begged him to try his lancet upon him. “A propos,” said lord
Chesterfield, after the operation, “do you go to the house today?” Lord
Radnor answered, “I did not intend to go, not being sufficiently
informed of the question which is to be debated; but you, that have
considered it, which side will you be of?”--The wily earl easily
directed his judgment, carried him to the house, and got him to vote as
he pleased. Lord Chesterfield used to say, that none of his friends had
been as patriotic as himself, for he had “_lost his blood for the good
of his country_.”
* * * * *
~Social Happiness.~