Lord Carnarvon afterwards spoke to me with regret at my resolution.

He had a conversation with Mr.
D'Israeli, and it was agreed that if possible I should be brought in by a compromise without a contest.

But it appeared doubtful afterwards whether the Liberals would consent to this without fuller pledges than I could consent to give.

I was asked if I would stand anyhow (contest or not), or whether I would allow myself to be nominated in their interest for any other place when a vacancy should occur.

I said, No.