Portland was angry, and the more angry because he could not but perceive that his enemies enjoyed his anger, and that even his friends generally thought it unreasonable; nor did he take any pains to conceal his vexation.

But he was the very opposite of the vulgar crowd of courtiers who fawn on a master while they betray him.

He neither disguised his ill humour, nor suffered it to interfere with the discharge of his duties.

He gave his prince sullen looks, short answers, and faithful and strenuous services.

His first wish, he said, was to retire altogether from public life.