The Life of Sir Rowland Hill and the

1848] APPLICATIONS AND DELAYS. 97
quer, but without definite result. He added, however,
that, as I had to see the Chancellor on other business,
I had better discuss the matter with him myself, and go
fully into the subject. I accordingly
saw the Chancellor
of the Exchequer at the earliest opportunity. After
having discussed with him my more immediate business,
which related to my undivided control of the
Money Order Department, a point on which I was
fortunate enough to obtain his concurrence, I deemed
it inexpedient to enter on further measures, especially
as he was much pressed for time. I told him, however,
that I thought it right to say that the step about
to be taken would necessarily lead to further mea-
sures ; on which he said, " I hav no objection to
that."
Meantime I had the satisfaction to remark various
indications of that increased confidence in myself,
on which, of course, the desired promotion must
be based. Early in the year 1848, however, I saw
reason to apprehend that, without prompt action on
my part, I myself might be subject to ejection. The
clerks in the money-order division of the Secretary's
department were alarmed by information that attempts
were making to remove me, and all under me, to the
Money Order Office over the way, a change which
would have put my retention of office quite out of the
question. The clerks, whose salary and position would
have suffered by this removal, memorialized the Post-
master-General on
Lord Clanricarde,
the subject. Upon speaking to
I learned that some such suggestion
had been made, but presently abandoned. I took
advantage
of the alarm to obtain for those under me
full security as to their position and salary.
Some months later, circumstances again led me
to mention my claim. Increase of business in the
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