The Life of Sir Rowland Hill and the

1846] IN THE POST OFFICE AT LAST. 47
CHAPTER XVI.
JOINT SECRETARYSHIP. (1846-1848.)
THE scene of my
labours was henceforth to be in
that institution which had so long been the centre
of my thoughts ; and though the post assigned me
would, as I knew, give me but limited power for
attaining the ends I had in view, I still hoped by
patience and perseverance to make fair progress. I
now resumed the Journal which for four years had
been suspended :
" December ^th, 1846, Called on the Postmaster-General at his
house . . . Drove with him to the Post Office in his cab."
As we passed through Newgate Street, there was
a little incident of some amusement. The way being
blocked, there arose some of the abusive language
usually heard on such occasions against those who,
being immediately ahead, seem to stop the way; and
the Postmaster-General and his new secretary came in
for their full share. Upon looking
back we found
that the abuse, came from the driver of a mail-cart,
who was thus unconsciously railing at his official
superiors. Lord Clanricarde burst into a hearty
laugh ; showing, what I have often remarked, that
men under heavy official pressure seem more than
commonly pleased
with a little fun.