An English Party Whip

Reverting to the duties of a whip and patronage seoretary, in English politics, it is an astonishing fact that gentlemen of birth and social position can be found to fill the post. The junior whip"s duties are not only onerous, but irksome. They sit or stand in the outer lobby of the house from 3:30 to 12:30 at night and they ask every member who passes where he is going, whether he is paired, and when he will be back. If he is not paired they hare either to flnd a pair for him or to prevent him from passing out by coaxing or threats, the former. for preference. When their rjartv is in these gentlemen have to attend to their office from 12 to 3. Their hours of duty are therefore from lla. m. to 12 p. m., or thirteen hours, with intervals for lunch and dinner, and this they do for L1,000 a year. When their party is out they do it, minus their office work, for nothing. In addition to keeping an eye on his juniors, the chief whip, who has L2,000 a year, deals with the members on their more touchy side. It is he who practically distributes ribbons and titles and sees that cards of inv itation are sent to this man and that - that no one is given undue preference - a delicate duty which requires much tact and skill.