The expression on Lord Clarendon's face betrayed no annoyance when Palmerston pierced through all his thoughts with a single remark. Seated in a chair, he maintained a usual demeanor as he asked Palmerston, "Mr. Palmerston, if I stand with you, what can I gain?"
"Gain what?" Palmerston glanced at Lord Clarendon, gently stroked his chin in thought for a moment, and then replied, "I can assure you, once I assume the position of Cabinet Prime Minister, you may remain in the Cabinet as the Foreign Minister!"
Lord Clarendon was slightly taken aback upon hearing Palmerston's promise, as he did not expect Palmerston's offer to be so generous.
"What? Are you dissatisfied with the position of Foreign Minister?" Palmerston inquired of Lord Clarendon.
