Money, however, would be needed.

But when Crispin announced that he was master of some two hundred Caroluses, Hogan, with a wave of the hand, declared the matter settled.

Less than half that sum would hire the man he knew of.

That determined, Crispin unfolded his project to Hogan, who laughed at the simplicity of it, for all that inwardly he cursed the risk Sir Crispin must run for the sake of one so unworthy.
"If the maid loves him, the thing is as good as done." "The maid does not love him; leastways, I fear not." Hogan was not surprised.
"Why, then it will be difficult, well-nigh impossible." And the Irishman became grave.
But Crispin laughed unpleasantly.

Years and misfortune had made him cynical.
"What is the love of a maid ?" quoth he derisively.