But, my cautious friend, these letters are so addressed, and the persons to whom they are addressed so disguised, that you will run no danger in conversing with them.

Without their aid, indeed, you will not be able to obtain the accurate information you go in search of.

None can tell so exactly how the wind sets, as the pilot whose vessel is exposed to the storm.

Besides, though you Protestants deny our priesthood the harmlessness of the dove, you are ready enough to allow us a full share of the wisdom of the serpent; in plain terms, their means of information are extensive, and they are not deficient in the power of applying it.

I therefore wish you to have the benefit of their intelligence and advice, if possible." "Whatever you impose upon me as a part of my duty, madam, rely on its being discharged punctually," answered Peveril.