'They were brave-hearted boys for the most part.

I might have had their names on my bills as long as their fingers could hold a pen, but slit me if I like bleeding my own companions.

They might have found a place for me, too, had I consented to play second-fiddle where I had been used to lead the band.

I' faith, I care not what I turn my hand to amongst strangers, but I would fain leave my memory sweet in town.' 'As to what you proposed, of serving us as a valet,' said I, 'it is not to be thought of.

We are, in spite of my friend's waggishness, but two plain blunt countrymen, and have no more need of a valet than one of those poets which you have spoken of.