The good folk will laugh at me for it, but they will not take fright.

God's truth, but it is a devilish tangle.

I could wish I had your part, sir, and be free to ride out on a gallant venture.

Here I have none of the zest of war, but only a thousand cares and the carking task of soothing fools." We spoke of many things, and I gave him a full account of the composition and strength of our levies.

When I left he paid me a compliment, which, coming from so sardonic a soul, gave me peculiar comfort.
"I have seen something of men and cities, sir," he said, "and I know well the foibles and the strength of my countrymen; but I have never met your equal for cold persistence.