"Harkye, my good young friend," he said, lowering his tone, "I would not be overheard in what I have to say.

You were speaking just now of the shortest way to fortune.

I will point it out to you.

To him, who is bold enough to take it, and who hath the requisites for the venture, the shortest way is to be found at Court.

Where think you most of those gallants, of whom you may catch a glimpse through the traverse, derive their revenues ?--As I am a true gentleman!--from the royal coffers.