How then shall I accomplish an introduction at Court, when I know not even its humblest attendant ?" "I have already said you were lucky in meeting with me," Sir Francis replied; "and I find you were luckier than I supposed, when I told you so; for I knew not then towards what bent your desires tended, nor in what way I could help you; but now, finding out the boldness of your flight, and the high game you aim at, I am able to offer you effectual assistance, and give you an earnest of a prosperous issue.

Through my means you shall be presented to the king, and in such sort that the presentation shall not be idly made.

It will rest then with yourself to play your cards dexterously, and to follow up a winning game.

Doubtless, you will have many adversaries, who will trip up your heels if they can, and throw every obstacle in your way; but if you possess the strong arm I fancy you do, and daring to second it, you have nothing to fear.

As I am a true gentleman! you shall have good counsel, and a friend in secret to back you." "To whom am I indebted for this most gracious and unlooked-for offer ?" the young man asked, his breast heaving, and his eye flashing with excitement.
"To one you may perchance have heard of," the knight answered, "as the subject of some misrepresentation; how justly applied, you yourself will be able to determine from my present conduct.