He shook the young man warmly by the hand.
"Tom, you are come in a good hour, and an evil one! I was just wishing I had you to stand by me.

What think you is the reply of those to whom I have proffered my claim on our behalf?
They will have nothing of it.

They will scarce give me a hearing.

I may go to the Duke of Marlborough with my tale, they tell me in some scorn, as though incredulous of my words, but they will have nought to do with it.

And will not even make an advance, whilst they know that to reach the Duke one must run many a peril and risk much money.