When our claims were just in themselves, you surely could not have wished to see them abandoned." "Far from it; but when claims were disputed, is it not natural for the loser to view them as a hardship?
I believe we should have had a much better neighbourhood, as you call it, with France, had not the modern difficulties connected with religious changes, occurred." "I presume you know.

Sir Reginald, that I, and all my family are Protestants." "I do, Admiral Bluewater; and I rejoice to find that a difference of opinion on this great interest, does not necessarily produce one on all others.

From several little allusions that have passed between us to-day, I am encouraged to believe that we think alike on certain temporal matters, however wide the chasm between us on spiritual things." "I confess I have fallen into the same conclusion; and I should be sorry to be undeceived if wrong." "What occasion, then, for farther ambiguity?
Surely two honourable men may safely trust each other with their common sentiments, when the times call for decision and frankness! I am a Jacobite, Admiral Bluewater; if I risk life or fortune by making the avowal, I place both, without reserve at your mercy." "They could not be in safer hands, sir; and I know no better mode of giving you every possible assurance that the confidence will not be abused, than by telling you in return, that I would cheerfully lay down my life could the sacrifice restore the deposed family to the throne." "This is noble, and manly, and frank, as I had hoped from a sailor!" exclaimed Sir Reginald, more delighted than he well knew how to express at the moment.

"This simple assurance from your lips, carries more weight than all the oaths and pledges of vulgar conspiracy.

We understand each other, and I should be truly sorry to inspire less confidence than I feel." "What better proof can I give you of the reliance placed on your faith, than the declaration you have heard, Sir Reginald?
My head would answer for your treachery in a week; but I have never felt it more securely on my shoulders than at this moment." The baronet grasped the other's hand, and each gave and received a pressure that was full of meaning.