He did not doubt my honesty, and I astonished him by taking him quite in earnest.

He has dealt with diplomatists, who imagine nothing but shuffling: the old Ironer! I love him for his love of common sense, his contempt of mean deceit.

He will outwit you, but his dexterity is a giant's--a simple evolution rapidly performed: and nothing so much perplexes pygmies! Then he has them, bagsful of them! The world will see; and see giant meet giant, I suspect.

He and I proposed each of us in the mildest manner contrary schemes--schemes to stiffen the hair of Europe! Enough that we parted with mutual respect.

He is a fine fellow: and so was my friend the Emperor Tiberius, and so was Richelieu.