I will have nobody positive but myself; not one.

I have crossed the whims, in my time, of kings and generals and great artists.

And what would you say,' he went on, 'if I had come up here on purpose to cross yours ?' Will had it on his tongue to make a sharp rejoinder; but the politeness of an old innkeeper prevailed; and he held his peace and made answer with a civil gesture of the hand.
'I have,' said the stranger.

'And if I did not hold you in a particular esteem, I should make no words about the matter.

It appears you pride yourself on staying where you are.