He had already learnt the absurdity of such tests.

Did other men talk of such doings?
Was it not notorious that the world speculated, and that the world was generally silent in the matter?
Why should he attempt to be wiser than those around him?
Was it not sufficient for him to be wise in his generation?
What man had ever become great, who allowed himself to be impeded by small scruples?
If the sportsman returned from the field laden with game, who would scrutinize the mud on his gaiters?
'Excelsior!' said Alaric to himself with a proud ambition; and so he attempted to rise by the purchase and sale of mining shares.
When he was fairly engaged in the sport, his style of play so fascinated Undy that they embarked in a sort of partnership, _pro hoc vice_, good to the last during the ups and downs of Wheal Mary Jane.

Mary Jane, no doubt, would soon run dry, or else be drowned, as had happened to New Friendship.

But in the meantime something might be done.
'Of course you'll be consulted about those other papers,' said Undy.

'It might be as well they should be kept back for a week or two.' 'Well, I'll see,' said Alaric; and as he said it, he felt that his face was tinged with a blush of shame.