What do you think of it all, my honest Tom ?" "I find it vastly entertaining," answered Tom truthfully; "but I feel me something out of place amongst all the fine fops I meet everywhere." "You would like to travel and see the world?
There is another world besides that of London town." "I would see more of London town ere I leave it," answered Tom frankly; "but I would fain see other things and places, too." "Wilt come farther afield with me, if I go ?" asked Lord Claud, with a quick sidelong glance at the tall figure of his companion.

"A man of thews and sinews, who knows not fear, is the comrade in whom my heart delights; but there be so few of them amid yon crowd of painted popinjays." The compliment tickled Tom's vanity, just as the preference shown him from the first by so great a man as Lord Claud touched his naturally quick affections.
"Let me but see this wonderful city first, my lord, and I will follow you to the world's end!" he cried impulsively.
"You shall have your wish, trusty Tom," answered Lord Claud, his face clearing and his brilliant smile shining forth.

"In sooth, I have no desire to quit it just yet.

I would fain be one of those to welcome back the great Duke, who will be here ere the year closes; and you should not miss seeing the pageant which will greet the victor of Blenheim.

It may even be that the Duke himself will find employment for his poor servants.
"Hast ever heard of the secret service, Tom?
No?
Well, there be openings enow for men of courage and resource.