The use he made of his debts as diplomatic instruments is curious.

He not merely practised his faculties in the management of his creditors, which one of Lord Beaconsfield's characters commends as an incomparable means to a sound knowledge of human nature; but he made his debts actual pieces in his political game.

His poverty, apparent, if not real, served as a screen for his employment under Government.

When he was despatched on secret missions, he could depart wiping his eyes at the hardship of having to flee from his creditors..