I almost wish, as I was saying," he proceeded, "that there was the slightest touch of cowardice in you, naturally; because if it could be proved in connection with your official intrepidity, you would deserve everything that a government could bestow upon you." "Faith and honor, that is certainly putting the argument in an extremely new point of view, and I agree with you, John; that is--that--let me see--the more cowardly the man the braver the magistrate.

Well, I don't know that aither." "No, no!" replied John, "I don't mean that." "Well, what do you mane?
for I thought I undherstood you a while ago, although find that I don't now." "I mean," proceeded the other, "that when a man who is naturally cowardly--I don't mean, of course, a poltroon, but timid--proves himself to be firm, resolute, and intrepid in the discharge of his duties as a magistrate, such a man deserves a civic crown." "A what ?" "A civic crown.

Of course you know what that is." "Of coorse I do, John; and upon my honor and conscience there is great truth in what you say.

I could name you a magistrate who, I believe, as a magistrate, could not very aisily be bate, and yet who, without being a downright coward, is for all that no hairo to his valley de sham, as they say." "My father was talking about you last night, sir, and I think before long he will be able to put you on the scent of as pretty a conspiracy as was ever detected.

He had some notion of opening a communication with government himself upon the subject; but I suggested--that is, I took the liberty, sir, if you will excuse me, but if I erred I assure you Mr.
O'Driscol, my intentions were good--I say I took the liberty, sir, of suggesting that it would be better to place the matter in your hands, as a person possessing more influence with your friend, the Castle, and more conversant with the management of a matter that is too important to be in any but official hands.