All make the same answer--'d--n you, keep it.'" "An ingenious device," laughed Gay.
Sir James Thornhill's preparations being completed, Mr.Pitt desired to know if he wanted anything further, and being answered in the negative, he excused himself on the plea that his attendance was required in the court at the Old Bailey, which was then sitting, and withdrew.
"Do me the favour to seat yourself, Jack," said Sir James.

"Gentlemen, a little further off, if you please." Sheppard immediately complied with the painter's request; while Gay and Figg drew back on one side, and Hogarth on the other.

The latter took from his pocket a small note-book and pencil.
"I'll make a sketch, too," he said.

"Jack Sheppard's face is well worth preserving." After narrowly examining the countenance of the sitter, and motioning him with his pencil into a particular attitude, Sir James Thornhill commenced operations; and, while he rapidly transferred his lineaments to the canvass, engaged him in conversation, in the course of which he artfully contrived to draw him into a recital of his adventures.

The _ruse_ succeeded almost beyond his expectation.