You can tell him that you only heard about Merkland to-night, and that you act only in deference to strong external pressure." "In that case he would think me a fool.

I have a bad enough reputation for lack of seriousness in these matters already.

The man is not very particular, and there is nothing to hinder him from blazoning it up and down the place that I changed my mind in ten minutes on a friend's recommendation.

I should get a very complete licking." "Do you mind, Lewie, if I advise you to take it seriously?
It is really not a case for little scruples about reputation.

There are rocks ahead of me, and I want a man like you in the House more than I could make you understand.