Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 17.djvu/238

232 message, at the peremptory commands of his trusty companions.

H. Dear Jack, I am sorry for thy misfortune: matters have not been carried on with due secrecy; however, we must make the best of a bad bargain: thou art in the utmost jeopardy, that's certain; hang, draw, and quarter, are the gentlest things they talk of. However, thy faithful friends, ever watchful for thy security, bid me tell thee, that they have one infallible expedient left to save thy life: thou must know, we have got into some understanding with the enemy, by the means of don Diego; he assures us there is no mercy for thee, and that there is only one way left to escape, it is indeed somewhat out of the common road; however, be assured it is the result of most mature deliberation.

J. Prithee tell me quickly, for my heart is sunk down into the very bottom of my belly.

H. It is the unanimous opinion of your friends, that you make as if you hanged yourself ; they will give it out that you are quite dead, and convey your body out of prison in a bier; and John Bull, being busied with his lawsuit, will not inquire farther into the matter.

J. How d'ye mean, make as if I hanged myself?

H. Nay, you must really hang yourself up, in a true genuine rope, that there may appear no trick in it, and leave the rest to your friends.

J. Truly this is a matter of some concern; and my friends, I hope, won't take it ill, if I inquire a little