Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 17.djvu/272

266 a great many things, prithee trust me with this one trifle.

N. F. That principle is true in the main, but there is some speciality in this case, that makes it highly inconvenient for us both.

J. B. Those are your jealousies, that the common enemies sow between us; how often hast thou warned me of those rogues, Nic., that would make us mistrustful of one another?

N. F. This Ecclesdown castle is only a bone of contention.

J. B. It depends upon you to make it so, for my part I am as peaceable as a lamb.

N. F. But do you consider the unwholesomeness of the air and soil, the expenses of reparations and servants? I would scorn to accept of such a quagmire.

J. B. You are a great man, Nic., but in my circumstances, I must be e'en content to take it as it is.

N. F. And you are really so silly, as to believe the old cheating rogue will give it you?

J. B. I believe nothing but matter of fact, I stand and fall by that, I am resolved to put him to it.

N. F. And so relinquish the hopefullest cause in the world, a claim that will certainly in the end make thy fortune for ever.

J. B. Wilt thou purchase it, Nic.? thou shalt have a lumping pennyworth; nay, rather than we should differ, I'll give thee something to take it off my hands.

N. F. If thou would'st but moderate that hasty impatient temper of thine, thou should'st quickly see