Page:Modern literature (1804 Volume 2).djvu/268

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the speech was not concluded). Next came, in the most engaging and humble smiles, a courtier, booing to the great man for a place; "I consider myself as peculiarly fortunate in having the honor to be patronized by the virtues and talents of a statesman, who (Harlequin was not idle) is one of the damnedest noodles that ever a poor applicant was obliged to flatter; a mere despicable nay and yea retainer of ministry; an impartial adherent to whatever side is uppermost." Next two came forward, one with the most ardent expressions of affection; "My dearest friend, intimate companion of my infancy and youth, with what delight I received an obligation from my oldest and most beloved of comrades; your superior talents formed and arranged our plans, and enforced our pretensions, with a vigour of reasoning, and an energy of