After five minutes' conversation with me the old folks would penetrate the deception like a dose of salts.

For a man of his habits the house and the hundred and twenty pounds a year which he had inherited from his mother were enough to supply all worldly needs. Resources do not depend upon gross amounts, but upon the proportion of spendings to takings.

Imagine staring into the heavens on a clear night and seeing a handle of beer floating amongst the stars, or an angel, or the face of a famous celebrity.

Where didst thou find, young Bard, thy sounding lyre? / Where the bland accent, and the tender tone?