 before me, and
gratify my sense of hearing with strange things, which (if I could prevail upon
myself to give the world that satisfaction) would compose a curious piece of
secret history, and exhibit a quite different idea of characters from what is
commonly entertained.
    By this time, young gentleman, you may perceive, that I have it in my power
to be a valuable correspondent; and that it will be your interest to deserve my
confidence.«
 

                                Chapter LXXVIII

A Treaty is concluded betwixt Cadwallader and our Hero; in Consequence of which
divers pleasant Adventures occur, until the young Gentleman is summoned to the
Garison on a very interesting Occasion
 
Here the Misanthrope left off speaking, desirous to know the sentiments of our
hero, who embraced the proffered alliance, in a transport of joy and surprize;
and the treaty was no sooner concluded than Mr. Crabtree began to perform
articles, by imparting to him a thousand delicious secrets, from the possession
of which he promised himself innumerable scenes of mirth and enjoyment. By means
of this associate, whom he considered as the ring of Gyges, he foresaw that he
should be enabled to penetrate not only into the chambers but even to the inmost
thoughts of the female sex; and, in order to ward off suspicion, they agreed to
revile each other in public, and meet at a certain private rendezvous, to
communicate their mutual discoveries, and concert their future operations. So
precious did Peregrine esteem this treasure, that he would not even make his
friend Godfrey acquainted with his good fortune, tho' the first use he made of
it, was in behalf of that young gentleman, whom he undeceived in two very
interesting particulars.
    The soldier's addresses were, at that time, shared betwixt two ladies, who
received them in a very different manner. By one of them he was caress'd with
marks of particular regard, and by small favours flattered with the expectation
of supreme success; while the other treated him with such severity and shyness,
that he could never find an opportunity or resolution to make an unrestricted
declaration of his flame. As every woman has a confidant, to whom she pours
forth her heart on these occasions, Mr. Crabtree happened to be present when
each of them disburthened herself of her sentiments with regard to her lover;
and learned from their own confessions, that the frank lady cajoled him for the
sake of the money which he suffered himself to lose at cards, though she had not
the least intention to extend her complaisance beyond the limits of exterior
civilities; while the prude was actually enamoured of his person, and through
