satisfactory account of what he demanded_, adding farther (to infuse into him faith, to credit what he said) _that though report had spoken largely_, (and yet nothing but what this Artist hath merited) _yet all came far short of his real desert, having done such stupendious things, that must needs (without injustice) be commemorized to Eternity, and admired by future ages_. In the mean time, this servant endeavoured to pump out of the Proponent what he came about, which being understood, he gave information to his Master, by so many times ringing of a Bell. This Item being given, the Querent is called up, and before ever he can frame his mouth to propound his question, this profound Artist prevents him, saying, _I know what you come about Sir, (therefore save your self the labour to tell me that which I know already) you have lost a Watch, a Horse; or you would know how you shall prosper in such a business, whither Marriage or an Imployment; or any such like common question_. This makes the Artist to be wondered at; and then erecting a Scheme, positively and surlily tells him what he must expect, and that he may give answers more exactly concerning stolen goods, he was in constant fee with _Thief-takers_, who from time to time, made him a report of what persons were robbed, what the things were, and many times gave him a description of the Fellon. By these practises men believed every word he delivered to be an Oracle; so that his Chamber was daily so thronged with the report of people, that in a short time his ambition pricked him on to purchases, with the money he had gained thus fallaciously. One story, very remarkable, I shall add, and then crave your pardon for this my digression. One day a young Gentleman (but of a mean estate) came to him, who was more credulous than wise, and more inquisitive then prudent; and having not that wealth which his _prodigality_ required, desired instructions what course he was best to steer to arrive at the Port of his wishes and hopes: viewing him narrowly, he perceived him to be a man of a sweet complexion, and a body well proportioned; and therefore judged him a fit subject for Female fancies to work upon. _Sir_, (said he) _I shall give you my best advice, but I shall crave your patience for a little while; for a matter of this weight must not precipitately be undertaken: wherefore if you please to see me to morrow, what lies in me shall be at your service._ Being just gone it happened that a _Stale Maid_, who had more money than beauty, & less discretion than lechery, came to be resolv’d of him, _When she should be married_: (for it seems by the sequel she could tarry no longer:) viewing her well, (though she knew not him) he knew her to be wealthy, and nearly related to persons of quality. _Madam_, (said he) _I shall endeavour your satisfaction_; and so withdrew into his closet. Having staid a while bringing out his Figure, and with much gravity looking