“Don't I, faith? Why, the alternative is simply this--either marriage or hanging!” “Be it so; in that case I will die like a man of honor and a true Christian and Catholic, as I hope I am.” “As a true fool, Reilly--as a true fool. I took this step privately, out of respect for your character. See how many of your creed become Protestants for the sake of mere property; think how many of them join our Church for the purpose of ousting their own fathers and relatives from their estates; and what is it all, on their parts, but the consequence of an enlightened judgment that shows them the errors of their old creed, and the truth of ours? I think, Reilly, you are loose about the brains.” “That may be, sir, but you will never find me loose about my principles.” “Are you aware, sir, that Helen is to appear against you as an evidence?” “No, sir, I am not, neither do I believe it. But now, sir, I beg you to terminate this useless and unpleasant interview. I can look into my own conscience with satisfaction, and am prepared for the worst. If the scaffold is to be my fate, I cannot but remember that many a noble spirit has closed the cares of an unhappy life upon it. I wish you good-day, Mr. Folliard.” “By the Boyne! you are the most obstinate blockhead that ever lived; but I've done; I did all in my power to save you--yet to no purpose. Upon my soul, I'll come to your execution.” “And if you do, you will see me die like a man and a gentleman; may I humbly add, like a Christian!” The squire, on his way home, kept up a long, low whistle, broken only by occasional soliloquies, in which Reilly's want of common-sense, and neglect not only of his temporal interests, but of his life itself, were the prevailing sentiments. He regretted his want of success, which he imputed altogether to Reilly's obstinacy, instead of his integrity, firmness, and honor.