To this unexpected remark Pallet answered,
that among the connoisseurs he would not pretend to appraise his
picture; but that, in valuing his works, he was obliged to have
an eye to the Gothic ignorance of the age in which he lived. Our
adventurer saw at once into the nature of this raffle, which was
no other than a begging shift to dispose of a paltry piece, that
he could not otherwise have sold for twenty shillings. However,
far from shocking the poor man in distress, by dropping the least
hint of his conjecture, he desired to be favoured with six chances,
if the circumstances of his plan would indulge him so far; and the
painter, after some hesitation, condescended to comply with his
request, out of pure friendship and veneration; though he observed,
that, in so doing, he must exclude some of his most intimate
companions. Having received the money he gave Pickle his address,
desiring he would, with his convenience, visit the princess, who,
he was sure, would display her most engaging attractions, in order
to captivate his fancy; and took his leave extremely well pleased
with the success of his application.
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