“ ‘A person, whose confessor I am,’ replied he, ‘and who entertains a high regard for me, applied to me a short time since to procure him a confidential servant. Would you like such a post? If so, I will give you a letter of introduction to him.’

“ ‘Oh, father,’ I exclaimed, ‘you are very good.’

“ ‘But you must swear solemnly that I shall never have reason to repent my recommendation.’

“I extended my hand, and was about to pledge myself by any promise he would dictate, but he stopped me.

“ ‘It is unnecessary for you to bind yourself by any vow,’ said he; ‘I know and admire the Corsican nature too well to fear you. Here, take this,’ continued he, after rapidly writing the few lines I brought to your excellency, and upon receipt of which you deigned to receive me into your service, and proudly I ask whether your excellency has ever had cause to repent having done so?”