CHAPTER II.
Brithric was a youth of a specious and deceitful character: it was his
practice to dissemble his real sentiments, and to recommend himself by
flattering speeches to the favor of his superiors. By constantly
addressing Prince Edwin in the language of adulation, he succeeded in
rendering his company very agreeable to him; for the prince's besetting
sin was vanity, and the artful Brithric was only too well skilled in
perceiving and taking advantage of the weak points of others.
Wilfrid beheld this growing intimacy with pain; nor did he attempt to
conceal his uneasiness whenever the prince spoke to him on the subject
of his evident dislike of the society of Brithric. "I do not respect
Brithric, my lord," replied Wilfrid; "and where esteem is wanting,
there can be no true grounds for forming friendships."
"And what are your reasons, Wilfrid, for denying your esteem to
Brithric?" said the prince. "He is obliging, and often says very
agreeable things to you."
"It costs more to win my esteem than a few unmeaning compliments, which
Brithric is accustomed to pay to every one with whom he is desirous of
carrying his point," said Wilfrid.
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