_How he cheated a Scrivener under the pretence of bringing
him good Security for an Hundred pound which he would
borrow._
Attiring my self in one of the richest Garbs I had, I went to a
Scrivener in _Bow-lane_, and acquainted him I had an occasion for an
Hundred pound. He demanded the Names of my Security. I told him where
they lived, two persons of eminent worth (whom I knew were gone into the
Country) and desired him to make enquiry, but in it to be private and
modest. The Scrivener according to my desires went and found them by
report to be what they were, real, able, and sufficient men: two or
three days after I called upon him to know whether I might have the
money upon the Security propounded. He told me I might, bringing the
persons; and appointed me a day. According to the time I came with two
of my Complices attired like wealthy grave Citizens, who personated such
persons so to the life, that the Scrivener could not entertain the least
suspition. The money being ready, I told it over, and putting it up in a
bag, I and my insignificant Bondsmen sealed, leaving the Scrivener to
another enquiry after us, whom, if he did not meet, I was confident he
could never find out by reason of our feigned Names.
It chanced that my forged and fictitious name shook hands with that of a
Gentleman in _Surrey_, who was a great purchaser, which I came to know
by being accidentally in his company the next night after I had cheated
this credulous Scribe, understanding likewise from him the exact place
of his abode; and as the Devil would have it, his Christian name was the
same, as well as his Sir-name, with that of mine I had borrowed.
Whereupon I went to the Scrivener again, and told him that now I had a
fair opportunity to benefit my self very much by a purchase, provided he
would assist me with 200 pound more. But Sir, said I, take notice (in a
careless and generous frankness) that it is out of a particular respect
to you, that you might profit by me that I come, again, neither will I
now give you any other Security than my own Bond, though I did otherwise
before. But if you will desire to be satisfied as to my Estate, pray let
your servant go to such a place in _Surry_, there is a piece of Gold to
bear his charges, and I will satisfie you further for the losse of your
Servants time. He being greedy of gain, very officiously promised me to
do what I required, and would speedily give me an answer. Imagining what
time his Servant would return, I repaired to him again, and understood
from him by the sequel that he received as much satisfaction as in
reason any man could require. Hereupon I had on my own Bond the money
paid me. I cannot but laugh to think how strangely the _Surry_ Gentleman
was surprized when the money becoming due was demanded of him, and how
like the figure of man in Hangings the Scrivener lookt when he found
himself cheated.