The Adventures of Roderick Random

第五十一章

Summary: Baffled in his matrimonial schemes, Roderick Random turns his attention to securing a government sinecure. Through Lords Straddle and Swillpot, he gains an introduction to Earl Strutwell, who receives him warmly and promises his influence with the minister. Roderick’s attempts to cultivate noble patrons lead to a series of encounters marked by false promises, bribery, and ultimately cruel disillusionment.

Seeking a Sinecure

After failing repeatedly in his attempts to marry for fortune, Roderick decides to pursue government employment instead. He cultivates the acquaintance of Lords Straddle and Swillpot, whose fathers possess influence at court. He accompanies them on midnight revelries and pays for their tavern dinners, hoping to leverage their connections. When Roderick reveals his desire for a sinecure position, both lords make grand promises—Swillpot pledges his service “by G—” while Straddle swears no man would be prouder to run his errands. When Roderick asks to meet their fathers directly, Swillpot admits he hasn’t spoken to his own father in three years, and Straddle explains his father has recently alienated the minister by subscribing to a parliamentary protest. Straddle offers instead to introduce Roderick to Earl Strutwell, who supposedly commands great influence with those who “rule the roast.” Roderick accepts gratefully and persists until Straddle finally keeps his word.

Introduction to Earl Strutwell

Straddle brings Roderick to Earl Strutwell’s levee, leaving him among a crowd of fellow-dependents while he receives a private audience. Soon afterward, Straddle returns with the earl, who takes Roderick’s hand and assures him of every possible service, inviting him to come often. Roderick is charmed by the earl’s reception and perceives sweetness and candor in his countenance, resolving to profit from this acquaintance. On his next visit, he receives a special smile, a squeeze of the hand, and a whispered invitation to private conversation. The earl asks him to come the next morning for chocolate, an invitation that flatters Roderick’s vanity immensely.