The Devil's Dictionary: Bondsman

Updated May 14, 2020 | Infoplease Staff
by Ambrose Bierce
BODY-SNATCHER
BORE

BONDSMAN

-n.

A fool who, having property of his own, undertakes to become responsible for that entrusted to another to a third.

Philippe of Orleans wishing to appoint one of his favorites, a dissolute nobleman, to a high office, asked him what security he would be able to give.

"I need no bondsmen," he replied, "for I can give you my word of honor."

"And pray what may be the value of that?" inquired the amused Regent.

"Monsieur, it is worth its weight in gold."

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