The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman

As Francis the first of France was one winterly night warming himself over the embers of a wood fire, and talking with his first minister of sundry things for the good of the state15 -- It would not be amiss, said the king, stirring up the embers with his cane, if this good understanding betwixt ourselves and Switzerland was a little strengthened.

-- There is no end, Sire, replied the minister, in giving money to these people -- they would swallow up the treasury of France.