He had just the right air of authority; exactly the right suggestion of deference; the quiet smile of the man with secrets up his sleeve; and he paused just long enough before speaking to whet curiosity and fix attention.

Hard skating is nearly as effective to whet hunger as this gentleman's expedient.

To shew you, Madam, The picture of your selfe, but so defac'd And mangled by proud Spanyards it woo'd whet A sword to arme the poorest Florentine In your just wrongs.

Yah knaw whet t' Scripture sez.'"

Defeat whets victory, they say;