To be praised by a man who has won his laurels.

To be praised by a man who has won his laurels.

A thorn in the flesh.

A thorn in the flesh.

A flea in his ear.

A flea in his ear.

As innocent as a new-laid egg.

As innocent as a new-laid egg.

Make ducks and drakes with shillings.

Make ducks and drakes with shillings.

As clear as a whistle.

As clear as a whistle.

Old Lady of Threadneedle Street.

Old Lady of Threadneedle Street.

To throw a blot on a man's reputation by praising him.

To throw a blot on a man's reputation by praising him.

A precious pair of brothers [i.e., rascals].

A precious pair of brothers [i.e., rascals].