head and feet in deferent places(dismembered)

have a powerful influence

hold power over somebody's life and property

swear not to change one's mind

sour, salty, bitter or peppery(all sorts of joys and sorrows)

men of letters

plug one's ears while stealing a bell

corrupt public morals(indecent)

give mutual help and protection(help one another in defence work)

carefully store away

Commit innumerable Murders

curl up into a ball(huddle oneself up; cringe)

Blessing in disguise

quack(mountebank)

Separation and separation

kill people like flies

a family of scholars

just stretch the hand and bring it back

Lose heart and soul

as secret as the grave