as proud as a peacock

The nation is prosperous and the people are strong and powerful

Appraise oneself too highly

go canvassing

Full

the flight of time(fleet as a white pony's shadow flashing past a crevice)

evil tactics

kill on the spot with the authority of the law

not to have a penny to one's name

Preoccupied with the nation, forget about his family

capture and summarily execute

The dog returns to his vomit.

have something going for one

fantastic shapes and strange forms

be on tenterhooks(be deeply concerned)

too many to enumerate

A makeshift to tide over a present difficulty

Dog wines sour

be decked out and hung with lanterns(hang out lanterns and put up decorations)

At court one hand will wash the other.