. . . it happened, that after several days coming and going, the devil, who seldom lies dead in a ditch, but will have a finger in every pie, so brought it about . . . that the love he bore her turned into dudgeon and ill will. . . .
In Part II, Chapter 22, Sancho, amazed at the breadth of his master's knowledge, says to himself:
. . . Old Nick take him for a knight-errant! I think he's one of the seven wise masters. I thought he knew nothing but his knight-errantry, but now I see . . . he has an oar in every man's boat, and a finger in every pie.

In this passage from "Don Quixote," Cervantes uses Sancho Panza's observations to highlight the unpredictability and interconnectivity of human affairs, as well as his master's surprising depth. The phrase "the devil, who seldom lies dead in a ditch, but will have a finger in every pie" suggests that mischief and unforeseen complications are always lurking, ready to disrupt even the simplest of tales, such as a pastoral romance. Sancho admires Don Quixote's extensive, albeit peculiar, knowledge, comparing him to one of the "seven wise masters" and noting his ability to involve himself in various matters. This reflection not only underscores Don Quixote's multifaceted character but also serves as a comedic reminder of his often misguided yet earnest attempts to navigate the world’s complexities.