The simile of the penny roll being quite in point with the known title of one of the combatants, caused a smile on Dashall's countenance, which was caught by the eye of Tallyho, and created some mirth, as it was a proof of what has frequently been witnessed, that the lovers of the fancy are as apt in their imaginations at times, as they are ready for the accommodating one, two, or the friendly flush hit which floors their opponents.
The morning was fine, and the numerous persons who appeared travelling on the road called forth many inquiries from Bob.
“Now,” said he, “I think I recollect that the admirable author of the Sentimental Journey used to read as he went along—is it possible to read as we journey forward?” “Doubtless,” replied Tom, “it is, and will produce
1 Mull—Defeat, loss, or disappointment.
a fund of amusing speculation as we jog on. Lavater founded his judgment of men upon the formation of their features; Gall and Spurzheim by the lumps, bumps and cavities of their pericraniums; but I doubt not we shall be right in our views of the society we are likely to meet, without the help of either—do you see that group?”
Bob nodded assent.
“These,” continued Tom, “are profitable characters, or rather men of profit, who, kindly considering the constitution of their friends, provide themselves with refreshments of various kinds, to supply the hungry visitors round the ring—oranges, nuts, apples, gingerbread, biscuits and peppermint drops.”
“Not forgetting blue ruin and French lace,"{1} said the man of fist; “but you have only half done it—don't you see the Cash-cove{2} behind, with his stick across his shoulder, padding the hoof{3} in breathless speed? he has shell'd out the lour{4} for the occasion, and is travelling down to keep a wakeful winker{5} on his retailers, and to take care that however they may chuse to lush away the profit, they shall at least take care of the principal. The little Dandy just before him also acts as Whipper-in; between them they mark out the ground,{6} watch the progress, and pocket the proceeds. They lend the money for the others to traffic.”
“I confess,” said Tom, “I was not exactly up to this.”
“Aye, aye, but I know the Blunt-monger,{7} and am up to his ways and means,” was the reply.—“Hallo, my eyes, here he comes!” continued he, rising from his seat, and bowing obsequiously to a Gentleman who passed them in a tandem—“all right, I am glad of it—always good sport when he is present—no want of sauce or seasoning—he always comes it strong."{8}