“Lumps of pudding,” said Tom, jerking Tallyho by the arm, “what do you think of a slice? here's accommodation for you—all hot, ready dress'd, and well done.”
“Egad!” said Bob, “I think we shall be well done ourselves presently.”
“Keep your hands out of my pockets, you lousy beggar,”
1 Scamps—Highwaymen. 2 Pads—Foot-pads. 3 Divers—Pickpockets. 4 The Lay—Upon the look-out for opportunities for the exercise of their profession. 5 Flash Molishers—a term given to low Prostitutes.
said a tall man standing near them, “or b—— me if I don't mill you.”
“You mill me, vhy you don't know how to go about it, Mr. Bully Brag, and I doesn't care half a farden for you—you go for to say as how I—”
“Take that, then,” said the other, and gave him a floorer; but he was prevented from falling by those around him.
The salute was returned in good earnest, and a random sort of fight ensued. The accompaniments of this exhibition were the shrieks of the women, and the shouts of the partisans of each of the Bruisers—the cries of “Go it, little one—stick to it—tip it him—sarve him out—ring, ring—give 'em room—foul, foul—fair, fair,” &c.” At this moment the Firemen, who had been actively engaged in endeavours to subdue the devouring flames, obtained a supply of water: the engines were set to work, and the Foreman directed the pipe so as to throw the water completely into the mob which had collected round them. This had the desired effect of putting an end to the squabble, and dispersing a large portion of the multitude, at least to some distance, so as to leave good and sufficient room for their operations.
“The Devil take it,” cried Sparkle, “I am drench'd.”
“Ditto repeated,” said Tom.