“The magistrate then asked me what I was and where I came from, and I told him I was a weaver and came from Lancashire.
“He asked me where I was going to and for what purpose, and I told him I was on my way to London in expectation of getting a place.
“Had I relatives in London, and what sort of a place did I expect to obtain? I said I had not any relatives in London, but I had some good friends, and I had little doubt of getting a situation under Government.
DISCHARGED
“‘Under Government,’ said he, with surprise; the clerk also elevated his eyebrows.
“‘Yes, sir,’ said I, half laughing; ‘I’m going up in expectation of a Government place.’
“‘The man is non compos,’ said the magistrate in an undertone.
“‘Very likely, sir,’ replied the clerk.
“‘You are discharged, then,’ said the magistrate. ‘We can’t do anything with you unless there be an undertaking to prosecute.’
“I bowed respectfully to his worship, gave the clerk a questionable smile, and quitting the room, I made the best of my way to the public-house, where I had left my bundle and stick.