(A Sketch Outside an Omnibus.)
The Omnibus is on its progress from Piccadilly to the Bank; the weather is raw and unpleasant, and the occupants of the garden-seats on the roof of the vehicle are—for once in a way—mostly men.
First Passenger (to Second, an acquaintance). I see young Bashaway the other day. (Significantly.) Jest been to see his father, so he told me.
Second Passenger (with interest). 'Ad he though? And 'ow did he find him?
First P. Fustrate, young Jim said; didn't know when he'd seen him lookin' better—(with sentiment)—quite like his old self!
Second P. (heartily). That is good 'earin', that is! (Reflectively.) Seems rum, though, come to think of it.
First P. 'Ow d'yer mean—rum? It's no more than what yer'd expect, bein' where he is. Look at the air o' the place—there ain't a 'elthier situation all round London, to my mind!
Second P. No, that's right enough; and, from all I 'ear, the food's well cooked and served reg'lar, if it is plain.
First P. Ah, and Bill enjoys his meals now, he does—the work gives him a appetite, and it's years, to my certain knowledge, since he done a stroke, and o' course he ain't allowed no drink——
Second P. And that's enough, of itself, to be the savin' of 'im, the way he was!