"All good, sir; but cod and oyster-sauce just in season."
"Well, then, let it be so, with a broiled chicken and mushrooms. If I recollect right, you had some good wine here once?"
"Yes, sir—we have the same bin now—the port you mean, sir?"
"Yes, the port; tell Mr.—— I forget the landlord's name."
"Mr. Bansom."
"Very true;—tell Bansom to let me have a bottle of his best, and a pint of good madeira for dinner."
"Yes, sir. When will you have your dinner?"
"As soon as it can be got ready. In the mean time get me a newspaper."
In due time the dinner made its appearance, and ample justice was done to it by our gentleman. After the cloth was removed, the port wine was produced, and this he appeared determined to enjoy, as he remained at table sipping it until every other person who had been in the coffee-room had quitted it, and he was left alone. He then poured out the last glass, rang the bell, and demanded his bill. It was all ready:—
| £ | s. | d. | |
| Fish | 0 | 2 | 6 |
| Fowl and mushrooms | 0 | 5 | 6 |
| Madeira | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| Port | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| ————————— | —— | —— | —— |
| Total, including extras | 1 | 4 | 6 |