diff options
| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:36:48 -0700 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:36:48 -0700 |
| commit | 842c2cc4090942d85a519c79d3ea9fe6ff3b3b20 (patch) | |
| tree | 332ca6a9cef8f201adb4198edf846d07faf33c67 /11384-h | |
Diffstat (limited to '11384-h')
| -rw-r--r-- | 11384-h/11384-h.htm | 1598 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | 11384-h/images/275-1.png | bin | 0 -> 107974 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | 11384-h/images/275-2.png | bin | 0 -> 12943 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | 11384-h/images/275-3.png | bin | 0 -> 13260 bytes |
4 files changed, 1598 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/11384-h/11384-h.htm b/11384-h/11384-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..166ac46 --- /dev/null +++ b/11384-h/11384-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,1598 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"> +<html> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" /> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and Instruction, Vol. 10, Issue 275, September 29, 1827, by Various</title> + <style type="text/css"> + <!-- + body {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + p {text-align: justify;} + blockquote {text-align: justify;} + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 {text-align: center;} + pre {font-size: 0.7em;} + + hr {text-align: center; width: 50%;} + html>body hr {margin-right: 25%; margin-left: 25%; width: 50%;} + hr.full {width: 100%;} + html>body hr.full {margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 0%; width: 100%;} + + .note, .footnote + {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;} + + span.pagenum + {position: absolute; left: 1%; right: 91%; font-size: 8pt;} + + .poem + {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;} + .poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} + .poem p {margin: 0; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + .poem p.i2 {margin-left: 1em;} + + .figure + {padding: 1em; margin: 0; text-align: center; font-size: 0.8em; margin: auto;} + .figure img + {border: none;} + .figure p + --> + </style> +</head> +<body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11384 ***</div> +<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and +Instruction, Vol. 10, Issue 275, September 29, 1827, by Various</h1> +<br /> +<br /> +<center><b>E-text prepared by Jonathan Ingram, Sandra Bannatyne,<br /> + and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team</b></center> +<br /> +<br /> + <hr class="full" /> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page209" name="page209"></a>[pg 209]</span> + + <h1>THE MIRROR<br /> + OF<br /> + LITERATURE, AMUSEMENT, AND INSTRUCTION.</h1> + <hr class="full" /> + + <table width="100%" summary="Publication Number and Date"> + <tr> + <td align="left"><b>VOL. X, NO. 275.]</b></td> + <td align="center"><b>SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1827.</b></td> + <td align="right"><b>[PRICE 2d.</b></td> + </tr> + </table> + <hr class="full" /> + + + <h2>KEW PALACE.</h2> + + <div class="figure" style="width:100%;"> + <a href="images/275-1.png"><img width="100%" src="images/275-1.png" alt="Kew Palace" /></a> + </div> + + <p>Innumerable are the instances of princes having sought to perpetuate + their memories by the building of palaces, from the <i>Domus Aurea</i>, + or golden house of Nero, to the comparatively puny structures of our + own times. As specimens of modern magnificence and substantial comfort, + the latter class of edifices may be admirable; but we are bound to + acknowledge, that in boldness and splendour of design, they cannot + assimilate to the labours of antiquity, much of whose stupendous + character is to this day preserved in many series of interesting + ruins:—</p> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Whilst in the progress of the long decay,</p> + <p>Thrones sink to dust, and nations pass away.</p> + </div> + </div> + + <p>As a record of this degeneracy, near the western corner of Kew Green + stands the new palace, commenced for George III., under the direction + of the late James Wyatt, Esq. The north front, the only part open to + public inspection, possesses an air of solemn, sullen grandeur; but it + very ill accords with the taste and science generally displayed by its + nominal architect.</p> + + <p>To quote the words of a contemporary, "this Anglo-Teutonic, + castellated, gothized structure must be considered as an abortive + production, at once illustrative of bad taste and defective judgment. + From the small size of the windows and the diminutive proportion of + its turrets, it would seem to possess</p> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>"'Windows that exclude the light,</p> + <p>And passages that lead to nothing.'"</p> + </div> + </div> + + <p>Upon the unhappy seclusion of the <i>royal</i> architect, the works were + suspended, and it now remains unfinished. Censure and abuse have, + however, always been abundantly lavished on its architecture, whether + it be the result of royal caprice or of professional study; but the + taste of either party deserves to be taxed with its demerits.</p> + + <p>The northern front was intended to be appropriated to the use of + domestics; the whole building is rendered nearly indestructible by + fire, by means of cast-iron joists and rafters, &c., certainly in this + case an unnecessary precaution, since the whole pile is shortly to be + pulled down. The foundation, too, is in a bog close to the Thames, and + the principal object in its view is the dirty town of Brentford, on + the opposite side of the river; a selection, <span class="pagenum"> + <a id="page210" name="page210"></a>[pg 210]</span> it would seem, of + <i>family</i> taste, for George II. is known to have often said, when + riding through Brentford, "I do like this place, it's so like + Yarmany."</p> + + <p>A modern tourist, in "A Morning's Walk from London to Kew," + characterizes the new palace as "the <i>Bastile palace</i>, from its + resemblance to that building, so obnoxious to freedom and freemen. On + a former occasion," says he, "I have viewed its interior, and I am at + a loss to conceive the motive for preferring an external form, which + rendered it impracticable to construct within it more than a series of + large closets, boudoirs, and rooms like oratories." The latter part of + this censure is judiciously correct; but the epithet "bastile" is + perhaps too harsh for some ears.</p> + + <p>The <i>old palace</i> at Kew formerly belonged to the Capel family, and + by marriage became the property of Samuel Molyneux, Esq., secretary + to George II. when prince of Wales. The late Frederic, prince of Wales, + took a long lease of the house, which he made his frequent residence; + and here, too, occasionally resided his favourite poet, James Thomson, + author of "The Seasons." It is now held by his majesty on the same + tenure. The house contains some good pictures, among which is a set of + Canaletti's works; the celebrated picture of the Florence gallery, by + Zoffany, (who resided in the neighbourhood,) was removed several years + since. The pleasure-grounds, which contain 120 acres, were laid out by + Sir William Chambers, one of the greatest masters of ornamental + English gardening. Altogether they form a most delightful suburban + retreat, and we hope to take an early opportunity of noticing them + more in detail.</p> + + <p>The old mansion opposite the palace was taken on a long lease by + Queen Caroline of the descendants of Sir Richard Lovett, and has been + inhabited by different branches of the royal family: and here his + present majesty was educated, under the superintendance of the late + Dr. Markham, archbishop of York. This house was bought, in 1761, for + the late Queen Charlotte, who died here November 17, 1818.</p> + + <p>Apart from these courtly attractions, Kew is one of the most + interesting of the villages near London. On Kew Green once stood a + house, the favourite retirement of Sir Peter Lely. In the church and + cemetery, too, are interred Meyer, the celebrated miniature-painter, + Gainsborough, and Zoffany. Their tombs are simple and unostentatious; + but other and more splendid memorials are left to record their genius.</p> + + <p>The premature fate of Kew Palace renders + it at this moment an object of public + curiosity; while the annexed engraving + may serve to identify its site, when posterity</p> + + <blockquote> + <p>"Asks where the fabric stood."</p> + </blockquote> + + <hr /> + + <h3>THE NUPTIAL CHARM.</h3> + + <h4>(For the Mirror.)</h4> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>There is a charm in wedded bliss.</p> + <p>That leaves each rapture cold to this;</p> + <p>There is a soft endearing spell,</p> + <p>That language can but faintly tell.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>'Tis not the figure, form, nor face,</p> + <p>'Tis not the manner, air, nor grace,</p> + <p>'Tis not the smile nor sparkling eye,</p> + <p>'Tis not the winning look nor sigh.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>There is a charm surpassing these,</p> + <p>A pleasing spell-like pleasure's breeze!</p> + <p>A joy that centres in the heart,</p> + <p>And doth its balmy sweets impart!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>'Tis not the lure of beauty's power,</p> + <p>The skin-deep magnet of an hour;</p> + <p>It is—<i>affection's</i> mutual glow,</p> + <p>That does the nuptial charm bestow!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>UTOPIA.</p> + </div> + </div> + + <hr class="full" /> + + <h2>FINE ARTS.</h2> + + <hr /> + + <h3>RAPHAEL SANZIO D'URBINO.</h3> + + + <p>In No. 273 of the Mirror, <i>P.T.W.</i> has noticed the <i>Cartoons</i> + of Raphael; and I therefore solicit the reader's attention to the + subjoined remarks on that master's unsurpassed genius.</p> + + <p>Raphael Sanzio d'Urbino was the pupil of Pietro Perugino, but + afterwards studied the works of Leonardo di Vinci and Michael Angelo. + He excelled every modern painter, and was thought to equal the + ancients; though he did not design naked figures with so much + knowledge as Michael Angelo, who was more eminently skilled in + anatomy; neither did he paint in so graceful a style as the Venetians; + but he had a much more happy manner of disposing and choosing his + subjects than any other artist who has lived since his time. His + admirable choice of attitudes, ornaments, draperies, and expression, + can surely never be equalled by the most successful <i>aspirant</i> in the + fine arts. He has an undisputed title to the prince of painters; for, + notwithstanding his premature death, he produced the most enchanting + representations of the sublime and beautiful. A painter will ever + derive much benefit from the study of all Raphael's pictures; + especially from the Martyrdom of Saint Felicitas; the Transfiguration; + Joseph explaining Pharaoh's Dream; and the <span class="pagenum"><a id="page211" + name="page211"></a>[pg 211]</span> School of Athens. Among the + wonders of art with which the School of Athens abounds, we may select + that of four youths attending to a sage mathematician, who is + demonstrating some theorem. One of the boys is listening with profound + reverence to the reasoning of his master; another discovers a greater + quickness of apprehension; while the third is endeavouring to explain + it to the last, who stands with a gaping countenance, utterly unable + to comprehend the learned man's discourse. Expression, which was + Raphael's chief excellence, and in which no other master has well + succeeded, may be seen in the above picture to perfection. Besides his + grand historical works, he executed portraits in a good style; and was + also an admirable architect. In person, he was handsome, and + remarkably well made, his manners being polite and unaffected. He + never refused to impart to others what he knew himself; by which + conduct he became esteemed in private, as much as he was adored in + public.</p> + + <p>This master's grand works are principally at Rome, in the Vatican; in + the palace, Florence; Versailles; and the Palais Royal, France; the + king's collection, Naples; and in the apartments at Hampton Court + Palace. His best scholars were Julio Romano, Polydore, Giovanni + d'Udine, and Gaudenzio, to all of whom he communicated the grand + <i>arcana</i> of his wonderful art.</p> + + <p>G.W.N.</p> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <h2>RETROSPECTIVE GLEANINGS.</h2> + + <hr /> + + <p>Letter from the Princess, afterwards Queen, Elizabeth, to her sister, + Queen Mary, on her being ordered to the Tower, in consequence of a + suspicion that she was connected with Wyat's rebellion:—</p> + + <blockquote> + <p>"If any ever did try this old saynge, that a kinge's worde was more + than another man's othe, I most humbly beseche your majesty to verefie + it in me, and to remember your last promis and my last demande, that I + be not condemned without answer and due profe: wiche it semes that now + I am, for that without cause provid I am by your counsel frome you + commanded to go unto the Tower; a place more wonted for a false + traitor, than a tru subject. Wiche thogth I knowe I deserve it not, + yet in the face of al this realme aperes that it is provid; wiche I + pray God, I may dy the shamefullist dethe that ever any died, afore I + may mene any suche thinge: and to this present hower I protest afor + God (who shal juge my trueth whatsoever malice shal devis) that I + never practised, consiled, nor consentid to any thinge that might be + prejudicial to your parson any way, or daungerous to the State by any + mene. And therefor I humbly beseche your Majestie to let me answer + afore your selfe, and not suffer me to trust to your counselors; yea + and that afore I go to the Tower, if it be possible; if not, afore I + be further condemned. Howbeit, I trust assuredly, your Highnes to wyl + give me leve to do it afor I go; for that thus shamfully I may not be + cried out on, as now I shalbe; yea and without cause. Let consciens + move your Highnes take some bettar way with me, than to make me be + condemned in al mens sigth, afor my desert knowen. Also I most humbly + beseche your Highnes to pardon this my boldnes, wiche innocency + procures me to do, togither with hope of your natural kindnes; wiche I + trust wyl not se me cast away without desert: wiche what it is, I wold + desier no more of God, but that you truly knewe. Wiche thinge I thinke + and beleve you shal never by report knowe, unless by your selfe you + hire. I have harde in my time of many cast away, for want of comminge + to the presence of ther Prince: and in late days I harde my Lorde of + Sommerset say, that if his brother had bine sufferd to speke with him, + he had never sufferd: but the perswasions wer made to him so gret, + that he was brogth in belefe that he coulde not live safely if the + Admiral lived; and that made him give his consent to his dethe. Thogth + thes parsons ar not to be compared to your majestie, yet I pray God, + as ivel perswations perswade not one sistar again the other; and al + for that the have harde false report, and not harkene to the trueth + knowin. Therefor ons again, kniling with humblenes of my hart, bicause + I am not sufferd to bow the knees of my body, I humby crave to speke + with your higthnis; wiche I wolde not be so bold to desier, if I knewe + my selfe most clere as I knowe myselfe most tru. And as for the + traitor Wiat, he migth paraventur writ me a lettar; but, on my faithe, + I never receved any from him. And as for the copie of my lettar sent + to the Frenche kinge, I pray God confound me eternally, if ever I sent + him word, message, token, or lettar by any menes: and to this my + truith I will stande in to my dethe.</p> + + <p>Your Highnes most faithful subject that hathe bine from the + beginninge, and wylbe to my ende,</p> + + <p>ELIZABETH.</p> + + <p>I humbly crave but only one worde of answer from your selfe.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p><i>Ellis's Original Letters</i>.</p> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page212" name="page212"></a>[pg 212]</span> + <h2>THE NOVELIST.</h2> + + <h4>No. CXI.</h4> + + <hr /> + + <h3>THE MUTINY.</h3> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>——O God!</p> + <p>Had you but seen his pale, pale blanched cheek!</p> + <p>He would not eat.—O Christ!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>THE BERYL.</p> + </div> + </div> + + <p>In the summer of the year 18—, I was the only passenger on board the + merchantman, Alceste, which was bound to the Brazils. One fine + moonlight night, I stood on the deck, and gazed on the quiet ocean, on + which the moon-beams danced. The wind was so still, that it scarcely + agitated the sails, which were spread out to invite it. I looked + round; it was the same on every side—a world of waters: not a single + object diversified the view, or intercepted the long and steady glance + which I threw over the ocean. I have heard many complain of the + sameness and unvarying uniformity of the objects which oppose + themselves to the eye of the voyager. I feel differently; I can gaze + for hours, without weariness, on the deep, occupied with the thought + it produces; I can listen to the rush of the element as the vessel + cleaves it, and these things have charms for me which others cannot + perceive.</p> + + <p>I heard, on a sudden, a noise, which seemed to proceed from the + captain's cabin, and I thought I could distinguish the voices of + several men, speaking earnestly, though in a suppressed tone. I + cautiously drew near the spot from whence the noise arose, but the + alarm was given, and I could see no one. I retired to rest, or rather + to lie down; for I felt that heavy and foreboding sense of evil + overpower me, which comes we know not how or wherefore; and I could + not sleep, knowing that there had been disputes between the captain + and his men, respecting some point of discipline, and I feared to + think what might be the consequences. I lay a long time disturbed with + these unpleasant reflections; at last, wearied with my thoughts, my + eyes closed, and I dropped to sleep. But it was not to that refreshing + sleep which recruits the exhausted spirits, and by awhile "steeping + the senses in forgetfulness," renders them fitter for exertion on + awakening. My sleep was haunted with hideous and confused dreams, and + murder and blood seemed to surround me. I was awakened by convulsive + starts, and in vain sought again for quiet slumber; the same images + filled my mind, diversified in a thousand horrid forms. Early in the + morning, I arose, and went above, and the mild sea breeze dispelled my + uneasy sensations.</p> + + <p>During the whole of the day nothing seemed to justify the fears that + had tormented me, and everything went on in its regular course. The + men pursued their occupations quietly and in silence, and I thought + the temporary fit of disaffection was passed over. Alas! I remembered + not that the passions of men, like deep waters, are most to be + suspected when they seem to glide along most smoothly. Night came on, + and I retired to rest more composed than on the preceding evening. I + endeavoured to convince myself that the noises I had heard were but + the fancies of a disturbed imagination, and I slept soundly. Ill-timed + security! About midnight I was awakened by a scuffling in the vessel. + I hastened to the spot; the captain and one of his officers were + fighting against a multitude of the ship's crew. In a moment after I + saw the officer fall. Two fellows advanced to me, and, clapping + pistols to my breast, threatened instant death, if I stirred or spoke. + I gazed on the bloody spectacle; the bodies, which lay around, + swimming in gore, testified that the mutineers could not have + accomplished their aim with impunity. I was horror-struck; a swimming + sensation came over my eyes, my limbs failed me, and I fell senseless.</p> + + <p>When I recovered, I found myself lying on a bed. Everything was still. + I listened in vain for a sound; I lay still a considerable time; at + last, I arose and walked about the ship, but could see no one. I + searched every part of the vessel; I visited the place of slaughter, + which I had, at first, carefully avoided; I counted nine dead bodies, + and the coagulated blood formed a loathsome mass around them; I + shuddered to think I was desolate—the companion of death. "Good God!" + said I, "and they have left me here alone!" The word sounded like a + knell to me. It now occurred to me, it was necessary the bodies should + be thrown overboard. I took up one of them, dragged it to the side, + and plunged it into the waves; but the dash of the heavy body into the + sea, reminded me more forcibly of my loneliness. The sea was so calm, + I could scarcely hear it ripple by the vessel's side. One by one I + committed the bodies to their watery grave. At last my horrible task + was finished. My next work was to look for the ship's boats, but they + were gone, as I expected. I could not bear to remain in the ship; it + seemed a vast tomb for me. I resolved to make some sort of raft, and + depart in it. This occupied two or three days; at length it was + completed, and I succeeded in setting it afloat.</p> + + <p>I lowered into it all the provision I could find in the ship, which + was but <span class="pagenum"><a id="page213" name="page213"></a> + [pg 213]</span> little, the sailors having, as I imagined, carried off the + remainder. All was ready, and I prepared to depart. I trembled at the + thought of the dangers I was about to encounter. I was going to commit + myself to the ocean, separated from it only by a few boards, which a + wave might scatter over the surface of the waters. I might never + arrive at land, or meet with any vessel to rescue me from my danger, + and I should be exposed, without shelter, and almost without food. I + half resolved to remain in my present situation; but a moment's + reflection dispelled the idea of such a measure. I descended; I stood + on my frail raft; I cut the rope by which it was fastened to the ship. + I was confused to think of my situation; I could hardly believe that I + had dared to enter alone on the waste of waters. I endeavoured to + compose myself, but in vain. As far as I could see, nothing presented + itself to my view but the vessel I had left; the sea was perfectly + still, for not the least wind was stirring. I endeavoured, with two + pieces of board, which supplied the place of oars, to row myself + along; but the very little progress I made alarmed me. If the calm + should continue, I should perish of hunger. How I longed to see the + little sail I had made, agitated by the breeze! I watched it from + morning to night; it was my only employment; but in vain. The weather + continued the same. Two days passed over; I looked at my store of + provisions; it would not, I found, last above three or four days + longer, at the farthest. They were quickly passing away. I almost gave + myself up for lost. I had scarcely a hope of escaping.</p> + + <p>On the fourth day since my departure from the ship, I thought I + perceived something at a distance; I looked at it intently—it was a + sail. Good heavens! what were my emotions at the sight! I fastened my + handkerchief on a piece of wood, and waved it, in hopes that it would + be observed, and that I should be rescued from my fearful condition. + The vessel pressed on its course; I shouted;—I knew they could not + hear me, but despair impelled me to try so useless an expedient. It + passed on—it grew dim—I stretched my eyeballs to see it—it + vanished—it was gone! I will not attempt to describe the torturing + feelings which possessed me, at seeing the chance of relief which had + offered itself destroyed. I was stupified with grief and + disappointment. My stock of provisions was now entirely exhausted, and + I looked forward with horror to an excruciating death.</p> + + <p>A little water which had remained, quenched my burning thirst. I + wished that the waves would rush over me. My hunger soon became + dreadful, but I had no means of relieving it. I endeavoured to sleep, + that I might for awhile, forget my torments; and my wearied frame + yielded for awhile to slumber. When I awoke I was not, however, + refreshed; I was weak, and felt a burning pain at my stomach. I became + hourly more feeble; I lay down, but was unable to rise again. My limbs + lost their strength; my lips and tongue were parched; a convulsive + shuddering agitated me; my eyes seemed darkened, and I gasped for + breath.</p> + + <p>The burning at my stomach now departed; I experienced no pain; but a + dull torpor came over me; my hands and feet became cold; I believed I + was dying, and I rejoiced at the thought. Presently I lost all thought + and feeling, and lay, without sense, on a few boards, which divided me + from the ocean. In this situation, as I was afterwards informed, I was + taken up by a small vessel, and carried to a seaport town. I slowly + recovered, and found that I alone, of all who were on board the vessel + in which I had embarked, had escaped death. The crew, who had departed + in the boats, after murdering the captain, had met their reward—the + boats were shattered against a rock.</p> + + <p><i>December Tales.</i></p> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <h2>THE SELECTOR, AND LITERARY NOTICES OF NEW WORKS.</h2> + + <hr /> + + <h3>A STORM IN THE INDIAN SEAS.</h3> + + + <p>While the sun was setting with even more than its usual brilliancy, + and leaving its path marked with streaks of gold, a bird hovered over + our heads, and suddenly alighted on our taffrail: it was one of + "Mother Carey's chickens," which by mariners are considered as + harbingers of ill, and generally of a furious storm. At a warning of + this kind I did not then feel disposed to take alarm; but there were + other warnings not to be slighted—the horizon to the east presented + the extraordinary appearance of a black cloud in the shape of a bow, + with its convex towards the sea, and which kept its singular shape and + position unchanged until nightfall. For the period too of twenty + minutes after the setting of the sun, the clouds to the north-west + continued of the colour of blood; but that which most attracted our + observation was, to us, a remarkable phenomenon—the sea immediately + around us, and, as far as the eye could discern by the light of the + moon, appeared, for about forty minutes, of a perfectly milk white. We + were visited <span class="pagenum"><a id="page214" name="page214"></a> + [pg 214]</span> by two more chickens of Mother Carey, both of which + sought refuge, with our first visiter, on the mainmast. We sounded, + but found no bottom at a hundred fathoms; a bucket of the water was + then drawn up, the surface of which was apparently covered with + innumerable sparks of fire—an effect said to be caused by the + animalculae which abound in sea-water: it is at all times common, but + the sparks are not in general so numerous, nor of such magnitude, as + were those which then presented themselves. The hand too, being dipped + in the water, and immediately withdrawn, thousands of them would seem + to adhere to it. A dismal hollow breeze, which, as the night drew on, + howled through our rigging, and infused into us all a sombre, + melancholy feeling, increased by gathering clouds, and the altogether + portentous state of the atmosphere and elements, ushered in the first + watch, which was to be kept by Thomson.</p> + + <p>About eight o'clock, loud claps of thunder, each in kind resembling a + screech, or the blast of a trumpet, rather than the rumbling sound of + thunder in Europe, burst over our heads, and were succeeded by vivid + flashes of forked lightning. We now made every necessary preparation + for a storm, by striking the top-gallant-masts, with their yards, + close reefing the topsails and foresail, bending the storm-staysail, + and battening down the main hatch, over which two tarpaulins were + nailed, for the better preservation of the cargo. We observed + innumerable shoals of fishes, the motions of which appeared to be more + than usually vivid and redundant.</p> + + <p>At twelve o'clock, on my taking charge of the deck, the scene bore a + character widely different from that which it presented but three + hours before. We now sailed under close-reefed maintopsail and + foresail. The sea ran high; our bark laboured hard, and pitched + desperately, and the waves lashed her sides with fury, and were + evidently increasing in force and size. Over head nothing was to be + seen but huge travelling clouds, called by sailors the "scud," which + hurried onwards with the fleetness of the eagle in her flight. Now and + then the moon, then in her second quarter, would show her disc for an + instant, but be quickly obscured; or a star of "paly" light peep out, + and also disappear. The well was sounded, but the vessel did not yet + make more water than what might be expected in such a sea; we, + however, kept the pumps going at intervals, in order to prevent the + cargo from sustaining damage. The wind now increased, and the waves + rose higher; about two o'clock A.M. the weather maintopsail-sheet gave + way; the sail then split to ribbons, and before we could clue it up, + was completely blown away from the bolt-rope. The foresail was then + furled, not without great difficulty, and imminent hazard to the + seamen, the storm staysail alone withstanding the mighty wind, which + seemed to gain strength every half-hour, while the sea, in frightful + sublimity, towered to an incredible height, frequently making a + complete breach over our deck.</p> + + <p>At four A.M. I was relieved by Thomson, who at daylight apprized me + that the maintopmast was sprung, and that the gale was increasing. + Scarcely had I gone on deck, when a tremendous sea struck us a little + "abaft the beam," carrying every thing before it, and washing + overboard hencoops, cables, water-casks, and indeed every movable + article on the deck. Thomson, almost by miracle, escaped being lost; + but having, in common with the lascars, taken the precaution to lash a + rope round his waist, we were able, by its means, to extricate him + from danger; at the same time the vessel made an appalling lurch, + lying down on her beam-ends, in which position she remained for the + space of two minutes, when the maintopmast, followed by the + foretopmast, went by the board with a dreadful crash; she then + righted, and we were all immediately engaged in going aloft, and with + hatchets cutting away the wreck, each of us being lashed with a rope + round the waist; ropes were also fastened across the deck, in parallel + lines, to hold on by; for such was the violence of the vessel's + motion, that without such assistance it would have been impossible to + stand. As for my Virginia, she was in her cot, hearing all that was + going forward on deck,—sensible of her danger, and a prey to the + apprehension of meeting a death similar to that of her prototype, and + equally dreadful.</p> + + <p>A drizzling shower now came on, and having continued for some time, + was at length succeeded by heavy rain, which having been converted + into sleet, was carried in flakes swiftly along the tops of the + towering mountains of sea; while the cold sensibly affected the + already exhausted lascars, at once disinclining them from exertion, + and incapacitating them from making any; some of them even sat down + like inanimate statues, with a fixed stare, and a deathlike hue upon + their countenances: the most afflicting circumstance was, their being + destitute of warm clothing, which they had neglected to provide + themselves with, as they ought to have done, out of the four months' + advance they received in Calcutta. All that I could spare was given to + Thomson; but unable to endure the sight of their misery, I <span class="pagenum"> + <a id="page215" name="page215"></a>[pg 215]</span> distributed + among them many articles which I could ill spare,—sheets, shirts, and + blankets, except one of the latter, which I had reserved as a + provision against any further extreme of suffering which might yet + await us. There was one poor lascar, a simple inoffensive youth, about + nineteen, who was an object of the liveliest commiseration; he was + nearly naked, and in that state had been continually drenched by the + sea and rain, during the whole of the day and night; he was holding + his hands up to heaven in a supplicating attitude, and shaking in an + aguish fit; the tears fell in torrents down his cheeks, while he + uttered his plaints in loud and piercing lamentations. Unable, at + last, to witness his misery any longer, I rushed down to my + cabin—"Can you, Virginia, spare me this blanket without feeling the + cold too much yourself?—it is to save the life of a + fellow-creature."—"Yes, take it; but stay with me, or, under the + horrors I feel, I shall die in this cabin, and alone. I know we must + perish, and why not die together?" I entreated her to support herself + with all the fortitude she could collect, urged the impossibility of + my keeping her company, as every moment called for my assistance; and + assuring her there was no real danger, I hurried on deck with the + blanket, and wrapped the poor wretch in its folds. I thought he would + have worshipped me.</p> + + <hr /> + + <p>It was about four o'clock, on the fifth morning, that I ventured into + my cabin, to repose myself on my cot until daylight, more with the + persuasion that my presence would inspire Virginia with fresh hopes, + and, in consequence, better spirits, than that the storm had in the + least abated, or that the peril had become less imminent. At six, + Thomson, whom I had left in charge of the deck, aroused me by bawling, + in a voice necessarily raised to the highest pitch, to make itself + heard amidst the howling, or rather screaming of the + elements—"Naufragus!" I instantly jumped up, without waiting any + specific communication, and, on reaching the deck, found the pumps at + work, and was informed that we had five feet water in the hold, and + that the water was gaining upon us fast, notwithstanding the pumps had + been kept constantly going.—"Well," said Thomson, in a low tone, not + to be heard by the crew, "we'll do our best, as long as she floats, + but that cannot now be much longer—it's all over with us, depend upon + it!" There was no time for argument; the pumps were now the chief + object of our attention; and Thomson and myself, with the secunnies, + plied them incessantly, until we were ready to drop down with fatigue.</p> + + <p>In a short time we found that the water brought up by the pumps bore a + brownish colour, and, on tasting it, that it was sweet; so that it was + evident we were pumping up the sugar, which being contained in + baskets, was but ill protected against water. Such is the fondness for + life, that on the appearance of any sudden or immediate cause of + dissolution, any consideration unconnected with the paramount one of + preservation, is set at naught; thus, although I was sensible that my + valuable cargo was momentarily diminishing, and my property wasting + away, I then felt no disposition to regret my loss, the powers of my + mind, and the affections of my heart, being all engaged on higher + objects.</p> + + <p>Those lascars who could at all be brought to the pumps were in so + wretched and debilitated a state, as to require constant reliefs. For + one day and two nights, except a few short intervals, Thomson and + myself, with the secunnies, were at the pumps: at the end of that + time, our hands were blistered to such a degree, that the skin having + peeled off, the raw flesh appeared; our arms, thighs, and legs were so + dreadfully swelled, and our loins in such tormenting pain, as to make + it impossible for us to continue the exertion, without suffering + extreme agony; and nothing but the melancholy conviction that we must + continue our labour, or perish, could possibly have sustained us under + such hardships—hardships, however, which we had the heartfelt + satisfaction to find were so far from being useless, that on perusing + the sounding-rod, when pulled up from the well, (which we did under + feelings of extreme anxiety and eagerness,) we were convinced that the + water did not gain upon us. Our spirits, however, received no + encouragement from the appearance of the elements; the clouds were + black and frowning, and all around still bore a threatening + appearance, the hurricane indeed having rather increased than in the + slightest degree abated.</p> + + <p>The circumstance of our having on board so perishable and light a + cargo as soft sugar, it is remarkable, was the very means of our + preservation. Had it consisted of almost any other article, either of + pepper or of dead wood, we must inevitably have perished. To have + thrown overboard any heavy cargo, would, from the constant and heavy + breaches which the sea made over us, have been impossible. Neither + could the masts have been cut away, for the purpose of lightening the + vessel, in consequence of the imbecile condition of the crew; a + recourse to so <span class="pagenum"><a id="page216" name="page216"></a> + [pg 216]</span> hazardous a measure would, under our circumstances, + most likely have proved the cause of our destruction. As it was, from + constant pumping for three days, we found our vessel as light and + buoyant as a cork, and, with the exception of the baskets in which the + sugar had been stowed, as empty as when I first purchased her.</p> + + <p>Night approached, bringing with it additional horrors. The secunnies, + who had hitherto borne their hardships with admirable fortitude, now + began to droop, and to express a violent inclination for more rum, + although as much had been given them as they could possibly bear; + indeed, rum, with dough, half-baked, had formed their only sustenance + during the whole period of our sufferings. As for the pumps, we were + now so lightened, they did not require to be worked at all; but the + greatest dread we laboured under was from the dangerous condition of + the main and fore masts, that tottered to and fro, threatening to go + by the board every minute. Before the hour of sunset, a large bird, + called the albatross, with wings the length of four to five feet each, + skimmed along the surface of the waves, close to and around us; this + inspired the crew with hopes, as they supposed it to be a good omen. + It remained hovering near our unfortunate wreck for some minutes, + until it alighted on the waves, where it was seen riding perfectly at + ease, and with the majesty of a fine large swan, now on the summit of + a tremendous mountain of waters, and now in the ravines of a wide and + deep abyss. At length darkness once more encompassed us around, and + seemed to shut us out from even a ray of hope; the desponding few, + whose senses were still left them, apparently felt with more acuteness + than before, the desperation and horrors of their condition. At the + hour of eight P.M., however, the wind suddenly changed from south-east + to south-west, and soon appeared to be dying away. At this happy + circumstance, whereby a prospect of deliverance from the very depths + of despair was opened to us, the feelings manifested by the crew were + as singular as they were various; some shouted for joy—some + cried—others muttered prayers—while a few were still despondent, + presenting wild and savage-looking features, and seeming to regret + that the billows had not swallowed them up.—<i>Adventures of + Naufragus</i>.</p> + + <hr /> + + + <h3>DAMP BEDS.</h3> + + + <p>Clean sheets are not remarkably common at common inns, where, I am + informed, that the practice is to take them from the bed, sprinkle + them with water, to fold them down, and then put them in a press. When + they are wanted again, they are, literally speaking, shewn to the + fire, and in a reeking state laid on the bed. The traveller is tired + and sleepy, dreams of that pleasure or that business which brought him + from home, and the remotest thing from his mind is, that from the very + repose which he fancies has refreshed him, he has received the + rheumatism. The receipt, therefore, to sleep comfortably at inns, is + to take your own sheets, to have plenty of flannel gowns, and to + promise, and take care to pay, a handsome consideration for the + liberty of choosing your beds. Damp beds are oftenest found in inns + that are least visited; they ought to be carefully avoided, for they + not only produce dreadful disorders, but have often proved the death + of the person who has had the misfortune to sleep in them. Especially + in winter, not only examine the beds, to see whether they are quite + dry, but have the bedclothes in your presence put before the fire. + Just before you go to bed, order a pan of hot coals to be run through + it, then place a clean tumbler inverted between the sheets, and let it + remain there for a few minutes;—if on withdrawing it the slightest + cloud is observable on the inner surface, be certain that either the + bed or the sheets are damp: sleeping in the blankets is a + disagreeable, but the safest way of escaping such danger: there are + many persons in the habit of travelling, who make it a constant + practice. A wash leather sheet, about 8 feet by 5, is not an + unpleasant substitute for linen. But the only absolutely safe plan is, + to sleep in a bed which you are sure has been occupied the night + before; and that, must be the best-aired bed which was slept in by the + best-aired person!—Qy. The cook?—<i>The Traveller's Oracle</i>.</p> + + <hr /> + + + <h3>BURMAN THIEVES.</h3> + + + <p>The Burmans used to approach, on dark nights, on their hands and + knees, and often crawled close up to the sentinels, before they were + discovered; sometimes they carried off knapsacks and arms, and went + away with their booty unperceived.</p> + + <p>A laughable instance of their dexterity took place in the Great + Pagoda, on the night of the 2nd July. The soldiers, for several nights + previous, had missed some arms, although a sentry was before the door, + and they generally slept with their firelocks by their sides. This + evening, every one was on the alert, extra sentries were posted, and + every precaution taken <span class="pagenum"><a id="page217" name="page217"> + </a>[pg 217]</span> to secure the marauders. When, on a sudden, the + alarm being given, the officer on duty, who was reposing in one of the + little temples, ran to the door and inquired what had occurred,—but + hearing that only a knapsack had been found in the grass, and that no + other traces existed of the depredators, he turned round to lie down + again, and, to his infinite astonishment, found his bed had vanished! + A light was in the room, and a servant sleeping near it, yet, + notwithstanding, the impudent thieves had also ransacked a basket, and + escaped with the contents! We since heard that the robbers were Burman + soldiers belonging to the camp at Kumaroot, whither they carried their + spoils. They certainly deserved infinite credit for the ingenuity they + manifested, and for the manner in which they turned the laugh against + us, by showing, that the very moment they chose for their + depredations, was one when a strict search was making after them.</p> + + <p><i>Two Years in Ava</i>.</p> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <h2>MANNERS & CUSTOMS OF ALL NATIONS.</h2> + + <h4>No. XII.</h4> + + <hr /> + + + <h4>KANEMBOO MARKET-WOMAN.</h4> + + <div class="figure" style="width:50%;"> + <a href="images/275-2.png"><img width="100%" src="images/275-2.png" + alt="Kanemboo Market-Woman" /></a> + </div> + + <p>The people of Kanem, in Central Africa, are known by the name of + Kanemboo, and consist of tribes of Tibboos. The women are + good-looking, laughing negresses, and all but naked. Most of them have + a square or triangular piece of silver or tin hanging at the back of + the head, suspended from the hair, which is curiously and laboriously + trained, and no one of tender years has anything like a perfect head + of hair. From childhood the head is shaved, having only the top + covered; the hair from hence falls down quite round from the forehead + to the pole of the neck, and is then formed into one solid plait, + which in front lying quite flat just over the eyes, and behind being + turned up with a little curl, has just the appearance of an + old-fashioned coachman's wig in London.</p> + + <p>The women flock from the neighbouring negro villages to the weekly + fsug, or market, with baskets of gussut, gafooly, fowls, and honey, + which may be purchased by small pieces of coral amber of the coarsest + kind, and coloured beads. Major Denham, in his "Travels in Northern + and Central Africa," says "one merchant bought a fine lamb for two + bits of amber, worth, I should think, about two-pence each in Europe; + two needles purchased a fowl; and a handful of salt, four or five + good-sized fish from the lake (Tchad)."</p> + + + <h4>SHOUAA WOMAN.</h4> + + <h4><i>Kingdom of Bornou</i>.</h4> + + <div class="figure" style="width:50%;"> + <a href="images/275-3.png"><img width="100%" src="images/275-3.png" + alt="Shouaa Woman" /></a> + </div> + + + <p>The Shouaa Arabs are a very extraordinary race, and have scarcely any + resemblance to the Arabs of the north; they have fine open + countenances, with aquiline noses, and large eyes; their complexion is + a light copper-colour; they possess great cunning with their courage, + and resemble in appearance some of our best favoured gipsies in + England, particularly the <i>women</i>; and their Arabic is nearly pure + Egyptian.</p> + + <p>The best residences of the Shouaas consist of two enclosures, besides + one for their horses, cows, and goats. In the first of these divisions + is a circular hut, with a cupola top, well thatched with gussub straw, + something resembling that of the Indian corn; the walls are of the + same materials; a mud wall, of about two feet high, separates one part + from the rest, and here their corn is kept; and a bench of like + composition, at the opposite side, is their resting-place; this is + covered with mats; and spears and wooden bowls for water and milk, + hang on pegs, and complete the furniture; here is the master's own + apartment. In the second <span class="pagenum"><a id="page218" name="page218"> + </a>[pg 218]</span> division are two huts, rather smaller, about + ten paces from each other, in which dwell his wives.</p> + + + <h4>AFRICAN FUNERALS.</h4> + + + <p>The custom of burying the dead in the floor of dwelling-houses, is + prevalent on the Gold Coast of Africa, as far as that country is known + to Europeans. The ceremony is purely Pagan, and without any form, + except that of the females of the family of the deceased and their + friends making a mournful lamentation; and in some instances they work + their feelings up to such a degree of apparent sorrow, that their + conduct has every symptom of insanity. This scene of revelry is not a + little heightened by the profuse use of ardent spirits, which has so + powerful an attraction, that drummers, flute-players, bards, and + singing men come from great distances to partake of the libations; and + as the savage uproar lasts often for a week, it leads to every kind of + dissolute practice in both sexes. Another custom, or repetition of + this barbarous usage, frequently takes place seven years after the + demise of persons of consequence, which is still more expensive than + the former: as such are the baneful prejudices in favour of these + habits, that families have too frequently pawned their relatives to + raise money to defray the expense; they purchase cattle, sheep, goats, + and poultry, and with the assistance of what is brought by their + friends and acquaintances, they are enabled to keep up a scene of riot + for many days. The carcasses of animals sacrificed are not burned and + sown in the wind as in times of old, but the Fantees more wisely, eat + them, greater attention being paid to the flavour of the viands and + the fragrance of the strong liquor than to the manes of the dead.</p> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <h2>SPIRIT OF THE PUBLIC JOURNALS.</h2> + + <hr /> + + <h3>WILLY M'GEE'S MONKEY.</h3> + + + <p>I dinna think that in a' nature there's a mair curiouser cratur than + a monkey. I mak this observe frae being witness to an extraordinar' + event that took place in Hamilton. Folk may talk as they like about + monkeys, and cry them down for being stupid and mischievous, I for ane + will no gang that length. Whatever they may be on the score of + mischief, there can be nae doubt, that, sae far as gumption is + concerned, they are just uncommon; and for wit and fun they would beat + ony man black and blue. In fact, I dinna think that monkeys are beasts + ava. I hae a half notion that they are just wee hairy men that canna, + or rather that winna speak, in case they be made to work like ither + folk, instead of leading a life of idleness.</p> + + <p>But to the point: I ance had a monkey, ane of the drollest-looking + deevils ye ever saw. He was gayan big for a monkey, and was hairy + a' ower, except his face and his bit hurdies, which had a degree of + bareness about them, and were nearly as saft as a lady's loof. Weel, + what think ye that I did wi' the beastie? Odds, man, I dressed him up + like a Heelandman, and put a kilt upon him, and a lang-tailed red + coat, and a blue bannet, which for security's sake I tied, woman-like, + below his chin wi' twa bits of yellow ribbon. I not only did this, but + I learnt him to walk upon his twa hinder legs, and to carry a stick + in his right hand when he gaed out, the better to support him in his + peregrinations. He was for a' the world like a wee man in kilts.</p> + + <p>Weel, it turned out in this manner, as ye shall hear. Ae afternoon + towards the glomin' I was oblegated to tak' a stap doun to the cross, + wi' a web under my arm, which I had finished for Mr. Weft, the muslin + manufacturer. By way of frolic, a gayan foolish ane I allow, I brocht + Nosey (the monkey's name,) alang wi' me. He had on, as for ordinar', + his Heeland dress, and walkit behint me, wi' the bit stick in his + hand, and his tail sticking out frae below his kilt, as if he had been + my flunky. It was, after a', a queer sicht, and, as may be supposed, I + drew a haill crowd of bairns after me, bawling out, "Here's Willy + M'Gee's monkey," and gi'eing him nits and gingerbread, and makin' as + muckle of the cratur as could be; for Nosey was a great favourite in + the town, and everbody likit him for his droll tricks, and the way he + used to girn, and dance, and tumble ower his head, to amuse them.</p> + + <p>On entering Mr. Weft's shop, I faund it empty; there wasna a leeving + soul within. I supposed he had gane out for a licht; and being gayan + familiar wi' him, I took a stap ben to the back shop, leaving Nosey in + the fore ane. I sat for twa or three minutes, but naebody made his + appearance. At last the front door, which I had ta'en care to shut + after me, opened, and I look't to see wha it could be, thinking that, + nae doubt, it was Mr. Weft, or his apprentice. It was neither the ane + nor the ither, but a strong middle-aged, red-faced Heelandman, wi' + specks on, and wi' a kilt and a bannet, by a' the <span class="pagenum"> + <a id="page219" name="page219"></a>[pg 219]</span> world like my + monkey's. Now, what think ye Nosey was about a' this time? He was + sittin' behind the counter upon the lang three-leggit stool that stood + fornent Mr. Weft's desk, and was turning ower the leaves of his + ledger, wi' a look which, for auld-fashioned sagaciousness, was + wonderfu' to behold. I was sae tickled at the sight that I paid nae + sort of attention to the Heelandman, but continued looking frae the + back shop at Nosey, lauching a' the time in my sleeve—for I jealoused + that some queer scene would tak' place between the twa. And I wasna + far wrang, for the stranger, takin' out a pound frae his spleuchan, + handed it ower to the monkey, and speered at him, in his droll norlan + deealect, if he could change a note. When I heard this I thocht I + would hae lauched outricht; and naething but sheer curiosity to see + how the thing would end made me keep my gravity. It was plain that + Donald had ta'en Nosey for ane of his ain countrymen—and the thing + after a' wasna greatly to be wondered at, and that for three + reasons:—</p> + + <p>Firstly, the shop was rather darkish.</p> + + <p>Secondly, the Heelandman had on specks, as I hae just said; and it was + likely on this account that he was rather short-sighted; and</p> + + <p>Thirdly, Nosey, wi' his kilt, and bannet, and red coat, was, to a' + intents and purposes, as like a human creatur as a monkey could weel + be.</p> + + <p>Nae sooner, then, had he got the note, than he opened it out, and + lookit at it wi' his wee glowrin', restless een, as if to see that it + wasna a forgery. He then shook his head like a doctor, when he's no + very sure what's wrang wi' a person, but wants to mak' it appear that + he kens a' about it—and continued in this style till the Heelandman's + patience began to get exhausted.</p> + + <p>"Can ye no change the note, old shentleman?" quo' Donald. Nosey gi'ed + his head anither shake, and looked uncommon wise.</p> + + <p>"Is the note no goot, sir?"' spak the Heelandman, a second time; but + the cratur, instead of answering him, only gi'ed anither of his wise + shakes, as much as to say, "I'm no very sure about it." At this Donald + lost temper. "If the note doesna please ye, sir," quo' he, "I'll thank + ye to gie me it back again, and I'll gang to some ither place." And he + stretchit out his hand to tak hand o't, when my frien' wi' the tail, + lifting up his stick, lent him sic a whack ower the fingers as made + him pu' back in the twinkling of an ee.</p> + + <p>"Got tamn ye, ye auld scounrel," said the man; "do ye mean to tak my + money frae me?" And he lifted up a rung big eneuch to fell a stot, and + let flee at the monkey; but Nosey was ower quick for him, and jumping + aside, he lichted on a shelf before ane could say Jock Robinson. Here + he rowed up the note like a baw in his hand, and put it into his coat + pouch like any rational cratur. Not only this, but he mockit the + Heelandman by a' manner of means, shooting out his tongue at him, + spitting at him, and girning at him wi' his queer outlandish + physiognomy. Then he would tak haud of his tail in his twa hands, and + wag it at Donald, and steeking his nieves, he would seem to threaten + him wi' a leatherin'. A'thegither he was desperate impudent, and + eneuch to try the patience of a saunt, no to spak o' a het-bluided + Heelandman. It was gude for sair een to see how Donald behavit on this + occasion. He raged like ane demented, misca'ing the monkey beyond + measure, and swearing as mony Gaelic aiths as micht hae sair'd an + ordinar man for a twalmonth. During this time, I never sterr'd a foot, + but keepit keeking frae the back shop upon a' that was ganging on. I + was highly delighted; and jealousing that Nosey was ower supple to be + easily catched, I had nae apprehension for the event, and remained + snug in my birth to see the upshot.</p> + + <p>In a short time, in comes Mr. Weft wi' a piece of lowing paper in his + hand that he had got frae the next door to licht the shop; and nae + sooner did Donald see him than he ax'd him for his note.</p> + + <p>"What note, honest man?" said Mr. Weft.</p> + + <p>"Got tamn," quo' Donald; "the note the auld scounrel, your + grandfather, stole frae me."</p> + + <p>"My grandfaither!" answered the ither wi' amazement. "I am thinking, + honest man, ye hae had a glass ower muckle. My grandfaither has been + dead for saxteen years, and I ne'er heard tell till now that he was a + fief."</p> + + <p>"Weel, weel, then," quo' the Heelandman, "I don't care naething about + it. If he's no your grandfaither, he'll be your faither, or your + brither, or your cousin."</p> + + <p>"My faither or my brither, or my cousin!" repeated Mr. Weft. "I maun + tell ye plainly, frien', that I hae neither faither, nor brither, nor + cousin of ony description on this side of the grave. I dinna + understand ye, honest man, but I reckon that ye hae sat ower lang at + the whisky, and my advice to ye is to stap awa hame and sleep it aff."</p> + + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page220" name="page220"></a>[pg 220]</span> + <p>At this speech the Heelandman lost a' patience, and lookit sae awfully + fairce, that ance or twice I was on the nick of coming forrit, and + explaining how matters really stood; but curiosity keepit me chained + to the back shop, and I just thocht I would bide a wee, and see how + the affair was like to end.</p> + + <p>"Pray, wha are you, sir?" said Donald, putting his hands in his sides, + and looking through his specks upon Mr. Weft, like a deevil incarnit. + "Wha are you, sir, that daar to speak to me in this manner?"</p> + + <p>"Wha am I?" said the ither, drapping the remnant of the paper, which + was burnin' close to his fingers. "I am Saunders Weft, manufacturir In + Hamilton—that's what I am."</p> + + <p>"And I am Tonald Campbell, piper's sister's son to his grace the + great, grand Tuke of Argyle," thundered out the Heelandman, wi' a + voice that was fearsome to hear.</p> + + <p>"And what about that?" quo' Mr. Weft, rather snappishly, as I thocht. + "If ye were the great, grand Duke of Argyle himself, as ye ca' him, + I'll no permit you to kick up a dust in my shop."</p> + + <p>"Ye scounrel," said Donald, seizing Mr. Weft by the throat, and + shaking him till he tottered like an aspen leaf, "div ye mean to speak + ill of his grace the Tuke of Argyle?" And he gi'ed him anither + shake—then, laying haud of his nose, he swore that he would pu't as + lang as a cow's tail, if he didna that instant restore him his lost + property. At this sicht I began to grew a' ower, and now saw the + needcessity of stapping ben, and saving my employer frae farther + damage, bodily and itherwise. Nae sooner had I made my appearance than + Donald let go his grip of Mr. Weft's nose, and the latter, in a great + passion, cried out, "William M'Gee, I tak ye to witness what I hae + sufferit frae this bluid-thirsty Heelandman! It's no to be endured in + a Christian country. I'll hae the law of him, that I will. I'll be + whuppit but I'll hae amends, although it costs me twenty pounds!"</p> + + <p>"What's the matter?" quo' I, pretending ignorance of the haill + concern. "What, in the name of Nebuchadnezzar, has set ye thegither by + the lugs?" Then Mr. Weft began his tale, how he had been collared and + weel nigh thrappled in his ain shop;—then the ither tauld how, in the + first place, Mr. Weft's grandfather, as he ca'd Nosey, had stolen his + note, and how, in the second place, Mr. Weft himsell had insulted the + great, grand Duke of Argyle. In a word, there was a desperate kick-up + between them, the ane threeping that he would tak the law of the ither + immediately. Na, in this respect Donald gaed the greatest lengths, for + he swore that, rather than be defeat, he wad carry his cause to the + house of lords, although it cost him thretty pounds sterling. I now + saw it was time to put in a word.</p> + + <p>"Houts-touts, gentlemen," quo' I, "what's the use of a' this + clishmaclaver? Ye've baith gotten the wrang sow by the lug, or my + name's no William M'Gee. I'll wager ye a pennypiece, that my monkey, + Nosey is at the bottom of the business."</p> + + <p>Nae sooner had I spoken the word, than the twa, looking round the + shop, spied the beastie sitting upon the shelf girning at them, and + putting out his tongue, and wiggle-waggling his walking-stick ower his + left elbow, as if he had been playing upon the fiddle. Mr. Weft at + this apparition set up a loud lauch; his passion left him in a moment, + when he saw the ridiculous mistake that the Heelandman had fa'en into, + and I thocht he would hae bursted his sides wi' evendown merriment. At + first Donald lookit desperate angry, and judging frae the way he was + twisting about his mouth and rowing his een, I opined that he intended + some deadly skaith to the monkey. But his gude sense, of which + Heelandmen are no a'thegither destitute, got the better of his anger, + and he roared and lauched like the very mischief. Nor was this a', for + nae sooner had he began to lauch, than the monkey did the same thing, + and held its sides in precisely the same manner, imitating his + actions, in the maist amusin' way imaginable. This only set Donald a + lauching mair than ever, and when he lifted up his nieve, and shook it + at Nosey in a gude humoured way, what think ye that the cratur did? + Odds man, he took the note frae his pouch, whare it lay rowed up like + a baw, and, papping it at Donald, hit him as fairly upon the nose, as + if it had been shot out of a weel-aimed musket. There was nae + resisting this. The haill three, or rather the haill four, for Nosey + joined us, set up a loud lauch; and the Heelandman's was the loudest + of a', showing that he was really a man of sense, and could tak a joke + as weel as his neighbours.</p> + + <p>When the lauchin' had a wee subsided, Mr. Campbell, in order to show + that he had nae ill wull to Mr. Weft, ax'd his pardon for the rough + way he had treated him, but the worthy manufacturer wadna hear o't. + "Houts, man," quo' he, "dinna say a word about it. It's a mistak + a'thegether, and Solomon himsell, ye ken, <span class="pagenum"> + <a id="page221" name="page221"></a>[pg 221]</span> whiles gaed wrang." + Whereupon the Heelandman bought a Kilmarnock nichtcap, price + elevenpence happeny, frae Mr. Weft, and paid him wi' part of the very + note that brocht on the ferly I hae just been relating. But his gude + wull didna end here, for he insisted on takin' us a'—Nosey amang the + lave—to the nearest public, where he gi'ed us a frien'ly glass, and + we keepit tawking about monkeys, and what not, in a manner at ance + edifying and amusing to hear.—<i>Blackwood's Magazine</i>.</p> + + <hr /> + + + <h3>SCOTCH SONG.</h3> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>The lassie we love and the friend we can trust,</p> + <p>And a bumper to wash from our spirits the rust;</p> + <p>Then let gear-scraping carls make o' life catch-the-plack,</p> + <p>And strod to the de'il wi' the trash on their back.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>This life is a garden where all choose their posies:</p> + <p>In the spring of our youth let us gather the roses;</p> + <p>For brief is their bloom like the dews of the morn,</p> + <p>If you seek them too late you will find but a thorn.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>If Care steal amang us he's narrowly watch'd,</p> + <p>By a smile or a squeeze of the hand he's dispatch'd;</p> + <p>Or the arm of a friend should the stout villain meet,</p> + <p>One blink of true love lays him dead at your feet.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Then fill up a glass to the absent and dear—</p> + <p>May their lives be serene as their breasts are sincere;</p> + <p>And to crown our true bliss, let us give, ere we part—</p> + <p>May we have in our arms whom we love in our heart.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>London Weekly Review.</i></p> + </div> + </div> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <h2>THE SKETCH-BOOK.</h2> + + <h4>No. XLVII.</h4> + + <hr /> + + + <h3>MATCHES IN TEENS.</h3> + + <blockquote> + <p>"To marry!—Why, every man plays the fool once in his + life—but to marry is playing the fool all one's life + long."—CONGREVE.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>There is something so satisfactory in knowing at once the limit of + your fortunes—in making yourself secure in the first instance of that + happiness to which all your exertions are directed,—which is in fact + the end and aim of your worldly existence, and of all your worldly + toils—the enjoyment of domestic peace and love;—in quenching that + restless, burning anxiety, which is ever busy within the bosom of the + young and the aspiring. Marrying early, in fact, is taking time by the + forelock, and leading your future destinies after you, instead of + suffering yourself to be led and tossed about by them,—it is tearing + away the black veil from the brow of futurity, and perusing all her + lineaments in her own despite. It is [he continued with an oratorical + attitude] building your fate upon a rock—"</p> + + <p>"Ah!" I exclaimed, "stop there—that <i>rock</i> is so commonplace."</p> + + <p>Harry laughed and went on with his argument.—"Besides, there is the + gratification of making yourself <i>considered</i> in society—which no + single man is. A single man is a kind of protected or licensed + vagabond—rambling to and fro without stamp or mark, as Witwould might + say,—like a sheep that has been overlooked at tarring time. His home + is a desert to him,—and the love of social converse, which is so + natural, and so amiable at the same time keeps him eternally in a + state of fidgetty restlessness, which precludes all possibility of + serious and persevering labour. Only think of the horrors of a house + without a queen—Yawning servants, negligent housekeepers, extorting + tradespeople,—these and a thousand other annoyances, for which you + have no relief, because you cannot stoop to meddle or make in such + transactions—are the agitations which perpetually infest the domestic + commonwealth of a bachelor.—But turn your eyes into the house of + 'Benedick, the married man'—He wears his rue with a difference, + indeed!—There is a sense of life, bustle, mirth, and happiness, in + the very air of the dwelling. To be greeted with smiles at your going + forth and coming in—to know that there is at least one who serves you + without a self-interest—to hear the joyous, feminine laugh, delicate + and temperate in the very whirlwind of its ecstacy, ring through the + mansion from hour to hour—to hear the little foot pattering about you + as you sit at your philosophic studies—to have a friend with whom you + can converse freely and without fear of present offence or future + disadvantage—and whose presence is not without its influence and its + charm, even when the call of a worldly ambition summons you to—</p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>"——Pursue</p> + <p>Your tasks, in social silence too,"</p> + </div> + </div> + <p>with just sense enough to understand all you can say to her—and + nothing so wise as to mortify you at any time by setting you right. + Then, instead of the natty primness of your bachelor's apartment, you + have your eyes feasted by that elegant confusion of the little + sanctuary—the charm of which cannot, unseen, be apprehended, and is + only known to those who are privileged to enter, by the passport of + Hymen. A bit of bobbin here—a thread-paper there—here a hat + feather—there a scrap of silk.—Besides," [drawing his chair closer + to mine and looking <span class="pagenum"><a id="page222" name="page222"> + </a>[pg 222]</span> very tender] "when you love her, you know—." He + paused and sighed, and I groaned strenuously.—</p> + + <p>"And is this all you have to say in defence of an elopement with a + girl of sixteen." ["A beautiful girl," he passionately interrupted] + "well! a beautiful girl—so young, that it is perfectly impossible for + you to form any judgment on her inclinations or her temper—at a time + when her character is undecided—unformed—when that which is mere + caprice, frequently assumes the hue of passion, and wears all its + fervour and intensity. Or if it should continue unabated—as I must + confess [observing him turn himself with an air before a pier glass,] + I see no reason why it should not—you will find the unsophistication + of the young lady as quickly tending to domestic disquiet, as might + have been her inconstancy—She will be unreasonable in her exactions + on your confidence, and you will be compelled to take refuge in fits + of sullenness—perhaps rudeness;—and then what becomes of that + blissful state, where like you, every body expects, and so very—very + few <i>find</i> happiness?—to secure which the most perfect union of taste + and feeling—the utmost kindliness of manner, and a politeness as + habitual as motion itself, are absolute requisites?—Have you no + further arguments to offer in favour of this measure of yours?—"</p> + + <p>"Oh, yes," said he, very dryly, "I have one more."</p> + + <p>"What may that be?"</p> + + <p>"That I WILL marry her."</p> + + <p>"Oh!..." said I.</p> + + <p>And without exchanging another word, I put on my great coat, and we + sallied forth together to the rendezvous of the lovers. The fair + fugitive was true to her appointment, and at the first sound of the + expected footfall, glided from her concealment into the happy + scoundrel's arms. The action which followed I could not see (though it + was a bright moonlight,) for a breeze lifted the large veil which hung + over the lady's shoulder, in such a manner as to envelope the + countenances of both. What the action <i>ought</i> to have been, perhaps + you, madam, or you, mademoiselle, may inform me?—I only know that + when the modest zephyr passed, and the veil fell back again, the fair + cheek that it revealed glowed with</p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>"A pudency so rosy, the sweet view on't,</p> + <p>Might well have warm'd old Saturn."</p> + </div> + </div> + + <p>Harry gave me his hand (heartily) as he stood on the carriage step, + and the bride wafted me a farewell with the prettiest action of her + fan from the window, and murmured,—"Give me a good wish for the + tobacconist."</p> + + <p>"Yes," said I; "may you never have occasion to say of the love that + now leads you to him, that</p> + <blockquote> + <p>"'Its beacon light is quench'd in <i>smoke</i>.'"</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>[For although naturally grave, and silently given, I often catch + myself endeavouring to sport a bad pun, when I have got the ear of a + fair damsel] The only effect which the witticism produced in the + present instance, however, was an enormous groan, in which the fellows + on the dickey participated. Even the postilion who stood near, set up + a crowing laugh—and the very horses by their snorting and neighing, + seemed to be sensible of the utter and deplorable failure.</p> + + <p>And away they went—and they were hotly pursued, and overtaken, <i>just</i> + in time to be too late—which left no other course but that of + reconciliation;—and where there is no choice to be made, every body + knows there is but one part to be taken.</p> + + <p>That occurrence is now three years since, and it was only the other + day that I again met the pair of turtles. Dropping in rather late at a + card-party, I beheld them sitting vis-a-vis at one of the tables, + playing together against an old lady and gentleman, before whom Mrs. + L—— thought, perhaps, it was not necessary to appear <i>very</i> + fashionable towards dear Harry. With the requisite <i>ceremonious + unceremoniousness</i> so popular at present, I took a chair behind him, + and annoyed him every moment by remarks upon his wife; of course all + highly nattering to both.</p> + + <p>"My love, you have played that card wrong—very wrong."</p> + + <p>"Did I, my dear?" replied Mrs. L. smiling languidly, and looking in + his face more as if she was admiring the elegant turn of his forehead, + and the spirited expression of his dark eye, than as if she minded + what he was saying—"'tis indeed—very."</p> + + <p>"'Tis what?"</p> + + <p>"Oh! were you not speaking of something? I beg pardon, love—I thought + you spoke."</p> + + <p>"And so I did, my dear. I told you that card was played most + abominably."</p> + + <p>"I dare say, my love;—[still gazing in his eyes and smiling]—I know + I'm very stupid,"—[playing a card.]</p> + + <p>"Well, you have taken a curious way to mend matters—that last play + was a thousand degrees worse than the other."</p> + + <p>"I dare say, my love,—[looking in his face, and continuing to drawl + and simper in the manner which we might <span class="pagenum"><a id="page223" + name="page223"></a>[pg 223]</span> imagine of Shakspeare's little + shepherdess—</p> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>"'Sweet youth chide on—I had rather hear thee chide</p> + <p>Than others woo—'"]</p> + </div> + </div> + + <p>"But tell me, love, when I play wrong," [playing again without taking + her eyes from his, even to look at her card.]</p> + + <p>"I had much better leave you to yourself," said L.</p> + + <p>"'<i>You will be compelled to take refuge in fits of sullenness</i>,'" + muttered I, quoting from my former prophecy.</p> + + <p>"My dear,"—[pronounced just in the same way as he might have said, + 'you fool,']—pray open your eyes."</p> + + <p>"<i>Perhaps in rudeness</i>," I continued.</p> + + <p>"There again!" cried poor L——, who seemed in danger of being ruined + by the admiration of his wife. "It is not possible for a card to be + played worse than that. Your head, my dear, must be as confused as + your boudoir."</p> + + <p>"<i>A bit of bobbin here—a hat feather there</i>," I continued, growing + malicious.</p> + + <p>"Sir," cried L——, starting round in a passion. Fixing his eyes for a + moment on my wooden phiz, however, he burst into a fit of laughter, + and then as suddenly assuming a most doleful change of countenance, he + squeezed my hand and said to me apart, in a tragic tone, "Ah, my dear + friend, you were right—you were right."</p> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>"He that would lead a happy married life,</p> + <p>First learn to rule, and then to have, a wife,"</p> + </div> + </div> + <p>say Beaumont and Fletcher—and a pleasant + aphorism it is too—and a wise and + useful—but with a slight alteration, a + periphrasis comprehending advice not less + to the purpose may be presented—</p> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>"He that would lead a happy wedded life,</p> + <p>Beware of marrying a <i>too</i> youthful wife."</p> + </div> + </div> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <h2>USEFUL DOMESTIC HINTS.</h2> + + <hr /> + + <h4>FININGS FOR WINES.</h4> + + + <p>If wine does not become clear soon enough, for each forty gallons + dissolve an ounce of isinglass in a quart of water. Strain and mix + this with part of the liquor, beat it up to a froth, and pour it into + the rest; stir the whole well, and bung it up, except there should be + an appearance of fermentation; if so, leave the bung out till it has + ceased. Instead of isinglass, some use hartshorn shavings, in rather + larger quantities; red wines are fined with eggs, twelve to the pipe, + beaten up to a froth, mixed with the wine, <i>and well stirred in</i>.</p> + + <p>Gypsum or alabaster is used to clear cloudy white wines; as also fresh + slaked lime; and the size of a walnut of sugar of lead, with a table + spoonful of sal enixum, is put to forty gallons of muddy wine, to + clear it; and hence, as the sugar of lead is decomposed, and changed + into an insoluble sulphat of lead, which falls to the bottom, the + practice is not so dangerous as has been represented.</p> + + + <h4>MANNER OF USING FININGS.</h4> + + + <p>Put the finings, when ready, into a pail, with a little of what you + are going to fine; whisk them together till they are perfectly mixed, + and then nearly fill up the pail with the liquor, whisking it well + about again, after which, if the cask be full, take out four or five + gallons to make room; take a staff and stir it well; next whisk the + finings up, and put them in, stirring well together for five minutes; + then drive in the bung, leaving the vent-peg loose for three or four + days, after which drive it in tight.</p> + + + <h4>OF FLAVOURING AND COLOURING WINES.</h4> + + + <p>The quality of roughness natural to those red wines in which the skins + and a portion of the stems have been subjected to the process of + fermentation, is readily communicated by astringent substances, and by + none more easily or purely than by catechu and kino, substances free + from injurious flavour; the sloe is also used; similar roughness, + accompanied with flavour, is given by the chips of oak and beech; and + if logwood and walnut peels are used, the astringency will also be + united to a portion of colour and flavour. All these substances may be + rendered highly useful in giving positive qualities to insipid wines. + A simple infusion alone is necessary, in such proportion as the + exigencies may require; care being taken to rack and fine the wine + after the desired effect has been obtained.—<i>The Vintner's Guide</i>.</p> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + + <h2>THE GATHERER.</h2> + + <blockquote> + <p>"I am but a <i>Gatherer</i> and disposer of other men's + stuff."—<i>Wotton</i>.</p> + </blockquote> + + <hr /> + + <h3>BIRDS POISONING THEIR YOUNG.</h3> + + + <p>Mr. Holmes, in his "Account of the United States of America," relates + that some of the birds of North America are remarkable for poisoning + their young; but this is only done if they are encaged or confined. + The <i>robin</i> is one of the <span class="pagenum"><a id="page224" + name="page224"></a>[pg 224]</span> birds thus noticed. If the young be taken, + and placed in a cage where the parent birds can discover them, they + will attend upon and feed them for a season; but after the lapse of a + few days, or when the young are fledged, the old ones appear very + uneasy, and endeavour to discover some way by which they may escape. + If, however, they perceive that there is no hope of accomplishing + their purpose, they procure for them a sort of berry, which is an + infallible poison; <i>apparently disdaining the thought that their + offspring should be slaves</i>!</p> + + <hr /> + + + <h3>A CONNOISSEUR.</h3> + + + <p>Vernet relates, that he was once employed to paint a landscape, with a + cave, and St. Jerome in it; he accordingly painted the landscape, with + St. Jerome at the entrance of the cave. When he delivered the picture, + the purchaser, who understood nothing of perspective, said, "the + landscape and the cave are well made, but St. Jerome is not <i>in</i> the + cave."—"I understand you, sir," replied Vernet, "I will alter it." He + therefore took the painting, and made the shade darker, so that the + saint seemed to sit farther in. The gentleman took the painting; but + it again appeared to him that the saint was not in the cave. Vernet + then wiped out the figure, and gave it to the gentleman, who seemed + perfectly satisfied. Whenever he saw strangers to whom he showed the + picture, he said, "Here you see a picture by Vernet, with St. Jerome + in the cave." "But we cannot see the saint," replied the visiters. + "Excuse me, gentlemen," answered the possessor, "he is there; for I + have seen him standing at the entrance, and afterwards farther back; + and am therefore quite sure that he is in it."</p> + + <hr /> + + + <h3>BLACK MAN'S DREAM.</h3> + + + <p>A number of years bygone, a black man, named Peter Cooper, happened to + marry a fair lady of Greenock, who did not use him with that + tenderness that he conceived himself entitled to. Having tried all + other arts to retrieve her lost affections in vain, Peter at last + resolved to work upon her fears of punishment in another world for her + conduct in this. Pretending, therefore, to awake one morning + extravagantly alarmed, his helpmate was full of anxiety to know what + was the matter; and having sufficiently, as he thought, whetted her + curiosity, by mysteriously hinting that "he could a tale unfold," at + length Peter proceeded as follows:—"H—ll of a dream last night. I + dream I go to Hebben and rap at de doa, and a gent'man came to de doa + wid black coat and powda hair. Whoa dere? Peeta Coopa.—Whoa Peeta + Coopa? Am not know you—Not knowa Peeta Coopa! Look de book, Sa.—He + take de book, and he look de book, and he could'na find Peeta + Coopa.—Den I say, Oh! lad, oh! look again, finda Peeta Coopa in a + corna.—He take de book, an he look de book, an at last he finda Peeta + Coopa in lilly, lilly (little) corna.—'Peeta Coopa, cook ob de <i>Royal + Charlotte</i> ob Greenock.'—Walk in, Sa. Den I walk in, and dere was + every ting—all kind of vittal—collyflower too—an I eat, and I + drink, and I dance, and I ting, an I neva be done; segar too, by + Gum.—Den I say, oh! lad, oh! look for Peeta Coopa wife. He take de + book, an he look all oba de book, many, many, many a time, corna an + all; and he couldna finda Peeta Coopa wife. Den I say, Oh! lad, oh! + look de black book; he take de black book, and he look de black book, + and he finda Peeta Coopa wife fust page,—'Peeta-Coopa-wife, + buckra-woman, bad-to-her-husband.'"</p> + + <hr /> + + + <h3>MAGICAL CLOCK.</h3> + + + <p>Droz, a Genevian mechanic, once constructed a clock which was capable + of the following surprising movements:—There were seen on it a negro, + a dog, and a shepherd; when the clock struck, the shepherd played six + tunes on his flute, and the dog approached and fawned upon him. This + clock was exhibited to the King of Spain, who was delighted with it. + "The gentleness of my dog," said Droz, "is his least merit; if your + Majesty touch one of the apples, which you see in the shepherd's + basket, you will admire the fidelity of this animal." The King took an + apple, and the dog flew at his hand, and barked so loud, that the + King's dog, which was in the room, began also to bark; at this the + Courtiers, not doubting that it was an affair of witchcraft, hastily + left the room, crossing themselves as they went out. The minister of + Marine was the only one that ventured to stay. The king having desired + him to ask the negro what o'clock it was, the minister obeyed, but he + obtained no reply. Droz then observed, that the negro had not yet + learned Spanish.</p> + + <hr class="full" /> + + + <p><i>Printed and Published by J. LIMBIRD, 143, Strand, (near Somerset + House,) and sold by all Newsmen and Booksellers.</i></p> + +<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11384 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/11384-h/images/275-1.png b/11384-h/images/275-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..f7cd391 --- /dev/null +++ b/11384-h/images/275-1.png diff --git a/11384-h/images/275-2.png b/11384-h/images/275-2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..b7a94ae --- /dev/null +++ b/11384-h/images/275-2.png diff --git a/11384-h/images/275-3.png b/11384-h/images/275-3.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..7c209ea --- /dev/null +++ b/11384-h/images/275-3.png |
