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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:44:18 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:44:18 -0700 |
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diff --git a/14364-h/14364-h.htm b/14364-h/14364-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..351a9ee --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/14364-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,1754 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"> + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> +<head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" + content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" /> + + <title>Punch, March 12, 1892.</title> + <style type="text/css"> + /*<![CDATA[*/ + + <!-- + 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%;} + hr.short {text-align: center; width: 20%;} + html>body hr.short {margin-right: 40%; margin-left: 40%; width: 20%;} + + .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;} + .poem p.i4 {margin-left: 2em;} + .poem p.i6 {margin-left: 3em;} + .poem p.i8 {margin-left: 4em;} + .poem p.i10 {margin-left: 5em;} + + .figure, .figcenter, .figright, .figleft + {padding: 1em; margin: 0; text-align: center; font-size: 0.8em;} + .figure img, .figcenter img, .figright img, .figleft img + {border: none;} + .figure p, .figcenter p, .figright p, .figleft p + {margin: 0; text-indent: 1em;} + .figcenter {margin: auto;} + .figright {float: right;} + .figleft {float: left;} + + p.author {text-align: right;} + --> + /*]]>*/ + </style> +</head> + +<body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14364 ***</div> + + <h1>PUNCH,<br /> + OR THE LONDON CHARIVARI.</h1> + + <h2>Vol. 102.</h2> + <hr class="full" /> + + <h2>March 12, 1892.</h2> + <hr class="full" /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page121" + id="page121"></a>[pg 121]</span> + + <h2>DOING THE OLD MASTERS.</h2> + + <h3>(<i>A Sketch at Burlington House</i>.)</h3> + + <h4>IN GALLERY NO. I.</h4> + + <p><i>The Usual Elderly Lady</i> (<i>who judges every picture + solely by its subject</i>). "No. 9. Portrait of Mrs. BRYANSTON + of Portman. By GAINSBOROUGH." I don't like that at all. Such a + <i>disagreeable</i> expression! I can't think why they exhibit + such things. I'm sure there's no <i>pleasure</i> in looking at + them!</p> + + <p><i>Her Companion</i> (<i>who finds no pleasure in looking at + any of them</i>). No, I must say I prefer the Academy to these + old-fashioned things. I suppose we can get a cup of <i>tea</i> + here, though?</p> + + <p><i>An Intelligent Person</i>. "Mrs. BRYANSTON of Portman." + Sounds like a made-up name rather, eh? Portman Square, and all + that, y'know!</p> + + <div class="figright" + style="width:35%;"> + <a href="images/121.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/121.png" + alt="'My dear fellow, as if it was possible to mistake his touch!'" /> + </a>"My dear fellow, as if it was possible to mistake his + touch!" + </div> + + <p><i>His Friend</i> (<i>with a touching confidence in the + seriousness of the authorities</i>). Oh, they wouldn't do that + sort of thing <i>here</i>!</p> + + <p><i>A Too-impulsive Enthusiast</i>. Oh, JOHN, <i>look</i> at + that lovely tiger up there! <i>Isn't</i> the skin marvellously + painted, and the eyes so natural and all! It's a Landseer of + <i>course</i>!</p> + + <p><i>John</i>. Catalogue says STUBBS.</p> + + <p><i>The Enth.</i> (<i>disenchanted</i>). STUBBS? I never + heard of him. But it's really rather well done.</p> + + <p><i>The Man who is a bit of a Connoisseur in his way</i> + (<i>arriving at a portrait of</i> Mrs. BILLINGTON). Not a bad + Romney, that.</p> + + <p><i>His Friend</i> (<i>with Catalogue</i>). What makes you + think it's a Romney?</p> + + <p><i>The Conn.</i> My dear fellow, as if it was possible to + mistake his touch. (<i>Thinks from his friend's expression, + that he had better hedge.</i>) Unless it's a Reynolds. Of + course it <i>might</i> be a Sir Joshua, their manner at one + period was very much alike—yes, it might be a Reynolds, + certainly.</p> + + <p><i>His Friend</i>. It might be a Holbein—if it didn't + happen to be a Gainsborough.</p> + + <p><i>The Conn.</i> (<i>effecting a masterly retreat</i>). + Didn't I <i>say</i> Gainsborough? Of course that was what I + <i>meant</i>. Nothing like Reynolds—nor Romney either. + Totally different thing!</p> + + <h4>IN GALLERY NO. II.</h4> + + <p><i>Mr. Ernest Stodgely</i> (<i>before</i> JAN STEEN's + "<i>Christening</i>"). Now look at this, FLOSSIE; very curious, + very interesting. Gives you such an insight into the times. + This man, you see, is wearing a hat of the period. Remarkable, + isn't it?</p> + + <p><i>Miss Featherhead</i>. Not so remarkable as if he was + wearing a hat of some <i>other</i> period, ERNEST, is it?</p> + + <p><i>The Elderly Lady</i> (<i>before a View of Amsterdam, by + Van der Heyden</i>). Now, you really <i>must</i> look at this, + my dear—isn't it wonderful? Why, you can count every + single brick in the walls, and the tiny little figures with + their features all complete; you want a magnifying-glass to + <i>see</i> it all! How conscientious painters were in those + days! And <i>what</i> a difference from those "Impressionists," + as they call themselves.</p> + + <p><i>Her Comp.</i> (<i>apathetically</i>). Yes, indeed; I + wonder whether it would be better to get our tea here, or wait + till we get outside?</p> + + <p><i>The Eld. L.</i> Oh, it's too early yet. Look at that poor + hunted stag jumping over a dining-room table, and upsetting the + glasses and things. I suppose that's LANDSEER—no, I see + it's some one of the name of SNYDERS. I expect he got the + <i>idea</i> from LANDSEER, though, don't you?</p> + + <p><i>Her Comp.</i> Very likely indeed, dear; but (<i>pursuing + her original train of thought</i>) you get rather nice tea at + some of these aërated bread-shops; so perhaps if we + waited—(<i>&c., &c.</i>)</p> + + <h4>IN GALLERY NO. III.</h4> + + <p><i>Two Pretty Nieces with an Elderly Uncle</i> (<i>coming to + "Apollo and Marsyas," by Tintoretto</i>). What was the + <i>story</i> of Apollo and Marsyas, Uncle?</p> + + <p><i>The Uncle</i>. Apollo? Oh, come, you've heard of + <i>him</i>, the—er—Sun-God, Phoebus-Apollo, and all + that?</p> + + <p><i>His Nieces</i>. Oh, yes, we know all <i>that</i>; but who + was Marsyas, and what does the Catalogue mean by "Athena and + three Umpires?"</p> + + <p><i>The Uncle</i>. Oh—er—hum! Didn't they teach + you all that at school? Well they <i>ought</i> to have, that's + all? Where's your Aunt—where's your Aunt?</p> + + <p><i>Mr. Ernest Stodgely</i> (<i>before the Portrait of the + Marchesa Isabella Grimaldi</i>). There, FLOSSIE, don't you feel + the greatness of that now? I'm curious to know how it impresses + you!</p> + + <p><i>Miss Featherhead</i>. Well, I rather like her frock, + ERNEST. How funny to think aigrettes were worn so long ago, + when they've just gone out <i>again</i>, don't you know. It + must have been difficult to kiss a person across one of those + enormous ruffs, though, don't you think?</p> + + <h4>IN GALLERY NO. IV.</h4> + + <p><i>Mr. Schohorff</i> (<i>loudly</i>). Ah, <i>that's</i> a + picture I know well; seen it many a time in the Octagon Boudoir + at dear old HATCHMENT's. But it looks better lighted up. I + remember the last time I was down there they told me they'd + been asked to lend it, but the Countess didn't seem to think + (<i>&c., &c.</i>).</p> + + <p><i>Mrs. Frivell</i> (<i>before "Death of Dido," by Liberale + da Verona</i>). Why is she standing on that pile of furniture + in the courtyard, though?</p> + + <p><i>Mr. F.</i> Because Æneas had jilted her, and so she + stabbed herself on a funeral pyre after setting fire to it, you + see.</p> + + <p><i>Mrs. F.</i> (<i>disapprovingly</i>). How <i>very</i> odd. + I thought they only did that in India. But who are all those + people looking-on?</p> + + <p><i>Mr. F.</i> Smart people of the period, my dear. Of course + Dido would send out invitations for a big function like + that—Wind-up of the season—Farewell + Reception—sure to be a tremendous rush for cards. Notice + the evident enjoyment of the guests. They are depicted in the + act of remarking to one another that their hostess is doing all + in <i>her</i> power to make the thing go off well. Keen + observer of human nature, old LIBERALE!</p> + + <p><i>Mrs. F.</i> Selfish creatures!</p> + + <h4>IN THE VESTIBULE.</h4> + + <p><i>Mrs. Townley-Ratton</i> (<i>about to leave with her + husband, encounters her cousins, the</i> Miss RURAL-RATTONS, + <i>who have just arrived</i>). Why, SOPHY, MARY! <i>how</i> are + you? this is <i>too</i> delightful! When <i>did</i> you come + up? How long are you going to be in town? <i>When</i> can you + come and see me?</p> + + <p><i>Miss Sophy Rattan</i> (<i>answering the two last + questions</i>). Till the end of the week. What will be the best + time to find you?</p> + + <p><i>Mrs. T.R.</i> (<i>warmly</i>). Oh, <i>any</i> time! I'm + almost <i>always</i> in—except the afternoons, of course. + I'm going out to tea or something every day this week!</p> + + <p><i>Miss Sophy R.</i> Well, how would some time in the + morning—</p> + + <p><i>Mrs. T.R.</i> The morning? No, I'm afraid—I'm + <i>afraid</i> it <i>mustn't</i> be the morning <i>this</i> + week—so many things that one <i>has</i> to see to!</p> + + <p><i>Mr. T.R.</i> (<i>lazily</i>). You'd better all come and + dine quietly some evening.</p> + + <blockquote> + <p>[<i>He yawns, to tone down any excess of hospitality in + this invitation.</i></p> + </blockquote> + + <p><i>Mrs. T.R.</i> (<i>quickly</i>). No, that would be + <i>too</i> cruel, when I know they'll want to go to a theatre + every night! And besides, I really haven't a single free + evening this week. But I must see if we can't <i>arrange</i> + something. You really must drop me a line <i>next</i> time + you're coming up! Good-bye, dears, we mustn't keep you from the + pictures—such a fine collection this winter! Love to your + Mother, and say I shall try to call—if I <i>possibly</i> + can!</p> + + <p><i>Mr. T.R.</i> (<i>as they descend the stairs</i>). I say, + SELINA, you forgot to ask 'em where they are. Shall I run back + and find out, eh?</p> + + <p><i>Mrs. T.R.</i> Not on <i>any</i> account. They're probably + at the Grand as usual, and if they're not, it will be a very + good excuse if I can't call. You are such a <i>fusser</i>, + ALFRED!</p> + + <p><i>Miss Sophy</i> (<i>to</i> Miss MARY). What a let-off! I + wouldn't have minded lunch so much—but + <i>dinner</i>—no, thank you, my dear!</p> + + <p><i>Miss Mary</i> (<i>gloomily</i>). She may call on Mother + and ask us all yet.</p> + + <p><i>Miss Sophy</i>. She doesn't know where we are, and I took + good care not to tell her. It's getting too dark to see much, + but we'll just walk through the rooms, to say we've done + it—shall we? [<i>They do.</i></p> + <hr /> + + <p>A SETTLER FOR MR. WOODS.—Mrs. RAM does not at all + wonder at Amateurs being able to "pick up old pieces of china + at CHRISTY's," for she has often heard that you've only got to + go to King Street, where anyone may see them "knocked down + under a hammer."</p> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page122" + id="page122"></a>[pg 122]</span> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:100%;"> + <a href="images/122.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/122.png" + alt="'OFF HIS FEED.'" /></a> + + <h3>"OFF HIS FEED."</h3><i>Salisbury the Vet.</i> "HUM! + SEEMS TO HAVE WASTED A BIT! WANTS A TONIC." + </div> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page123" + id="page123"></a>[pg 123]</span> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:100%;"> + <a href="images/123.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/123.png" + alt="'THINGS ARE NOT WHAT THEY SEEM.'" /></a> + + <h3>"THINGS ARE NOT WHAT THEY SEEM."</h3> + + <p><i>Mr. Foozler</i> (<i>who, while waiting for the last + Train, has wandered to the end of the Platform, opened the + door of the Signal-box, and watched the Signalman's + manipulations of the levers for some moments with hazy + perplexity, suddenly</i>). "ARF O' BURT'N 'N BIRRER F' ME, + GUV'NOR!"</p> + </div> + <hr /> + + <h2>"OFF HIS FEED!"</h2> + + <blockquote> + <p>SCENE—<i>The St. Stephen's Stables. Stall of the + Favourite, "Majority," who is being inspected by the + great</i> "<i>Vet.</i>" (S-L-SB-RY) <i>in presence of the + Groom</i> (B-LF-R), <i>and the Stable-help</i> + (CH-PL-N).</p> + </blockquote> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Stable-help</i> (<i>anxiously</i>). Why, he used + to be a stunner, and a safe and steady runner,</p> + + <p class="i2">And we trusted him, most confident, for + landing us the Stakes.</p> + + <p>Now, what can the cause of <i>this</i> be? He's + a-looking queer and quisby;</p> + + <p class="i2">And his off fore leg seems shaky, and the + rest ain't no <i>great</i> shakes.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Groom</i> (<i>sharply</i>). Not too much of it, + you HARRY! You are here to fetch and carry,</p> + + <p class="i2">And not to pass opinions in the presence + of the Vet.</p> + + <p>But he <i>does</i> look dicky, Mister; I've tried + bolus, I've tried blister,</p> + + <p class="i2">But I haven't got him up to his old form + by chalks, Sir, <i>yet</i>!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Vet.</i> (<i>dubiously</i>). You're a bit new at + the "biz.," lad, and I tell you what it is, + lad,—</p> + + <p class="i2">These thoroughbreds aren't managed like a + dray-horse, don'tcher know.</p> + + <p>They want very careful feeding, and Sangrado purge + or bleeding</p> + + <p class="i2">Won't suit our modern strain—of man + <i>or</i> horse. Steady, lad! Woa! [<i>Examines + him.</i></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Groom</i> (<i>rather sulkily</i>). Well, Sir, + what do you make it?</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Vet.</i> Off his feed?</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Groom</i>. + Well, he don't take it.</p> + + <p class="i2">Not voracious, so to speak, Sir, as he do + when cherry ripe.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Vet.</i> Ah-h-h! May want a change of diet. Eye + is neither bright <i>nor</i> quiet,</p> + + <p class="i2">And his coat seems dull and roughish, + though he's sound in pulse and pipe.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Stable-help</i>. Don't take kindly to his fodder, + and, what <i>I</i> thinks even odder,</p> + + <p class="i2">With a temper like a hangel, gits a bit + inclined to kick.</p> + + <p>Landed <i>'Art Dyke</i> a fair wunner!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Groom</i> (<i>testily</i>). + Well, you + are an eighty-tonner</p> + + <p class="i2">At superfluous patter, HARRY!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Stable-help</i> (<i>aside</i>). + Lor! <i>His</i> temper's gitting quick!</p> + + <p>What has been and popped the acid in his style so + prim and placid?</p> + + <p class="i2">Doesn't shine like what he thought to as + head-groom. Yus, there's the rub!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Vet.</i> (<i>looking at sieve</i>). Seem to shy + <i>that</i> feed!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Groom</i>. + I mixed it with the greatest care, and fixed it</p> + + <p class="i2">With an eye to tempt his appetite, but + there, he's off his grub!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Vet.</i> (<i>to Stable-help</i>). Takes your + green stuff better?</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Stable-help</i>. + True, Sir!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Groom</i>. + But too much o' that won't do, Sir.</p> + + <p class="i2">Can't live on tares entirely! + (<i>Aside.</i>) This here boy's too full of beans.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p><i>Vet.</i> Ah! I see the whole position. He's a bit + out of condition,</p> + + <p class="i2">Wants a tonic and skilled treatment. Yes, + no doubt that's what it means.</p> + + <p>With an appetite that's picksome comes a temper tart + and tricksome,</p> + + <p class="i2">But a pick-me-up—I'll send + one—will, I'm sure set all that square.</p> + + <p>And if there's further wasting, then, without too + headlong hasting,</p> + + <p class="i2">Give him, as soon as possible—a + little <i>Country Air</i>!</p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + + <h3>LORD WILDERMERE'S MOTHER-IN-LAW.</h3> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>She's as bad as can be, but she's "Precious" to + me,</p> + + <p class="i2">Though her conduct cannot be called free + from a flaw;</p> + + <p>For in spite of blackmail, I have vowed ne'er to + fail</p> + + <p class="i2">In the duty I owe to my + Mother-in-law.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>There have been flippant sneers and conventional + jeers,</p> + + <p class="i2">At a worthy relation that I hold in + awe;</p> + + <p>Though it angers my wife, all the joy of my life</p> + + <p class="i2">Comes from drawing big cheques—for + my Mother-in-law.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Peccadilloes she had, but she isn't all bad,</p> + + <p class="i2">And the folks who have sneered shall + their libels withdraw;</p> + + <p>To our dance she shall come, and the world be struck + dumb</p> + + <p class="i2">At the way that I've whitewashed my + Mother-in-law.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>She shall rise from the slime of what people called + crime,</p> + + <p class="i2">To a virtuous height, for I always + foresaw</p> + + <p>'Twould be wise to proclaim to all ages the fame</p> + + <p class="i2">Of that much-maligned female—a + Mother-in-law.</p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page124" + id="page124"></a>[pg 124]</span> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:50%;"> + <a href="images/124.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/124.png" + alt="WHAT OUR ARTIST (THE CHEEKY ONE) HAS TO PUT UP WITH." /> + </a> + + <h3>WHAT OUR ARTIST (THE CHEEKY ONE) HAS TO PUT UP + WITH.</h3> + + <p>"LOOK HERE, MY PRINCE OF PICTURE-DEALERS—A GREAT + FRIEND OF MINE, THE COUNTESS OF WATERBRUSH, IS GOING TO + HAVE AN ART STALL AT THE LITTLE PEDDLINGTON BAZAAR. COULD + YOU SPARE HER LADYSHIP ANY OLD RUBBISH YOU CAN'T GET RID + OF? IT'S FOR A CHARITY, YOU KNOW." — "ACH! ZÔH! VELL, + MY YOONG VRENT, I HAFE ZUM TOZENS OF YOUR VATER-CULLERS ZAT + PERHAPS HER LATYSHIP <i>MIGHT</i> MANAGE TO KET RIT + OF—FOR A <i>CHARITY</i>, YOU KNOW! SHE IS FERRY + VELCOME, I ASSURE YOU!"</p> + </div> + <hr /> + + <h2>DEATH IN THE POP.</h2> + + <p>Rather alarmed by reading in paper about "explosive + buttons." Seems that combs, collars, cuffs, buttons and things + made to imitate ivory and tortoiseshell are really highly + combustible. Lady in West of England had her dress ignited by + sudden explosion of a "fancy" button! In consequence, advise my + wife "to use that new hairbrush I gave her very gingerly, or + she'll be blown up." She wants to know "why I didn't find that + out before buying it." Difficult to find suitable reply. + Result—nobody blown up so far, except myself.</p> + + <p>Combing my few remaining locks. No harm in comb, I suppose, + as maker assured me it was "only made of celluloid." Comb + suddenly driven a couple of inches into my head, with loud + report! In bed for three weeks. Write to maker, who says, + "Didn't I know celluloid was mixture of camphor and + gun-cotton?" No, I didn't.</p> + + <p>Playing billiards, when sufficiently recovered. Just + executing fiftieth spot-stroke in succession, when—an + explosion! Cue driven out of my hand, and half-way down + marker's throat. Turns out that ball was a mixture of Turkish + Delight and nitroglycerine, and objected to my hitting it. + Marker brings action, and gets damages out of me.</p> + + <p>Little later. New fancy waistcoat. Buttons like pearl. Rub + one, to give extra polish—Bang!—explosion. Where am + I? In the middle of next week, on which date I write this.</p> + <hr /> + + <p>CON. BY A WELSHER.—Why has Wales more Clerks than + England?—Because it has a <i>Penman more</i>.</p> + <hr /> + + <h3>ENCOUNTER.</h3> + + <center> + (<i>An Effort in the Spasmodic-Obscure, after the American + Original quoted by Mr. James Payn in</i> "<i>Our + Note-Book</i>.") + </center> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Two Spooks, swirled fast along the Vast,</p> + + <p class="i2">Meeting each other "at the double,"</p> + + <p>Collided, squirmed, then howled aghast,</p> + + <p class="i2">Each to the other, "What's <i>your</i> + trouble?"</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>"Alas!" one whined, "Rymed Rot I read,</p> + + <p class="i2">Affected to admire, and quote it!"</p> + + <p>The other wailed, with shame-bowed head,</p> + + <p class="i2">"My case is even worse,—<i>I wrote + it</i>!"</p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + + <h2>THE SCALE WITH THE FALSE WEIGHTS.</h2> + + <h4>(<i>A Page from the Newgate Calendar—up-to-date + Edition</i>.)</h4> + + <p>The two Convicts were tried at the same Assizes, put in the + same dock and sentenced by the same Judge. So a companionship + sprang up between them considering that one was by birth and + education a Gentlemen, and the other was not. And they went to + the same prison, and listened to the same words of the same + Chaplain, and took their occasional exercise in the same + practising yard. And as luck would have it, they served the + same time, and were liberated at the same moment.</p> + + <p>"I am afraid I must say good-bye, GILES," said ST. JAMES, as + they emerged into freedom from the portals of the gaol. "Good + fellow as you are, GILES, you do not belong to my set, and your + presence would be embarrassing."</p> + + <p>"Oh, would it!" returned GILES, who had already recognised + some of his friends. "Well, I don't want to press my company on + anyone."</p> + + <p>"No offence!" exclaimed ST. JAMES, "I beg you—no + offence! But we have both to begin life again, and union is not + strength in a case such as ours!"</p> + + <p>"Oh, no offence!" acquiesced GILES, as he accompanied some + of his pals to a neighbouring public-house.</p> + + <p>ST. JAMES, left to his own devices, hurried to the Chambers + that he used to rent before he went to prison. They were "To + Let." He rang the bell, and the porter started back when he saw + him.</p> + + <p>"Hope you don't want to enter, Sir," said he; "but the + Guv'nor gave strict orders, as if you called, that you was not + to go in. It ain't my fault, Sir, but the Guv'nor is the + Guv'nor!"</p> + + <p>Disheartened by this rebuff, he tried the house of a friend, + but was so scornfully received, that he made up his mind never + to visit another acquaintance. Of course he found that his name + had been removed from his Clubs, and not a single individual + would recognise him. He was an outcast, and a ruined man. So he + walked about the streets until his shoes were in holes, and his + last penny exhausted. Then he lay down to sleep. But this was + against the regulations, and so he was hustled from pillar to + post, until at last he found himself in a very low part of + town. He was trudging past a public-house, when who should + emerge from its cheerful-looking recesses but GILES. "Hallo!" + cried the young man, who seemed the picture of health, "are + <i>you</i> down?"</p> + + <p>"Yes—very," returned ST. JAMES. "I haven't a friend in + the world, and no one will have anything to say to me."</p> + + <p>"What a shame!" cried the other. "Why, with me, I have had a + rare old time! Everybody has been pleased to see me."</p> + + <p>"But hasn't your conviction injured you?"</p> + + <p>"Not particularly. I have lots of people who support me. + Why, if we were <i>too</i> particular with one another, we + shouldn't have a pal in the world! Hope there's nothing + wrong."</p> + + <p>"Why, don't you call this wrong? Here are you, as jolly as + possible, and I—a miserable man!"</p> + + <p>"Can't be helped. We are in the same box."</p> + + <p>"Are we?" said the semi-genteel Convict. "Well, I should + have scarcely believed it! Then, I suppose I must comfort + myself with the thought that the same law applies to the rich + as the poor."</p> + + <p>"Does it?" returned the commoner Convict. "Then all I can + say is, that whatever the law may be, the punishment is never + the same." And ST. JAMES, with a bitter sigh, wished he could + change places with his more fortunate dock-mate.</p> + <hr /> + + <p>THE CHEF'S NEW DISH FOR TRAVELLERS.—"<i>Insurance of + Passengers' Luggage</i>."—Bravo, THOMAS COOK AND SON! Not + "too many Cooks," but "just Cooks enough!" Hitherto the + traveller had only to present himself ready "dressed" to be + thoroughly Cook'd, and done throughout, to a turn. Now, in + addition, his baggage can be book'd and Cook'd; and, should any + "<i>Gravy delictum</i>" happen to it, the value of the lost + portmanteau and boxes will be handed over to the aggrieved + passenger.</p> + <hr /> + + <p>PATHETIC DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT STATE OF MR. GEORGE + ALEXANDER.—"He is running WILDE at the St. James's + Theatre.—Yours, L.W.F."</p> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page125" + id="page125"></a>[pg 125]</span> + + <h2>CONFESSIONS OF A DUFFER.</h2> + + <h3>VI.—THE DUFFER AT WHIST.</h3> + + <p>Whist, it seems to me, is an affair of eyes, memory, and + calculative ratiocination. As to eyes, I have a private theory + that mine are bewitched. It is not mere short sight. At school + and college I have seen Greek words on the printed page, and + translated them correctly, and come to grief, because these + words, on inspection, were somehow not there. Explain this I + cannot, but it is a fact. The same with Whist; I see spades + where clubs are, and diamonds for hearts, and a cold world + accuses me of revoking and of carelessness, but it is + <i>not</i> carelessness. It is something gone askew in + phenomena. Thus, when I am a witness as to facts in a trial, + perjury is the softest word for my testimony, so the Court + thinks, because the Court is blessed with the usual relations + between objective facts, and subjective impressions. I admit + that I am less fortunate, but when I try to go into this, I am + interrupted. However, this is why I revoke.</p> + + <div class="figright" + style="width:55%;"> + <a href="images/125.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/125.png" + alt="The Duffer at Whist." /></a> + </div> + + <p>Then as to memory, I have none, for cards. It is extremely + difficult, indeed impossible, to recall who played what, after + the cards are once out of sight. I could tell you, like the man + in the story, that such and such a statement is on the ninety + sixth page of the fifth volume of GIBBON, the page on the left, + half-way down; useless things of that sort I remember: cards, + not. As to calculation and inferences, I give it up. I just + first play out all my kings, then all my aces, I lead trumps, + if I have a bunch of them, and then it is my partner's turn to + make his little points. I return his lead when I happen to + think of it, which is not often. That is all <i>I</i> have to + confess, but I have a friend, a brilliant player <i>I</i> call + him, and he permits me to contribute his experiences, as mine + are short and simple. To my mind, Whist would not be a bad + game, if the element of skill were excluded; but give me + Roulette. If foreign ladies would not snatch up my winnings, I + should be a master at Roulette, where genius is really served, + for I play on inspiration merely. But let me turn to the + confessions of my friend, my Mentor, I may call him, a man who + is a Member of the Burlington itself, one who has had losses, + go to! Hear him speak:—</p> + + <p>"I have always sympathised," he says, "with <i>Mr. + Pickwick</i>, in regard to his experiences at Whist; that is to + say, his experience on the second occasion narrated in his + history. The first time, it will be remembered, all went well, + when, owing to unfortunate lapses on the part of 'the criminal + Miller,' who omitted to 'trump the diamond' and subsequently + revoked, he and the fat gentleman were worsted in an encounter + with <i>Mr. Wardle's</i> mother and the immortal hero.</p> + + <p>"But at Bath there was a different tale to tell, the + <i>Dowager Lady Snuphanuph</i> and <i>Mrs. Colonel Wugsby</i>, + proved too able for him and <i>Miss Bolo</i>, who when he + played a wrong card, which, like me, he probably did every + other time, looked a small armoury of daggers, and subsequently + in a beautiful instance of the figure known to the grammarian + as Hendiadys, went home in tears and a Sedan chair."</p> + + <p>Bearing in mind the advice attributed to TALLEYRAND, I have + conscientiously endeavoured to become a Whist-player; but it is + becoming increasingly obvious to me, that owing to the malison + pronounced at my birth, my room is generally preferred to my + company. And yet I have studied the subject according to my + lights. Every instance of Whist in fiction which comes under my + notice receives my undivided attention, and when I read Miss + BROUGHTON, such a sentence as, "I suppose," she said, "that + it's the right thing to play out all one's aces first? Her + partner conscientiously endeavoured to veil the expression of + extreme dissent which this proposition called forth, and with + such success that the ace of hearts instantly and confidently + followed his brother."</p> + + <p>When I read hints like these, I garner them up for my own + future use. I have pored over every known text-book on the + subject, from MATTHEWS and HOYLE to CAVENDISH. I once went so + far as to learn the proper leads by rote, forgetting them all + within a week; and owing to my inveterate habit of endeavouring + to justify the most flagitious acts by a supposed reference to + authority, have earned for myself the name of "Pole."</p> + + <p>There are some with whom I play, who contrive to make me + feel more at my ease than do others, and even look upon me in + virtue of my playing with "those men at the Club" as one having + authority; for among the blind the one-eyed man is king. There + is my Mother-in-law for instance, now I really enjoy a rubber + with <i>her</i>. We sit down after dinner at a table scant of + cloth, and either much too small or so inconveniently large + that I cannot see the trump at the other end of it. She usually + begins operations by misdealing, which is precisely what always + happens to me with a new pack; nor do I yet understand how it + is that the expert manages to deal at about sixty miles an hour + without a mistake, whereas when my turn comes every other card + seems to get stuck to its neighbour by a very superior kind of + glue, so that they all come out in batches of twos and threes + as it were, instead of one by one.</p> + + <p>But when the deal has come right, her next step is to sort + her cards, which she does by placing all her trumps apart from + the others between her third and fourth fingers; I can thus + tell how many she has, and am further assisted by her generally + dropping one or two in the process face upwards on the table. + This would be punishable at the Club; but as she would consider + it "mean" were any allusions made to it, nothing happens. + Towards the end of the hand her attention is apt to wander, and + owing to her abstraction play comes to a dead halt. When a hint + is offered that we are waiting for her, with prompt and + business-like alacrity but regardless of the rigorous formula, + "Place your cards, please," she will say, "Who led a spade?" + there being at the time a club, a heart, and a diamond on the + table. Then, being the only one who has a card of the leader's + suit left, she revokes but is not found out. When she leads out + of turn, as happens on an average four or five times every + rubber, if I am against her, I call a suit from her partner, + upon which she says, flaring up, "Is <i>that</i> the way you + play at the Club? 'Cheats never thrive.'" Nor do we, for the + simple reason, that she seldom holds less than three honours in + each suit, and from five to six trumps besides!</p> + + <p>This, as I said, is the sort of Whist I rather enjoy; but + when it comes to playing in sober earnest at the Club, there is + a different tale to tell.</p> + + <center> + (<i>This different tale will be told in the Duffer's + next.</i>) + </center> + <hr /> + + <p>"AIRY FAIRY LILLY UN!"—One day last week, MR. W.S. + LILLY—<i>i.e.</i> W. "SHIBBOLETHS" LILLY—delivered + an excellent lecture on the Papal-Italian question, and + although at Birmingham, it was by no means a brummagem + discourse. But to quote the immortal ballad of <i>Billy + Taylor</i>, "When the Captain he come for to hear on't, He + werry much applauded what she'd done," and, to apply the lines + to the present instance, "When the POPE he comes for to hear + on't," <i>will</i> he "werry much applaud," the opinions + honestly and courteously enough expressed in this lecture? By + the way, "LEO and the Lilly" would make a fine subject for a + historical cartoon. The learned Lecturer took care to observe, + with all the true modesty of the humble flower from which his + name is derived, that he spoke only the opinion of a party, + which party, whether small, considerable, or large, his + audience could judge for themselves with the unclothed optic, + as the party in question was, not to put too fine a point on + it, Himself.</p> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page126" + id="page126"></a>[pg 126]</span> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:100%;"> + <a href="images/126.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/126.png" + alt="DANCING MEN." /></a> + + <h3>DANCING MEN.</h3> + + <p>"WHAT A CHARMING WALTZ THEY'RE PLAYING UPSTAIRS. (MORE + CHAMPAGNE, WAITER. THANKS!)"</p> + + <p>"I'VE ONLY JUST COME—NOT BEEN UPSTAIRS YET. ONE + HEARS THE MUSIC SO MUCH BETTER DOWN HERE. (COLD CUTLET, + PLEASE, AND SALAD. THANKS!)"</p> + </div> + <hr /> + + <h2>"A LITTLE HOLIDAY!"</h2> + + <blockquote class="note"> + <p>[It is proposed that 450,000 colliers belonging to the + Miners' Federation should cease work for a week or a + fortnight. This, it is said, is regarded as an "amicable" + Strike, not against the Masters, but to raise the price of + coal by producing an artificial scarcity, and thus avoiding + a threatened reduction of wages consequent upon + over-production. This the Miners call, "Going on + Play."]</p> + </blockquote> + + <center> + <i>Out-of-Worker to Out-on-Player</i>:— + </center> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Who talks of "Solidarity of Labour,"—</p> + + <p class="i2">A favourite shibboleth in these our + days?—</p> + + <p>To recognise one's duty to one's neighbour</p> + + <p class="i2">Is that which all—in + theory—will praise.</p> + + <p>And Unions are upheld, and "Blacklegs" + scouted—</p> + + <p class="i2">Friends of Fraternity <i>their</i> heads + must break</p> + + <p>To prove their loyal brotherhood + undoubted!—</p> + + <p class="i2">But <i>here</i> there seems to be some + slight mistake.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Going on Play, mate, you of the broad shoulders?</p> + + <p class="i2">Take holiday awhile from pick and + lamp?</p> + + <p>Well your hard toil impresses all beholders,</p> + + <p class="i2">Sweating amidst black seams and choking + "damp."</p> + + <p>A "holiday," for rest and recreation,</p> + + <p class="i2">None would begrudge you. But at the + expense</p> + + <p>Of every other worker in the nation?</p> + + <p class="i2">I don't quite see it! Maybe I am + dense.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>A "friendly" Strike, you call it; "amicable"!</p> + + <p class="i2">Nice sounding words! Strikes mostly mean + hot war.</p> + + <p>But in to-day's wild Socialistic Babel</p> + + <p class="i2">Blest if I always know just where we + are.</p> + + <p>But if I'm out of work, or out of fuel,</p> + + <p class="i2">Me and a many thousand like me, mate,</p> + + <p>Your "friendly" conflict seems a <i>leetle</i> + cruel</p> + + <p class="i2">To us, with idle hands or empty + grate.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>I'd like to taste the sweets of "solidarity"</p> + + <p class="i2">In this connection; so would my pale + friend;</p> + + <p>He's a poor Clerk. I fancy human charity,</p> + + <p class="i2"><i>All round</i>, a lot of bitter strife + would end;</p> + + <p>And if <i>that</i>'s "solidarity," I'm for it;</p> + + <p class="i2">But in your "play" <i>are</i> you + considering <i>us</i>?</p> + + <p>No need for snivelling bunkum; I abhor it;</p> + + <p class="i2">But does fraternity shape itself + <i>thus</i>?</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Must fight for your own hand? Oh, ah! precisely.</p> + + <p class="i2">Only that's ISHMAEL, after all, right + out.</p> + + <p>Maybe that for yourself you're acting + wisely,—</p> + + <p class="i2">Though even that seems open to some + doubt,—</p> + + <p>But if your self-advancement means a smasher</p> + + <p class="i2">To mill-hand, poor mechanic, labourer, + clerk,</p> + + <p>Without a fire to fry his slender "rasher,"</p> + + <p class="i2">Fraternity's outlook still looks rather + dark.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>With Coal two bob a hundred, and still rising,</p> + + <p class="i2">Poor folk who buy it by the fourteen + pound,</p> + + <p>(Dukes at St. James's Hall, this sounds + surprising,</p> + + <p class="i2">But if you'd understand it, just look + round!)</p> + + <p>Dockers and Brickies, charwomen and "childer,"</p> + + <p class="i2">With such small deer, mate, as my friend + and me,</p> + + <p>Find one more "Social Question" to bewilder</p> + + <p class="i2">The small brains left us by chill + poverty.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Fighting <i>our</i> battle? Humph! A rather + roundabout</p> + + <p class="i2">Way of so doing! P'r'aps your Masters, + too,</p> + + <p>Would claim the same—there <i>are</i> such + Bosses found about;</p> + + <p class="i2">Westminsters, Liveseys, Norwoods, and + that crew,</p> + + <p>All for our good, not only Strike-Committees,</p> + + <p class="i2">But Rate-payers' Defence Leagues, and the + like!</p> + + <p>Oh, the poor Propertied Classes! How one pities</p> + + <p class="i2">Those victims of the School Board, + Council, Strike!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>If Miners and Mine-Owners pull together</p> + + <p class="i2">To raise the price of Coal—well, it + may suit</p> + + <p>Both them and you. But, in this bitter weather,</p> + + <p class="i2">Your "Solidarity" brings <i>us</i> bitter + fruit.</p> + + <p>When our pinched fire dies down to its last + ember,</p> + + <p class="i2">The picture of you "making holiday" + thus</p> + + <p>Won't warm our wives and kids. Strike!—but + remember</p> + + <p class="i2">That what is "Play" to you means death to + us!</p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + + <p>A POSER FOR MR. WEATHERBY.—Mrs. RAM is not in the + least astonished at its being said that certain horses turn out + "regular flyers," because, she says, "she has often heard of + mares' nests."</p> + <hr /> + + <p>"MINER PREMISES."—In the Coal Districts.</p> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page127" + id="page127"></a>[pg 127]</span> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:100%;"> + <a href="images/127.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/127.png" + alt="'A LITTLE HOLIDAY!!'" /></a> + + <h3>"A LITTLE HOLIDAY!!"</h3> + + <table summary="A little holiday!!" + width="100%"> + <tr> + <td align="center">WORKING-MAN AND<br /> + POOR CLERK.</td> + + <td align="center"><font size="+3">}</font></td> + + <td align="left">"AH! IT'S ALL VERY WELL,—BUT + WHAT'S <i>PLAY</i> TO <i>YOU</i> IS <i>DEATH</i> TO + <i>US</i>."</td> + </tr> + </table> + </div> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page129" + id="page129"></a>[pg 129]</span> + + <h2>WHAT DO THEY MEAN BY IT?</h2> + + <p>In an interesting description (that appeared in the + <i>Times</i> for Saturday, February 27) of the working of the + "Jacquard Card-Preparing Machine," which is, it appears, "a + machine for superseding the human brain, eye, and + hand"—(so that soon all who can afford it will be fitted + up with these machines, and keep their brains, eyes, and hands + in reserve for very special occasions)—it was stated that + "the blank cards are automatically fed to the punches." That + punches should be spelt without the capital P is of course a + Printer's error, deserving capital punishment. <i>Mr. P.</i> + thinks it right to state in answer to numerous inquiries, that + all his <i>Punches</i> speak by the card. But as to even the + smallest of the <i>Punch</i> family being "fed" on cards, or + getting his or her living by cards, the statement is utterly at + variance with the facts. <i>Mr. P.</i> is quite sure that the + "Jacquard Automatic Reading and Punching Syndicate" will at + once retract the injurious statement, or the youthful, vigorous + and pugnacious <i>Punches</i> will be inquiring of <i>Mr. + P.</i>, as <i>Sam Weller</i> did of <i>Mr. Pickwick</i> when + that gentleman's great name was apparently taken in vain, + "Ain't nobody to be whopped for takin' this here liberty?" that + is, adapting the question to the present occasion, "Ain't + nobody's head to be Punch'd for this mis-use of an ancient and + honourable name?"</p> + <hr /> + + <p>THE NAIL-MAKERS' STRIKE.—They refuse to work unless + higher wages are paid "down on the nail."</p> + <hr /> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:75%;"> + <a href="images/129-1.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/129-1.png" + alt="A 'HUNTING FIXTURE.'" /></a> + + <h3>A "HUNTING FIXTURE."</h3>HUNG UP ON A STILE, AND HOUNDS + RUNNING LIKE MAD. + </div> + <hr /> + + <h2>CRIES WITHOUT WOOL.</h2> + + <h3>No. II.—THE GROWL OF THE BEAR.</h3> + + <h4>(<i>By a Singer in</i> "<i>Air</i>.")</h4> + + <blockquote class="note"> + <p>["In consequence of the rumour that,... American stocks + declined heavily.... The rumour proved totally without + foundation."—<i>Any Money-article; any day.</i>]</p> + </blockquote> + + <div class="figright" + style="width:22%;"> + <a href="images/129-2.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/129-2.png" + alt="The bear." /></a> + </div> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>There is little that goads us with fiercer + despair</p> + + <p>(Those who buy, you perpend, stock, debenture or + share,</p> + + <p>Such as speculate mainly; investors are + rare—)</p> + + <p>Than this growl ill-conditioned of pestilent + Bear!</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>With a craftiness planned and a malice unfair,</p> + + <p>Improvising a scare unsubstantial as air—</p> + + <p>Now it's "war," now "disease," and the world must + prepare</p> + + <p>For the death of, say, GOULD, or a Chilian + flare;</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Or the "cutting of rates:" I am quite unaware</p> + + <p>What it means, I declare, but it's "cutting," I + swear,</p> + + <p>To a person like me, not a flush millionaire</p> + + <p>Who must "realise" scrip,—and the canker of + care.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>It would seem, we could e'er so conveniently + spare</p> + + <p>From a world too competitive, blarneyed with + blare,</p> + + <p>Both the Yankee of Wall-Street, his London + <i>confrère</i>,</p> + + <p>And all criers of "Lost!" when no losses are + there;</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>All the wreckers, whose lair is secure past + compare,</p> + + <p>All who batten on bones with a maw debonair,</p> + + <p>And the carcase of Poverty torture and tear</p> + + <p>With historical fraud, and benevolent glare.</p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Who will join me in sport that is novel—who'll + dare</p> + + <p>In his prosperous pit to go baiting the "Bear,"</p> + + <p>Who will lead him a dance, who his talons will + pare,</p> + + <p>And make summary work of this ursine affair?</p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + + <h2>"MUST IT COME TO THIS?"</h2> + + <blockquote> + <p>SCENE—<i>The War Office. Present</i> Mr. STANHOPE; + <i>to him enter</i> Inspector-General PUNCH.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p><i>Mr. Stanhope</i>. Ah, Sir, glad to see you. Can I do + anything for you?</p> + + <p><i>Inspector-General</i>. Well, not for me—but you may + and must do something for those I represent—the Volunteer + Officers.</p> + + <p><i>Mr. Stan.</i> Oh, you have come about them, have you? + Well, you saw what I said about them in my Memorandum the other + day?</p> + + <p><i>In.-Gen.</i> I noticed what you did <i>not</i> + say—you hoped during the present year to see some + practical proposals.</p> + + <p><i>Mr. Stan.</i> Well, what do you want more?</p> + + <p><i>In.-Gen.</i> The proposals themselves.</p> + + <p><i>Mr. Stan.</i> They will come in good time.</p> + + <p><i>In.-Gen.</i> No time in this matter will be + good—except the present.</p> + + <p><i>Mr. Stan.</i> Oh, you leave it to me, you will see it + will be all right.</p> + + <p><i>In.-Gen.</i> No—unless you attend to the matter at + once—now—at this moment.</p> + + <p><i>Mr. Stan.</i> How you do take me up! What a hurry you are + in!</p> + + <p><i>In.-Gen.</i> Shilly-shallying to the rear—action to + the front. Now, then, produce your proposals.</p> + + <p><i>Mr. Stan.</i> (<i>reluctantly producing a paper from a + pigeon-hole</i>). Well, here they are—(<i>giving + them</i>)—what do you think of them?</p> + + <p><i>In.-Gen.</i> (<i>after a hurried perusal</i>). Humph! At + any rate let them he published at once, that those interested + may be able to come to an immediate decision as to their + utility. Do you hear, Sir? Adieu! [<i>Exit.</i></p> + + <blockquote> + <p>(<i>And if the</i> SECRETARY of STATE for WAR <i>is a + wise man, he will act upon the hint thus offered + him.</i>)</p> + </blockquote> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page130" + id="page130"></a>[pg 130]</span> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:100%;"> + <a href="images/130.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/130.png" + alt="GRAND OLD ENERGY." /></a> + + <h3>GRAND OLD ENERGY.</h3>[It is stated that Mr. GLADSTONE + feels very much the want of exercise since his return to + Parliamentary duties.] + </div> + <hr /> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page131" + id="page131"></a>[pg 131]</span> + + <h2>DREAMS.</h2> + + <blockquote class="note"> + <p>[Mr. JOHN MORLEY having said that he would be sorry for + the country whose young men ceased to dream dreams, Lord + RANDOLPH CHURCHILL twitted him with having described the + Progressive party as young men who dream dreams, and added, + "They are words which I will never let die."]</p> + </blockquote> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Dreams, my dear Lord? Well, there are dreams + <i>and</i> dreams,</p> + + <p>Are those of BURNS much worse than those of + WEMYSS?</p> + + <p>Are WESTMINSTER's vain visions, though mature</p> + + <p>The dreamer, less absurd or more obscure</p> + + <p>Than those of some "young man" who dares to hope</p> + + <p>That he with crowded London's ills can cope?</p> + + <p>"Behold this dreamer cometh!" So of old</p> + + <p>The sons of JACOB, envious, scornful, cold,</p> + + <p>And fearful for their privilege of birth</p> + + <p>And of possession, in derisive mirth,</p> + + <p>Cried at young JOSEPH's coming. A "young man,"</p> + + <p>O reverend oracle! Yet his wit outran,</p> + + <p>His wisdom far outsoared, for all their boast,</p> + + <p>The <i>nous</i> collective of the elder host;</p> + + <p>And PHARAOH, when his "wise men" vainly schemed,</p> + + <p>Found statesmanship in a young man who dreamed.</p> + + <p>You will not let them die? Well, as you list!</p> + + <p>The words, Sir, with a Machiavellian twist,</p> + + <p>Tickle the ears of those smart word-fence + blinds,</p> + + <p>And garbled catch-words win unwary minds,</p> + + <p>And, maybe, witless votes. Poor London dreams</p> + + <p>Of—many things most horrible to WEMYSS!</p> + + <p>The nightmare-incubus of old abuse</p> + + <p>Propertied privilege, expense profuse</p> + + <p>Of many lives for one, the dead-hand's grip</p> + + <p>On the slow generations, the sharp whip</p> + + <p>Of a compulsory poverty, the gloom</p> + + <p>Of that high-rated den, miscalled a Home!</p> + + <p>All these it knows, and many miseries more,</p> + + <p>And dreams of—Betterment! You'll "never let + die.</p> + + <p>JOHN MORLEY's words?" You cannot, though you + try.</p> + + <p>In vain 'gainst dreaming youth you feign to + scream,</p> + + <p>Because you're yet a Young Man—and you + Dream!</p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + + <div class="figcenter" + style="width:65%;"> + <a href="images/131-1.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/131-1.png" + alt="VERY LITERAL." /></a> + + <h3>VERY LITERAL.</h3> + + <p><i>The Major</i>. "NO DOUBT YOU'RE VERY FOND OF + ANTIQUES, MISS EUGENIA?"</p> + + <p><i>Miss Eugenia</i>. "OH YES, INDEED!—AND I'M + DEVOTED TO GRANDMAMMA!"</p> + </div> + <hr /> + + <h2>ESSENCE OF PARLIAMENT.</h2> + + <h4>EXTRACTED FROM THE DIARY OF TOBY, M.P.</h4> + + <div class="figright" + style="width:30%;"> + <a href="images/131-2.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/131-2.png" + alt="Lord Elcho." /></a>Lord Elcho. + </div> + + <p><i>House of Commons, Monday, February 29.</i>—Mr. G. + looked in to-night from the Riviera; greeted with rousing cheer + from Opposition; didn't expect to see him to-day; just arrived + from Mediterranean <i>viâ</i> Paris; most men in such + circumstances would have gone straight home, read their + letters, had quiet dinner, "and so to bed," as the late Mr. + PEPYS occasionally remarked.</p> + + <p>"That's all very well for you elderly fellows, TOBY," said + Mr. G., beaming with health and smiles. "ARMITSTEAD, for + example, went straight off home. I was careful to see about + that; he's a fine fellow, and I humoured him by letting him + suppose he was looking after me as far as Biarritz, and on to + Pau. In no other way could I have got him to make a holiday. + Think I rather wore him out at St. Raphael. When a man gets + over sixty he doesn't care about his ten or fifteen mile walk + before luncheon. However, I brought ARMITSTEAD back all right, + and, packing him off home at Charing Cross, just popped in here + to see how you are getting on."</p> + + <p>In respect of business, not getting on at all. Things going + awry. Ministerialists won't come up to scratch in Division + Lobby; Majority that used to flash forth a hundred-candlelight + strong, now flickered down to a score. Opposition growing + jubilant and aggressive; Irish Members, long quiescent, waking + up as of yore. To-night Prince ARTHUR, stung to quick by + remarks from JOHN DILLON, made rattling speech defending his + Irish policy; poured contumely and scorn on heads of Irish + Members.</p> + + <p>"You," he said, with gesture of passionate scorn, "see no + source of regeneration for Ireland but in refusal of tenants to + pay their rent."</p> + + <p>Lord ELCHO and other young bloods on Ministerial Bench + cheered; old stagers looked + grave.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page132" + id="page132"></a>[pg 132]</span> + + <p>"Ah, ah!" said CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN, looking on from the Front + Opposition Bench, "I spy the beard of the Irish Secretary under + the muffler of the Leader of the House."</p> + + <p>"Dear me," said ESSLEMONT, who overheard the remark; "I + don't remember BALFOUR with a beard when he was at the Irish + Office. You're not mixing him up with GRANDOLPH?"</p> + + <p>"Get thee to a nunnery, worthy draper," said + CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN, "and in that leisurely retirement read your + SHAKSPEARE."</p> + + <p>"A nunnery!" cried ESSLEMONT, more than ever bewildered; + "why they wouldn't let me in. I suppose you mean a monastery; + but man and boy for fifty years I've gone to Kirk, and nothing + would—" By this time CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN was out of + hearing.</p> + + <p><i>Business done</i>.—One Vote in Committee of + Supply.</p> + + <p><i>Tuesday</i>.—The MARKISS not in his place in Lords + to-night. Looked in at Arlington Street to inquire if absence + was due to illness.</p> + + <p>"Not at all, TOBY," said the MARKISS who, indeed, looked + quite fit. "There was nothing particular on the paper to-night, + so I didn't go down. It's necessary for Nephew ARTHUR to be + regular in his attendance on the Commons. But in the Lords it's + different. A happy fortune places the Leader there in a + position that relieves him from strain of unbroken attendance. + With STRATHEDEN AND CAMPBELL looking after foreign policy, and + DENMAN taking charge of home affairs, my post is really a + sinecure. They talk about ending or mending of the House of + Lords; but as long as we are blessed with this remarkable + combination of legislative and administrative capacity we can + laugh at the idle threats."</p> + + <p>It was DENMAN who took the floor to-night; moved Second + Reading of a Bill, the simple and comprehensive object of which + was to repeal Local Government Acts of England and Scotland. + These passed only a Session or two ago by continuous united + effort of both Houses of Parliament. DENMAN been closely + watching them in operation. Finds them disappointing, and so + would have them repealed. House fully constituted, with LORD + CHANCELLOR on Woolsack, Mace on Table, and quorum present; + gravely listens, whilst tall, white-haired, sad-faced man + rambles on in plaintive voice, urging proposition which, if + carried out, would arrest machinery of Local Government + throughout the Kingdom, leaving all to be gone over again. No + one smiles, much less winks or wags the head. It is just as + solemn and as orderly as if it were the MARKISS himself + submitting a Resolution or making a statement. Only, when the + plaintive voice ceases and the tall figure is reseated on the + Bench, nobody proposes to continue the conversation. LORD + CHANCELLOR rapidly gabbles shibboleth in which "content" + stumbles over "not content."</p> + + <p>"Notcontentshaveit," says LORD CHANCELLOR, by way of last + word; leaves Woolsack; the few Peers slowly pass out. It seems + the House has adjourned, DENMAN's Motion being negatived + without Division, and Local Government in England and Scotland + will proceed to-morrow as it has gone on to-day.</p> + + <p><i>Business done</i>.—House of Commons, having agreed + to meet at two o'clock to-morrow instead of twelve, makes up + for it by getting itself Counted Out at eight o'clock.</p> + + <p><i>Wednesday</i>.—Came across LOCKWOOD this afternoon + in remote part of corridor, gesticulating whilst he recited + some lines. Fancy he's getting up that lecture on the "Lawyers + in <i>Pickwick</i>," announced for delivery in York on the + 15th. Most interesting undertaking. As CHARLES RUSSELL says, + "<i>Coke-upon-Lyttleton</i> will have to take a back shelf in + the Law libraries when <i>Lockwood-upon-Dickens</i> is in + circulation."</p> + + <p>Wonder how he finds time for these excursions into the + bye-paths of literature? Hands full at the Bar; frequent + attendant here; and yet he has time to discover + <i>Pickwick</i>! He tells me great secret of capability for + this kind of work is plain living and regular habits.</p> + + <p>"A chop or steak at eight o'clock with a potato (boiled in + its jacket) and a tumbler of toast-and-water; that's my regular + dinner; leaves me clear-headed and free for a couple of hours' + work at my briefs before I go to bed. Except when kept down at + House, rarely out of bed after eleven. Up at five; cold bath; + dry toast; hot milk; another grind at my briefs; ride down to + Court; at it all day, with intervals for Abernethy biscuit when + Court adjourns; and so the mill goes round."</p> + + <p>"Don't you think," said BOB REID, "it's a little + unprofessional of LOCKWOOD going into this <i>Pickwick</i> + business? The cases were never, that I know of, reported in the + <i>Law Journal</i>. Good fellow LOCKWOOD, but a little apt to + stray outside the ropes. Now he's started lecturing, there's no + knowing how far he'll go. We may see him on the stage bowling + BEERBOHM TREE out as <i>Hamlet</i>, or even with his face + corked, dancing a breakdown at St. James's Hall. What does he + want to go a-lecturing for? Do you think he'll draw?"</p> + + <p>"Draw!" I cried. "Why, he's always drawing; he's drawn for + <i>Punch</i>." That shut up Master BOB. When you want to hear + disparaging remarks about a man, nothing like going to his + bosom friend. <i>Business done</i>.—Irish.</p> + + <div class="figleft" + style="width:25%;"> + <a href="images/132-1.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/132-1.png" + alt="'Monumental Suavity.'" /></a>"Monumental + Suavity." + </div> + + <p><i>Thursday</i>.—Mr. G. in fine form to-night; + delivered two speeches, each in highest form of Parliamentary + Debate. Infinite variety in manner. Before dinner, Prince + ARTHUR moved to take Morning Sittings on Tuesdays and Fridays + for rest of Session. That means virtual appropriation on very + threshold of Session of time belonging to private Members. They + furious; Mr. G. in benignest mood; shocked, he must confess, at + Prince ARTHUR's unparalleled greed; but not disposed to turn a + deaf ear to his importunity. "If you'd make it Easter, now," he + said, with winning voice and manner, "limit the scope of + resolution to that date, I'm not sure that I should feel + disposed to say you nay."</p> + + <p>Prince ARTHUR jumped at proposal. Sufficient unto Easter are + the Morning Sittings thereof. If he wanted more he could ask + again. Meanwhile he was in possession of what he wanted.</p> + + <p>House looked on in amazement at this little scene. + Opposition expected Mr. G. would have thundered forth + denunciations of Prince ARTHUR's audacity. Here he was making + terms with the enemy; doing it all, too, with imposingly + judicial manner that was irresistible. Before House quite knew + where it was, everything was settled.</p> + + <p>"'Now I'm furnished, Now I'm furnished, for my + flight'—of oratory."</p> + + <p>It was BLUNDELL MAPLE chanting this line, sung in another + place by <i>Hecate</i>. Flight didn't amount to more than + asking question as to whether audiences at unlicensed places of + entertainment (in neighbourhood of Tottenham Court Road or + elsewhere) open for Radical or Liberal entertainments, are duly + protected from fire? Members went off to dinner, pondering on + this conundrum. Came back to find Mr. G. on his legs again, + denouncing proposition to vote £20,000 for survey of railway + from Mombasa to Nyanza. A splendid piece of invective; almost + literally shrivelled up poor JOKIM, at whom some of the + scorching flame was pointed with outstretched forefinger. For + more than half an hour, at period of night when most gentlemen + of his years are snugly tucked up in bed, Mr. G. held the + audience entranced, thunderous cheers rolling forth in rapid + succession from Liberal ranks, now and then answered by low + growl from Ministerialists.</p> + + <div class="figright" + style="width:20%;"> + <a href="images/132-2.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/132-2.png" + alt="The Man who Owns a Mountain." /></a>The Man who + Owns a Mountain. + </div> + + <p>"What a man it is!" cried KENRICK, looking on with + monumental suavity; "almost sorry he left us. Sometimes, at his + best, he equals our JOE." <i>Business done</i>.—A couple + of Votes in Supply.</p> + + <p><i>Friday</i>.—BRYCE at last got access to mountains + in Scotland.</p> + + <p>Been wandering round foot of them through many Sessions, and + several Parliaments. Always something happened to prevent his + reaching the top. Don't believe he'd have got there to-night, + only for FARQUHARSON.</p> + + <p>When F. came forward to second Motion, incidentally + observing, "I'm the proprietor of a mountain myself," we felt + something must be done, and BRYCE's Motion was agreed to.</p> + + <p>FARQUHARSON, for rest of evening, object of respectful + regard. Some inquiry as to where he kept his mountain. Did he + bring it to Town with him when he came up for the Session? And, + when at home, was he in habit of leaving it out all night?</p> + + <p>"Don't happen to have it about you, I suppose?" WILFRID + LAWSON asked, eyeing his trousers' pockets.</p> + + <p>FARQUHARSON very reticent on subject. Rumour, just before + House adjourned, that his mountain is one of those situated in + the Moon—but this only envy.</p> + + <p><i>Business done</i>.—Access secured to FARQUHARSON's + mountain and others in Scotland.</p> + <hr /> + + <p>STRANGE CHARGE AGAINST A GREAT POET.—Lord TENNYSON's + <i>Robin Hood</i> is to be produced at DALY's, New York, and + simultaneously, to secure copyright, by one performance only, + at the Lyceum. We never thought TENNYSON a plagiarist before + this, but here is proof positive he's at it now,—Lord + TENNYSON's <i>robbing Hood</i>!!</p> + <hr /> + + <p>NOTICE.—Rejected Communications or Contributions, + whether MS., Printed Matter, Drawings, or Pictures of any + description, will in no case be returned, not even when + accompanied by a Stamped and Addressed Envelope, Cover, or + Wrapper. To this rule there will be no exception.</p> + <hr class="full" /> + +<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14364 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/14364-h/images/121.png b/14364-h/images/121.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..aea5fef --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/121.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/122.png b/14364-h/images/122.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..93417ce --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/122.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/123.png b/14364-h/images/123.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..e49c29b --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/123.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/124.png b/14364-h/images/124.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..9de9286 --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/124.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/125.png b/14364-h/images/125.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..2553fca --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/125.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/126.png b/14364-h/images/126.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..2b8d1e5 --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/126.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/127.png b/14364-h/images/127.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..ba4b0cc --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/127.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/129-1.png b/14364-h/images/129-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..a52d984 --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/129-1.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/129-2.png b/14364-h/images/129-2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..fcfe667 --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/129-2.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/130.png b/14364-h/images/130.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..b52768c --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/130.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/131-1.png b/14364-h/images/131-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..7fd6f5b --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/131-1.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/131-2.png b/14364-h/images/131-2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..0f48e56 --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/131-2.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/132-1.png b/14364-h/images/132-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..6ed62fc --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/132-1.png diff --git a/14364-h/images/132-2.png b/14364-h/images/132-2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..0a5ba5a --- /dev/null +++ b/14364-h/images/132-2.png |
