[2] The first we read of Bear-baiting in England, was in the
reign of King John, at Ashby-de-la-Zouch, where "thyss
straynge passtyme was introduced by some Italyans for his
highness' amusement, wherewith he and his court were highly
delighted."

[3] Reliq. Wotton, p. 425. Edit. 1685

[4] Winwood's Memorials, vol. iii. p. 469.

[5] Annals of the Stage. By J.P. Collyer, Esq. F.S.A. Vol. I.

* * * * *




LACONICS.

(_For the Mirror_.)

Amongst men of the world comfort merely signifies a great consideration
for themselves, and a perfect indifference about others.

Every one who gives way to thought, must, of necessity, become wiser every
day; for either the ideas that present themselves to his mind will confirm
his yet rickety theories, or observation will teach him that his previous
views of things were ill-founded.