that I could only see fairy legs glittering in the distance, as I
stood at the door. And if I was badly off, I think there was a
young gentleman behind me worse off still. I own that he has
good reason (though others have not) to speak ill of me behind my
back, and hereby beg his pardon.

Likewise to the gentleman who picked up a party in Piccadilly,
who had slipped and fallen in the snow, and was there on his
back, uttering energetic expressions: that party begs to offer
thanks, and compliments of the season.

Bob's behaviour on New Year's day, I can assure Dr Holyshade, was
highly creditable to the boy. He had expressed a determination
to partake of every dish which was put on the table; but after
soup, fish, roast-beef, and roast-goose, he retired from active
business until the pudding and mince-pies made their appearance,
of which he partook liberally, but not too freely. And he
greatly advanced in my good opinion by praising the punch, which
was of my own manufacture, and which some gentlemen present (Mr
O'M--g--n, amongst others) pronounced to be too weak. Too weak!
A bottle of rum, a bottle of Madeira, half a bottle of brandy,
and two bottles and a half of water -- can this mixture be said
to be too weak for any mortal? Our young friend amused the
company during the evening, by exhibiting a two-shilling magic-
lantern, which he had purchased, and likewise by singing "Sally,
come up!" a quaint, but rather monotonous melody, which I am told
is sung by the poor negro on the banks of the broad Mississippi.

What other enjoyments did we proffer for the child's amusement
during the Christmas week? A great philosopher was giving a