"We are certainly informed that on Monday next, at the Theatre Royal,
Drury-Lane, will be performed _The Lying Valet_, and that Mr.
Steevens, at the particular desire of some persons of quality, is to act
the part of _Justice Guttle_; in which character he will devour
_twelve pounds of plumb cake at three mouthfuls_."

* * * * *


DOUBLE DEALING.


Commercial morality is an unaccountable kind of thing. In the report of
a recent trial for the robbery of a watch, it is stated that

"Mr. Beauchamp identified the watch. He was sure that it was not sold;
he knew that circumstance from his books; and also because he had the
watch for four years, not being able to recommend it; _he would not
have shown it to a lady, but he would have been glad to have sold it to
a gentleman_. There was a private mark put on it which meant nine
guineas."

There is honour, it is said, among thieves. Is there gallantry in
imposition?

* * * * *


EIKON BASILIKE.