It was in one of the houses in this quarter that the late Marshal
Blucher won and lost very heavy sums, during the occupation of
Paris by the allied armies.

There are two gaming-houses in Paris of a more splendid description
than those of the Palais Royal, where dinners or suppers are given,
and where ladies are admitted.--_Galignani's History of Paris_.


* * * * *


A RETROSPECT.


Oh, when I was a tiny boy,
My days and nights were full of joy;
My mates were blithe and kind!--
No wonder that I sometimes sigh,
And dash the tear-drop from my eye.
To cast a look behind!

A hoop was an eternal round
Of pleasure. In those days I found
A top a joyous thing;--
But now those past delights I drop;
My head alas! is all my top,
And careful thoughts the string!

My marbles--once my bag was stor'd,--