sphere, both then and now; but I know it has since risen into note
among the people of the world. I believe, too, its owner has carried
up to the topmost height of celebrity always the gay, gentlemanly
spirit and kindly heart which he showed when sitting with us and
eating swedes. Still, I will not mention his surname--I will only
call him "Mr. Charles."

"Now, having satisfactorily 'munched, and munched, and munched,' like
the sailor's wife who had chestnuts in her lap--are you acquainted
with my friend, Mr. William Shakspeare, young gentleman?--I must try
to fulfil the other duties of existence. You said the Coltham mail
passed here in three hours? Very well. I have the honour of wishing
you a very good day, Mr.--"

"Halifax."

"And yours?"

"Fletcher."

"Any connection with him who went partnership with the worthy
Beaumont?"

"My father has no partner, sir," said I. But John, whose reading had
lately surpassed mine, and whom nothing ever puzzled, explained that
I came from the same old stock as the brothers Phineas and Giles
Fletcher. Upon which Mr. Charles, who till now had somewhat
overlooked me, took off his hat, and congratulated me on my
illustrious descent.