become your poor tire-woman."

"It is great nonsense," said Belle, reddening; "however, as you
came to see me, and ask the matter as a particular favour to
yourself--"

"Thank you, madam," said Mrs. Petulengro, leading Belle to the
stool; "please to sit down here. Thank you; your hair is very
beautiful, madam," she continued, as she proceeded to braid Belle's
hair; "so is your countenance. Should you ever go to the great
city, among the grand folks, you would make a sensation, madam. I
have made one myself, who am dark; the chi she is kauley, which
last word signifies black, which I am not, though rather dark.
There is no colour like white, madam; it's so lasting, so genteel.
Gentility will carry the day, madam, even with the young rye. He
will ask words of the black lass, but beg the word of the fair."

In the meantime Mr. Petulengro and myself entered into
conversation. "Any news stirring, Mr. Petulengro?" said I. "Have
you heard anything of the great religious movements?"

"Plenty," said Mr. Petulengro; "all the religious people, more
especially the Evangelicals--those that go about distributing
tracts--are very angry about the fight between Gentleman Cooper and
White-headed Bob, which they say ought not to have been permitted
to take place; and then they are trying all they can to prevent the
fight between the lion and the dogs, which they say is a disgrace
to a Christian country. Now I can't say that I have any quarrel
with the religious party and the Evangelicals; they are always
civil to me and mine, and frequently give us tracts, as they call