broken sentences here and there crossing each other, like the sounds that
had been frozen in the air, and set free by a thaw, according to the
veracious narrative of Baron Munchausen.

PLAYHOUSE PROPRIETOR.--"The theatre is the--"

SERIOUS GENTLEMAN.--"Plausible snare by which a population, at present
grave and well-disposed, is decoyed into becoming--"

EXCITED ADMIRER.--"A French poodle, sir, that plays at dominos like a--"

CREDULOUS CONJECTURER.--"Benevolent philanthropist, condescending to act
for the benefit of some distressed brother who is--"

PROPRIETOR of CITY CONCERT-ROOM.--"One hundred and twenty feet long by
forty, Mr. Mayor! Talk of that damp theatre, sir, you might as well talk
of the--"

Suddenly the door flew open, and pushing aside a clerk who designed to
announce him, in burst Mr. Chapman himself.

He had evidently expected to find the Mayor alone, for at the sight of
that throng he checked himself, and stood mute at the threshold. The
levee for a moment was no less surprised, and no less mute. But the good
folks soon recovered themselves. To many it was a pleasure to accost and
congratulate the man who the night before had occasioned to them emotions
so agreeable. Cordial smiles broke out; friendly hands were thrust
forth. Brief but hearty compliments, mingled with entreaties to renew
the performance to a larger audience, were showered round. The Comedian
stood hat in hand, mechanically passing his sleeve over its nap,