ample frame, of the Aboriginal, was most striking; nor could any one
view the group for an instant without feeling convinced that the latter
was really a superior existence. The mechanics, who were worn by
labour, not reduced by famine, far from being miserable, were impudent.
They began rating the mighty one for the dearness of his corn. He
received their attacks with mildness. He reminded them that the
regulation by which they procured their bread was the aboriginal law of
the island, under which they had all so greatly flourished. He
explained to them that it was owing to this protecting principle that he
and his ancestors, having nothing to do but to hunt and shoot, had so
preserved their health that, unlike the rest of the human race, they had
not degenerated from the original form and nature of man. He showed
that it was owing to the vigour of mind and body consequent upon this
fine health that Vraibleusia had become the wonder of the world, and
that they themselves were so actively employed; and he inferred that
they surely could not grudge him the income which he derived, since that
income was, in fact, the foundation of their own profits. He then
satisfactorily demonstrated to them that if by any circumstances he were
to cease to exist, the whole island would immediately sink under the
sea. Having thus condescended to hold a little parley with his
fellow-subjects, though not follow-creatures, he gave them all a good
sound flogging, and departed amidst the enthusiastic cheering of those
whom he had so briskly lashed.

By this time Popanilla had arrived at the Hall of Audience.

'It was a vast and venerable pile.'

His Excellency and suite quitted their carriages amidst the renewed
acclamations of the mob. Proceeding through a number of courts and