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SULPHUREOUS and dread PRINCE!

    I am very sensible 'tis the highest presumption in me imaginable to address the following poem to your grisly Majesty, but I humbly conceive I have not done it without strong inducements; for where could the Whiffling Ouzel have found an asylum, to screen her from the British Minos (her austere and implacable enemy) but in your swarthy dominions? tho' at the same time she flies to you for protection, she's possess'd with an ominous fear, and when her adversary makes his exit out of these terrestrial regions, you'll immediately degrade Æacus, advance him to the bench, and assign to his profound and equitable care all the European provinces; or at least constitute him itinerant judge in your shady jurisdictions.

    But to leave this to your profound wisdom, I must presume to tell you, most awful Monarch! that 'tis my humble opinion, that every carping Momus, and snarling critic, will aquiesse with me in my second motive for electing you my advocate since 'tis the D――l of a poem, on a black subject, written by a Collier, in an obscure style, and therefore none so proper for its patron paramount, as your gloomy Majesty.

    Another reason is, because I don't remember that any of the ancient or modern higlers in rhime ever dedicated any of their productions to your dusky godship: tho' they have not failed to celebrate your tremendous name, extol your supreme power, and (if I may so speak) have given us the cosmography of your ample dominions.

    While you are thus slighted, there are not wanting those who are busy making puny gods and goddesses of mere terrestrial lump; and the press has given us a modern proof of a thresher, who has thrown down his unwieldy flail, and taken up the pliant nimble pen, to make one, who has lately pass'd thro' your sooty territories, as powerful, and more indulgent to us, than the Goddess CYBLE was to the ancients.

    Since the clumsy flail has presum'd to address a Terrene Queen, accept, great Prince of Darkness! of the first fruits of the swift-paced shuttle; which was a scion that blossom's, and whose fruit came to Maturity this keen benuming storm, when looms were more terrible to cringing thin-belly'd weavers than ever the pillory was to those obsequious and loyal subjects of yours, Bryn and Bastick.

    And now methinks I have almost beaten that modish, and much-frequented path of dedication enough; tho' I neither have, nor can condescend to that nauseous and servile flattery which is so redundant in addresses of this kind: and I hope you'll not reject the patronage: if I could have found a a more powerful protector than your great self, you had never heard of the Whistling-Ouzel.  Neither would I have you think that I have play'd the timid Indian, and offer'd the Black-Bird, to your Gastliness as a propitiation for some enormous crime committed against your Majesty; no, 'twas not this, but your ability to defend, that prompted me, and entirely banished that modesty, which otherwise would never have permitted me to have sent the Black-Bird, on her well balanc'd table pinions, to your sootyness for protection: the which I hope you'll grant her; and that you'll permit her to flutter at your feet, and perch, and nestle about your awful throne.  If your dreadful Majesty will do this, Sir Minos may do that which he would not suffer her to do, i.e. go Whistle.

                    I am,
                           Tremendous Sir,
                                                    Now,
                                                        And ever will be,
                                                                     TIMOTHY BOBBIN.

From the Chimney-corner,
        Jan. 15th, 1739.

THE BLACK-BIRD: A POEM.
――♦――

WHEN bright Apollo's flaming car had run
The southern course, and in our climes begun
To perfect blossoms, and the budding flowers
To paint the fields, and form the shady bow'rs,
The distant prospects all around were seen,
To wear a curious eye-delighting green;
And school-boys stood, while Sloth put on the reins,
And with cramm'd satchels sauntered in the lanes;
The younger sort would stroll about to get
The daisy, primrose, and the violet;
While Tom and Will, with eager eyes wou'd view
Each bush, and tree, from whence a linnet flew,
And every hedge did pry into, to find
The downy structure of the feather'd kind.
    Such were the days when MINOS would be drest
To look more awful on a Day of Rest;
His sapient head he deckt in perriwig
Of three-tails dangling, to look quorum big
His beaver cock'd, plain-dealing-wife, he pull'd
So low, his forehead in it seem'd involv'd,
But this was done, his visage more to grace,
And coup'd a third part from his pouting face:
Being cloak'd and booted, they who knew him not
Thought HUDIBRAS o'er gloomy Styx had got;
And as that Knight, so he'd a 'squire to wait,
Whene'er he sally'd forth thro' creaking gate.
This for his outward man; but I must strain
For to dissect his wonder-working brain;
Unless I can get Cibber's fawning muse,
To bathe my skull in crowning laurel-juice;
But since I've ventur'd the out-side to scan,
I'll slightly touch upon his inward-man.
(But know, my angry Muse reflects not on
This tinckling cymbal for it's jarring tone,
But for affecting those celestial airs,
By which the organ charms the list'ning ears.)
    If speech be the true index of the mind,
And doth denote with what the head is lin'd,
We may conclude, that since his speech is clipp'd,
His moving garret is but half-equipp'd:
But lest a pun won't please the would-be-wise,
His wits want ballast, and his judgment eyes;
For Nature made him without care, or art,
And left unfinished much the better part:
Or else in forming, tir'd with too much pain,
She nodded o'er him, and so spoil'd his brain.
    If any wonder why as Judge he's plac'd,
Or how the Bench comes with his Worship grac'd
That thought's submerg'd in this, to think that we
Are sway'd by fools, much greater knaves than he
We grant, he seems a genuine chip of those
Convention-wits, who lead us by the nose;
'Tis true, we go like BRUIN to the stake,
Who knows his task, and fain his bonds wou'd break,
But forced on, he shakes his shaggy fur,
And looks with fury on each bridl'd cur;
*Craftsman, the bearward doth promulgate law,
And threatens wounds from deep Panonian-jaw;
Asserting ne'er a collar'd-whelp doth play
The game that's fair, but runs a thievish way;
And thinks with justice, in this dire contest,
Each cur shou'd run with fawning-tail the first,
Or, if you please, smooth-chins shou'd rule the roast,
And hairy-ruffi'ns kick'd from ey'ry post.
Which scheme, before all others, I prefer,
If my old grannum may be Treasurer,
For I'm her only fav'rite, and must taste with her.
    But lest some critic thinks my Ouzil's flown,
And from a Black-Bird, 'tis a Bearbait grown,
I'll to his Worship once again repair,
That's going now to snuff the country air,
After a turn or two, within the room,
A hem breaks forth—and then he calls his groom.
Here Jack, where's Jack?  I'm here his man replies;
Bring out my horse, and straightway John complies.
He being gone, the Knight must see the glass,
To fix some upright airs in oblong face;
His hand adorn'd with ruffl'd shirt he drew,
Unto his head, and set his wig askew;
Then gently strok'd his manly beard, and then,
Adjusted three-tail'd peruke once again;
The bob before he'd often toss behind,
As pleas'd his curious self admiring mind;
He lower'd his eye-brows, made a furrow'd brow,
Pull'd in his chin, more majesty to show:
Pleas'd with the sight, and fist aside the man
Bow'd low, and this soliloquy began:
"I'll say't thou'rt graceful;—very graceful—and
Thy very look will reverence command!
Thy dress is handsome,—very genteel:—still
Not the least foppish if I've any skill:
Besides, 'tis known this head can penetrate
Into dark things, and solve each hard debate,
Or, as the proverb says, can see as far
Into a milstone"—here the gate did jar;
For John had done according to command
And waiting stood, with nag, and cap in band.
    The steed was sleek, and bore a lofty crest.
And worth a troop of HUDIBRAS'S beast;
Nor ever was Don QUIXOTT'S dapple fit,
For speed, and beauty, to be nam'd with it;
So this, you'll say, was fit to bear a pack
Of precious ware, as they, upon his back!
And all agree his worship's teeming full
Of just such wit, as they bore in the skull,
This bonny nag Sir MINOS did bestride,
And thro' the town with solemn pace did ride;
About ten furlongs they had pass'd, before
The knight, and 'squire, of silence broke the door,
And then it was the Justice came t'himself,
From contemplating on his wit, and pelf;
With lisping accent, and emphatic voice
(While pate, and bum, on thigh kept equal poise,)
He puts these queries to his cunning 'squire,
And then sly John to knight rode something nigher.
Jack, thou must tell me, true what now I ask,
Since 'tis no wicked or ungodly task;
Sir, there's no doubt, (says John), then tell me pray
What says the world that now I bear such sway?
Why, sir! they speak exceeding well of you,
As wise, and good, to king and country true.
Thou answer'st well, and glad I am to know,
The world such thoughts so justly do bestow.
Here Jack, with wry mouth, turns his eyes askew,
As he came on;  but hark thee, Jack:—tell true;
When I appear, don't wicked rascals quake?
Yes, that they do; and like an aspin shake.
What do they think, when I'm upon the bench?
Yon knock down sin, and burning lust do quench.
Whose judgment is't a knotty matter clears?
Sir, yours alone sinks twice as deep as theirs.
Jack bites his lip, that while the knight goes on,
Thy words are good,—I'll mend thy wages, John.
I thank you, Sir;—I'm much oblig'd to you;
Now th' Ouzle whistles, wheet-wit wheet-wit whee'u,
And so went on like a shrill flute, to play
That gleesome tune, the twenty-ninth of May.
Hold Jack, stand still, I hear a whistling noise
Within that house: 'tis sure some atheist's voice;
Tho' Catholics, I've heard my father say,
Would whistle, dance, and sing o'th' Sabbath-day,
But who can this be? says John, I cannot tell,
But man, or maid, it whistles very well.
Some Papist!  Jack;—In that I 'gree to you;
Then comes the prelude, wheet-wit wheet-wit whee'u.
Both list'ned, while the tune was whistling o'er,
The knight, more vex'd than e'er he was before,
Turn'd short his horse, and in a furious mood,
Said, I'll commit him,—he's the serpent's brood,
He sees me stand, and yet he whistles on
This Sabbath-day; was such a thing e'er known?
'Tis Papist-like to whistle against me,
Or, what's the same, against his Majesty;
No doubt he knows I represent the king,
And that we both are but the self-same thing.
Sir, says the 'squire, this thing I know t'be true,
Now comes the flourish, wheet-wit wheet-wit whee'u,
And so proceeds with the old tune again;
The knight cries cut, O monst'rous and prophane!
Was ever antichristian impudence
So base, to give both God and man offence!
'Tis most seditious!—Jack, light off thy horse,
And bring the rascal, else use all thy force:
For I this moment will commit him safe,
Where he'll not whistle, dance, or sing, or laugh.
Scarce sooner spoke than John was in, but made
Such queer demands, they knew not what he said.
But he repeats, the whistling man must go
Before a Justice, for he'd have it so.
The man replies, "the whistler's good and true,
"And serves me well; but what's all this to you?
"He takes no bribes, he asks for nought but meat,
"Fawns on no king, nor doth his country cheat;
"He's not encumber'd with perplexing cares,
"Nor meddles with mysterious state affairs;
"He'll whistle on, altho' a justice stand
"Within the room, and slight his stern command."
    Jack hearing this, began to smell a rat;
Howe'er he goes, and tells the justice flat,
The whistler would not come; he fear'd no law,
Or king, or justice valu'd of a straw.
But when the knight heard this, he rav'd and tore,
And sev'ral times thus by ASTREA swore,
I'll make him like a beacon on a hill,
An everlasting monument of ill,
A sad example seditious tools,
Of Pagan knaves, and antichristian fools.
And with these words he nimbly quit his horse,
Raging with passion; never fury worse;
And in he flies, with, where's this prophane wretch
That slights the law? whom I myself must fetch;
Where is this whistling Turk? this stinking he-jew.
And now the bird sings, wheet-wit wheet-wit whee'u,
And then the twenty-ninth of May begun;
What (quoth the knight) was such a thing e'er known
And puppit-like, he whisks himself about,
To see if he cou'd find the whistler out.
The tune went bravely on, whilst he, amaz'd,
Sought eve'y corner, and about him gaz'd;
But still this whistler was not to be seen,
Which fill'd the justice with tempestuous spleen;
He stamp'd with foot, and lift his eyes above,
As tho' he call'd on the thunder-ruling Jove
And then burst out in this emphatic strain,
Ungodly! wicked! heathenish, and prophane!
To break the Sabbath! whistle against heav'n!
The king and me! 'twill never be forgiven:
A disaffected tune too, shameless man;
Notorious rogue, he's of the Jesuits clan;
And then once more towards heaven his eyes he sent
And saw the Black-bird in a wire cage pent,
Most sweetly whistling the concluding strain,
Which stunn'd the knight, as tho' with lightning slain.
He motionless as old Lot's wife did stand,
And still stretch'd out his sense directing hand
But at the last, he wheels himself about,
His mouth he open's, and his thoughts flew out:
    Is this the whistler? nay, I scarce believe,
But both my eyes, and ears, do me deceive;
I'll say's 'tis strange! surpassing strange! a bird
To whistle tunes!—the like was never heard;
I thought it was not possible for art
To teach birds musick!—not the easiest part;
Sure this is some Italian Ouzil brought
O'er seas, and was by wicked Jesuits taught:
Why poz†, I ne'er was so deceiv'd in all
My life before, and with a thing so small!
I'll say't, I took it for some Jacobite
That whistled thus, but who is always right?
A SOLOMON may play some foolish tricks,
And British CATO‡ err in politicks.
Then beck'ning finger, makes the man draw near
And in soft tone, thus whispers in his ear,
Here honest man, I'll give thee half a crown,
To promise me this thing must not be known,
For shou'd the wicked ever hear this thing,
'Twou'd shame both me and our most gracious king.
The fellow took the piece, and made a bow;
But, wiseman-like, in promising was slow.
And knight perceiving that the bird was put
In close confinement, and in limbo shut:
Old Oliverian and phanatick zeal
Grew cold, and did to crusted ice congeal;
And, calm as midnight, took his leave, but said,
Be sure this thing be never publick made.
Thus MINOS left the Black-bird closely pent,
And, mounting steed, on new adventures went.

*    Ouzil's flownVide Gent. Mag. for Jan. 1740.  Page 20.
†    A favourite word of the knight's for positively.
‡    Walpole.

 

THE GOOSE: A POEM.
――♦――

TO J―― B――, ESQ.

SIR,
    As I have the honour to be a member of the ancient and venerable Order of the Gormogons, I am obliged by the laws of the great Chin Quaw-Ki-Po, Emperor of China, to read yearly some part of the ancient records of that country.

    I was performing my annual task when the extraordinary piece of justice in the following poem fell under my perusal: the original is in prose; but more reasons than one determined me to translate it into verse.

    Your worship is too well known in these parts for any one to imagine I could long hesitate in the choice of a patron.

    The stupidity, peevishness, passion, and vanity of the Chinese justice, will undoubtedly serve as foils to set off and illustrate your consumate wisdom and prodigious virtues.

    You may believe, Sir, 'twas with this regard I dedicated the poem to you; every true Britain, who hears of your justice, candour, and humanity, (especially to strangers) must be charm'd with your conduct; for had all Britain such justices as your worship, we might sing, or say, with one accord, our country is finely govern'd!

    But tho' I give you your just praises, I am afraid I offend your modesty.

    I am sensible that harsh sounds cannot escape the animadversions of critical ears: and for that reason have been often on the point of changing the title of my poem from the Goose to the Gander.  But reflecting that the geese, who gave warning of the enemy's approach, were called Servatores Romæ I chose to retain my former title in honour of them, and such like industrious patriots.

    To you then, Sir, the Goose waddles for protection, and begs leave to assure you that the present Poet Laureat* shall never want a quill to celebrate your immortal praises.

    May your worship live as long here as you are an ornament to the high station you are placed in: and when you remove out of this country, may you be preferred to the Chair in the other, before Æacus, Minos, or Rhadamanthus, which is the sincere wish of

Sir, &c.

*Cilly Cibber.

___________________________________

 
A CODICIL

To the Last Will and Testament of

JAMES CLEGG, CONJUROR.
――♦――

    BE it known unto all men by these presents, THAT I James Clegg, of Broad-lane within Castleton, in the Parish of Rochdale, and County of Lancaster, Conjuror; having made my Last Will and Testament, bearing date the 18th of February, 1749, do hereby codicil, confirm, and rectify my said Will; and if I die a natural death, i.e. elude the gallows, and within two miles of Shaw-Chapel, then I will that my Executors, John Collier and Paul Greenwood, come to my house the day following, and with the advice and assistance of James Worral, order my funeral, as follows:

I.    I will that they invite to my funeral sixty of my friends, or best acquaintance, and also fiver fidlers; to be there exactly at two o'clock.

II.    That no woman be invited; no man that wears a white cap, or apron, that no tobacco or snuff be there, to prevent my sneezing.

III.    That they provide sixty-two spie'd cakes, value ten shillings, and twenty shillings worth of the best ale that is within two miles; allowing the best ruby-nosepresent, Roger Taylor and John Booth, to be judges.

IV. That if my next relations think a wooden-jump too chargeable, then I will that my executors cause me to be drest in my roast-meat-cloths, lay me on a bier, stangs, or the like; give all present a sprig of rosemary, hollies, or gorses, and a cake: sprig rosemary, that no tears be shed, but be merry for two hours.

V.    Then all shall drink a gill-bumper, and the fidlers play Britons Strike Home, whilst they are bringing me out, and covering me.  This shall be about five minutes before the cavalcade begins; which shall move in the high road to Shaw-Chapel in the following order, viz. The best fidler of the five shall lead the van, the other four following after, two and two, playing The Conjurer goes Home, in the aforesaid tune.  Then the bier and attendants, none riding on horseback but as Hudibras did to the stockes, i.e. face to tail, except Mr. George Stanfield, of Sowerby, (which privilege I allow him for reasons best known to myself.)  Then the Curate of Shaw-Chapel shall bring up the rear, dress'd in his pontificalibus, and riding on an ass, the which, if he duly and honestly perform, and also read the usual office, then my Executors shall nem con. pay him twenty-one shillings.

VI.    If the singers of Shaw meet me fifty yards from the Chapel, and sing the anthem begining O Clap your Hands, &c., pay them five shillings.

VII. Next, I will that I be laid near the huge ruins of James Woolfenden, late landlord of Shaw-Chapel; which done, pay the Sexton half a crown.

VIII.    Then let all go to the alehouse I most frequented, and eat, drink, and be merry, till the shot amounts to thirty shillings; the fidlers playing The Conjurer's gone Home, with other tunes at discretion, to which I leave them: and then pay the fidlers two shillings and sixpence each.

IX.    If my next relations think it worth their cost and pains to lay a stone over me, then I will that John Collier, of Milnrow, cut the following epitaph on it.

    FURTHER, As I have some qualities and worldly goods not disposed of by my said last will, I do give and devise as follows; that is to say, I give unto the Rochdale-parish Methodists all my religion and books of freethinking, as believing they'll be useful and very necessary emollients.

    ITEM, I give unto any one of that whimsical sect, who is sure the Devil is in him, my slice of the liver of Tobit's fish, which my ancestors have kept pickled up above two thousand years; being certain that a small slice fry'd will drive Belzebub himself, either upwards or downwards, out of the closest made Methodist in his Majesty's dominions.

    ITEM, I give unto any three of the aforesaid Methodists, who are positive that they have a church in their bellies, my small set of squirrel-bells to hang in the steeple, being apprehensive that a set of the size of Great Tom of Lincoln would prove detrimental to a fabric of such an airy and tottering foundation.

    ITEM, I give my forty-five minute sand-glass (on which is painted Old Time sleeping) unto that clergyman living within three miles of my house, who is most noted for preaching long-winded, tautologizing sermons: provided he never turn it twice at one heat.

    ITEM, I leave all my spring-traps, flying nets, and all my other valuable utensils whatsoever, belonging to that new invented and ingenious art of cuckow caching, unto my generous, honest, and open-hearted friend, Mr. Benjamin Bunghole, late of Rochdale, being thoroughly satisfy'd of his good inclination, and great capacity for the proper use of them.

    ITEM, I give unto one Timothy Bobbin, wheresoever he may be found, a pamphlet entitled A View of the Lancashire Dialect; being fully persuaded few others capable of reading or making any sense of it.

    ITEM, I give all my humility, good nature, benevolence, and hospitality, with all my other good qualities whatsoever, not before dispos'd of, unto that person in the parish of Rochdale who can eat the most raw onions without crying.

    LASTLY, I will that this Codicil be, and be adjudged to be, part of my said Last Will and Testament, as fully as if the same had been there inserted.

    In witness whereof I have hereunto fix's my hand and seal, this 24th day of May, in the year 1751.

JAMES CLEGG.

    Witness,
ROBERT LEES.
JOSHUA WARREN.

___________________________________

 
LETTERS IN PROSE.

A NARRATIVE OF THE CASE BETWEEN THE QUEEN AT
THE BOOTH, AND THE AUTHOR.
――♦――

TO T.  P.  ESQ.

Jan. 30th, 1752.

    BY your favour of the 20th cur. I perceive you have heard of the furious rupture that is lately broke out betwixt me and a certain lady, who is sometimes called the Queen at the Booth, and at others the Yorkshire Lawyeress; and seem fearful that it will be detrimental to my family and interest, I thank you for your tender care; but, cheer up, Sir, I'm not afraid of the law; for I have a particular friend that will screen me from long and costly suits—I mean Poverty.

    You desire me to send you a full account of what has past between us.  I shall oblige you in this, tho' it will be both intricate and prolix; and as truth has always something of the agreeable attending it, something I must own that I was the first aggressor: for it arose from that strong tincture of Quixotism that you know reigns predominant in me; though if I was inclin'd to phanaticism, I should give it another name, and call it the spirit of reformation.

    The first time I saw her was at Dean Chapel, in the parish of Huthersfield, where she immediately took my eye, and raised my curiosity to know who and what she was: being (if I may so speak) the very gallimaufry of a woman.  She was dress'd as gay and airy as a girl of sixteen; the Old Age stared full at me thro' every wrinkle.  In short, her out of the way figure and behaviour spoiled my devotion, and rais'd my choler to that pitch that I could not be at rest till I had given her a reprimand.

    Service being over, I stepp'd into a little alehouse near the chapel, and enquired of the landlord who the Bedlamite was, who was so old and so very airy?  He auswer'd with a sigh, she's my own aunt, but you know I cannot help her dressing so awkwardly.  Very dressing true, says I, but will she come in here, think you?  I'm not certain, he reply'd, but very likely she may.  So I sat down a few minutes, but Madam not appearing, I went back into the chapel-yard amongst the crowd; but she had given me the slip, and so escaped my resentment at that time.  However, I left strict orders with her nephew (who promised me to tell her) to dress and behave more agreeable to her age; or otherwise, if she persisted, she should hear from me in a more disagreeable manner.

    This past on about a month, when I chanced to see her again at Ripponden; and perceiving her ladyship was in no humour for reforming, but rather more janty than ever: I took a resolution (Quixote-like) to write a letter to her under a feigned name; and which, tho' I kept to matter of fact, she pleases to call a libel, and by one means or other she is become positive I am the author: but this opinion might chiefly arise from my leaving the pragmatically order with her nephew.

    Be this as it will, it is certain that the Tuesday following she saddled her nag, and rode to Justice R―― for a warrant, to bring me to an account for that to which I was determined to plead Not Guilty.

    On her arrival there, and laying her complaint before the Justice, he demanded whether she would swear the letter on me? N—o, but 'tis nobody else.  Have you any evidence that will swear to this man's writing it?  N—o, but he was at the Black-Lion, in Ripponden, where the letter was first found, and the very night before I received it.  In short, she could not swear positively, and consequently no warrant was granted.

    Things past on about a fortnight, when she received intelligence that I was going immediately to leave Yorkshire.  So she resolv'd to pay me a visit at Mr. Hill's before my departure.  I happen'd to have the first glens of her ladyship as she came up the court, with the bridle of her strong rosinante on her arm, and a young woman (Phebe Dawson) attending her.

    On rapping at the door, the old gentleman went out, and after the usual salutations, she begun—I'm come to see, Sir, if you'll suffer any of your servants to abuse me?  No mistress, that I wou'd not do: pray, have I any that does do so?  Why have not you a servant they call Collier?  No, that I have not, reply'd the old gentleman.  But have you not some such a man about your house?  Yes; he's in the house; and I believe there is some little connection between my son R. and him: but I have nothing to do with him.  Very well, Sir, then I've been wrong inform'd, and I will take it kindly if you'll tell him I'd fain speak with him.  Yes mistress, that I will do.  On his telling me that a lady desired to speak with me, I appeared surprised, tho' I guess's what she was about well enough: however I went to the door, and made her a complaisant bow, which her irritated stomach scorn'd to return.

    As to her dress, &c. I shall refer to the notes on Hoantung's letter: only observe that a blue riding-habit, hoop'd with silver lace, a jockey's cap, and a pretty large black-silk patch on each side of her mouth, made her cut a most grotesque figure.

    After a full stare at each other, she asked me if my name was Collier?  Yes, Madam, said I, what's your pleasure with me?  Why, I want to know if you'll stand to what you've done?  O yes, to be sure Madam, said I; what is't?  Why about this libel.  Libel! said I, I don't know what a libel is.  I suppose you do; and I want to know if you'll stand to it or not, for you writ it to be sure.  Indeed, Madam, your speech is all ridicule to me.  But as I'm very busy at present, if you'll go down to Ripponden, I'll follow as soon as I can, and there get an explanation.  That's what I want, she reply'd, but pray tell me what house I must go to?  To Carpenter's to be sure, said I.  And you'll follow me, says she?  O don't doubt it; Madam.  So away she goes, and her witness along with her: but I kept my distance, as wanting both time and inclination to follow her.

    Messrs. Hills laughed at me for being honour's with this unexpected visit from the Queen of the Booth, and thought I had met with more than my match: all the gentry round being afraid to provoke or contradict her: and wondered that I should have any thing to do with her, as she would undoubtedly ruin me, tho' I was worth thousands.  I told them innocence did not know what fear was, and that I was not apprehensive of any danger.

    This affair happened on Friday; and the Sunday following I left the Kebroyde pretty early for my journey into Lancashire: and on going up to Soyland to bid adieu to my friends there, I found in the road, behind an ash-tree, six papers, written all alike in a large print hand, a copy of which follows:—

    You cannot imagine, Sir, but that I must see the purport of these papers, and what they were intended for: so I took care to have them put up at Nipponden Ealand, Halifax, &c. on that day before noon; and they causing much staring, and various surmisings in the country; some pick-thank or other conveyed a copy of one of them to her ladyship: who, on perusing it, readily father'd the brat upon me; and said to the messenger, you have done me very great service; for now, I never doubt, but I can catch the fox in his craftiness, and then I'll make him clear all accounts, and pay you handsomely for your trouble.

    What follows is chiefly from information, and I was told for fact that that evening she kill'd the fatted calf, as it were, and feasted some of her privy council, rejoicing that she had so fine a prospect of gratifying her spleen, and attaining the summit of her wishes; and the next morning she mounted her gelding, and, with the young filly, set off for the Justice.

    On her arrival she found his Worship had company; however, being well acquainted with her, he came into the room where she was, (which had a table standing in the middle) and several gentlemen followed him.  She then drew out the copy of the advertisement, and threw it on the table: on which his Worship said, well Madam what's to do now?  Why, Sir, said she, you wou'd not grant me a warrant before for this rascal, and now I have suffered a fresh abuse from him, as that paper will prove, if you'll please to read it.

    He takes the paper up (the gentlemen all staring at the queer dress and behaviour of her ladyship) and reads:

Why Madam have you lost a mare?  N—o, n—o, please to read on:—It means me, Sir.

This cannot have any reference to you,—sure you have not four feet!

    I ask your pardon for that, Sir, and beg you'll go on, for you'll find it means me and nobody else.  Here the gentlemen broke out into a laugh, which being over the Justice went on.

Here she hastily interrupting him, said, that's true and is a very good proof that he means me; for at that very time I had a tetter-worm on each side my mouth, covered with black silk; and he names the day too, Sir, which was Friday.  What stronger evidence can be either given or desired?  Here the Justice join'd the gentlemen in another merry fit; and then his Worship asked her, And who writ and posted these advertisements up do you say?

    Why this rascal—this Collier—to be sure―

    To be sure will not do, Madam—But did you or any other person see him write or put them up?  Or will you swear this is his hand?

    N—o, n—o,—that is not his hand, for I have evidence here that they were either printed or writ like print; and I can also prove that he writes that hand better than any in the country; and that's another proof that he writ and put them up, or ordered others to do it, which is all one you know, Sir, in law.

    But will you make oath that he writ or put them up?

    I durst swear he did; but, alas! I did not see him.

    Well, Madam, I perceive this man will slip us again; for without a positive oath I cannot grant a warrant.

    Here her ladyship, (with a heavy sigh) said, If justice, law will not do, I must fee council (which I am told she actually did.)  But I'm so very uneasy that I cannot sleep, and I think this grand villain will be the end of me.

    When that happens, said one of the gentlemen, if you'll come hither again, we'll try him for his life for committing murder; and to make him pay the piper with a witness.

    Ah! Sir, but this is no jesting matter, for all's gone when I am gone, and that I fear will not be long for I hear this same ruiner of my good name has actually got that same letter printed which I brought to you—and if so, it is so scandalous, that taking all together, it will break my heart; and you know, Sir, the dark side of a good character is not quite spotless.

    Very true, said his Worship, but I can see no remedy for you in this case without good proof.

    That's what I fear I must never have, said the old lady, who turn'd her backside without any compliment, left the rhymes on the table, and budg'd off; the whole being a pretty scene of diversion for those she left behind.

    Thus, Sir, I have endeavour'd to satisfy your curiosity, hoping you'll excuse the length of the narrative; and now I have only to tell you that the letter she mention'd to the Justice is actually printed (a copy of which I here enclose you) and which I sell for a friend.  Her ladyship has sent for several, and always by persons she thinks most capable of pumping me.  I always oblige her by sending them, but still keep innocent, and quite ignorant of its production, otherwise you might say—Good Lord have mercy upon

Sir,

                                                   Your most obliged humble Servant,

T. B.

___________________________________

 
HUNTUNG'S LETTER (a)
TO THE
EMPRESS OF RUSSIA.

TRANSLATED FROM THE CHINESE (WITH EXPLANATORY
NOTES) BY LYCHANG THE MANDARIN.
――♦――

WE Hoantung the Great, Emperor of all the Emperors of the East, to our most, dazzling and serene Sister, the Princess Eleeza, Empress of all Russia, send greeting.

WHEREAS our wisdom, like the beams of the great luminary of the day, pierces into the remotest regions, and as all things transacted between the Poles are under our immediate cognisance, by which our Empire is become universal, and consequently checks the actions of Sovereign Princes: We do now, by our aforesaid power, require that you, on receipt hereof, forthwith retire to your sofa, and there contemplate how, and by what means, you attain'd the palace of your residence (b) and the Empire (c) which you so haughtily govern?  Why the Czar, (d) your first husband, was so suddenly sent over the Archerontic-lake, and by whom?  How the present Cazar, your lawful spouse, came to be banished (e)?  What fury could induce you to trouble your neighbouring kingdoms and states, (f) with one continued scene of war, rapine and disorder?

    We say, reflect on these things, and consider with what indulgence we have suffered you to rule with an high hand, ever since you seized the imperial throne (g); which usurpation we have wink'd at with impunity for the space of three hundred moons; not doubting time, the offspring of eternity, and father of wisdom, would have mitigated the severity of your reign: that the Czar would have been re-called and restored to the sovereignty; that all your subjects, from the boyar to the plebtan, might have reposed under their citron and pomegranate-trees, eaten their autumnal fruits, and enjoyed the rights and privileges with which the God FOHE, and his handmaid Nature, hath endowed them.  But seeing that time works not the expected effects, but that you still drive the car of government with an outstretched arm, we are (as it were) constrain'd to send this our awful and imperial injunction; requiring and commanding, and we do hereby enjoin and command you, without the least hesitation, to recall the Czar from banishment, and restore him to the seat of empire; to the Boyars and Waywoods (h) their respective powers and jurisdictions; and all your other subjects and vassals to their liberties and privileges.  That you consider the unconstrained freedoms and well-known pleasures of your youth (i), nay even since time fix'd his plough-share in your forehead; and be not too curious with your piercing optics, and officious hands, in prying into the sprightly pastimes and rustic amours of the softer sex within your dominions (k).

    Further, We will that when you approach the mosques of the Gods, particularly that of Worotin (l), that your posture be decent, that you observe the religious ceremonies, and in all respects demean yourself as a true worshipper of the God FOHE and his prophet Confucius: that your deportment be grave as becomes the evening of life: that your dress (especially the attire of your head and neck) (m) be modest and free from those youthful airs you seem to delight in, and are always the unerring index of a contaminated mind: that you appear no more in publick with your locket, ear-rings, and other juvenile trinkets, as you and all the world know them to be the wages of carnal and youthful pleasures, and can never make you more agreeable than a spruce baboon.

    Lastly, It is our royal will and pleasure, that you make a full and general restitution; allow your vassals and slaves all due and accustomed measures (n); encourage honesty, and not study to pervert truth and justice (o); heal all intestine divisions, extirpate perjury, banish false witnesses (p), eradicate strife, cultivate peace, and let the dead sleep in their graves (q).  Thus we take our leave, expecting all due obedience to this our royal and sacred mandate, at the direful peril of our tremendous indignation.—For such our will and pleasure.

    Given at our seraglio, in our imperial city of Twang Chew, this l4th day of the 999th moon of our happy exaltation.
                                                                   Sign'd,                       HOANTUNG.

___________

(a)    The original was left about Michaelmas, 1751, at a public-house in Ripponden, by a tall swarthy person, in a long surtout, turban, and whiskers: a broad scimeter hanging on a button, and his whole air and countenance so fierce, that none durst say, from whence comes thou? so he walk'd off undiscovered.

(b)    The estate on which she resides.

(c)    This by the soundest critics is always taken for the Township of Rushworth, in the parish of Halifax.

(d)    In a letter from the dusky regions, 'twas hinted, she push'd him into old CHARON'S boat, to whom she paid double fare to waft him over.

(e)    Her present husband, whom she banish'd by mere dint of dagger, for one morning, after a hot dispute about the mushroome sect the Methodists, he found that weapon on a chair by her bed side; and after several expostulations (she not being able to satisfy him as to the use of it) he very prudently fled.

(f)    Some distant as well as neighbouring townships, which she continually vexes with litigious suits, about filiations, settlements, &c.

(g)    The government of the township; she being a kind of perpetual constable, overseer of the poor, highways, &c.

(h)    The officers of the township aforesaid.

(i)    Here is a large field for reflection! but I hope the reader will excuse it, if the curtain be drawn over this part of her character, which may be unfolded on some other occasion, if after seeing herself in this glass she prove incorrigable.

(k)    This alludes to her well-known practice of groping the bubbies, bellies, &c. of young girls within her territories, when 'tis whisper'd A MAIDENHEAD IS LOST. After close examination, if she finds the unfortunate pregnant, she forces her to discover her paramour; on whom her Highness seizes (under the sanction of a warrant) with as much fierceness as the eagle her prey.

(l)    The chapel of Ripponden; where when she comes to shew her hunting dress, baubles, and Bedlamitish attire, she stands waining in the isle, scorning to come in a pew, because she was not suffered to have her lang-settle, or old form in its place, when, on rebuilding the chapel, it was seated after a uniform and beautiful manner; and even attempted to force an audience of the Right Reverend the Bishop of Gloucester, to give this as a sufficient reason why the chapel ought not to be consecrated.

(m)    In this she affects the most girlish airs: tho' her mouse-colour'd griffel hair scorns to bend, or lie in ringlets, but keeps its most ancient posture, which is that of a――sow's tail.

(n)    This our learned Mandarin confesses to be very obscure, and may have several constructions, but inclines to believe it hints at a certain antique pot, or cup, with a piece two inches deep out of its top; having been long and too well known to poor taylors, and other labouring persons.

(o)    Being ever ready and studying to torment her husband (as well as others) she this year sent her emissary to the labour of her own niece, to persuade her to father her bastard child on him; following immediately herself, and finding her persuasions ineffectual, she herself first used smooth and flattering terms, then beich'd out deep imprecations to gain the point; but finding the girl resolved to father it right, she sent for the constable to force, or intimidate her to do it; but Mother Midnight being a woman of sense and spirit, told him he was out of his elements, and if he entered within her jurisdictions, she would try whether his scull or the tangs were harder metal; so he wisely desisted.

(p)    As an old lioness is attended by her jackal, so her shrivelled Grimness has always in her train one Phebe Dawson or some other, who can swear the truth, the whole truth, and――more.

(q)    She charged her husband with being false to her bed before marriage; and would needs have a young woman taken out of her grave, who had been buried upwards of three months; pretending a suspicion she was with child by him; and actually got the Coroner and jury to the place for this purpose; but in this article she was prudently over-rul'd.

___________________________________

 
PRICK-SHAW WITCH BLOWN UP:
OR
THE CONJUROR OUT-CONJURD.
――♦――

TO T.  P., ESQ.

    SIR,

IT was a little before the last Easter that a mixture of malice and envy between a brace of booksellers, produced two auctions at the same time at Rochdale; where one of the evenings I, with other bookish fellows of my acquaintance, resolved to stay for a little refreshment after the show was over.

    It happen'd that among others, there drew in his chair, an ancient man with one eye, a slonch'd bat, and very meagre countenance.  Some of the company (as usual) on coming out of the auction room, complained of the coldness of the weather.  Single-peeper answer'd, "Cowd it is, an ittle naw awtor theese six days."  I asked him how he could tell that? "Ho, weel enough (said he) becose of moon's oth' cusp oth' thrid heawse to neet at ten o'clock."  Humph, said I, you understand astrology, I perceive.  "Eigh, (reply'd Blinkard) Ive studit it e'er sin ir fifteen yer owd."  Why then you can calculate nativities, tell fortunes, and find lost or stolen goods?  "Eigh, eigh, (said he) ive practic'd thoose things oboon forty yor, on winnow turn my back o nobody."

    I seeing his self-sufficiency, and that he was a kind of a mungrel between fool and knave, star'd at him with open mouth, as in great surprise and admiration.  Ah Lord! (said I) I've often heard of such folk, but never saw any before; why, then you're a sort of a conjuror?  Here he smil'd, and answer'd, "Eigh, I'm oft cow'ds so; and sometimes Prickshaw-Witch."

    Prickshaw-Witch! good Lord bless us! said I, trembling—I've a little girl of about six months old, whose fortune I would gladly know, but for the sin of applying to such persons about it.  "Sin! now, now, its no sin at aw; its naw like logic, or th' black art, but as harmless as any art ith ward.  Very well, (quoth I,) if it be so, what must I give you to calculate my girl's nativity?  "Ho—I con doot at ony price, between one shilling and twenty."  Nay, if that be the case, I'll have the best, tho' it cost me five pounds.

    Thus the bargain was made, and I was to meet him the Tuesday following, and the party that did not appear was to forfeit a dozen of ale.  Then, after a short fit of studying and staring on the ground, he requested that what would have known concerning my daughter might be given him in writing; and, in particular, the exact time of her birth; and I being a little on the slack-rope, resolv'd to humour him, and immediately trump'd up the following rhymes;

I gave him the paper, and, after perusing it, he said, "I con mey rhymes, bo' now thus fast."  So, after a while, the shot was paid and we parted.

    When the day of our meeting was come I had forgot my engagement, and consequently neglected to meet the Conjuror.  So the Friday following he came to my house (when I happen'd to be in Yorkshire) and without knocking, or speaking one word, burst open the door, runs to my wife, takes the child out of her arms, and at the window examines its eyes, hair, &c. the better to peep into futurity.  So that my wife, who knew nothing of the matter, took him for a madman.  Then he ask'd her for a pen, ink, and paper, and left me some worse than namby-pamby rhymers of the little child, and a strict order to meet him the Tuesday following, otherwise it would be to my cost, i.e. he would all-to-be-conjure me.  This so rais'd my spirits, that it put me on contriving a way to be revenged on him, and fir'd me with a resolution to meet him, whoever paid the piper.

    Accordingly, I went to Rochdale a day before the time appointed, to find a proper room, and a partner or two to assist me in the plot which I had laid to countermine this modern Faustus.

    Having light of a ground-room, and a couple of comrades to my mind, I bought a pound of gunpowder, and try'd how much would blow up a chair, the better to guess what quantity would lift a Conjurer.  Then we took up a piece of board from the chamber-floor, and under the hole placed a shelf, where a large quantity of well-mix'd t—d and p—ss might stand, to be poured on his head, just when the gunpowder took fire, to prevent his burning: and spent the evening merrily enough, in hopes of paying old Merlin well for his study and pains the day following.

    The time being come, my worship was the first that appeared at the place of rendezvous.  I found the landlord had discover'd the whole plot to his wife, and that she would not allow of the stinking compound, (because the tragicomedy was to be acted in her bed-room) but as much water as we pleased.  So I was forced to be content with a double quantity of water, which was plac'd on the shelf over the Conjuror's chair, and the powder under it, with a train running from thence to the fire end, where I plac'd a man as if drunk and asleep, with a stick in his hand, ready to put fire to the train; and the landlord above, as ready to empty the pale on his head when he saw the gunpowder take fire; the word of command being, "O the wonderful art of astrology!"

    All things being ready, I sat about an hour very impatiently, and began to suspect the Conjuror had smelt a rat; when, to my great satisfaction, old Faustus appear'd.  I rose up with joy in my face, asked his pardon for not meeting him as before appointed, and led him into the room.

    As I had order'd all the chairs out of the room but two, I, sans ceremonie, sat down in one, and the other of consequence fell to the Conjuror's share, with a table betwixt us.  Then I enquired if be had fulfilled my desire about my daughter's nativity?  He answer'd in the affirmative, and immediately produc'd a paper-book of sixteen pages, writ closely, containing the passages of my girl's future life, a table of the twelve houses, and a speculum tolerably drawn.  I took hold of it with as much seeming veneration as if it had been a Sibyllien oracle, and began to peruse it: sometimes stopping as tho' I was overwhelmed with thought and deep admiration; and sometimes groaning in the spirit, like a full-blown Quaker, which I saw tickled the Conjuror's vanity, and made him expect to be doubly paid for his profound ingenuity.

    After I had perus'd about one half of it, I rose up, and, with the book in my hand, walk's soberly towards the door (having a particular antipathy to gunpowder) and cry'd out, "O the wonderful, &c.," at which the sleepy man tickled the train, and run out, which immediately fir'd the grand magazine; this was met in the nick of time by the water, which I heard, but neither could see that or the Conjuror, all the rooms in the house being full of smoak in a moment.

    When old Spyrophel came out of the compound cloud of fire, smoak, and water, he found me in the passage with my wig and hat on the floor, as if frightened out of my wits, and in a violent passion I pretended to strike him with my hasle-stick, but hit the wall; gave him curse or two for putting the conjuration-tricks upon me, and then made off with the old knave's notes, and left him the shot to pay.  We all met in an appointed room, where I'll leave you to guess, Sir, at our mirth, that the plot had met with the desired success.

    After a while I enquir'd of the landlady what was become of the fortune-teller?  She answer'd, he walk'd half a dozen times across the floor, brushing his coat, and then ask'd for me?  She answer'd, that I went off in a great passion, but had not seen me since.  "Well (sai he) bo if he knew aw, he'd be meety woode of teyn abus'd me o thiss'n: and then was for marching off.  Hold, hold, says the landlady, as you have frightened all my guests away, I'm resolv'd you shall pay the shot.  "Od, but that's hard too too; bo I neer deawt Mr. Collier-'ll pay'th shot."  I'll neither trust Collier, tinker, nor cobler; pay me for my ale.  So he was obliged to satisfy her, and after a few hums and houghs he budg'd his way.

    Since that time I neither saw nor heard from him before the last Friday, when I received the following letter:—

    SIR,

This comes to acquaint you, that if you do not pay me for the calculating your daughter's nativity, I will make use of the law to get it, and then you may expect to pay dear for your pastime; for I do not find that ever you intend to pay me, for you have had time sufficient to pay me already the small sum of five shillings.

    Note.  If you neglect to pay me, I will send the Catchpoles in a few days, all from

                                                    Your abused Servant,
                                                                       GEO. CLEGG.
Smalshaw, die
Nov. 15, 1752.

    The day following the receipt of the above, a whim came into my head to answer it in rhyme, directed,

To Mr. GEORGE CLEGG, Conjurer-General would be, of the County Palantine of Lancaster, at his nocturnal Study at Smalshaw.

                                                       From your affronted Master,
                                                                              PILGARLIC THE GREAT.

    This, Sir, is the truth of the story, to the date hereof; and should he play the madman to that degree as to make a Quarter Sessions job of it, I hope you will take it in a favourable light, and stand my friend: but I rather think he intends the common law, as I hear of a certainty that he has been to an attorney of my acquaintance, who had sense enough to laugh at his simplicity, and honesty enough to decline being employed against me in this case.  What the issue will be I know not; but if the Bedlamite be as determined to sue as I am to defend, there will be smoaking between the conjurer and
                                                           Sir,
                                                               Your most, &c.
                                                                                                   T. B.

___________________________________

 
TO MR. JOHN SEPHTON,
BREWER-GENERAL, IN LIVERPOOL.
――♦――

Milnrow, Jan. 11th, 1760.

SIR,

    AS most of the roast-beef, goose, and mined-pies, tarts and custards are devour'd in my neighbourhood? I have now time to reflect on, and perform the promise I made you, of sending you some Lancashire Dialect, and a few of Hoantung's Letters to the Empress of Russia, all of which (could I have my wish) should not be thrown by for some two or three years on some useless shelf, a corner, or hole in a garret, hid from the sight of mortals by curtains of cobwebs, but turn'd into cash in a few months, to be ready against the next time I come to Liverpool.  In short, vouchsafe to think on these two lines,

Which, tho' they are but Heathen rhymes are as true as the Gospel.  But now I think on it, I ought to ask pardon for this useless hint to one whose good-nature has been so conspicuous in this way; for in the few days I was with you in Liverpool I sold fifty-two Bandybewits, for which I thank you, Mr. Eyes, and a few more of my friends.

    When I reflect on, and compare the humours I observ'd in your populous town, with a few others I have lately been in, I cannot but think that all cities and towns are subject to youth and old age; have their constitutions, dispositions, beauties, failings, whims, and fancies, like us two-legg'd mortals; for instance:

    The City of York seems to think as well of itself as a true-born Welchman; or, if you please, the House of Austria, (who each of them can deduce their origin from the time of Numa Pompilious) and at present walks like a plain drest nobleman of a royal house, and very extensive revenues: who lives splendidly and in affluence, without desiring to increase, or so imprudent to diminish, his paternal estate.

    Leeds is a cunning, but wealthy, thriving farmer.  Its merchants hunt worldly wealth as eager as dogs pursue the hare; they have, in general, the pride and haughtiness of Spanish Dons, mix'd with the meanness of Dutch spirits; the strong desire they have of yellow dirt, transforms them into galley-slaves, and their servants are doubly so; the first being fastened with golden, but the latter with iron chains.

    Halifax is a mongrel, begot by a Leeds merchant and a Lancashire woman, and nursed by a Dutch frow.  They are eager in pursuing gain, but not so assiduous as to forget pleasure: and every day at noon think it no scandal to lay aside business to eat beef and pudding.

    Rochdale is like a growing haberdasher or master hatter, black and greasy with getting a little pelf: whose inhabitants (like Leeds and Halifax) are great lovers of wooll and butter: not immediately to eat, but to fatten them in prospect.  They don't study to oppress their dependents, as knowing it to be impossible; for their servants sometimes work hard, drink hard, and (being resolved to be independent) play when they please.

    Manchester is like a—a—I don't know what:— hold;—why, 'tis like a lucky London merchant, who by the assiduous care and pains of himself, and his servants round him, has made his fortune, purchased a large estate in the country, keeps his coach and six, enjoys more affluence, ease, and pleasure, than ever his forefathers dream'd of; which is demonstrated by his healthful constitution, his prominent belly, his rosy cheeks, and blooming countenance, and has ambition enough to aim at being the monarch (and perhaps deservedly) of the whole county.  But as your town and Manchester appear to me to be as like one another as two King-George-halfpennies, or a Wa—lpole and a Pu—ltney; and as one cap will fit both their heads, I'll refer its further character till I come to your favourite town, Liverpool.

    Warrington within this thirty years has grown a busy tradesman; who by a lucky bit or two, in tow and copper, has got new life and vigour, and with an equal quantity of hope and resolution, dreams of being a great man.

    Chester seems to resemble an ancient Lord, of an old but mongrel descent, got between a naked Briton and an encroaching Sasson (or Saxon); has so much of the antique blood in his veins, that he's resolv'd his servants shall still be one-third Welch and two-thirds English.  He's proud of, and boasts his pedigree from the old Aborigines.  Lives in great magnificence; scorns to make any alterations, or additions, in his Great Great-Grandfather's leather breeches, his trusty armour, or his old mansion-house; but is quite content with the old fashions, and his large and ancient patrimony.

As for Liverpool, I'm at a loss for an hieroglyphic, or a comparison for it.  Hold,――let me consider――ho, 'tis like a healthful bee hive, in a hot summer's day, where all the community (except a few humming drones) mind each their proper business.――No――this will not do;—for bees fly from bitter ale and the fumes of tobacco.  Then 'tis like a broad-ars'd Mynheer, who by bartering, buying, and selling, is resolved to get money in this world, tho' he goes plump to the bottom of the sea, or even to the devil for it when he dies.  No,—this last part does not tally neither.—Well, then, 'tis like a gamester, who is resoly'd to be a knight, or a knitter of caps.  This is the best draught of the three, but a little unlike the original still.  And now, I own, I am quite gravelled, and am forced to be a little serious; for Liverpool, and its twin-brother, Manchester, are certainly agreeable, merry, and brisk towns.  The people, in general, appear to be actuated by sensible, generous, and good-natured spirits: yet for all this, I could as well live in Mount Strombulo when in a fit of the ague, or in a passion, as in such slow-moving clouds of tobacco smoke, as are puffed out in the public rooms in Liverpool and Manchester.

    Two days ago I put on my old black coat, which I lately wore with you eight or ten days, but I soon whipp'd it off again, for it is more strongly fumigated, and stinks worse, than an over-smoak'd red herring: and I believe I must either send it to the fulling mill (as our folks do p—ss'd and sh—n blankets) or pickle it a few months in mint and lavender water, before it will be in any tolerable season.  But tho' it is so disagreeable to me, yet smoke to a true Liverpolian seems a fifth element, and that he could no more live out of it than a frog out of ditch water in a warm April.

    By the time you have got thus far, 'tis very probable you'll think two things: first, that this epistle is too prolix; and that I write like nobody else.  I plead guilty to both indictments; and to prevent you thinking me incorrigible, I conclude, with assuring you,
                                                                 I am, &c.
                                                                                   T. B.

___________________________________

 
TO T. P., ESQ.:
WITH HOWELL'S LETTERS.

             SIR,
    I here send you Howell's Letters, which I intended to have sent the last week: but being in the middle of their perusal, and its guts is as full as any fat landlady's in the parish.  And as to the bellows, I have just, now contrived a way to make them puff and blow of themselves as easily and naturally as a phthisical pair of lungs in going up the church steps in a frosty morning.  So much for my advertisement.

    These proposals of mine, I presume, you'll think very advantageous to our parish, and I hope others will think so too; for which reason I do not in the least doubt but they will be most eagerly embraced, especially by our little monarchs, who rule with a high hand, nay even with a stroke down the face, a nod, or a look; and always are thrifty, in proportion to the smallness of their families, and largeness of their bags and estates.  However, I propose no more than shall be duly and honestly performed, by
                                                             
                                                               Sir, Your most, &c.

TIM. BOBBIN.

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LETTERS IN RHYME.
――♦――

TO RICHARD TOWNLEY, ESQ.

SIR,