corner of the asylum wall, to remark that he had
witnessed in many instances before, a practice which appeared in and
about London, of chalking the walls, and perceiving in large letters
"Dr. Eady 32 Dean Street Soho," enquired what was meant by it.

"That," replied his cousin, "is one of the most ingenious modes of
advertising, hit upon in the Metropolis, and the Doctor at all events
deserves credit for the industry and perseverance he has manifested
in making his name known. It is not altogether new, for it has been
successfully practiced in popular elections. Men are sent out at night
to chalk the names of Candidates on walls and other places, to keep
their interest alive; but in all probability no one has ever before
carried the system to so great a length as this Doctor Eady, for it
is scarcely possible to travel ten miles round the metropolis without
meeting with his name, which naturally excites enquiry into the object
and pretensions of the chalked up Hero. You will also find in many cases
that the proprietor of the Bonassus has ~157~~lately adopted the same
system. It is a species of puffing which can hardly fail of producing
notoriety, and I have before observed, it matters but little to the
parties themselves by what means this is produced save and except the
avoidance of expence."

"It is a curious scheme however," replied Bob, "and I have two or three
times before intended to enquire its meaning."

"There are numerous instances," returned Tom, "in which the
eccentricities of an individual have blown him into notice, and puff'd
fortune into his pocket. Packwood of Gracechurch street, had many whims
and fancies, and acted upon the idea, that when a man's name is once up,
he may go to bed, or take a nod elsewhere. By making razor strops and
a certain paste for sharpening razors, he pasted his name on public
credulity, and pocketed the proceeds. His advertisements were frequently
laughable, and he caught his customers in their risible moments, wisely
taking care never to laugh himself, 'till he had realized the possibles.
I remember in the year 1807, he published a book, price "Two good Tower
shillings," containing his advertisements, entitled "Packwood's whim,
Packwoodiana, or the Goldfinches nest, or the way to get money and be
happy." And to make the publication worth the money, and that there
might be no grumbling, An half crown was according to the title-page,
placed between the leaves."

"That was no