t really is a document of public importance: if
not too great a favour, might we be allowed a sight of the------"

"The document,--Oh certainly, Sir," said he, hastily rising and drawing
a printed paper from his pocket; "I will leave it with you:" then
throwing it on the table, he made a precipitate retreat.

The little care which the old gentleman seemed to take of this scrap of
importance, struck them all with wonder.

"A rum old codger," said Tom; "and I recommend his observations, as well
as the produce of his pocket, to the serious consideration of our friend
Sparkle, who will perhaps read this paper for the benefit of us all."

Sparkle, who by this time had unfolded this mysterious paper, burst into
a hearty laugh; and as soon as he could command his risibility, he read
as follows:

"PRINCE'S RUSSIA OIL, For promoting the growth of Hair."

"And Sparkle introduced to Greece," said Tom.--"Well, the old buck has
paid you off for your interruption: however, he has certainly proved his
own assertion, that there is no reliance on any body."

"A mountain in labour," continued Tom,--"I think he had you in a line,
however."

"I cannot help thinking," replied Sparkle, "that there is a great
similarity between him and some of our most popular parliamentary
orators, for he has said a great deal to little purpose; but come, let
us move on, and lose no more time in the French coffee house, discussing
the merits or virtues of Russia oil."

~~289~~~ This proposition being acceded to, our friends now took their
way along Pall Mall, where the improvements recently made struck Sparkle
with pleasure and delight; the appearance of new and elegant houses
occupying the situation of buildings of a shabby and mean exterior,
and the introduction of new streets, were subjects of considerable
admiration.

"The rapidity of alterations in London," said Sparkle, "are almost
inconceivable."

"That remark," replied Tom, "only arises from your late absence from the
scene of action; for to us who frequently see their progress, there is
but little to excite wonder. Now for my part I am more astonished
in present times, when so many complaints are made of distress, that
occupiers can be found for them, and also seeing the increase of
buildings at every part of the environs of London, where tenants can be
found to occupy them."

"I confess," said Tallyho, "that is a subject which I have often thought
upon without being able to come to a