rcumstance which clearly proves, that by some means or
other they must have possessed themselves of the care of the property,
as well as that of the persons of their unfortunate victims."

"This is a dull subject," said Dashall, "though I confess that some
exposures which have been made fully justify your observations; but I am
not fond of looking at such gloomy pictures of Real Life."

"True," replied Sparkle; "but it connects itself with the object you
have had in view; and though I know there are many who possess souls
of sensibility, and who would shrink from the contemplation of so much
suffering humanity, it is still desirable they should know the effects
produced almost by inconceivable causes. I know people in general avoid
the contemplation, as well as fly from the abodes of misery, contenting
themselves by sending pecuniary assistance. But unfortunately there
are a number of things that wear a similarity of appearance, yet are so
unlike in essence and reality, that they are frequently mistaken by the
credulous and unwary, who become dupes, merely because they are not eye
witnesses of the facts. But if the subject is dull, let us push forward,
take a gallop over Hampstead Heath, and return."

~~370~~~ "With all my heart," cried Dashall, giving a spur to his horse,
and away they went.

The day was delightfully fine; the appearance of the country banished
all gloomy thoughts from their minds; and after a most agreeable ride,
they returned to Piccadilly, where finding dinner ready, they spent
the remainder of the evening in the utmost hilarity, and the mutual
interchange of amusing and interesting conversation, principally
relative to Sparkle's friends in the country, and their arrangements for
the remainder of their time during their stay in the metropolis.

CHAPTER XXVII

"E'en mighty monarchs may at times unbend,
And sink the dull superior in the friend.
The jaded scholar his lov'd closet quits,
To chat with folks below, and save his wits:
Peeps at the world awhile, with curious look.
Then flies again with pleasure to his book.
The tradesman hastes away from Care's rude gripe,
To meet the neighbouring club and smoke his pipe.
All this is well, in decent bounds restrained,
No health is injured, and no mind is pain'd.
But constant travels in the paths of joy,
Yield no delights but