l, "it is not very likely they will be able to
equal the grace with which it is acknowledged the King can bow; and he
is to be accompanied by the accomplished Sir Billy, of City notoriety;
so that admirable examples are certain of being presented to the
Scottish gentry: reports state ~~380~~~ that the worthy Baronet, who
is considered to be of great weight wherever he goes, is determined
to afford his Majesty, in this visit to Edinburgh, the benefit of that
preponderating loyalty which he last year threw into the scale of the
Dublin Corporation; and that he has recently purchased from a Highland
tailor in the Hay market, a complete suit of tartan, philebeg, &c. with
which he means to invest himself, as the appropriate costume, to meet
his royal master on his arrival at Edinburgh."

"In that case," said Sparkle, "there is one circumstance greatly to be
regretted, considering the gratification which our northern neighbours
might have derived, from ascertaining the precise number of cwts. of the
most weighty of London citizens. I remember reading a day or two back
that the weigh-house of the City of Edinburgh was disposed of by public
roup, and that a number of workmen were immediately employed to take it
down, as the whole must be cleared away by the 6th of August, under a
penalty of 50L.: what a pity, that in the annals of the weigh-house, the
Scotch could not have registered the actual weight of the greatest of
London Aldermen."

Tom and Bob laughed heartily at their friend Sparkle's anticipations
respecting the worthy Baronet; while Bob dryly remarked, "he should
think Sir Willie would prove himself a honnie lad among the lasses O;
and nae doubt he would cut a braw figure in his Highland suit."

"But," continued Dashall, "we are indulging in visions of fancy, without
paying that attention to the scene around us which it deserves, and I
perceive we are approaching Greenwich Hospital. There is the royal yacht
ready prepared for the occasion; the shores are already crowded with
company, and the boats and barges are contending for eligible situations
to view the embarkation. There is the floating chapel; and a little
further on to the right is the Marine Society's School-ship, for the
education of young lads for his Majesty's service. The Hospital now
presents a grand and interesting appearance. What say you, suppose we
land at the Three Crowns, and make inquiry as to the likely time of his
Majesty's departure."

"With