in a very
different light when the bull thought proper to toss him, and having now
realised a comfortable independence, he had resolved to retire from
business, and from a site attended with so much danger. A hint of this
escaping him when Mr Pleggit was attending him on the third day after
his accident, the latter, who knew the value of the _locale_, also
hinted that if Mr Cophagus was inclined so to do, that he would be most
happy to enter into an arrangement with him. Self-interest will not
only change friendship into enmity, in this rascally world, but also
turn enmity into friendship. All Mr Pleggit's enormities, and all Mr
Cophagus's shameful conduct, were mutually forgotten. In less than ten
minutes it was "_My dear Mr Pleggit_, and so on," and "_My dear brother
Cophagus_."

In three weeks everything had been arranged between them, and the shop,
fixtures, stock in trade, and good will were all the property of our
ancient antagonist. But although Mr Pleggit could shake hands with Mr
Cophagus for his fixtures and _good will_, yet as Timothy and I were not
included in the _good will_, neither were we included among the
_fixtures_, and Mr Cophagus could not, of course, interfere with Mr
Pleggit's private arrangements. He did all he could do in the way of
recommendation; but Mr Pleggit had not forgotten my occasional
impertinences or the battle of the bottles. I really believe that his
_ill-will_ against Timothy was one reason for purchasing the _good will_
of Mr Cophagus; and we were very gently told by Mr Pleggit that he
would have no occasion for our services.

Mr Cophagus offered to procure me another situation as soon as he
could, and at the same time presented me with twenty guineas, as a proof
of his regard and appreciation of my conduct--but this sum put in my
hand decided me: I thanked him, and told him I had other views at
present, but hoped he would let me know where I might find him
hereafter, as I should be glad to see him again. He told me he would
leave his address for me at the Foundling Hospital, and shaking me
heartily by the hand, we parted. Timothy was then summoned. Mr
Cophagus gave him five guineas, and wished him good fortune.

"And now, Japhet, what are you about to do?" said Timothy, as he
descended into the shop.

"To do," replied I; "I am about to leave you, which is the only thing I
am sorry for. I am going, Timothy, in search of my father."

"Well," replied Timothy, "I fee