a few observations to Mrs. Tribble on the week's bill. This lady
explains to me that she has had great misfortunes, that Tribble hardly
does any work, and does not contribute a penny toward the household
expenses. When he has done a little stroke of business, he takes a
holiday, and only reappears when his purse is empty.

I really cannot undertake to keep Tribble in _dolce far niente_, and I
give Mrs. Tribble notice to leave.

* * * * *

_20th July, 1872._

9 A.M.--I read in this morning's paper the following advertisement:

"Residence, with or without board, for a gentleman, in a healthy
suburb of London. Charming house, with creepers, large garden;
cheerful home. Use of piano, etc."

"Without board" is what I want. Must go and see the place.

6 P.M.--I have seen the house with creepers, and engaged a bedroom and
sitting-room. Will go there to-night. My bed is provided with a spring
mattress. Won't I sleep to-night, that's all!

* * * * *

_21st July, 1872._

I remove my goods and chattels from the charming house. I found the
creepers were inside.

It will take me a long time to understand English, I am afraid.

* * * * *

_8th August, 1872._

I examine my financial position. I came to England with fifty pounds;
have been here thirty days, and have lived at the rate of a pound a
day. My money will last me only twenty days longer. This seems to be a
simple application of the rule of three.

The thought that most Lord-Mayors have come to London with only
half-a-crown in their pockets comforts me. Still I grow reflective.

_25th September, 1872._

I can see that the fee I receive for the weekly letter I send to my
Parisian paper will not suffice to keep me. Good living is expensive in
London. Why should I not reduce my expenses, and at the same time
improve my English by teaching French in an English school as resident
master? This would enable me to wait and see what turn events will
take.

I have used my letters of recommendation as a means of obtaining
introductions in society, and my pride will not let me make use of them
again for business.

I will disappear for a time. When my English is more reliable, perhaps
an examination will open the door of some good berth to me.

* * * * *

_3rd October, 1872._

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