The only thing denoting active existence was a little, shrivelled man, who, with spectacles on his forehead, and hotel slippers on his feet, rapidly walked up and down, occasionally stopping at his table to sip a little weak-looking negus, which was his moderate potation for two hours.

I have been particular in chronicling these few and apparently trivial circumstances, for by what mere trifles are our greatest and most important movements induced--had the near wheeler of the Umpire been only safe on his fore legs, and while I write this I might--but let me continue.

The gloom and melancholy which beset me, momentarily increased.

But three months before, and my prospects presented every thing that was fairest and brightest--now all the future was dark and dismal.

Then my best friends could scarcely avoid envy at my fortune -- now my reverses might almost excite compassion even in an enemy.