He was no longer master of his time, and had considerable difficulty in attending to his own proper business.

Sometimes his leisure hours were appropriated six months beforehand; and he was often peremptorily called upon to proceed with his philanthropic work.
When he could find time enough to spare from his business, he would consent to give another recitation.

When the distance was not great he walked, partly for exercise, and partly to save money.

There were few railways in those days, and hiring a conveyance was an expensive affair.
Besides, his desire always was, to hand over, if possible, the whole of the receipts to the charitable institutions for whose benefit he gave his recitations.
The wayfaring poet, on his approach to the town in which he was to appear, was usually met by crowds of people.

They received him with joy and acclamation.