Indeed this did not require any unusual bravery or boldness, as the watchmen of that time, being selected for the office on account of excessive age and extraordinary infirmity, had a custom of shutting themselves up tight in their boxes on the first symptoms of disturbance, and remaining there until they disappeared.

In these proceedings, Mr Dennis, who had a gruff voice and lungs of considerable power, distinguished himself very much, and acquired great credit with his two companions.
'What a queer fellow you are!' said Mr Tappertit.

'You're so precious sly and close.

Why don't you ever tell what trade you're of ?' 'Answer the captain instantly,' cried Hugh, beating his hat down on his head; 'why don't you ever tell what trade you're of ?' 'I'm of as gen-teel a calling, brother, as any man in England--as light a business as any gentleman could desire.' 'Was you 'prenticed to it ?' asked Mr Tappertit.
'No.

Natural genius,' said Mr Dennis.