CHAPTER IV.
MY PIPES.
In a select company of scoffers my brier was known as the Mermaid.

The mouth-piece was a cigarette-holder, and months of unwearied practice were required before you found the angle at which the bowl did not drop off.
[Illustration] This brings me to one of the many advantages that my brier had over all other pipes.

It has given me a reputation for gallantry, to which without it I fear I could lay no claim.

I used to have a passion for repartee, especially in the society of ladies.

But it is with me as with many other men of parts whose wit has ever to be fired by a long fuse: my best things strike me as I wend my way home.