[Real Life In London, Volumes I. and II. by Pierce Egan]@TWC D-Link bookReal Life In London, Volumes I. and II. CHAPTER X 6/19
But the most curious part of the business was, the real cheeseman brought the investigation before the Court, cheeses in boxes were produced, and evidence was brought forward, when, as the charges alleged could not be substantiated, the restraint was removed, and the three importers of Welsh cheese hung their heads, and retired in dudgeon. 134~~the Hon.
Tom availed himself of the circumstance to leave the Box, though the truth was, there were other attractions of a more enlivening cast in his view. "Come," said he, "we shall have a better opportunity of seeing the House, and its decorations, by getting nearer to the curtain; besides, Ave shall have a bird's-eye view of the company in all quarters, from the seat of the Gods to the Pit." The influx of company, (it being the time of half-price), and the rush and confusion which took place in all parts at this moment, were indescribable.
Jumping over boxes and obtaining seats by any means, regardless of politeness or even of decorum--Bucks and Bloods warm from the pleasures of the bottle--dashing Belles and flaming Beaux, squabbling and almost fighting--rendered the amusements before the curtain of a momentary interest, which appeared to obliterate the recollection of what they had previously witnessed.
In the mean time, the Gods in the Gallery issued forth an abundant variety of discordant sounds, from their elevated situation.
Growling of bears, grunting of hogs, braying of donkeys, gobbling of turkeys, hissing of geese, the catcall, and the loud shrill whistle, were heard in one mingling concatenation of excellent imitation and undistinguished variety: During which, Tom led the way to the upper Boxes, where upon arriving, he was evidently disappointed at not meeting the party who had been seen occupying a seat on the left side of the House, besides having sacrificed a front seat, to be now compelled to take one at the very back part of a side Box, an exchange by no means advantageous for a view of the performance.
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