Mortimer felt no great portion of pleasure in passing his time with his uncle, the Colonel, nor with his sister, Lady Lovelace, who was a perfect model of London affectation; besides, his friend Mr.Merrywell, who was to him what Tom Dashall and Sparkle had been to Tallyho, had made an engagement to introduce him to some of his dashing acquaintances in the West.

Nods and winks were interchanged between them, and could not but be noticed by Tom and Bob, though Sparkle was so intent upon the amusements of the moment, and the company of the lovely Caroline, as to appear immoveable.
Mr.Merrywell at length stated that he must be compelled to quit the party.

Young Mortimer also apologized; for as he and his friend were engaged for an early excursion in the morning, he should take a bed at his habitation, in order to be fully prepared.

This was the first step to breaking up the party.
Merrywell called Sparkle on one side, saying he had something of importance to communicate.

It was twelve o'clock, and the gentlemen, after taking a formal leave of the ladies and the Colonel, and a promise on the part of Sparkle to meet them again the next morning at twelve, to escort them to the Exhibition, left the house.
"I am really happy," said Merrywell to Sparkle as they passed the door, "to have had the honour of this introduction, and shall have much pleasure in becoming better acquainted with Mr.Sparkle, who, though personally unknown to me, his name and fame are familiar.
~190~~Mr.Mortimer and myself are going to take a review of the neighbourhood of St.James's, probably to shake an elbow." "Excellent," said Tom; "here is a fine opportunity for Mr.Tallyho to take a like survey, and, if agreeable, we will join the party.