The amateur started, and betrayed consummate embarrassment, as if the horsewhip had actually made its entrance.

Tom and his companion stole away, and left the astounded monarch with the words--"twas all a dream." While returning to the inn, our heroes mutually commented on the ambition and folly of those amateurs of fashion, who not only sacrifice time and property, but absolutely take abundant pains to render themselves ridiculous.

"Certainly," says Tom, "this _cacoethes ludendi_ has made fools of several: this infatuated youth though not possessed of a single requisite for the stage, no doubt flatters himself he is a second Kean; and, regardless ~15~~of his birth and family, he will continue his strolling life Till the broad shame comes staring in his face, And critics hoot the blockhead as he struts." Having now reached the inn, and finding every thing adjusted for their procedure, our heroes mounted their vehicle, and went in full gallop for Real Life in London..