Page:Biographical and critical studies by James Thomson ("B.V.").djvu/449

 JAMES HOGG 433 the last night of his stay a very multitude to sup with him, of all ranks and ages and coats, of course for the good of the house at the expense of himself. In the forenoon, making his farewell calls, he would mention incidentally that two or three were to meet him at night, at nine, and that the friend to whom he was speaking, with any of his friends, would be welcome. All the warning Watson got was a hint from Hogg as he went out that twae-three lads had been speaking of supping there that night. Watson knew of old what twae-three meant, and laid out his largest room with a double range of tables, enough for sixty or seventy guests. Hogg stood in the corner of one of the largest bedrooms to receive his company; each friend as he brought in his train trying to introduce each separately, parried by Hogg with a '* Ou ay, we'll be a' weel acquent by-and-by." Having filled chairs, bed, and standing space, another and yet another bed- room had to be thrown open for the reception. About ten, when nearly the whole house seemed " panged," supper was announced, and a grand rush ensued. The local officials took the places of honour; the Commissioner of Police for the ward — a very great man — in the chair, the Bailie and the Moderator of the Society of High Constables (what swelling titles the bodies have !) croupiers. The rest seat themselves as they can, and many are left seatless till a new table is rigged up along the side of the room. A mixed company ! Meal-dealers from the Grassmarket, gen- teel young men from the Parliament House, printers from the Cowgate, booksellers from the New Town ; advocates, grocers, bakers, shop-lads from the Lucken- booths; a young probationer, doubting whether he 2 £