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46 The ensuing evening the magistrate returned from town, and immediately sent for me to his own house. Being brought before his worship, who was a brewer, named Sidebottom, I found him seated, not on the chair of justice, but on a stool in his accompting-house. The old gentleman began by remarking with some severity, on the impropriety and turpitude of my conduct, in withdrawing myself from the protection of my respectable friends, and traversing the country under such debasing circumstances. He said he had understood from his friend Mr. Howell, that my relations were both able and willing to take care of my fortunes. After a long expostulation to the same effect, his worship continued: "Perhaps you are not aware that it is in my power to commit you to bridewell for a month for begging without a pass." Then raising his voice and brandishing his pen, he exclaimed with a very pompous air, "Young man, I shall certainly discharge you." The two latter words relieved me from a momentary anxiety; for when his worship paused, I certainly expected he would add "commit you." He proceeded, "but, on the express condition that you immediately quit this town, and return to your friends. If you are found hereabouts after this night, expect to be severely dealt with." I gladly accepted these terms, and assuring the old gentleman of my compliance, took a respectful leave, his worship giving me a little more