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96 We do not, gentle reader, seek to excuse this hasty anathema:—the habits of childhood will sometimes break forth despite of the after-blessings of education. And we set not up Paul for thine imitation as that model of virtue and of wisdom, which we design thee to discover in Mac Grawler.

When that great critic perceived Paul had risen, and was retreating in high dudgeon towards the door, he rose also, and repeating Paul's last words, said—"'Go to the devil!' Not so quick, young gentleman,—festina lente,—all in good time. What though I did, astonished at your premature request, say that you should receive nothing;—yet my great love for you may induce me to bestir myself on your behalf. The Asinæum, it is true, only gives three shillings an article in general; but I am its editor, and will intercede with the proprietors on your behalf. Yes—yes. I will see what is to be done. Stop a bit, my boy."

Paul, though very irascible, was easily pacified: he reseated himself, and, taking Mac Grawler's hand, said—