Page:The London Guide and Stranger's Safeguard.djvu/221

Rh houses, and in eveiy gradation thence upwards; but, they are my readers of the middling classes, who are the likeliest to be exposed to their malignant influence, when they enter the houses of refreshment adapted to their respective circumstances. Unless they mean to be willing dupes, let them reject the proffered civilities of such gentry: the rough-hewn contradictions of the blunt countryman, or the man of strong mental powers, are to be prized ten-fold before them.

And yet, though these sycophants may be despised for their servility, they are not to be reprobated too deeply: they have bought a knowledge of the world, and they would sell it again, and those who have a wish to become purchasers are merely cautioned not to pay too dearly for what they receive. Undoubtedly, much town-talk information from men retired from trade, is very desirable, always entertaining, and sometimes profitable; yet the chances are so much against the latter, that 'tis two to one the stranger gets done out of his property—more or less. The thoroughbred sycophant may be known by his carney or small talk, or by his whining; by his mouth being always open, either to communicate something, or to partake of your refreshments.

Generally, they have little second rate