Page:The London Guide and Stranger's Safeguard.djvu/223

Rh who, though they are far from crimmal, ought to be avoided, as indeed should the whole class of sycophants from top to bottom. These fellows, or rather another species of them, have been, not unaptly termed

Because they lick, or suck up, whatsoever they may touch. They are bolder, and more forward than the preceding, who are thus termed: they are a lower-bred set; will accost you in the street with a proffer of their services; the same in a watch house (if you get into a row), they can show you to a lodging, where previous to going to bed, a supper is ordered, and you must pay the shot. They also differ from the former class, inasmuch as they can perform none but puerile services, such as administer to your sensual appetites; and unblushingly partake, without even the pretence of bearing a part of the expense. For the most part they can sing a good song, which they set a going; or tell a hundred good stories to increase the jollification. If you would have a bit of spree, they can help you into it; but in helping you out again, they manage to keep something for themselves out of the necessary fees to the watchmen and constables,