Page:The Southern Literary Messenger - Minor.djvu/21



Early one morning in August, 1834, a citizen of Richmond, Va., might be seen on its main street walking actively, but without hurry or bustle, down toward Shockoe Creek. He was of medium stature, but rather portly for his height, and was neatly attired in material of no mean quality, with a long black frock-coat and a beaver hat. He saluted pleasantly such acquaintances as he met, who cordially reciprocated, for though there was nothing striking or commanding about him, he was well known and highly respected. He walked on until he came to the corner of Fifteenth street, immediately opposite the old Bell Tavern (since the St. Charles Hotel). There he ascended some outside steps on Fifteenth street to the second floor, over Anchor's shoe store, and seated himself in the back room. For he was in