'llie cheques were changed, and then Wyndham took



2ZSi T6e POiTtEtON tfiGAdt-

t

Philip to lunch at a comical old tavern in the deptlis of tn&
city, where they first bought their steak at the butcher's next
door, and then carried it in to be cooked on the large grid-
iron in the eating-room, Philip was almost ashamed to do
so, and thought if the Guards could see him, what they would
think of him ; but Mr. Flitter assured him it was the proper
thing — even for noblemen and her Majesty's ministers — some
of whom, without doubt, they should meet in the tavern. Ha
knew the girl who superintended the gridiron, and pointed
out to her, with almost affectionate confidence, where to put
their portions to be cooked the best. Broiling hot and tender
it certainly was, and the pewter plate made it hiss again;
indeed, Philip confessed that he had never enjoyed anything
80 much. Then Mr. Flitter put him up to the secret of
some excellent punch to be had there, which Philip also gave
in to, still looking up at the clock every now and then, and
Baying that he must go home and write. On which Mr. Flit-
ter assured him there was plenty of time; so they had more
punch, and then agreed to go and call on Mrs. Wracketts. Here
Philip sat some time and heard that lady try some new bal-
lads, which perfectly enchanted him. At last he said he
must go home and write; upon which Mrs. Wracketts was so
Borry, for she was going out in her Brougham, and wanted
Philip to accompany her. This was a fresh temptation not
to be resisted. The Brougham was ordered, and they drove
forth, Mrs. Wracketts making such wonderful eyes, and talk-
ing so fascinatingly to Philip all the time, that now his head
was quite turned, and the post hour went by, so that he did
not write to Annie after all.
