Presently, he returned, followed by the boy from the public- house,

who bore in one hand a plate of bread and beef, and in the other a

great pot, filled with some very fragrant compound, which sent forth a

grateful steam, and was indeed choice purl, made after a particular

recipe which Mr Swiveller had imparted to the landlord, at a period

when he was deep in his books and desirous to conciliate his

friendship. Relieving the boy of his burden at the door, and charging

his little companion to fasten it to prevent surprise, Mr Swiveller

followed her into the kitchen.

There!' said Richard, putting the plate before her. 'First of all clear

that off, and then you'll see what's next.'

The small servant needed no second bidding, and the plate was soon

empty.

Next,' said Dick, handing the purl, 'take a pull at that; but moderate

your transports, you know, for you're not used to it. Well, is it good?'

Oh! isn't it?' said the small servant.

Mr Swiveller appeared gratified beyond all expression by this reply,

and took a long draught himself, steadfastly regarding his companion

while he did so. These preliminaries disposed of, he applied himself to

teaching her the game, which she soon learnt tolerably well, being

both sharp-witted and cunning.

Now,' said Mr Swiveller, putting two sixpences into a saucer, and

trimming the wretched candle, when the cards had been cut and

dealt, 'those are the stakes. If you win, you get 'em all. If I win, I get

'em. To make it seem more real and pleasant, I shall call you the

Marchioness, do you hear?'

The small servant nodded.

Then, Marchioness,' said Mr Swiveller, 'fire away!'

The Marchioness, holding her cards very tight in both hands,

considered which to play, and Mr Swiveller, assuming the gay and

fashionable air which such society required, took another pull at the

tankard, and waited for her lead.

The Old Curiosity Shop