Chapter XV (1)

“_There is no place like Home!_” JERRY _bids adieu to_ LIFE IN LONDON,
_and sets out, with the_ CORINTHIAN, _for_ HAWTHORN HALL. _Rosebud
Cottage in sight, the Church in perspective, and a good look-out
towards the High Road to Matrimony. Uncertainty of existence: sorrow
succeeding sorrow_: TOM _killed by a fall from his horse while
hunting_. JERRY _disconsolate for the loss of his two Pals.
Reflections on the death of the_ CORINTHIAN, _and a few Lines to his
Memory. Grieving’s a folly! Thoughts on Marriage: popping the
Question--the bit of Gold--the reluctant_ NO--YES!--OLD JOLLYBOY _an
important feature. The Wedding Day--all happiness at_ HAWTHORN
HALL--JERRY AND MARY ROSEBUD _united. The_ TIE-UP _of the Story, i.e.,
to promote_ LIFE IN THE COUNTRY.

The sudden death of LOGIC made quite a _chasm_ in the movements of TOM and JERRY; indeed he had been the principal caterer for their amusements, and our heroes were not only in grief for his loss, but reduced completely to a _stand-still_ without him. It is true; JERRY had previously made up his mind to quit London, but the sudden demise of the _Oxonian_ positively hurried him out of town. The Metropolis had lost its attractions upon the feelings of JERRY, and he flattered himself that the neighbourhood of HAWTHORN HALL, the sports of the field, and the fascinating company of MISS ROSEBUD, would, in a great measure, afford relief to his mind, and ultimately restore him to cheerfulness. The parents of JERRY were overjoyed in beholding their darling son once more safe under their roof, and the CORINTHIAN also received the most friendly congratulations on his arrival at Hawthorn Hall. The _sombre_ appearance of our heroes, who were in deep mourning for the _Oxonian_, operated as a great drawback to the festivities which under different circumstances, had been intended to celebrate their reception; indeed, at every step they took, the loss of Logic was sincerely regretted by all those persons who had ranked him as one of their best acquaintances, during his last appearance at HAWTHORN HALL. “To me, the loss of LOGIC is incalculable,” said Jerry, to his father; “he was not only able to advise, but his manner of doing it was so persuasive, that it was impossible not to benefit by his experience; more especially at my time of life, when such experience was by far more valuable to my mind, than any knowledge I might have obtained of men and manners, through my own exertions!”

Our hero lost no time in visiting Rosebud Cottage. On his entrance he was welcomed by the father of our heroine with no common sort of ardour; but, on his being ushered into the presence of MARY ROSEBUD, he felt confused, nay, ashamed; her looks, although accompanied with a smile, nevertheless told him that he had been neglectful towards her, during his residence in London, and she gently chided him for his want of attention. “I am afraid, Sir,” said she, “it has been with you like most professed lovers, ‘out of sight, out of mind.’” JERRY could not reply; his excuses were lame and impotent; indeed, he was aware that he was in fault, and, therefore, sensibly threw himself upon the mercy of the Court, and sued in the most persuasive manner for pardon. The good nature of MARY, aided by a little of something else--perhaps, love--could not resist the application; and she generously admitted that some allowance might be made for him, when surrounded by the attractions of London. “Generous girl!” exclaimed JERRY, “the remainder of my life shall be devoted to your happiness.”

JERRY being now perfectly established in the good opinion of MISS ROSEBUD, became doubly attentive in his visits; when the minutes, the hours, the days, nay, the weeks almost appeared to fly, so fascinated was JERRY with the company and attractions of our charming heroine. In truth, the time of JERRY was completely occupied with hunting, dinners, card-parties, assemblies, &c., accompanied by TOM; and his life appeared so happy, that he congratulated himself on his return to the seat of his father, also upon the hair-breadth escapes he had met with, during his Day and Night Scenes in London.

* * * * *
* * * * *

During a walk one fine evening, and Hawthorn Church appearing in view, JERRY was determined to make the best use of the opportunity which offered itself, by soliciting MARY ROSEBUD to name the day that was to complete his happiness. “I have always promised my father,” replied MARY, with the utmost frankness, “that he should name the wedding-day; therefore, gain his consent, and you will have no complaint to make against my decision.” “I will be your father upon that joyful occasion,” said the CORINTHIAN, “if you will permit me, my dear MISS ROSEBUD, as I am very anxious to bestow on my friend JERRY one of the greatest treasures in this life,--a most amiable companion and virtuous wife.” MISS ROSEBUD blushed at the remark, but nevertheless felt pleased with the compliment paid by the CORINTHIAN; and the subject was dropped until they arrived at Rosebud Cottage. The father of our heroine, on being made acquainted with the wishes of the young folks, observed, “I am quite content; and I sincerely hope they will prove one of the happiest couples alive. Therefore, let the settlements be drawn immediately, the licence procured without delay, the dresses made offhand, our friends invited in good time, and OLD JOLLYBOY requested to hold himself in readiness. Now, having settled this marriage business to my mind, let us have a jolly evening together, before we part; and to-morrow, JERRY, what do you say to a day’s hunting? And your cousin, TOM, I have no doubt, will make one of the party.” “It will afford me great pleasure,” replied the CORINTHIAN; “and we will be in time to start with you.” The evening was spent in great jollity.--“The single married, and the married happy,” were toasted over and over again by the party, until JERRY became as lively as a lark, OLD ROSEBUD roaring out the view halloo! The CORINTHIAN quite merry and facetious, and OLD JOLLYBOY rather above par, hiccoughing, every now and then, with an attempt to pun, that he was “fond of (_a_) _good living_!”

Our heroes were ready at the appointed time to take the field with OLD ROSEBUD; the latter fox-hunter was in high glee with the excellence of the day’s sport, JERRY equally delighted, and TOM had just declared he had not been so pleased for a long time; but, unfortunately for him, in his bold endeavour to clear some high palings, his horse fell with him, and he was thrown some distance. On being raised from the ground, it was discovered that his neck was dislocated, and he expired instantly. Upon JERRY’S ascertaining the fate of the CORINTHIAN, his feelings were so completely overcome, that he fell down in a fit quite senseless.

To describe the wretched state of mind which JERRY suffered for several days, at the unexpected accident and melancholy death of his dearest friend in the world would have baffled the poet’s skill and the painter’s talents to pourtray--the shock was so sudden, and the loss to our hero so great, that it was impossible to have been otherwise; just at the moment when happiness appeared to be within his grasp, and he was also slowly recovering from the serious effects which the death of LOGIC had also made upon his feelings, to have met with such an immense blow--the death of CORINTHIAN TOM--shattered his nerves all to pieces, and anything in the shape of consolation appeared to him officious, troublesome, and unavailing! Ultimately, by the soothing attention of MISS ROSEBUD, the friendly interference of the old fox hunter, her father, the unremitting kindness of his parents, and the cheering, good advice of OLD JOLLYBOY, by degrees he was restored to a state of convalescence.

From “GAY to _grave_,” was now the reversed scene for the contemplation of our hero, and the old proverb verified to an awful extent, “that many things happen between the cup and the lip;” the _marriage rites_ were now suspended to make way for the performance of the burial service. The remains of the CORINTHIAN were conveyed to town with the utmost solemnity, and interred in the family vault, with all those obsequies due to his rank; and although JERRY remained extremely ill, and scarcely able to stand upon his legs, yet he was determined, at all hazards, to pay the last respect to his most valued friend and relative, CORINTHIAN TOM, by his appearance at the funeral in the character of chief mourner. JERRY did not quit the Metropolis until he had settled every thing to his satisfaction respecting the interment of the CORINTHIAN. Upon the return of JERRY to HAWTHORN HALL, several days elapsed before anything like pleasure occupied his mind; he positively refused to quit the house, and he also shunned the society of his acquaintances. “It requires no common fortitude,” observed JERRY, to OLD JOLLYBOY, “to bear up against the loss of two such invaluable friends as TOM and LOGIC, snatched, as it were, in an instant from me, when I stood most in need of their assistance, and to whom I am principally indebted for the knowledge of mankind which I now possess. In LOGIC, I have lost a model of experience, a fund of talent, and a heart overflowing with the milk of human kindness. By the death of TOM, I shall heavily miss that urbanity, discernment and liberality, which highly distinguishes the polished, and thorough-bred gentleman. I am now left to decide for myself; but, nevertheless, I hope I shall sincerely profit by their example. APPEARANCES, I am perfectly aware might be against both of their characters with the fastidious part of society, yet hypocrisy, cant, humbug, or dissimulation, never disgraced their conduct: a love of honour shone conspicuously throughout their actions, and, by an acknowledgment of their own errors, displayed a noble generosity towards the faults of others. They taught me not to spend time in regretting any mistakes that I had made, but to exert myself upon every occasion to repair them. This maxim shall be my guide through life--I will not repine, but struggle with fortitude against unavoidable calamities, and endeavour to make myself happy under all circumstances of my existences.”

JERRY immediately gave orders for a very handsome stone to be placed in the most conspicuous situation near to the spot where CORINTHIAN TOM lost his life, with the following inscription engraved upon it:--

Near to this Spot of Earth,
Lost his Life by a Fall from his Horse while Hunting,
CORINTHIAN TOM,
One of the highest-bred creatures in the Universe, and who got
over the ground like nothing else but
A GOOD ONE:
In the walks of fashion, he was a CORINTHIAN;
Amongst the BLOODS, a _bon vivant_;
On the TURF a real SPORTSMAN; in the Chase, an OUT and OUTER;
And in his deportment to every person
A PERFECT GENTLEMAN!
If he could not put in a positive claim to the title of
THE ROSE AND PILLAR OF THE STATE.
No man in the world ever possessed the SUAVITER IN MODO
and FORTITER, IN RE
In a more eminent degree than
Corinthian Tom.

This Remembrance has been erected by his Relative and
sincere Friend
JERRY HAWTHORN, ESQ.,
Under the hope, that when he hears the LAST VIEW HALLOO!
His PEDIGREE may be found sound; his RACE complete, by
Winning the HAPPY STAKES; and nothing against him
Noted down in the
Steward’s Book.

“I admit your loss has been great, and I also admire the tenour of your argument,” observed Mr. ROSEBUD, “but, nevertheless, ‘grieving’s a folly;’ there is a time for every thing, as my friend OLD JOLLYBOY would have observed, therefore, JERRY, having done every thing becoming the character of a sincere friend, I think you ought now to turn to a more pleasant view of the picture, and once more give your acquaintances the benefit of your company.” “Good!” exclaimed OLD JOLLYBOY; “for some time past, I have been holding myself in readiness to receive a summons to perform a certain ceremony, without SQUIRE HAWTHORN has given up the marriage altogether. All in good time perhaps!”

The trifling hint was quite sufficient, and JERRY, lest his conduct should be thought cold or neglectful, presented himself, in the course of the morning, “for better or for worse,” to Miss ROSEBUD, at the Cottage, anxiously soliciting her to name the wedding day. The disposition of MARY ROSEBUD was of the most ingenious nature, and her attachment to our hero too great to keep him long in suspense. “Perhaps, Sir,” said MARY, “I ought to say ‘No!’--and insist upon more time, to enable me to form a correct opinion of your conduct, whether you have duly considered the serious and important charge of martrimony, and the confinement also attendant on such a state; and, likewise, freely consenting, as it is termed, to surrender a part of your liberty, before I say ‘YES.’ But I prefer being frank on the present occasion; and, relying on your honour, generosity, and true love, I am content, whenever my father shall think proper to name the day.” “Generous, amiable girl,” replied JERRY, “I have well considered the subject, in every point of view; but I will make no professions: yet my endeavours throughout my life, shall be to _strengthen_, what the Poet has so beautifully described, the

“Perpetual fountain of domestic sweets.”

The day was immediately fixed for the nuptials by Mr. ROSEBUD; the marriage ceremony was performed by OLD JOLLYBOY, and when MISS ROSEBUD answered “I will!” the old Curate was so full of joy, that the word “GOOD!” had almost escaped his lips. The estates of the Rosebuds and the Hawthorns were united, and MARY and JERRY made the happiest of the happy. The wedding-day was devoted to pleasure. “It shall be kept in the old style,” said JERRY’S father; “every body, shall be welcome; we will have a dance upon the green; all the lads and lasses in the village shall be invited to celebrate the wedding; we will broach a tub of ‘_humming bub!!_’ and nothing shall be wanting to promote mirth and harmony.” “Good!” said OLD JOLLYBOY, over his pipe; but, long before the approach of night, the “gaily circulating glass” had been pushed about by OLD HAWTHORN to all the company--that, suffice to observe; as we have too much respect for the cloth to tell tales, the fine old Curate required the assistance of “AMEN,” the clerk, to make JOLLYBOY “all right” at the Curacy.

The honey-moon was, of course, a raptuous one; after which JERRY might be viewed as a “_settled being_.” Time rolled over pleasantly with him and his bride; and the sports of the field, if possible, he enjoyed with greater zest than heretofore. His fire-side was a pattern of domestic comfort, although a sigh would now and then escape his lips, whenever the thoughts of TOM and LOGIC came over his mind. In every other respect, JERRY was a picture of contentment; determined to profit by his experience, and to turn to a good account, for the benefit of himself and his family, the many hair-breadth escapes and dangerous adventures he had met with in his DAY and NIGHT SCENES in LIFE in London. He was the delight of all the companies he visited in the neighbourhood of HAWTHORN HALL; his general conduct was the praise of the surrounding gentry, and he was admitted, by all parties, to sustain the character of a perfect COUNTRY GENTLEMAN. We now take our leave of JERRY, “all happiness,” with his amiable wife, a fine estate, a capital stud of horses, and a crack pack of hounds, to promote--

LIFE IN THE COUNTRY.

THE END.

KEY TO PERSONS AND PLACES, &c.

A.

=A.B.C.=--Any easy matter, the A.B.C. of the affair, _i.e._, the whole of the particulars can be comprehended as soon, or as easy as you can say A.B.C.:--Then comes answer like A.B.C. book.--_Shakespeare._

=Above Board.=--In open sight, all fair and _square_, dealing without artifice or trick.

=Above Par.=--Tolerably drunk--also to be possessed of money beyond one’s actual expenses--plenty of the _needful_--lots of _blunt_!--able to _post_-the-_pony_--lay down the _rag_!--chink the _ochre_! &c., in case of laying a wager or making an investment.

=Ace of Spades.=--A widow.

=Adelphi.=--Greek for brothers: several streets on the south side of the Strand, London, erected about 1768 by the brothers, John, Robert, James, and William Adam, after whom the streets are named.

=Adelphi Theatre.=--Formerly called the _Sans Pareil_, opened under the management of Mr. and Miss Scott, 27 Nov., 1806. Messrs. Rodwell and Jones purchased the property and opened on Monday, Oct. 18, 1819, and issued the first playbill bearing the name of “Adelphi Theatre.” Messrs. Mathews and Yates became managers, Sept. 29, 1828--Mr. Charles Mathews--_Mathews at Home_--died the 28th of June, 1835. The theatre was then let for the remainder of the season to Messrs. Ephraim Bond and Company, and announced to be “under the management of Mrs. Nisbett.” After that Mr. Yates had the sole management. In 1840 Messrs. Yates and Gladstone were the proprietors. Mr. Benjamin Webster became lessee, and Madame Celeste directress, 1844. The theatre was re-built and opened, with improved arrangements 27 Dec., 1858, as The New Adelphi. In 1870 it was announced that while Mr. Ben. Webster was sole proprietor, Mr. Webster and Mr. F. B. Chatterton were joint managers. After several changes Messrs. A. and S. Gatti became sole proprietors and managers.

=Air and Exercise.=--Or, _Shoving the tumbler_. Being whipped at the cart’s tail.

=Alderman.=--A turkey, _Alderman in chains_, a roast turkey well-stuffed and garnished with pork sausages; the latter emblematical of the gold chain worn by that civic dignitary.

=Ale Draper.=--The alehouse-keeper; a _rum cull_, a _squirt quester_. _Ale spinner_, a brewer or publican.

=Alive.=--Active, smart, to be ever on the alert. _Alive_ to the subject; the game, the fact, or to any circumstance. Tom’s _alive_ to his own interest, let him alone for that; he’s _wide-a-wake_!

=All Hands to the Pump.=--All force concentrated to one spot.

=All-Max in the East.=--Open to all influenced by none--was held at the Coach and Horses public-house, Nightingale-lane, East Smithfield, and was frequented by most of the Wapping _elegantes_. BLUE RUIN and reels were generally the _order_--rather the _dis_order of the evening.

=All Out.=--The whole of the reckoning. “How stands the great account t’wixt me and vengeance!”

=Almack’s.=--Aristocratic exclusiveness. A ball given by the highest nobility. Almack’s means properly a suite of assembly rooms in King Street, St. James’s, London, built in 1765 by a Scotchman named Macall, who inverted his name to obviate all prejudice and hide his origin. Balls, presided over by a committee of ladies of the highest rank, used to be given in these rooms; and to be admitted to them was as great a distinction as to be introduced at Court. The rooms are now called Willis’s from the present proprietor.

If once to ALMACK’S you belong,
Like MONARCH’S, you can _do no wrong_;
But banished thence on Wednesday night,
By Jove, you can do nothing right.

=Alone.=--A knowing one may be trusted “_Alone_” by reason of his experience in worldly matters.

=Angelics.=--Young ladies. N.B. _Unmarried!_

=Annointed.=--Knowing, ripe for mischief, full of courage and energy for any desperate exploit.

=Apartments to Let.=--It is said that the “widow’s cap,” denotes that there are _Apartments to Let_! Also of an empty-headed or _shallow-cove_.

=Argument.=--The best of the. Any man with a pair of leather lungs has the best of an argument at a tavern, unless there be an other present who can lay heavy sums which are quite _uncoverable_ that _his_ opinion or assertion is correct. A stable-keeper being beaten in argument by one of the leather-lunged breed, produced a large roll of bank-notes and a handful of sovereigns, smacking them down on the table exclaiming, “There you ---- look at that; if I am a fool my money’s none. _That beats you!_”

=Arm Pits.=--_To work under the arm pits_, is to practise only such depredations as will amount on conviction to transportation. By following this course and system, a thief avoids the _halter_, or _neck-squeezer_! which certainly is applied _above_ the arm pits.

=Arm Props.=--Crutches.--Go it ye cripples _crutches_ are cheap.

=Astley’s Amphitheatre.=--Was built and opened by Philip Astley, 1773.

=Astronomer.=--A star-gazer. A horse that carries his head high-up in the air.

=At Fault.=--At a loss; not knowing in what direction to proceed, like dogs who have lost scent of a hare or fox. This sporting phrase is often used, figuratively to signify that a man has been defeated in his pursuits, and does not know how to extricate himself from difficulty.

=At Home.=--To _Provincials_, this phrase may operate rather as a sort of paradox--as houses and persons, in general are robbed not “at home” but when the parties are _abroad_.

=Awake.=--Knowing; acquainted with, aware of, or knowing what is going on. _Awake to the move_, aware of the proceedings; _Stow the books, the culls are awake_, Hide the cards, the persons know what we intend to do. This word is used on many occasions, and in most situations of life, being expressive of attention.

B.

=Babes in the Wood.=--Persons confined in the stocks or pillory, said also of dice.

=Babes of Grace.=--Puritanical, sanctified-looking persons; also drunken psalm-smiting cobblers.

=Back-slums.=--Beggars’ meeting places; Dyot Street, St. Giles’; Kent Street, in the Borough, &c. The expression applies to all Metropolitan receptacles of mendicants, prostitutes, thieves, and rogues of every degree to get a night’s lodging. _Back Slummers_, dirty, common, low, and vagrant people who reside in the _Back-slums_.

=Bag the Swag.=--Pocket, or put into a bag, the plunder, or hide the stolen property.

=Baked.=--Done up, exhausted, tired out, “_When I got to the top of the hill_ I was regularly--_Baked_!”--_Soft-baked_ in also employed to persons who lack worldly wisdom.

=Baker, Charles.=--Comedian, died November 26, 1844.

=Bang-up.=--Quite right, the thing! the go! done complete, in handsome style, quite fashionable, at the top of the _mode_.

=Bank.=--A snug and secure place to deposit plunder; _Bank the rag_, to take care of money.

=Barbers’ Clerks.=--Shopmen, and poor ill-paid and half-starved apprentices, or conceited ignorant shop-boys.

=Barking Irons.=--Pistols, from the explosions being supposed to resemble the barking of a dog.

=Baron Nab’em.=--Otherwise NICHOLAS BORROWBODY. The individual bearing this name who _devotes his attentions_ to Logic, in his _moments of retirement_, is Mr. James Soares, more familiarly termed _Jemmy Soares_; well-known in the sporting world, particularly among the friends and supporters of the _Ring_, and long the _President of the Daffy Club_, a society held at Belcher’s, the Castle Tavern, Holborn. Events have occurred to prevent his occupying so prominent a place, as formerly, in the list of milling amateurs: but his open heartedness, his native humour, his liberal temper, and convivial disposition, will long be remembered with pleasure, by the numerous pals, who were wont to surround him.

=Barrymore, W.=--Comedian, died in America, November 24, 1846.

=Baxter’s Hats.=--A celebrated _Topper-maker_ to the _Fancy_. Formerly in high repute with the amateurs, in respect to giving the _knowledge-box_ an important _look_!

=Beaks.=--Justices, from their former cormorantish qualities--“Your _vulture_ hath a devil of a _beak_!” But things are different. The Magistrates of the present day, that is the Metropolitan ones, are, with some few exceptions an honour to the Bench. _Beaksmen_, constables, or police officers.

=Beat.=--A watchman’s walk, the district in which he is licensed to _beat_ at will all Her Majesty’s peaceable and loving subjects.

=Beaver.=--A hat; probably from generally possessing very little _beaver_. My last _beaver_ turned out to be all _silk_, as Jack Bannister said, “The loss was felt”:--I cleft his _beaver_ with a downright blow.--_Shakespeare._

=Beeswax.=--Cheese, generally Gloucester, from the similarity between them--“Lets have a twopenny burster, half a quartern o’ _beesvax_, an ha’p’oth o’ ingens, and a dollop o’ salt along vith it, vill you?”--_Dusty Bob._

=Beggars.=--Our street beggars have existed from time immemorial; their profession had become, in some measure, sanctioned by long tolerance. They were a merry, ingenious, persevering, and almost innoxious race. They are associated with our earliest recollections; like _Springlove_ in BROME’S healthful and truly old English opera, “_The Jovial Crew!_” we at certain seasons feel almost a yearning to join them. Their wild free life, their careless revelry, present charms to us in retrospection, to which we are not wholly proof!--we think upon the “_Beggar’s Bush_” of those twin stars BEAUMONT and FLETCHER. Classic recollections bring BELISARIUS with his “_Date Obolum_” to our mind. BAMFYLDE MOORE CAREW; Sir SIMON MONTFORD, _The Blind Beggar of Bethnal Green_; King COPHUETA, who loved the _Beggar Maid_, the valiant _beggar_ who beat the redoubted ROBIN HOOD to a standstill are among the most favourite heroes of our childhood. The race whose cause we are attempting to advocate, had at least the claim of destitution on our attention; as Lubin Log has it, our bounty was at all events “_hobtional_.” But what shall we say of the wealthy and the great, who have become beggars upon the _public purse_ for the purpose of putting these their now persecuted rivals down? They have no claim, no excuse--away with them--shame on such monopoly!

=Beggar’s Opera.=--There were two public-houses in Church Lane, St. Giles’s; chiefly supported by beggars, one, called the Beggar’s Opera, which was the Rose and Crown, and the other the Robin Hood--at both of which Noah Ark Societies--that is “_Motley-Crew_ Societies”--were held. The number that frequented these houses at various times, was computed to be from two to three hundred, and the receipts at a moderate calculation could not be less than from three to five shillings a day each person, frequently more.

=Bellamy, William.=--Bass Singer, died January 3, 1843, aged 74.

=Belch.=--All sorts of malt liquor, beer and porter being apt to cause uncomfortable eructations:--The bitterness of it I now belch forth from my heart.--_Shakespeare._

=Belcher.=--A large red neckerchief spotted with yellow and black, and first worn by Jem Belcher the famous pugilist, 1781-1811. “The _Kiddy_ flashes his _Belcher_.” Tom Belcher’s colour was yellow, with white and black spots.

=Bell’s Life in London.=--And SPORTING CHRONICLE, _a rich Repository of Fashion, Wit, and Humour, and the interesting Incidents of_ REAL LIFE:--Was founded March 3, 1822, by Mr. John Bell, one of the most spirited publishers of his time, and the printer and proprietor of “Bell’s Edition of Plays,”--“Bell’s Edition of the Poets,”--“Bell’s Weekly Messenger,” &c., &c. Mr. Vincent Dowling, was first installed Editor August, 1824. On Sunday, November 4, 1827, it was publicly announced that--“PIERCE EGAN’S LIFE IN LONDON AND SPORTING GUIDE” is this day incorporated with “BELL’S LIFE IN LONDON.” All communications for the Editor, therefore, are requested to be transmitted, in future, to the Office, No. 169, Strand.... Let it not be forgotten, that “BELL’S LIFE IN LONDON,” is the largest, and best, and the cheapest, Sporting Journal in the Kingdom. “Compare and Judge.” ☞ “The Price is but Sevenpence.”--“Mr. Vincent Dowling, the Editor, was well known in the Sporting World and in him the _Fancy_ found a sincere friend. He is a most excellent companion; cheerful, witty, and satirical at all times, but, in the latter display of his talents, the _feather_ appears more than the razor--he tickles his adversaries, rather than wounds their feelings”--_Pierce Egan._--A service of plate value 100 gs. was presented to Mr. Vincent Dowling, at the Castle Tavern, Holborn, July 18, 1833.

=Beef.=--To cry Beef is to give the alarm.--“A _mot_ in the regency below, bolted out into the _hairy_ and cried _beef_ on us; just as ve had _sacked_ the _swag_; so Tim Snooks who vos vide awake in the rum pad in front; giv’d as the office to _scarper_! and ve cut like blazes! Squinting Bill piked through the glaze, and vos out of sight in less than no time, and I got over the balcony, and slides down the vater shoot, and makes good my hexit, but leaving all the tools and the swag behind in the old coveys snoozing-ken.”

=Beer and Britannia.=--What two ideas are more inseparable than BEER and BRITANNIA? What event more awfully important to an English colony than the erection of its first brewhouse!:--

Beer! Boys, Beer! all over town and country,
Beer! Boys, Beer! with pewter pot in hand;
Beer! Boys, Beer! for all who don’t mind labour,
Beer! Boys, Beer! who a gallon’s going to stand.

=Big ones.=--Men of consequence: such as Tom Cribb,--The Duke of Wellington,--John Jackson,--The Lord Chancellor,--John Gully,--The Chancellor of the Exchequer,--Tom Spring,--The Master of the Rolls, &c.

=Big Wigs.=--Judges, &c.,:--“_The wisdom’s in the wig._” If you doubt it, play the part of _Paul Pry_ for half-an-hour in any of the Courts of Law, or ask the Vice-Chancellor. You’ll soon be convinced.

=Bilk the Schoolmaster.=--Not to stand your _regulars_, _i.e._, not to pay for being let into the secret.

=Billing and Cooing.=--Courting; the two sexes humbugging one another--_faking the sweetner_, kissing, &c.:--What billing again?--_Shakespeare._

=Bill of Sale.=--A widow’s weeds.

=Billy.=--The cant term for a silk pocket handkerchief.

=Billy Buzman.=--A class of pickpockets who confine their attention exclusively to silk pocket handkerchiefs. In thieving as in other professions and arts of life in this highly civilized age, “Division of Labour,” as political economists term it, is particularly attended to in the London School of _gonnofs_, not only for the sake of convenience, but from the well-known principle that “_Practice makes perfect_.” Accordingly, it would be considered as untradesman-like for a _Billy Buzman_ to go out of his own line of business, as for an ironmonger to sell treacle, or a silk mercer to deal in or sell neat’s foot oil.

=Bird-cage.=--Small country watch-houses, or gaols. Come, let’s away to prison; we two alone will sing like birds i’ the cage:--_Shakespeare._

=Birds of Prey.=--Lawyers.--The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers.--_Jack Cade._

=Bit.=--Taken in, one half the world bite the other. Also money of any kind or quantity. _Queer-bit_, bad money. _Rum-bit_, good money. “He grabbed the _Cull’s-bit_.” He seized the man’s money.

=Bit of Cavalry.=--A horse.--An two men ride a horse, one must ride behind.

=Bit of good Truth.=--The plain facts.--Facts are stubborn things.

=Bit of Muslin.=--A sweetheart.--Love me little, love me long.

=Biting one’s name in it.=--Taking a good draught out of a pot of heavy wet.

=Black Beetles.=--The Lower orders--the rabble (_Canaille_).

=Black Diamonds.=--Coals. _Black diamonds Lords_, owners of coal mines. _Black diamond merchant_, a coal merchant. _Black diamond polisher_, a coalheaver.

=Black Miller.=--The--The brave and somewhat ill used Molineux. The Black pugilist who was twice beaten by Tom Cribb, 1810-11.

=Black Sharks.=--Attorneys and Lawyers.--_Arcades ambo!_

=Black Strap.=--Port wine. “What will you lay it is a lie!”

=Blade.=--A man: who may be a _brother blade_ as a butcher, a _knowing blade_, if a sharp fellow, wide awake and cunning.

=Blinker.=--A one-eyed horse.

=Bloods, Bucks, and Choice Spirits.=--_Tria juncta in uno_--A riotous disorderly set of young men who imagine that their noise, bluster, warwhoop, and impertinence impress those who come in contact with them with the opinion that they are men of spirit and fashion. The nocturnal exploits of the true high-mettled, and fast-going _Blood_: consists of throwing a waiter out of a tavern window _lumpus!_ pinking a sedan-chairman, or a jarvey, who is so uncivil as to demand his fare, milling and boxing-up the charlies, kicking-up rows at Ranelagh and Vauxhall, driving stage coaches, getting up prize fights, breaking shop windows with penny pieces thrown from a Hackney coach, bilking a turnpike-man, and at other times painting-out in a very opposite colour his “LIST OF TOLLS PAYABLE,” Funking a cobbler, smoking cigars at divans and club-houses, fleecing each other in the Hells around Jermyn Street, drinking champagne at Charley Wright’s in the Haymarket, claret and brandy at Offley’s, and “early pearl” and dogsnose at the Coal Hole, wearing large whiskers, and false noses and moustachios, exchanging blackguard _baninage_ with women of the town in and about Covent Garden, the Haymarket, and Piccadilly--“_Dem’ee that’s yer sort!--Keep it up--keep it up!_”

=Blown.=--Exposed, informed against.

=Blow a Cloud.=--Smoke a pipe. Cock a Broseley.

=Blue Blazes.=--Spirituous liquors in general, GIN in particular.

=Blue Ruin.=--Gin, called _blue_ from its tint, and _ruin_ from its effects. In the words of Otway most gin drinkers are “in love and pleased with _ruin_!”

=Blunt.=--Cash, or money of any value, or in any quantity. Lots of _blunt_, plenty of money--“Thou dear delightful evil.”

=Bob, or Bobstick.=--A shilling.

=Bobbish.=--Smart, active, clever.

=Bodkin.=--William Bodkin, Esq., or as he was familiarly termed _Billy Bodkin_, was originally a painstaking _Broker_ and _Auctioneer_ at Islington, he was the first Hon. Sec. to the Mendicity Society, which office it was said he found more lucrative. So neglected _knocking down_, for the sake of _taking-up_, giving the vagrants their quietus “_With a bare Bodkin_.”--For further particulars about this _sharp_ Bodkin _see_ Billy Waters.

=Bolt.=--Throat, _Sluice your bolt_--Drink.

=Bone-setter.=--A hackney-coach, also a hard trotting horse.

=Booked.=--The time fixed when a thief is ripe for the gallows, or when any one is likely to die from some mortal disease. “He’s _booked_ for a ride in a Government omnibus, _i.e._, prison van.” “You are _booked_ for a ride to Gravesend.” Secured, bespoke, in for it, dished!

=Booze.=--Liquor, “To drink.” “_Rum booze_,” good drink.

=Boozey.=--Drunk. Man being reasonable must get drunk.--_Byron._

=Boozing-ken.=--An alehouse, or tavern.

=Bosh.=--A fiddle. To _fake_ a _bosh_, to play the fiddle; _Boshmen_, fiddlers, or musicians in general.

=Bought.=--I have _bought_ that and no mistake, _i.e._, paid too much for it. _Bought_ and _sold_: taken in and done for.--It would make a man as mad as a buck, to be so bought and sold.--_Shakespeare._

=Bouncing Chit.=--A bottle, from the explosion in drawing the cork.

=Boxed.=--Locked up.--Cabin’d, cribb’d, and confined.

=Boxing a Charley.=--Upsetting a watchman in his box.

=Box of Dominoes or Ivories.=--The mouth, containing the teeth.

=Box of Minutes.=--A watch.--Watches you know, were made to go.

=Brads.=--Half-pence, also money in general.--Shell out the _brads_ Jack.

=Brass.=--Money, also impudence,--“A man who carries plenty of _brass_ in his face will never lack gold in his pocket.”

=Bread Basket.=--The stomach.

=Breaking up of the Spell.=--The breaking up of a party of long sitting: the nightly termination of performance at the theatres, which is regularly attended by pickpockets, who exercise their vocation about the doors and avenues leading thereto.

=Broads-=Cards, _Swell_ BROAD-COVES.--Elegantly dressed card-players; also possessing a good address with other requisites befitting them to keep company with gentlemen.

=Broad Fencers.=--The Cads and fellows who hawk Lists, or k’rect cards, at races,--Pierce Egan, in an account of--“The gallant and spirited Race at Knavesmire in Yorkshire, for 500 gs. and 1000 gs. bye--4 miles. Between the late Colonel Thornton’s Lady and Mr. Flint,” and reported by him in “BOOK OF SPORT,” thus graphically describes the _Broad Fencer_ of the period:--“The _Cads_, and fellows with the Race Lists, were thus _hawking_ their bills and cards over the race ground to obtain purchasers. Come my worthy sporting gentlemen from all parts of the kingdom--now’s your time to open your eyes and look about you, when you will see to-day what you never saw before in your life, and, perhaps, you may never see again, if you live as long as Old Methuselah. Come, I say, who’s for a list--the whole list, and nothing else but a true list--besides, you will have a correct and particlar account of the terrible, terrible, terrible high-bred female--the good-lady of Colonel Thornton; there is nothing like her in the universal world. Old Astley’s troupe are mere _patches_ upon her managing a horse, she will this day ride a match like a lady, over the four mile course for 500 guineas, and 1000 guineas bye; and some hundreds of thousands are likewise depending upon this most extraordinary match between the “_Jockey in Petticoats_” against the well-known sporting character Mr. Flint, in his “_doe skins and top boots_;” and looked upon as one of the best gentlemen riders in the nation. You have also the names of the horses, and the colours of the riders, with every other particular that can enlighten your minds, and make you gentlemen sportsmen acquainted with this lively race. You have now the opportunity to lay out your money according to your inclination. The gentleman allows the lady to ride what weight she likes, there being a mutual understanding between them upon the subject; therefore, she will not, like commoners go “_to scale_” as she will not be _handled_ by any body before she starts for the prize; indeed, the Female Jockey is not considered any _weight_ at all. Her importance and self-possession are the only objects for consideration. What does spirit, fire, blood, and gaiety weigh, I should like to ask? I answer nothing,--my masters! Such high bred qualities are as light as air--brisk as the wind--and 2 to 1 towards winning. You have also at the same price, the plain and simple pedigree of the female Jockey. Her “_sire_” was a capital “good un;” her _dam_, a prime fleet “un,” an Eclipse in character; her _brother_, all that could be wished upon the turf, for getting over the ground like a sky rocket, her _sister_, a Nonpareil at all points, and above any price, but her owner, her out-and-out owner, the Colonel from his “upper crust” down to his “walker,” is a match for all England against any thing--for every thing alive--either on the turf or turnpike,--from a mouse to an elephant: and nothing else but winning belongs to his stable. And lastly, though not the least in the above Catalogue of Excellence,--every _point_ of the Female Jockey is tip-top, her agility is captivating; and she mounts her _prad_ like the most accomplished horseman in the world. Her movements defy expression; her nods to the females, as she rides over the Course, delightful! but her smiles to the applauding gentlemen, in answer to the winks, bows, and other marks of politeness towards her, as compliments for her daring exploits, are fascinating, elegant, and nothing else but winning. She is seated upon her high-bred animal with all the firmness of a _Nimrod_; she holds her reins with the most perfect ease and style; and Chifney, in the best of his days, never displayed a better knowledge of horsemanship than the Female Jockey, and she flourishes her whip with all the good taste of the leader of a band at a concert. In fact, she is a _Nonesuch!_ a PARAGON!! a PHENOMENON!!! Her _prad_ too, _Old Vingarillo_, is also a picture of _goodness_, from his _peepers_ down to his _fetlocks_! Therefore, my worthy sportsmen, do not lose this opportunity--be not too late--but purchase this great curiosity--this _List_ of _lists_--nothing like it having occurred in Yorkshire, or, in any other part of the globe since Noah’s flood--either before or since the wet season of the year; and it is _York Minster_ to a _brass farden_ that nothing like it can occur again till we have a new generation of the human race? _That’s a fact!!!_”

=Buckingham, Thomas.=--Comedian and Comic-singer, died September 2, 1847, aged 52.

=Buffers.=--Dogs. _Buff-napper_, a dog stealer.

=Broom.=--To brush, to run away.

=Browns.=--Half-pence and pence--“Got any _browns_, Jem, for a drop o’ Max? No, Bill, not never a von left; s’elp me criky.”

=Buffs--Buffaloes--and Buffaloism.=--A society held at the Harp Tavern in Great Russell Street, opposite Drury Lane Theatre, and was first established in August, 1822, by an eccentric young man of the name of Joseph Lisle, an artist, in conjunction with Mr. W. Sinnett, a comedian, to perpetuate, according to their ideas upon the subject, of that hitherto neglected ballad of “_We’ll chase the_ BUFFALO!” The society is composed of numerous Performers, and other “comical wights” resident in the metropolis. The ceremony of making a BUFFALO is very simple, yet extremely ludicrous, and productive of great laughter. At first the person intended to become a BUFFALO, is seated on a chair in the middle of the room, with a bandage placed over his eyes. The initiated BUFFALOES are waiting outside of the door: the orator being decorated with a wig, &c., for the occasion. On a given signal, they all enter the room, with what they term the Kangaroo Leap, and jump round the chair of the “DEGRADED WRETCH,”--as the victim is termed. This is succeeded by a solemn march, and the following _chaunt_; the BUFFALOES carrying brooms, shovels, mops, and a large kettle by way of a kettledrum:--

Bloody-head and raw-bones!
Bloody-head and raw-bones!
Be not perplexed,
This is the text.
Bloody-head and raw-bones!

The CHARGE is then given to the “_victim_” by the _Primo Buffo_, accompanied by the most extravagant and ridiculous gestures:--

“DEGRADED WRETCH!--MISERABLE ASHANTEE!!--_Unfortunate individual!!!_--At least you were so, not a quarter of an hour since. You are now entitled to divers privileges: you may _masticate_, denticate, chump, grind, swallow, and devour, in all turnip fields, meadows, and pastures; and moreover, you have the especial privilege of grazing in Hyde Park;--Think of that my BUFFALO! You may also drink at all the lakes, rivers, canals, and ponds; not forgetting the Fleet and lower ditches. You are entitled to partake of all public dinners,--upon your paying for the same--such are a few of the advantages you will enjoy! but you must promise to _gore_ and _toss_ all enemies to BUFFALOISM! You must likewise promise to patronise the _Horns_, at Kennington; and occasionally visit _Horn_-sey Wood, where you may do what you like best--_rusticate_, _cogitate_, or _illustrate_, and prove yourself an _Horn_-ament by respecting the natives of the island of GOREE-HE!”

The bandage is then removed from the eyes--and the chorus of “_Chase the Buffalo_,” is repeated. The _victim_ is then led into the passage, and the signs, &c., are given to him, after which he is ushered into the room with the full chorus of:--

See! the conquering hero comes,
Sound the trumpet, beat the drums,
Sports prepare, the laurels bring,
Songs of triumph to him sing.

He is then called on for the accustomary fees for liquor, and a small compliment for the _Buffalo_ in waiting: the expenses are in proportion to the means, or inclination of the newly-made member. The liquor is introduced by the chorus altered from the Pirates:--

“We Buffaloes lead a jolly, jolly life, Fal de, &c., &c.”

A blessing is then given by the _Primo Buffo_, reminding the new member that the greatest characters in the country have solicited to become BUFFALOES, and the following is sung in solemn style.

HARPONIANS list unto me,
And KANGAROOS rejoice!
And BUFFALOES lift up your _horns_,
Whilst I lift up my voice.

Oh! JOSEPH LISLE a painter is,
And a BUFFALO besides:
So sit not in the scorner’s chair,
Nor BUFFALOES deride.

Now BUFFALOES join in a roar,
Be heard from pole to pole;
My solemn chaunt is at an end,
Because you’ve heard the _whole_!

=Bull.=--A crown. _Half a bull_, half a crown.

=Bunch of Dog’s meat.=--A squalling child in arms.

=Bunch of Fives.=--A slang term for the hand or fist.

=Bunch of Onions.=--A watch chain and seals.

=Bunch of Turnips.=--Itinerant fruit vendors, &c.

=Bunter.=--A low loose woman.--“Neither maid, wife, nor widow.”

=Burlington Arcade, The=--Piccadilly, London, opened 20th March, 1814.

=Burster.=--A small loaf. A _burster_ and _beeswax_, bread and cheese.

=Bustle.=--Money of any sort or quantity.

=Buzz--Buzzers.=--Pickpockets.

=Buzz Napper.=--A young pickpocket.

=Buzz Napper’s Academy.=--A school in which young thieves are trained to the art. Stow informs us that in 1585 a person named Wotton kept an _Academy_ for the education and perfection of pickpockets and cut-purses: two devices were hung up--one was a pocket, and the other was a purse; the pocket had in it certain counters, and was hung about with hawk’s bells, and over the top did hang a little scaring bell; the purse had silver in it, and he that could take out a counter without noise of any of the bells was adjudged a judicial _napper_!

C.

=Cabbage.=--Cloth, stuff, or silk, purloined by tailors and sempstresses, who are for ever, _snip! snip!! snipping!!!_ _Cuttings_ that serve for _trimmings_ to an occasional merry-making leg of mutton.

=Cadge, Cadger, Cadging.=--To beg, a beggar, begging of the lowest degree; a mean sort of thief. Very indefatigable persons in their vocation.

=Cads of the Aristocracy.=--Liveried footman, servants, and all other hangers on upon the nobility and gentry.

=Cake.=--A silly fellow, cakes being made like him, of very soft dough, and not over well baked.--Our cake’s dough on both sides.--_Shakespeare._

=Call me cousin=--but cozen me not--Quoth Mrs. Saunders.

=Calves gone to Grass.=--Said of a man with slender legs. “He’s put some hay in his boots, and his _calves_ have gone down to feed.”

=Calves’ Head.=--A tallow-faced fellow, with a large meaty head. “Calves’ head is best hot,” was the apology for one of those who made “no bones” of dining with his hat on.

=Came up to the Scratch.=--A pugilistical phrase; also said of a person who keeps his appointments in money matters.

=Canary.=--A sovereign. _Canary Birds_, inmates of prisons.

=Canister.=--The head, with a sly allusion to its emptyness. _Cracked canister_, a broken head.

=Cant.=--A language made use of among beggars, gipsies, thieves, and the _Fancy_ in general.

=Captain.=--A travelling title, adopted by adventurers, who have no other good enough.

Captain is a good travelling name, and so I took it, it stops a good
many foolish enquiries that are generally made about gentlemen who
travel; it gives a man an air of something, and makes the drawers
obedient. And thus far I am a captain, and no farther.--_Farquhar’s,
The Beaux’s Stratagem._

=Captain Flasham.=--A blustering, bounceable fellow.

=Captain Queernabs.=--A shabby ill-dressed fellow.

=Carcase Lords.=--Wholesale butchers who monopolise and forstall the markets.--“For wheresoever the _carcase_ is, there will the eagles be gathered together.”

=Card.=--A man, who may be a _knowing_, a _downy_, _cunning_, _shifting_, _queer_, or any other sort of CARD according to circumstances.

=Cart Wheel.=--A five shilling piece.

=Carving knife.=--A sword.

=Castle Tavern.=--_The Castle Tavern, Holborn_, was first opened as a Sporting House by the well-known BOB GREGSON; but designated at that period under the familiar title of BOB’S CHOP HOUSE:--

His house is known to all the _milling_ train;
He gives them liquor, and relieves their pain.

The appearance of Bob Gregson was prepossessing--he was in height six feet one inch and a half, weighing about fifteen stone six pounds. It is rather singular to relate that Bob Gregson rose in the estimation of the Sporting World, from defeat, he fought only three battles in the P.R., and lost them all--thus, beaten by John Gulley, 200 gns., 36 rds., near Newmarket, Oct. 14, 1807. Again beaten by John Gulley, 200 gns., 75 mins., 28 rds., May 10, 1808. Beaten by Tom Cribb, 500 gns., 23 rds., Moulsey Hurst, Oct. 25, 1808. The sun for a long time shone brilliantly over the “Temple of the Fancy,” but poor Bob, like too many of his class, did not make hay while it was in his power; when the scene changed, the clouds of misfortune overwhelmed him; and the once sprightly, gay Lancashire hero was compelled to beat an inglorious retreat. The stylish, well-conducted TOM BELCHER, next appeared in the character of landlord of the Castle. The house had undergone some repairs, the rooms were all retouched by the painter; elegance with cleanliness, backed by civility, became the order of the day; a prime stock of liquors and wines were also laid in to command the attendance of the public. _Tom’s_ opening dinner was completely successful, and the _Fancy_ rallied round a hero who had so nobly contended for victory in thirteen prize battles. Tom was also considered the most accomplished boxer of the day; and the remembrance, likewise, that he was the brother of the renowned Jem Belcher, were _points_ in themselves of great attractions in the Sporting World; and the above Tavern again became one of the most favourite resorts of the _Fancy_ in general. Tom Belcher, after fourteen years residence at the Castle, was enabled by his civil conduct, attention to business, good luck, and a good quantity of the “_Sweeteners of Life_” with BANK! security against a rainy day, he retired to a very handsome cottage on Finchley Common, living at his ease like a man of fortune, with his dog and his gun. TOM SPRING--Champion of England--next appeared in the character of “Mine Host” at the Castle Tavern. “His appearance” said Pierce Egan--“is very much in his favour; and there is a manly dignity about his person which is prepossessing, his language is also mild and perfectly correct; and his behavour at all times truly civil and attentive to his customers.” A night spent at Tom Spring’s may not be regretted by the most _fastidious_ visitor. If the _ears_ cannot at all times be gratified with the various topics of argument brought forward; the _eyes_ have no cause for complaint, the coffee room and every part of it is covered over with some attractive device, and if there are not so many pictures for criticism as may be seen at the EXHIBITION, there are a number of most excellent sporting subjects well worthy the attention of the observer. One of the most prominent amongst them for a display of talent is a “Picture of the Road going to the Fight” drawn and etched from life by Robert Criukshank, Esq., but often attributed to his brother, George Cruikshank. As this is not the fact, and as the opportunity occurs we hasten to set the matter right, in order that every _tub_ may stand upon its own bottom, or, in other words, that the saddle may be put on the right horse. Soon after the above “_Picture of the Road to the Fight_” was hung up at the Castle Tavern, I met there one evening my two friends, Mr. Hone (the very clever editor of the ‘Every Day Book’ and several other publications of merit) and Mr. George Cruikshank. On looking at the picture, Mr. Hone said to me, after praising it to the skies, “George has out-done himself!” “No,” I replied, “you mean Bob Cruikshank.” “Indeed, I do not,” answered Mr. H., “I repeat, that George has out-done himself; and more clever touches of art I never saw--they are beautiful!” “Well,” said I, “if you are so positive, Mr. Hone, I will bet you anything you like, from a glass of grog to a five pound note, that Bob Cruikshank accompanied myself down the Road to Moulsey Hurst, to accomplish the above picture.” Upon Mr. Hone appealing to George Cruikshank on the subject, the latter celebrated artist, without the least hesitation, answered, “_I had no hand in it_.” After this declaration, Mr. Hone did not attempt to retract the compliments he had paid to the merits of the picture in question; but, of course, they now operated with double effect on the talents of Mr. Robert Cruikshank. In conclusion, I have only to observe that the Castle Tavern is open at all times to the visitor, either to confute my representation of it, or to verify the truth of my assertion--but of this circumstance I feel strongly assured that an evening spent at the above sporting house will never prove a source of regret to the stranger who is anxious to witness some of the peculiarities of “LIFE IN LONDON.”

=Castor.=--A hat. To prig a _castor_, to steal a hat.

=Cast-your-Skin.=--To pull off your clothes.

=Champagne.=--Charles Wright, of the Haymarket, London, and elsewhere, is the purveyor _par excellence!_ of this sparkling and spirit-stirring nectar, which being good in quality and moderate in price he is patronized by all the _knowing kiddies_ in town and country. But do not take my word for it, but call in and judge for yourself.

=Champions of England.=--From 1719 to 1857.--FIGG 1719.--GEORGE TAYLOR 1734.--JACK BROUGHTON 1740.--JACK SLACK 1750.--JEM STEPHENS 1760.--GEORGE MEGGS 1761.--BILL DARTS 1764.--TOM LYONS 1769.--HARRY SELLERS 1777.--JOHNSON 1785.--BEN RYAN 1790.--MENDOZA 1792.--JOHN JACKSON (retired) 1795.--JEM BELCHER 1803.--PEARCE (the Game Chicken) 1805.--GULLY (declined the office) 1808.--TOM CRIBB (received a belt, not transferable, and cup) 1809.--TOM SPRING (received four cups, and resigned office) 1824.--JEM WARD (received a belt, not transferable) 1825.--DEAF BURKE (claimed the office) 1833.--BENDIGO (beat Deaf Burke, claimed championship, and received a belt from Jem Ward).--BEN CAUNT (beat Nick Ward, and received a transferrable belt by subscription) 1841.--BENDIGO (beat Caunt, and got the belt) 1845.--PERRY (the Tipton Slasher, after his fight with TOM PADDOCK, claimed the office, as Bendigo declined fighting again) 1850.--HARRY BROOME (beat Perry, and succeeded to the office) 1851.--PERRY (again claimed the office, Harry Broome having forfeited to him in a match, and retired from the ring) 1853.--The office still claimed by the Tipton Slasher, who, during 1856 received forfeit from both Tom Paddock and Aaron Jones, 1857.

=Charley.=--A London watchman before the introduction of the present system of police.

=Chaunt.=--To sing or to make known.--The birds _chaunt_ melody on every bush.

=Chaunter.=--A puffer, or hired bidder at a sale. _See_ HORSE CHAUNTER.

=Chawbacons.=--Country clodhoppers, rustics.

=Cherry-colour.=--A jocular name given to either of the two colours in a pack of cards. A black cat is said to be a _cherry-coloured_ cat, there being _black_ as well as _red_ cherries.

=Children in the Wood.=--Dice.--“Once before he won it of me by false dice.”

=Chivey.=--To run after, to chase, to move off quickly.

=Chivey your Nurse.=--To get rid of your tutor, guardian, father, &c.

=Chovey.=--A shop as _crocus chovey_, a chemist shop, &c.

=Chum.=--A companion, a bedfellow, a fellow prisoner.

=Church going Stays.=--That is best stays for special purposes.

=Churchwarden.=--A very long clay pipe.

=Churchyard Cough.=--A cough that is likely to terminate in death.

=Church with a Chimney in it.=--A public house.

=Civil Rig.=--A trick of the beggars to obtain money by _ultra_ civility.

=Clap of Thunder.=--A glass of brandy.

=Claret.=--Blood. “I tapped him on the nose and out flew the claret.” _Claret-faced_, having a red face.

=Clean gone.=--Quite out of sight, vacated, levanted.

=Cleaned Out.=--Having lost all your money, beaten, ruined. “O horrid, horrid case.”

=Clean Shirt Day.=--Sunday.