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in a trice, and lent his antagonist such a box on the ear; that made him stagger to the other side of the room; and, in a moment, a ring was formed for the combatants. Seeing Strap beginning to strip and my blood being heated with indignation which banished all other thoughts. I undressed myself to the skin in an instant and declared that as the affront that occasioned the quarrel was offered to me, I would fight it out myself; upon which one or two cried out, “That's a brave Scotch boy; you shall have fair play.” This gave me fresh spirits; and going up to my adversary who by this pale countenance did not see much inclined to the battle, struck him so hard on the stomach, that he reeled over a bench, and fell to the ground. One of the spectators endeavoured to raise him up but in vain; for he protested he would not fight, not being quite recovered of a late illness. I was very well pleased with this excuse, and immediately dressed myself, having acquired the good opinion of the company for my bravery, as did also my comrade Strap, who shook me by the hand, and wished me joy of the victory. After having drunk our pot, and dried our clothes, we inquired of the landlord if he knew Mr. Cringer the member of parliament, and were amazed at his replying in the negative; for we imagined he must be every bit as conspicuous here as in the borough he represented. We betook ourselves to the
