Page:Passions 2.pdf/106

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94
THE ELECTION:

well; but he meant, as one should say, as how he would think upon us with good-will. And then, quoth he,—but first of all you know, he said, stretching out his hand so, that "the confidence imputed to him."

Second Mob. Tut, man! reposed upon him.

First Mob. Did not I say so as plain as a man could speak?—Was a trust that, with the greatest scrupulousness of regard—That is to say, you know, that he won't sell his vote for a pension: nor give away our poor little earnings to feed a parcel of lazy placemen and courtiers. Lord help us! And that he won't do.

Third Mob. No, no! I'll answer for him. Why I have heel-pieced his shoes for him when he was no bigger than a quart-pot.

First Mob. But what pleased me most of all was, when he waved his hand in this fashion, and said, "Gentlemen, It has always been the pride and boasting——

Second Mob. Pride and boast.

First Mob. No, indeed; I say pride and boasting, Thomas Truepenny; have not I a pair of ears in my head as well as you?

Second Mob. Well, well, boasting be it then!

First Mob. Yes, "boasting of this honourable borough to support its own dignity and independency against all corruptful encroachments." And then he went on to tell us, you know, all about the glory and braveness of our ancestors—O! let him alone for a speech! I'll warrant ye, when he stands