The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 399: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

364 THE COURT OF LONDON Mrs. Brace reseated herself, for a faintness came over her as the man called her by her Christian name; but she shook off the oppressive sensation by the time he had finished his fiery draught, which he poured slowly and with- out intermission down his throat. ‘Well, that’s better than the bingo at the Beggar’s Staff,’ he observed, as he placed the glass upon the table; then, surveying the milliner in silence for a few moments, he added, ‘‘ By goles! you’re handsomer than you was sixteen years ago. You've filled out wonderfully, and seem as plump as a partridge. I’ll just have one kiss in remem- brance of old times, and then I’ll be off.”’ “No, no!’ shrieked Mrs. Brace, whose anguish had become intolerably excruciating while the rufhan was thus complimenting her. ‘‘ Leave me, for God’s sake! leave me — you promised you would — ”’ “ One kiss, I say!’ exclaimed the Magsman, advancing toward her with extended arms, his club being for the moment laid on the table. ““T will die sooner!’’ was the lady’s emphatic answer; and, losing all prudential control over herself, she darted an agonizing glance toward the curtain. “By the living jingo! I begin to suspect something now,” cried the Magsman, who had not failed to notice that rapid but affrighted look. ‘‘ A lover, Pll be bound! ” And he strode toward the window. ‘‘ Stop! — you dare not do it! — you know not what you are doing!’’? screamed Mrs. Brace, darting forward and rapid grasping him by the arm. “Lord bless ye! I ain’t jealous — but I must have a look at him, for curiosity’s sake,’ said the Magsman, push- ing her back into her seat; and, at the same moment that a stifled shriek came from the lips of the wretched woman, the curtain was drawn violently aside by the ruffian’s remorseless hand. The Prince of Wales, whose countenance was glowing with indignation, thus became revealed to the Magsman; and the fellow was struck dumb and motionless with mingled awe and astonishment, for he instantly recognized the heir apparent to the throne. His Royal Highness perceived in a moment that the ruffian knew who he was; and, stepping forward, he pointed COMMICLOOOKS. (Ee)