_Ansard_. Most true, O king! I perceive now the general outline, and I feel confident that, with your kind assistance, I may accomplish it. But, Barnstaple, the beginning is everything. If I only had the first chapter as a start, I think I could get on. It is the _modus_ that I want--the style. A first chapter would be a key-note for the remainder of the tune, with all the variations. _Barnstaple_. Well, then, take up your pen. But before I commence, it may be as well to observe, that there is a certain method required, even in writing travels. In every chapter you should have certain landmarks to guide you. For instance, enumerate the following, and select the works from which they may be obtained, so as to mix up the instructive with the amusing. Travelling--remarks on country passed through-- anecdote--arrival at a town--churches--population--historical remarks-- another anecdote--eating and drinking--natural curiosities--egotism-- remarks on the women (never mind the men)--another anecdote-- reflections--an adventure--and go to bed. You understand, Ansard, that in these memoranda you have all that is required; the rule is not to be followed absolutely, but generally. As you observed, such is to be the tune, but your variations may be infinite. When at a loss, or you think you are dull, always call in a grisette, and a little mystery; and, above all, never be afraid of talking too much about yourself. _Ansard_. Many, many thanks; but now, my dear Barnstaple, for the first chapter. _Barnstaple_. Let your style be flowery--I should say florid--never mind a false epithet or two in a page, they will never be observed. A great deal depends upon the first two pages--you must not limp at starting; we will, therefore, be particular. Take your pen. [BARNSTAPLE _muses for a while, and then continues_.] "A severe cough, which refused to yield even to the balmy influence of the genial spring of 18--, and threatened a pulmonary complaint, induced me to yield to the reiterated persuasions of my physicians to try a change of air, as most likely to ward off the threatened danger. Where to direct my steps was the difficult point to ascertain. Brighton, Torquay, Cromer, Ilfracombe, had all been visited and revisited. At either of these fashionable resorts I was certain to fall in with a numerous acquaintance, whose persuasions would have induced me to depart from that regularity of diet and of rest, so imperiously insisted upon by my medical advisers. After much cogitation, I resolved upon a journey up the Rhine, and to escape the ruthless winter of our northern clime in the more genial land of history." _Ansard_. Land of history--I presume you mean Italy; but am I to go there?