Here we end our quotations from the “Journal of Reform,” and in justice to the rioters, will conclude with a literal account of the proceedings, furnished by a Ferret who was present at the meeting. “For three hours the rioters, irrespective of the place, or the sacred presence of the dead around, kept up an incessant thunder of inarticulate sounds, stamping, groaning, and applauding. Sixty-three speakers addressed the audience simultaneously. The result of this tumult of voices may be more easily imagined than described.” Our correspondent adds: “The art of whistling and howling has made such astonishing progress among the audience as to suggest a mass meeting in England!” One of those doubtful dogs who have no political opinions, and who are to be found in every popular assembly attempted to gain a hearing. “If we are vanquished!” he said. “Vanquished! bah! Out with the cur!” cried the Bear, with that air of brutality so peculiarly his own. “Out with him!” growled the Hyena; “barking is not enough, we must bite!” “Beware of the spy,” shrieked the Weasel. The prudent brute waiting to hear no more, tucked his tail snugly between his legs and bolted through a window. Here the Ram ventured to point out that the editors had gained the confidence of the people. “Popularity is no proof of genius,” said the Wolf. “The people will forget their idols.” “And hate them,” growled the Hyena. “If they neglect their love, they will nurse their hatred!” hissed the Snake. The Fox perceiving that unanimity of sentiment was hopeless, adjourned the meeting by proposing that the rioters should refresh themselves by a night’s repose. So they departed each one to his den, and there dreaming of reform and rapine, rose with the sun to renew the conflict. They awoke to arms and assaulted the amphitheatre. The onslaught was severe, and in our extremity we inquired for Prince Leo. {224} “They have taken the amphitheatre,” said that great general, “and what is more they shall keep it.” The prince’s firm attitude proved reassuring, for this renowned tactician had taken timely measures to teach the traitors a terrible lesson. He shut them in and secured the approaches, so that the stronghold was like to become the tomb of the insurgents. All attempts to relieve their position were vigorously repulsed by Prince Humble-Bee. [Illustration] An audacious Ape mounted the amphitheatre roof and raised the standard of revolt; while a Mole proposed to entrench the army within its hill. The proposal was negatived, as the position was deemed already too strong. A celebrated engineering Spider offered to spin a suspension bridge over which the insurgents might escape during the night. To this the Fly objected, while the Elephant urged that the work should be at once proceeded with.