That knowing jockey Sir Robert Peel has stated that the old charger, John Bull, is, from over-feeding, growing restive and unmanageable--kicking up his heels, and playing sundry tricks extremely unbecoming in an animal of his advanced age and many infirmities. To keep down this playful spirit, Sir Robert proposes that a new burthen be placed upon his back in the shape of a house-tax, pledging himself that it shall be heavy enough to effect the desired purpose. Commend us to these Tories--they are rare fellows for [Illustration: BREAKING A HORSE.] * * * * * A STRONG RESEMBLANCE. Sir Edward Lytton Bulwer has frequently been accused of identifying himself with the heroes of his novels. His late treatment at Lincoln leaves no doubt of his identity with [Illustration: THE DISOWNED.] * * * * * A PRUDENT CHANGE. "So Lord John Russell is married," said one of the Carlton Club loungers to Colonel Sibthorp the other morning. "Yes," replied that gallant punster; "his Lordship is at length convinced that his talents will be better employed in the management of the _Home_ than the _Colonial_ department." * * * * * THE ABOVE-BRIDGE NAVY. AN ARTICLE INTENDED FOR THE "QUARTERLY REVIEW," BUT FALLEN INTO THE HANDS OF "PUNCH." I.--_Hours of the Starting of the Boats of the Iron Steam Boat Company_. London: 1841. II.--_Notes of a Passenger on Board the Bachelor, during a Voyage from Old Swan Pier, London Bridge, to the Red House, Battersea_. CATNACH: 1840. III.--_Rule Britannia, a Song_. London: 1694. IV.--_Two Years before the Mast_. CUNNINGHAM. London. V.--_Checks issued by the London and Westminster Steam Boat Company_. CATTARNS AND FRY.