Merrywell, who was well acquainted with, and knew his humour, took every opportunity of what is called drawing him out, and encouraging his propensity to punning, a species of wit at which he was particularly happy, for puns fell as thick from him as leaves from autumn bowers; and he further entertained them with an account of the intention he had some short time back of petitioning for the office of pun-purveyor to his late Majesty; but that before he could write the last line--“And your petitioner will ever pun” it was bestowed upon a Yeoman of the Guard. Still, however, said he, I have an idea of opening business as a pun-wright in general to his Majesty's subjects, for the sale and diffusion of all that is valuable in that small ware of wit, and intend to advertise--Puns upon all subjects, wholesale, retail, and for exportation. N B. 1. An allowance will be made to Captains and Gentlemen going to the East and West Indies--Hooks, Peakes, Pococks,{1} supplied on 1 Well-known dramatic authors. ~261~~ moderate terms--worn out sentiments and _clap-traps_ will be taken in exchange. N B. 2. May be had in a large quantity, in a great deal box, price five acts of sterling comedy per packet, or in small quantities, in court-plaster sized boxes, price one melodrama and an interlude per box. N B. 3. The genuine puns are sealed with a true Munden grin--all others are counterfeits--Long live Apollo, &c. &c. The cloth being removed, the wine was introduced, and “As wine whets the wit, improves its native force, And gives a pleasant flavour to discourse,” Frank Harry became more lively at each glass--“Egad!” said he, “my intention of petitioning to be the king's punster, puts me in mind of a story.” “Can't you sing it?” enquired Merrywell. “The pipes want clearing out first,” was the reply, “and that is a sign I can't sing at present; but signal as it may appear, and I see some telegraphic motions are exchanging, my intention is to shew to you all the doubtful interpretation of signs in general.” “Let's have it then,” said Tom; “but, Mr. Chairman, I remember an old Song which concludes with this sentiment-- “Tis hell upon earth to be wanting of wine.” “The bottle is out, we must replenish.” The hint was no sooner given, than the defect was remedied; and after another glass,