“Then, to prevent the possibility of sustaining any serious injury from fire, on the ground, one and two pair stories, the communication is cut off by means of iron doors, which run on wheels in chase in the centre of the walls, and are moved backward and forward by a windlass; which doors are closed every evening, and would effectually prevent a communication beyond their boundaries. Fire-proof rooms also, as repositories for valuable books ~302~~ and papers, are provided on each floor, where the important documents of the establishment are deposited every evening, and removed in trunks to the respective offices. There are in all 121 rooms devoted to various offices. This however is the principal: here the general business is transacted, particularly for all foreign concerns, both inwards and outwards. The Ship Master first makes the report of the cargo here; the entries of which, either for payment of duties, warehousing, or subsequent exportation, are all passed with the respective officers in this room. The business of the customs is managed by nine Commissioners, whose jurisdiction extends over all parts of England. We will now pass out at the west wing, adjourn to yon Tavern, refresh and refit, and after which a further walk.” “With all my heart,” said Tallyho. “What ho, Master B------,” said Dashall, saluting the Landlord as he entered the Tavern--“How does the world wag with you?--send us some soda water--the newspaper--let somebody clean our boots--give us pen, ink and paper, and prepare us some breakfast with all speed, but no fish, mind that.” The Landlord bowed assent to his honourable customer; and by the time they were ready, their orders were complied with. “Pray,” inquired Dashall of the obliging Landlord, who came in to ask if they were supplied with all they wished for, “did you ever recover any thing from that dashing Blade that so obligingly ordered his dinner here?” “Never got a halfpenny--no no, he was not one of those sort of gentry--nor do I ever wish to see such again in my house.” This was uttered in a tone of discontent, which evidently shewed he had no relish for the conversation. Dashall could not refrain from laughter; upon perceiving which, the Landlord withdrew with a loud slam of the door, and left his customers to enjoy their mirth. “What are you laughing at?” cried Bob. “Why,” continued his Cousin, “There was, as fame reports, in days of yore, At least some fifty years ago, or more, A pleasant wight on town----”