Deserve not the little they take.
I hate all those pleasures where angling and squaring.
And fitting and cutting by rules,
And ——- me—dear me, I beg pardon for swearing,
All that follow such fashions are fools.
I say Life in London,
That sets ev'ry muscle
[334] The long protracted7 visit to Vauxhall being at length finally arranged, our party soon found themselves in the midst of this gay and fascinating scene of amusement.
“These charming gardens,” said the Hon. Tom Dashall, “which you may perhaps have some recollection of upon a masquerade occasion, having lately fallen into new hands, have assumed, under their direction and management, a new appearance of additional splendour and magnificence perhaps scarcely ever surpassed, and the present proprietors9 appear to have studied the comfort and gratification of their visitors as well as their own advantage; but of this we shall be better judges before the night is spent.”
“Right,” replied Sparkle, “I am not fond of far fetched descriptions, which may upon investigation11 prove to have originated more in the imagination of the author than in reality to exist.”
“At all events,” continued Tom, “the Gardens themselves are beautiful and extensive, and contain a variety of walks, which, if but tastefully illuminated12, and attended by rank, fashion, and beauty, can never fail to be attractive.”
[335] Our heroes rushed forward to the splendid scene of enchantment14, which had drawn15 forth16 the previous observations, mingling18 with the crowds of well dressed persons, who like themselves were upon the alert to witness this delightful19 place of summer amusement in the new form which it has recently assumed: the virandas tastefully festooned with painted canvass—the brilliantly illuminated orchestra, and the animated20 countenances21 of the company, conspired22 to produce an effect almost inconceivable, while new objects of delight were continually bursting upon their view. The illuminated colonade newly decorated with carved and painted flowers, fruit, and foliage23, and Mr. Singleton's original whole length transparent24 portrait of his Majesty25 in his coronation robes, alternately attracted attention, as well as the four cosmoramas constructed in various parts of the gardens, consisting of some very pretty views of the New Exchange at Paris, scenes in Switzerland, &c. In the musical department, Sparkle was much pleased to find some of the old favourites, particularly Mr. Charles Taylor and Mrs. Bland26, as well as with the performance of a Miss Graddon, who possesses a rich voice, with considerable power and flexibility27, and of Madame Georgina, an East Indian Lady, who afterwards sung very charmingly in the Rotunda28, accompanying herself on the piano forte29, in a style which proved her to be a most skilful30 performer.
But the grand subject of their admiration31 was what is rather affectedly32 called “The Heptaplasiesoptron,” or fancy reflective proscenium, which is placed in the long room fronting the orchestra of the Rotunda. It is entirely34 lined with looking glass, and has in all probability originated in the curious effect produced by the kaleidoscope, and the looking glass curtains lately exhibited at our theatres. This splendid exhibition is fitted up with ornamented35 draperies, and presents a fountain of real water illuminated, revolving36 pillars, palm trees, serpents, foliage, and variegated37 lamps; and the mirrors are so placed as to reflect each object seven times. This novelty appeared to excite universal admiration, inspiring the company with ideas of refreshing38 coolness. The bubbling of water, the waving of the foliage, and the seven times reflected effulgence39 of the lamps, gave the whole an appearance of enchantment, which sets all description at defiance40.
[336] Having taken a complete circle through this round of delights, interrupted only by the congratulations and inquiries41 of friends, the appointed hour for exhibiting the fire-works arrived, when they were additionally gratified by a display of the most splendid description, and the famous ascent43 a la Saqui was admirably executed by Longuemarc; after witnessing which, they quickly retired45 to a box, where they gave directions for supper. It is but justice to say, that upon this being furnished, they found the refreshments46 to be of the best quality, and supplied upon moderate terms; the wines by the London Wine Company, and the viands47 by Mr. Wayte.
About two o'clock in the morning, our friends took their departure from this romantic spot, after an excursion fraught48 with pleasure and delight.
On the following morning, Sparkle received a letter from Merrywell, with information of the death of his uncle, and of his succession to the estate, having arrived just in time to prevent his decease without a will. This was a subject of exultation49 to all the party, though to none more so than Sparkle, particularly as the estate alluded50 to was situated51 in the neighbourhood of his own residence.
“Merrywell,” said Dashall, “will become a gay fellow now, as he will have ample means, as well as inclination52 (which I know he has never been wanting of) to sport his figure in good style, without resorting to any scheme to keep the game alive.”
“True,” said Sparkle, “without crossing and jostling, and if he has his own good in view, he will reside chiefly in the country, choose an amiable53 partner for life, and only pay a visit to the metropolis54 occasionally; for to live in this land of temptations, where you can hardly step across the way without getting into error, must be baneful55 in effect to a young man like him, of an ardent56 mind. What say you, friend Tallyho?”
“I confess,” replied Bob, “that I entertain thoughts very similar to yours; besides, I apprehend57 that our old friend Merrywell has had sufficient experience himself to admit the justice of your observation.”
[337] “Pshaw,” rejoined Dashall, “you are getting completely unfashionable. What can be more bang up than a Life in London—high life and low life—shake the castor, tip the flash, and nibble58 the blunt. Look for instance at young Lord Lappit—cares for nothing—all blood and spirit—fire and tow—up to every thing, and down as a hammer.”
“His is a general case,” replied Sparkle, “and is only one among numerous others, to prove that many of the disorders59 which are daily visible in high life, may be traced to the education, or rather the want of education of the youthful nobility and gentry60. It would be a shocking and insupportable degradation61 to send a sprig of fashion to school among common boys, where probably he might learn something really useful. No, no,—he must have a private tutor, who is previously62 instructed to teach him nothing more than what will enable him to pass muster63, as not quite a fool. Under this guidance, he skims over a few authors almost without reading, and at all events without knowing what they have written, merely with a view to acquaint him that there were once such persons in existence; after which, this tutor accompanies him to one of the public schools, Westminster, Harrow, or Eton, where the tutor writes his thesis, translates the classics, and makes verses for him, as well as he is able. In the new situation, the scholar picks up more of the frailties66 of the living, than he does of the instructions of departed characters. The family connections and the power of purse, with which the students are aided, embolden67 them to assume an unbounded license68, and to set at complete defiance all sober rules and regulations; and it may be justly remarked that our public seminaries are admirably situated for the indulgence of their propensities69: for instance, Westminster School is fortunately situated in the immediate70 neighbourhood of a famous place of instruction called Tothill (vulgarly Tuttle) Fields, where every species of refined lewdness71 and debauchery, and manners the most depraved, are constantly exhibited; consequently they enjoy the great advantages of learning the slang language, and of hearing prime chaunts, rum glees, and kiddy catches, in the purest and most bang up style. He has likewise a fine opportunity of contracting an unalterable penchant72 for the frail65 sisterhood, blue ruin, milling, cock fighting, bull and badger73 baiting, donkey racing74, drinking, swearing, swaggering, and other refined amusements, so necessary to form the character of an accomplished75 gentleman.”
[338] “Again, Harrow School is happily so near to the metropolis, as to afford frequent opportunities for occasional visits to similar scenes of contagion76 and fashionable dissipation, that the scholars do not fail to seek advantages of taking lessons in all those delectable77 sciences.
“Eton, it is true, is somewhat farther removed from the nursery of improvement, but it is near enough to Windsor, of which place it is not necessary to say much, for their Bacchanalian78 and Cyprian orgies, and other fashionable festivities, are well known. So that notwithstanding they are not in the immediate vicinity of the metropolis, there can scarcely be a doubt of their being able to sport their figures to advantage, whenever they are let loose upon society.
“Cambridge is but a short distance from that place of sporting notoriety, Newmarket, consequently it is next to impossible but that a youth of an aspiring79 mind should be up to all the manouvres of a race course—understanding betting, hedging off, crossing and jostling, sweating and training—know all the jockeys—how to give or take the odds80—lay it on thick, and come it strong. Some have an unconquerable ambition to distinguish themselves as a whip, sport their tits in tip top style, and become proficients81 in buckish and sporting slang—to pitch it rum, and astonish the natives—up to the gab82 of the cad. They take upon themselves the dress and manners of the Varment Club, yet noted83 for the appearance of their prads, and the dexterity84 with which they can manage the ribbons, and, like Goldfinch, pride themselves on driving the long coaches—'mount the box, tip coachee a crown, dash along at full speed, rattle86 down the gateway87, take care of your heads—never kill'd but one woman and a child in all my life—that's your sort.'”
“Fine pictures of a University Education,” said Tom, “but Sparkle always was a good delineator of real character; and there is one thing to be said, he has been an eye witness of the facts, nay88 a partaker of the sports.”
“True,” continued Sparkle, “and, like many others, have had something like enjoyment in them too.”
“Aye, aye, no doubt of that,” said Bob, dryly,—“but how does it happen that you have omitted Oxford89 altogether?”
[339] “Nay,” said Sparkle, “there is not much difference in any of them. The students hate all learning but that which they acquire in the brothel, the ring, or the stable.
They spend their terms somehow or other in or near the University, and their vacations at Jackson's Rooms in London; so that they know nothing more of mathematics than sufficient to calculate odds and chances. This, however, depends upon the wealth of the parties; for notwithstanding there are some excellent statutes90 by which they ought to be guided, a nobleman or wealthy commoner is indulged according to his titles or riches, without any regard to the rules and regulations in such cases made and provided.
“From this situation they are at length let loose, thoroughly91 accomplished in every thing but what they ought to know. Some make their appearance as exquisites92 or dandies—a sort of indescribable being, if being such things may be called. Others take the example of the bang ups—make themselves perfect in milling, swearing, greeking, talking flash, and mail coach driving, until John Doe and Richard Roe13 drive them into Abbot's preserve, a circumstance which puts a temporary check upon the sports—though if the Collegian is but up to the logic93, he is very soon down upon the coves94 his creditors95,{1} bowls them out by harassing97 expenses, and walks out himself, up to snuff, and fly.”
1 Bowls them out by harassing expenses.—A proof of the
daily paper:—
Court, for having resisted particular creditors with
generally aware of the extent to which such vexatious
resistance can be carried. In the investigations105 that have
taken place before a Committee of the House of Commons, on
the subject of insolvent debtors, Mr. Thomas Clarke, (at the
time clerk of the Court,) stated, that in a debtor's book he
from one prisoner to another, in a printed form, for 6d.
each. That witness then delivered to the committee a book,
from which the following extract was read,—it is extracted
from the Parliamentary Report:—
being served with a declaration, you may plead a general
issue, which brings you to trial the sooner of any plea that
plead in your name, which will cost you 1L. 1s., your
plaintiff, 31L. as expenses. If you do not mean to try the
cause, you have no occasion to do so until your plaintiff
put in a special plea, send what is termed the paper book,
which you must return with 7s. 6d. otherwise you will not
put him to half the expenses. When he proceeds, and has
received a final judgment against you, get your attorney to
search the office appointed for that purpose in the Temple,
and when he finds that judgment is actually signed, he must
give notice to the plaintiff's attorney to attend the master
to tax his costs, at which time your attorney must have a
before the master, which puts him to a very great expense,
as he will have the same charges to go over again. The writ
of error will cost you 4L. 4s. If you want to be further
troublesome to your plaintiffs, make your writ of error
returnable in Parliament, which costs you 8L. 8s. and your
plaintiff 100/. Should he have the courage to follow you
through all your proceedings, then file a bill in the
answers it, it will cost him 80L. more. After this you may
file a bill in Chancery, which will cost about 10L.; and if
he does not answer this bill, you will get an injunction,
and at the same time an attachment110 from the court against
him, and may take his body for contempt of court, in not
answering your last bill. You may file your bill in the
Court of Chancery, instead of the Exchequer, only the latter
costs you the least. If you are at any time served with a
copy of a writ, take no further notice of it than by keeping
it; when you are declared against, do not fail to put in a
special plea immediately, and most likely you will hear no
more of the business, as your plaintiff will probably not
much.'
and fourteen pounds, by a debtor, for the small cost of 30L.
10s. and all because the laws allowed him to sue for his
own; and if he and his attorney do not keep a sharp look
out, the creditor may get committed for 'contempt of court.'
[341] “I perceive,” said Tom, “that your imagination is flying away from your subject; though I admit the justice of your remarks, as generally applicable to what is termed the higher ranks of society, and that they are imitated or aped in succession to those of the lower orders; but we appear to have imperceptibly got into a long descriptive conversation, instead of pursuing our usual plan of drawing inferences from actual observation. Let us forth and walk awhile.”
“With all my heart,” said Sparkle, “I see you wish to change the subject: however, I doubt not there will be a time when you will think more seriously, and act more usefully.”
“Upon my life you are growing sentimental112.”
“Never mind,” said Bob, “keep your spirits up.”
“The world's a good thing, oh how sweet and delicious
Where each toper each care sweetly drowns;
Where our friends we so cherish, so love and delight in,
Except when we're cracking their crowns.”
By the time Bob had concluded his verse, they were on the move, and taking their direction through St. James's-street, turning the corner of which,—“there,” said the Hon. Tom Dashall, “that is the celebrated117 Lord Shampetre, of whose name and character you have before heard.”
“Indeed,” said Bob. “Well, I must say, that if I met him in the street, I should have supposed him to be an old clothesman.”
“Hush,” said Sparkle, “don't be too severe in your observations, for I have been given to understand his Lordship has expressed his indignation upon a former occasion at such a comparison; though I must acknowledge it is not altogether an unjust one; and if exalted118, I beg pardon, I mean popular characters, will force themselves into public notice by their follies119, their vices121 or their eccentricities122, they can have no right to complain.”
[342] “And pray,” said the Hon. Tom Dashall, “where is one to be found who has made himself more conspicuous123 than the one in question, and especially by a very recent occurrence. The fashionable world is full of the subject of his amatory epistles to the sister of a celebrated actress,{1} and her very 'commodious124 mother;' but I dare say
better than give insertion to the following police report:—
Bow Street.—An application was lately made for a warrant to
apprehend Miss B., the sister of a celebrated actress, for
The application was made by the mother of the accused, in
her before her ruin should be consummated129. The warrant was
granted, and in a short time the fair delinquent130 was led in,
resting on the arm of a Mr. B., well known in the
mother, and the property found by the officer; the mother
identified it, and stated, that she should be happy to
forego the charge, on her daughter consenting to return to
her home. The magistrate132 then called on the accused for her
defence, when she asserted that the articles were her own,
purchased with money given to her by her friends. In
conversation, in which Mrs. B. blamed her daughter for
spending her money so foolishly; and declared that the
things were always considered to belong to the daughter, and
were given up without the slightest objection when she
the solicitor remarking, that the principal object, the
return of Miss B., had been lost sight of. Mr. B. then said,
he had paid for the education and every charge of Miss B.
conduct, which would be found to have arisen from the most
honourable138 feelings, when he should prove that Miss B. had
sought his protection from the persecution139 of Lord P., who
mother. When personal insult had been used, she fled to him;
Miss B., then in tears, stated, that she had been shut up
with Lord P. with her mother's knowledge, when indecent
attacks were made by him upon her on a sofa; and that her
mother urged her to become his mistress, saying she should
have an allowance of 500L. a-year. The mother strongly
denied these assertions, and, after the magistrate had
mother, if true, the affair was settled by Miss B. (only
16,) being put under the care of a female friend, agreeable
to both parties, Mr. B. to pay all the expenses.
Having thus given an account of the affair, as related in
most of the daily papers, we think it right to add the
following by way of elucidation145.
The young lady is Miss B—rt—l—zzi, daughter of a late
actress on the boards of Old Drury, who has obtained great
notoriety for a pretty face, a roving eye, a fine set of
appearing before the public in breeches—Macheath and Don
Giovanni to wit. 'Mr. B.,' the gentleman under whose
protection she is living, or rather was living, is a
gentleman of large West India possessions, who some time ago
Lord C—If—d, in which duel he had the honour of sending
his lordship to his account with all his 'imperfections on
his head.' The third party, 'Lord P.,' is a nobleman, whose
chief points are a queer-shaped hat, long shirt sleeves,
cabriolet, and a Lord George Gordon-ish affectation of
beard. We do not know that he is distinguished152 for any thing
else. For the fourth party—the young lady's mamma, she is,—
what she is; a rather elderly personage, remarkably153
We could not help admiring her commodiousness155 when she
accompanied Lord P. and her daughter to Drury-lane Theatre,
the last time the King was there. It was almost equal to his
[343] his Lordship is displeased157 with no part of the eclat158, except the quiz that his liberal offer of ￡500. would be about ￡25. per annum, or 9s. 7d. a week—a cheap purchase of a young lady's honour, and therefore a good bargain.”
“I believe,” continued Sparkle, “there is little about him, either as to person or to character, which entitles him to occupy more of our time, which may be better devoted159 to more agreeable and deserving subjects.”
“Apropos,” said Dashall, taking Sparkle at his word, “do you observe a person on the other side of the way with a blue nose and a green coat, cut in the true jockey style, so as to render it difficult to ascertain160 whether he is a gentleman or a gentleman's groom161? That is Mr. Spankalong, who has a most unconquerable attachment to grooms162, coachmen, and stable assistants; whose language and manners it is one of the principal studies of his life to imitate. He prides himself on being a good driver of four in hand, and tickling163 the tits along the road in a mail carriage, is the ne plus ultra of his ambition. He will take a journey of an hundred miles out of town, merely to meet and drive up a mail coach, paying for his own passage, and feeing the coachmen for their permission. Disguised in a huge white coat, with innumerable capes164 and mother o'pearl buttons, he seats himself on the box—Elbows square, wrists pliant—all right—Hayait—away they go. He takes his glass of gin and bitters on the [344] road—opens the door for the passengers to get in—with 'now my masters—you please;' and seems quite as much at home as Mr. Matthews at the Lyceum, with 'all that sort of thing, and every thing in the world.' He is, however, not singular in his taste, for many of our hereditary165 statesmen are to be found among this class, save and except that he carries his imitations to a farther extent than any person I ever knew; and it is a fact, that he had one of his fore10 teeth punched out, in order to enable the noble aspirant166 to give the true coachman's whistle, and to spit in a Jehu-like manner, so as to project the saliva167 from his lips, clear of the cattle and traces, into the hedge on the near side of the road.”
“Accomplishments that are truly deserving the best considerations of a noble mind,” rejoined Tallyho.
“And absolutely necessary to the finished gentleman of the present day, of course,” continued Sparkle; “and as I have not had a lounge in these Corinthian regions for some little time, I am glad to be thus furnished with a key to characters that may be new to me.”
“There is one on the opposite side of the way not altogether new, as he has made some noise in the world during his time—I mean the gentleman whose features exhibit so much of the rouge—it is the celebrated Sir George Skippington, formerly168 well known in Fop's Alley169, and at the Opera; not so much on account of his elegant person, lively wit, or polished address, as for his gallantries, and an extraordinary affectation of dress, approaching very nearly to the ridiculous, the chief part of his reputation being derived170 from wearing a pea-green coat, and pink silk stockings: he has, however, since that time become a dramatic writer, or at least a manufacturer of pantomime and shew; and—ah, but see—speaking of writers—here we have a Hook, from which is suspended a certain scandalous Journal, well known for its dastardly attacks upon private character, and whose nominal171 conductors are at this moment in durance vile172; but a certain affair in the fashionable way of defaulting, has brought him down a peg173 or two. His ingenuity174 has been displayed on a variety of occasions, and under varying circumstances. His theatrical175 attempts have been successful, and at Harrow he was called the Green Man, in consequence of his affected33 singularity of wearing a complete suit of clothes of that colour. He appears to act at all times upon the favourite recommendation of Young Rapid, 'keep moving;' for he is always in motion, in consequence of which it is said, that Lord Byron wittily176 remarked, 'he certainly was not the Green Man and Still.'”{1}
1 The Green Man and Still in the well known sign of a
pubic-house in Oxford Road.
[345] “Why,” cried Bob, “there seems to be as little of still life about him just now, as there is about Hookey Walker. But pray who is that dingy177 gentleman who passed us within the last minute, and who appeared to be an object of attraction to some persons on the opposite side—he appears to have been cut out for a tailor.”
“That,” replied Tom, “is a Baronet and cornuto, who married the handsome daughter of a great Marquis. She, however, turned out a complete termagant, who one day, in the heat of her rage, d———d her rib85 for a sneaking178 puppy, dashed a cup of coffee in his face, and immediately after flew for protection to a Noble Lord, who entertained a penchant for her. This, however, proved to be a bad speculation179 on her part; and having seriously reflected on the consequences of such conduct, she made her appearance again at her husband's door a few nights afterwards, and in the spirit of contrition180 sought forgiveness, under a promise of never transgressing181 any more, little doubting but her claim to admission would be allowed. Here, however, it seems she had reckoned without her host,—for the Baronet differing in opinion, would not listen to her proposition: her entreaties182 and promises were urged in vain, and the deserted183 though still cara sposa, has kept the portals of his door, as well as the avenues to his heart, completely closed to her since.”
At this moment they were interrupted by the approach of a gaily184 dressed young man, who seizing Dashall by the hand, and giving him a hearty185 shake, exclaimed,—
“Ha, my dear fellow, what Dashall, and as I live, Mr. Sparkle, you are there too, are you: d———me, what's the scent—up to any thing—going any where—or any thing to do—eh—d———me.”
“Quite ad libitum,” replied Dashall, “happy to see Gayfield well and in prime twig,—allow me to introduce my Cousin, Robert Tallyho, Esq.”
“You do me proud, my dear fellow. Any thing new—can't live without novelty—who's up, who's down—what's the wonder of the day—how does the world wag—where is the haven186 of destination, and how do you weather the point.”
[346] “Zounds,” replied Tom, “you ask more questions in a breath than we three can answer in an hour.”
“Never mind—don't want you to answer; but at all events must have something to say—hate idleness either in speech or action—hate talking in the streets, can't bear staring at like a new monument or a statue. Talking of statues—I have it—good thought, go see Achilles, the ladies man—eh! what say you. D———me, made of cannons188 and other combustibles—Waterloo to wit—Come along, quite a bore to stand still—yea or nay, can't wait.”
“With all my heart,” said Sparkle, twitching189 Dashall by the arm, “it is quite new since my departure from town; “and joining arms, they proceeded towards the Park.
“Been out of town,” continued Gayfield,—“thought so—lost you all at once—glad you have not lost yourself. Any thing new in the country—always inquire—can't live without novelty—go to see every thing and every body, every where. Nothing new in the papers—Irish distresses190 old, but very distressing191 for a time: how the devil can you live in the country—can't imagine.”
“And I apprehend,” replied Sparkle, “it will be of little use to explain; for a gentleman of so much information as yourself must know every thing.”
“Good, but severe—never mind, I never trouble my head with other people's thoughts—always think for myself, let others do as they like. Hate inquisitive192 people, don't choose to satisfy all inquirers. Never ask questions of any one, don't expect answers. Have you seen the celebrated ventriloquist, Alexandre,—the Egyptian Tomb,—the———”
Sparkle could hold no longer: the vanity and egotism of this everlasting193 prater194, this rambler from subject to subject, without manner, method, or even thought, was too much; and he could not resist the temptation to laugh, in which he was joined by Tom and Bob.
[347] “What is the matter,” inquired Gayfield, unconscious of being the cause of their risibility195. “I see nothing to laugh at, d———me, but I do love laughing, so I'll enjoy a little with you at all events; “and immediately he became a participator in their mirth, to the inexpressible delight of his companions; “but,” continued he, “I see nothing to laugh at, and it is beneath the character of a philosopher to laugh at any thing.”
“Never mind,” said Dashall, “we are not of that description—and we sometimes laugh at nothing, which I apprehend is the case in the present instance.”
“I perfectly196 agree with the observation,” rejoined Sparkle; “it is a case in point, and very well pointed too.”
“Nothing could be better timed,” said Tallyho.
“What than a horse laugh in the public streets! D———d vulgar really—-quite outre, as we say. No, no, you ought to consider where you are, what company you are in, and never laugh without a good motive—what is the use of laughing.”
“A philosopher,” said Tom Dashall, “need scarcely ask such a question. The superiority of his mind ought to furnish a sufficient answer.”
“Then I perceive you are not communicative, and I always like to be informed; but never mind, here we shall have something to entertain us.”
“And at least,” said Sparkle, “that is better than nothing.”
The observation, however, was lost upon the incorrigible197 fribble, who produced his snuff-box, and took a pinch, with an air that discovered the diamond ring upon his finger—pulled up his shirt collar—and at the same time forced down his waistcoat; conceiving no doubt that by such means he increased his consequence, which however was wholly lost upon his companions.
“And this,” said Sparkle, “is the so much talked of statue of Achilles—The Wellington Trophy198—it is placed in a very conspicuous situation, however—and what says the pedestal—
TO ARTHUR DUKE OF WELLINGTON,
AND HIS BRAVE COMPANIONS IN ARMS,
THIS STATUE OF ACHILLES,
TAKEN IN THE VICTORIES OF
SALAMANCA, VITTORIA, TOULOUSE, AND WATERLOO
BY THEIR COUNTRYWOMEN.
[348] “Beautiful,” said Gayfield—“Elegant—superb.” “Bold,” said Dashall, “but not very delicate.” “A naked figure, truly,” continued Bob, “in a situation visited by the first circles of rank and fashion, is not to be considered as one of the greatest proofs either of modesty200 or propriety201; but perhaps these ideas, as in many other instances, are exploded, or they are differently understood to what they were originally. A mantle202 might have been thought of by the ladies, if not the artist.”
“For my part,” said Sparkle, “I see but little in it to admire.”
During this conversation, Gayfield was dancing round the figure with his quizzing glass in his hand, examining it at all points, and appearing to be highly amused and delighted.
“It affords opportunities for a variety of observations,” said Dashall, “and, like many other things, may perhaps be a nine days wonder. The public prints have been occupied upon the subject for a few days, and I know of but one but what condemns203 it upon some ground or other."{1}
1 In all probability the following remarks will be
sufficient to make our readers acquainted with this so much
talked of statue:—
Kensington Gardens and the Park.—From three to seven
over-How with the élite of the fashionable world. The
infinite variety of shape and colour displayed in the female
costume, the loveliness and dignity of multitudes of the
altogether surpassed any thing we have hitherto witnessed
there.
There was nothing on the drive in the Park except carriages
and horsemen, dashing along to the gardens; and as to the
?Wellington promenade,' it was altogether neglected. Whether
it was that the 'naked majesty' of Achilles frightened the
people away, or whether the place and its accompaniments
it seemed to be avoided most cautiously; with the exception
of some two or three dozen Sunday-strollers, yawning upon
the Anglo-Greco-Pimlico-hightopoltical statue above
mentioned. It was curious enough to hear the remarks made by
some of these good folks upon this giant exotic—this Greek
prototype of British prowess. 'Well, I declare!' said a
proportions, 'Well, I declare! did ever any body see the
like!'—'Come along, Martha, love,' rejoined her scarlet-
faced mamma; 'Come along, I say!—I wonder they pulled the
tarpoling off before the trowsers were ready.' 'What a
great green monster of a man it is,' exclaimed a meagre
elderly lady, with a strong northern accent, to a tall bony
red-whiskered man, who seemed to be her husband—'Do na ye
think 'twad a looked mair dedicate in a kilt?' 'Whist!'
turned upon his heel and dragged the wonder-ing matron away.
in the sunshine?' 'Hold your tongue, Miss—little girls must
not ask questions about them sort of things.' 'Be th'
powers!' said one of three sturdy young fellows, as they
walked round till they got to sunward of it.' Be th' powers,
but he's a jewel of a fellow; ounly its not quite dacent to
be straddling up there without a shirt—is it Dennis?'
?Gad's blood man!' replied Dennis, rather angrily, 'Gad's
blood man! dacency's quite out of the question in matters o'
this kind, ye see.' ''Faith, and what do they call it?'
asked the other. 'Is it—what do they call it?' re-joined
Dennis, who seemed to consider himself a bit of a wag—'Why
they mane to call it the Ladies' Fancy, to be sure!' and
away they all went, 'laughing like so many horses,' as the
German said, who had heard talk of a horse-laugh. Some of
the spectators compared the shield to a parasol without a
handle; others to a pot-lid; and one a sedate-looking old
woman, observing the tarpawling still covering the legs and
she supposed they had been uncovering it by degrees, in
order to use the people to the sight gradually. In short,
poor Achilles evidently caused more surprise than
was among the vulgar. No doubt the fashionable patronesses
of the thing may view it with other eyes.
[349] On their return from the Park, our party looked in at Tattersal's, where it proved to be settling day. Dashall and his Cousin had previously made a trip to Ascot Races, to enjoy a day's sport, and were so fortunate as to let in a knowing one for a considerable sum, by taking the long odds against a favourite horse. They therefore expected now to toutch the blunt, and thus realize the maxim211 of the poet, by “uniting profit and delight in one.”
Page349 Ascot Races
“Yonder,” says Dashall, pointing out to his Cousin a very stout212 man, “is H. R. H.; he is said to have been a considerable winner, both at the late, as well as Epsom races; but the whole has since vanished at play, with heavy additions, and the black legs are now enjoying a rich harvest. The consequences have been, not only the sale of the fine estate of O—t—ds by the hammer, but even the family plate and personal property have been knocked down to the highest bidders213, at Robbins's Rooms.”
“I should have expected,” replied Bob, “that so much fatal experience, which is said to make even fools wise, would have taught a useful lesson, and restrained this gambling214 propensity215, however violent.”
[350] “Psha, man,” continued his Cousin, “you are a novice216 indeed to suppose any thing of the kind. No one uninitiated in these mysteries, can form an idea of the inextricable labyrinth217, or the powerful spell which binds218 the votaries219 of play; and unfortunately this fatal passion seems to pervade220 in an unusual degree our present nobility: indeed it may be said there are comparatively but few of the great families who are not either reduced to actual poverty, or approximating towards it, in consequence of the inordinate221 indulgence of this vice120.”
THE WELLINGTON TROPHY; or, LADIES' MAN{1}
Air—'Oh, the Sight entrancing.'
Oh, the sight entrancing,
To see Achilles dancing,{2}
Without a shirt
“Where ladies' eyes are glancing:
1 We are told that this gigantic statue is a most
astonishing work of art, cast from the celebrated statue of
Achilles, on the Quirinal Hill; and the inscription223 on it
informs us, that the erection of it was paid for by the
Duke of Wellington and his brave companions in arms. To
call it, therefore, the 'Ladies' Man,' is merely out of
compliment to such as patronised the undertaking226; and here
we wish it to be particularly understood that we do not
sanction the word naked as a correct term (although that
term is universally applied to it), inasmuch as this statue
is not naked, the modest artist having, at the suggestion of
these modest ladies, taken the precaution of giving Achilles
a covering, similar to that which Adam and Eve wore on their
expulsion from Eden.
2 The attitude of the statue is so questionable227 as to have
already raised many opposite hypotheses as to what it is
really intended to represent. Mr. Ex-Sheriff Parkins has,
with very laudable ingenuity and classical taste,
discovered that the figure is nothing more nor less than a
sheriff adds, as used to accompany him in India, when
engaged in a hunting party, and who, when he grew tired,
used to lay hold of the ex-sheriff's horse's tail, in order
to keep up with his master. The author of the Travestie,
however, has hit upon another solution of the attitude,
still more novel, and equally probable, namely, that of
dancing, for which he expects to gain no inconsiderable
share of popularity.
3 Without a shirt or Highland skirt!—It is really
entertaining to see what a refinement229 of criticism has been
displayed upon the defects of this incomparable statue. Some
have abused the hero for being shirtless, and said it was an
abomination to think that a statue in a state of nudity
(much larger than life, too!) should be stuck up in Hyde
Park, where every lady's eye must glance, however repugnant
it might be to their ideas of modesty. But did not the
ladies themselves order and pay for the said statue? Is it
putting on Achilles a kelt or short petticoat (called by the
poet a Highland skirt), oh, shocking I it is not only
unclassical, but it would have destroyed the effect of the
thing altogether. To be sure, it would not be the first time
that Achilles wore a petticoat, for, if we are rightly
informed, his mother, Thetis, disguised him in female
Lycomedes, iu order to prevent his going to the siege of
Troy; but that wicked wag, Ulysses, calling on the said
maidens to pay his respects, discovered Mister Achilles
While little miss
Would fain a kiss
Be from Achilles robbing!'
Then, oh, the sight entrancing,
To see Achilles dancing,
Without a shirt
Or Highland skirt,
Where ladies' eyes are glancing.
Oh, 'tis not helm or feather,
Or breeches made of leather,
That gave delight,
By day or night,
Or draw fair crowds together.{2}
Let those wear clothes who need e'm;
Then, light or dark,
They'll range the Park,
And follow where you lead 'em.
For, oh, the sight's entrancing,
To see Achilles dancing,
Without a shirt
Or Highland skirt,
Where ladies' eyes are glancing.
1 If we could only insert one hundredth part of what has
been said by widows, wives, and maids on this interesting
subject during the present week, we are quite sure our
or even faintly delineated it.
2 We certainly must differ with the author here: in our
have a wonderful effect in drawing crowds of the fair sex
together—at a grand review, for instance.
3 This line, it is hoped, will be understood literally. The
words are T. Moore's, and breathe the spirit of liberty—not
[352] Having succeeded in their object, Dashall and his Cousin pursued their course homeward; and thus terminated another day spent in the developement of Real Life in the British Metropolis.
If this epistle reaches
Achilles bold,
In winter cold,
That he would wear his breeches:{1}
For though in sultry weather,
He needs not cloth nor leather,
What's safe in war,{2]
And ruin all together.
But still the sight's entrancing,
To see Achilles dancing
Without a shirt
Or Highland skirt,
Where ladies' eyes are glancing.
1 The last verse must be allowed to be truly considerate,
nay, kind—that the ladies will be equally kind and
considerate to poor Achilles as the poet is, must be the
in which he is placed.
2 Achilles was a great favourite with the ladies from his
so proud of him, that she readily encountered the danger of
being drowned in the river Styx herself, that she might dip
Accordingly, every part of the hero was safe, except his
heel by which his mother held him amidst the heat of
of Wellington, he was never wounded. But, at length, when
Achilles was in the Temple, treating about his marriage with
Philoxena, daughter of Priam, the brother of Hector let fly
an arrow at his vulnerable heel, and did his business in a
twinkling.
We cannot quit this subject without paying a compliment to the virtues244 of the Court. We understand there has not been one royal carriage seen in the Park since the erection of the statue; and if report speaks true, the Marchioness of C——-m's delicacy245 is so shocked, that she intends to quit Hamilton Place, which is close by, as early as a more modest site can be chosen!
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1
enjoyment
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| n.乐趣；享有；享用 | |
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analyze
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| vt.分析，解析 (=analyse) | |
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undone
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| a.未做完的，未完成的 | |
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prop
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| vt.支撑；n.支柱，支撑物；支持者，靠山 | |
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bustle
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| v.喧扰地忙乱，匆忙，奔忙；n.忙碌；喧闹 | |
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tickles
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| （使）发痒( tickle的第三人称单数 )； （使）愉快，逗乐 | |
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protracted
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| adj.拖延的；延长的v.拖延“protract”的过去式和过去分词 | |
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8
muse
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| n.缪斯（希腊神话中的女神），创作灵感 | |
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9
proprietors
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| n.所有人，业主( proprietor的名词复数 ) | |
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10
fore
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| adv.在前面；adj.先前的；在前部的；n.前部 | |
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investigation
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| n.调查，调查研究 | |
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12
illuminated
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| adj.被照明的；受启迪的 | |
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13
roe
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| n.鱼卵；獐鹿 | |
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14
enchantment
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| n.迷惑，妖术，魅力 | |
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15
drawn
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| v.拖，拉，拔出；adj.憔悴的，紧张的 | |
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16
forth
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| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
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17
vat
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| n.(=value added tax)增值税，大桶 | |
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18
mingling
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| adj.混合的 | |
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19
delightful
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| adj.令人高兴的，使人快乐的 | |
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20
animated
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| adj.生气勃勃的，活跃的，愉快的 | |
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21
countenances
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| n.面容( countenance的名词复数 )；表情；镇静；道义支持 | |
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22
conspired
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| 密谋( conspire的过去式和过去分词 )； 搞阴谋； （事件等）巧合； 共同导致 | |
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23
foliage
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| n.叶子，树叶，簇叶 | |
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24
transparent
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| adj.明显的，无疑的；透明的 | |
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25
majesty
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| n.雄伟，壮丽，庄严，威严；最高权威，王权 | |
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26
bland
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| adj.淡而无味的，温和的，无刺激性的 | |
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27
flexibility
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| n.柔韧性，弹性，（光的）折射性，灵活性 | |
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28
rotunda
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| n.圆形建筑物；圆厅 | |
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29
forte
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| n.长处，擅长；adj.(音乐)强音的 | |
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30
skilful
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| (=skillful)adj.灵巧的，熟练的 | |
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31
admiration
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| n.钦佩，赞美，羡慕 | |
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32
affectedly
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33
affected
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| adj.不自然的，假装的 | |
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34
entirely
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| ad.全部地，完整地；完全地，彻底地 | |
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35
ornamented
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| adj.花式字体的v.装饰，点缀，美化( ornament的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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36
revolving
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| adj.旋转的，轮转式的；循环的v.（使）旋转( revolve的现在分词 )；细想 | |
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37
variegated
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| adj.斑驳的，杂色的 | |
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38
refreshing
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| adj.使精神振作的，使人清爽的，使人喜欢的 | |
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39
effulgence
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| n.光辉 | |
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40
defiance
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| n.挑战，挑衅，蔑视，违抗 | |
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41
inquiries
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| n.调查( inquiry的名词复数 )；疑问；探究；打听 | |
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42
pointed
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| adj.尖的，直截了当的 | |
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43
ascent
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| n.(声望或地位)提高；上升，升高；登高 | |
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44
mar
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| vt.破坏，毁坏，弄糟 | |
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45
retired
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| adj.隐退的，退休的，退役的 | |
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46
refreshments
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| n.点心,便餐;(会议后的)简单茶点招 待 | |
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47
viands
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| n.食品，食物 | |
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48
fraught
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| adj.充满…的，伴有(危险等)的；忧虑的 | |
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49
exultation
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| n.狂喜，得意 | |
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50
alluded
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| 提及，暗指( allude的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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51
situated
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| adj.坐落在...的，处于某种境地的 | |
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52
inclination
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| n.倾斜；点头；弯腰；斜坡；倾度；倾向；爱好 | |
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53
amiable
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| adj.和蔼可亲的，友善的，亲切的 | |
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54
metropolis
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| n.首府；大城市 | |
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55
baneful
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| adj.有害的 | |
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56
ardent
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| adj.热情的，热烈的，强烈的，烈性的 | |
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57
apprehend
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| vt.理解，领悟，逮捕，拘捕，忧虑 | |
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58
nibble
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| n.轻咬，啃；v.一点点地咬，慢慢啃，吹毛求疵 | |
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59
disorders
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| n.混乱( disorder的名词复数 )；凌乱；骚乱；（身心、机能）失调 | |
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60
gentry
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| n.绅士阶级，上层阶级 | |
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61
degradation
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| n.降级；低落；退化；陵削；降解；衰变 | |
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62
previously
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| adv.以前，先前（地） | |
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63
muster
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| v.集合，收集，鼓起，激起；n.集合，检阅，集合人员，点名册 | |
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64
writ
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| n.命令状，书面命令 | |
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65
frail
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| adj.身体虚弱的；易损坏的 | |
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66
frailties
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| n.脆弱( frailty的名词复数 )；虚弱；（性格或行为上的）弱点；缺点 | |
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67
embolden
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| v.给…壮胆，鼓励 | |
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68
license
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| n.执照，许可证，特许；v.许可，特许 | |
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69
propensities
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| n.倾向，习性( propensity的名词复数 ) | |
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70
immediate
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| adj.立即的；直接的，最接近的；紧靠的 | |
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71
lewdness
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| n. 淫荡, 邪恶 | |
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72
penchant
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| n.爱好，嗜好；（强烈的）倾向 | |
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73
badger
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| v.一再烦扰，一再要求，纠缠 | |
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74
racing
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| n.竞赛，赛马；adj.竞赛用的，赛马用的 | |
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75
accomplished
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| adj.有才艺的；有造诣的；达到了的 | |
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76
contagion
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| n.(通过接触的疾病)传染；蔓延 | |
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77
delectable
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| adj.使人愉快的；美味的 | |
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bacchanalian
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| adj.闹酒狂饮的；n.发酒疯的人 | |
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79
aspiring
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| adj.有志气的；有抱负的；高耸的v.渴望；追求 | |
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80
odds
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| n.让步，机率，可能性，比率；胜败优劣之别 | |
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81
proficients
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| 精通的，熟练的( proficient的名词复数 ) | |
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82
gab
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| v.空谈，唠叨，瞎扯；n.饶舌，多嘴，爱说话 | |
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83
noted
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| adj.著名的，知名的 | |
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84
dexterity
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| n.(手的)灵巧，灵活 | |
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85
rib
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| n.肋骨，肋状物 | |
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86
rattle
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| v.飞奔，碰响；激怒；n.碰撞声；拨浪鼓 | |
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87
gateway
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| n.大门口，出入口，途径，方法 | |
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88
nay
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| adv.不；n.反对票，投反对票者 | |
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Oxford
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| n.牛津（英国城市） | |
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90
statutes
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| 成文法( statute的名词复数 )； 法令； 法规； 章程 | |
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91
thoroughly
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| adv.完全地，彻底地，十足地 | |
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92
exquisites
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| n.精致的( exquisite的名词复数 )；敏感的；剧烈的；强烈的 | |
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93
logic
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| n.逻辑(学)；逻辑性 | |
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94
coves
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| n.小海湾( cove的名词复数 )；家伙 | |
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95
creditors
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| n.债权人，债主( creditor的名词复数 ) | |
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96
creditor
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| n.债仅人，债主，贷方 | |
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harassing
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| v.侵扰，骚扰( harass的现在分词 )；不断攻击（敌人） | |
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98
harass
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| vt.使烦恼，折磨，骚扰 | |
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99
insolvent
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| adj.破产的，无偿还能力的 | |
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100
debtor
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| n.借方，债务人 | |
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101
debtors
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| n.债务人，借方( debtor的名词复数 ) | |
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102
vex
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| vt.使烦恼，使苦恼 | |
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103
proceedings
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| n.进程，过程，议程；诉讼(程序)；公报 | |
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104
sham
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| n./adj.假冒(的)，虚伪(的) | |
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105
investigations
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| （正式的）调查( investigation的名词复数 )； 侦查； 科学研究； 学术研究 | |
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106
bail
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| v.舀（水），保释；n.保证金，保释，保释人 | |
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107
custody
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| n.监护，照看，羁押，拘留 | |
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108
judgment
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| n.审判；判断力，识别力，看法，意见 | |
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109
exchequer
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| n.财政部；国库 | |
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110
attachment
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| n.附属物，附件；依恋；依附 | |
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111
incur
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| vt.招致，蒙受，遭遇 | |
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112
sentimental
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| adj.多愁善感的，感伤的 | |
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113
bliss
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| n.狂喜，福佑，天赐的福 | |
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114
crams
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| v.塞入( cram的第三人称单数 )；填塞；塞满；（为考试而）死记硬背功课 | |
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115
torments
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| （肉体或精神上的）折磨，痛苦( torment的名词复数 )； 造成痛苦的事物[人] | |
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116
inviting
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| adj.诱人的，引人注目的 | |
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117
celebrated
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| adj.有名的，声誉卓著的 | |
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118
exalted
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| adj.(地位等)高的，崇高的；尊贵的，高尚的 | |
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119
follies
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| 罪恶，时事讽刺剧； 愚蠢，蠢笨，愚蠢的行为、思想或做法( folly的名词复数 ) | |
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120
vice
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| n.坏事；恶习；[pl.]台钳，老虎钳；adj.副的 | |
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121
vices
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| 缺陷( vice的名词复数 )； 恶习； 不道德行为； 台钳 | |
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122
eccentricities
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| n.古怪行为( eccentricity的名词复数 )；反常；怪癖 | |
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123
conspicuous
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| adj.明眼的，惹人注目的；炫耀的，摆阔气的 | |
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124
commodious
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| adj.宽敞的；使用方便的 | |
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125
elucidate
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| v.阐明，说明 | |
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126
perfidy
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| n.背信弃义，不忠贞 | |
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127
ornaments
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| n.装饰( ornament的名词复数 )；点缀；装饰品；首饰v.装饰，点缀，美化( ornament的第三人称单数 ) | |
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128
reclaim
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| v.要求归还，收回；开垦 | |
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129
consummated
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| v.使结束( consummate的过去式和过去分词 )；使完美；完婚；（婚礼后的）圆房 | |
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130
delinquent
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| adj.犯法的，有过失的；n.违法者 | |
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131
solicitor
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| n.初级律师，事务律师 | |
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132
magistrate
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| n.地方行政官，地方法官，治安官 | |
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133
corroboration
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| n.进一步的证实，进一步的证据 | |
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134
spoke
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| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
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135
applied
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| adj.应用的；v.应用，适用 | |
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136
desultory
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| adj.散漫的，无方法的 | |
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137
inquiry
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| n.打听，询问，调查，查问 | |
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138
honourable
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| adj.可敬的；荣誉的，光荣的 | |
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139
persecution
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| n. 迫害,烦扰 | |
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140
overtures
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| n.主动的表示，提议；（向某人做出的）友好表示、姿态或提议( overture的名词复数 )；（歌剧、芭蕾舞、音乐剧等的）序曲，前奏曲 | |
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141
lodgings
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| n. 出租的房舍, 寄宿舍 | |
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142
abounded
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| v.大量存在，充满，富于( abound的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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143
sketched
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| v.草拟（sketch的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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144
alleged
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| a.被指控的，嫌疑的 | |
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145
elucidation
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| n.说明，阐明 | |
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146
engraver
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| n.雕刻师，雕工 | |
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147
mellow
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|
| adj.柔和的；熟透的；v.变柔和；(使)成熟 | |
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148
immortal
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|
| adj.不朽的；永生的，不死的；神的 | |
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149
duel
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| n./v.决斗；(双方的)斗争 | |
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150
exquisitely
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| adv.精致地；强烈地；剧烈地；异常地 | |
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151
starched
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|
| adj.浆硬的，硬挺的，拘泥刻板的v.把（衣服、床单等）浆一浆( starch的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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152
distinguished
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|
| adj.卓越的，杰出的，著名的 | |
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153
remarkably
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| ad.不同寻常地，相当地 | |
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154
discreet
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| adj.(言行)谨慎的；慎重的；有判断力的 | |
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155
commodiousness
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156
ennui
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| n.怠倦，无聊 | |
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157
displeased
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| a.不快的 | |
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158
eclat
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| n.显赫之成功，荣誉 | |
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159
devoted
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|
| adj.忠诚的，忠实的，热心的，献身于...的 | |
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160
ascertain
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| vt.发现，确定，查明，弄清 | |
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161
groom
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| vt.给（马、狗等）梳毛，照料，使...整洁 | |
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162
grooms
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| n.新郎( groom的名词复数 )；马夫v.照料或梳洗（马等）( groom的第三人称单数 )；使做好准备；训练；（给动物）擦洗 | |
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163
tickling
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| 反馈，回授，自旋挠痒法 | |
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164
capes
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| 碎谷； 斗篷( cape的名词复数 )； 披肩； 海角； 岬 | |
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165
hereditary
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| adj.遗传的，遗传性的，可继承的，世袭的 | |
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166
aspirant
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| n.热望者；adj.渴望的 | |
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167
saliva
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| n.唾液，口水 | |
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168
formerly
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| adv.从前，以前 | |
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169
alley
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| n.小巷，胡同；小径，小路 | |
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170
derived
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| vi.起源；由来；衍生；导出v.得到( derive的过去式和过去分词 )；（从…中）得到获得；源于；（从…中）提取 | |
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171
nominal
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|
| adj.名义上的；(金额、租金)微不足道的 | |
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172
vile
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| adj.卑鄙的，可耻的，邪恶的；坏透的 | |
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173
peg
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| n.木栓，木钉；vt.用木钉钉，用短桩固定 | |
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174
ingenuity
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| n.别出心裁；善于发明创造 | |
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175
theatrical
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| adj.剧场的，演戏的；做戏似的，做作的 | |
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176
wittily
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| 机智地，机敏地 | |
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177
dingy
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| adj.昏暗的，肮脏的 | |
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178
sneaking
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| a.秘密的，不公开的 | |
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179
speculation
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| n.思索，沉思；猜测；投机 | |
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180
contrition
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| n.悔罪，痛悔 | |
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181
transgressing
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| v.超越( transgress的现在分词 )；越过；违反；违背 | |
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182
entreaties
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| n.恳求，乞求( entreaty的名词复数 ) | |
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183
deserted
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| adj.荒芜的，荒废的，无人的，被遗弃的 | |
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184
gaily
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| adv.欢乐地，高兴地 | |
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185
hearty
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| adj.热情友好的；衷心的；尽情的，纵情的 | |
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186
haven
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| n.安全的地方，避难所，庇护所 | |
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187
cannon
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| n.大炮，火炮；飞机上的机关炮 | |
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188
cannons
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| n.加农炮，大炮，火炮( cannon的名词复数 ) | |
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189
twitching
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| n.颤搐 | |
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190
distresses
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| n.悲痛( distress的名词复数 )；痛苦；贫困；危险 | |
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191
distressing
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| a.使人痛苦的 | |
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192
inquisitive
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| adj.求知欲强的，好奇的，好寻根究底的 | |
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193
everlasting
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| adj.永恒的，持久的，无止境的 | |
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194
prater
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| 多嘴的人，空谈者 | |
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195
risibility
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| n.爱笑，幽默感 | |
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196
perfectly
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| adv.完美地，无可非议地，彻底地 | |
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197
incorrigible
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| adj.难以纠正的，屡教不改的 | |
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198
trophy
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| n.优胜旗，奖品，奖杯，战胜品，纪念品 | |
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199
inscribed
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| v.写，刻( inscribe的过去式和过去分词 )；内接 | |
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200
modesty
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| n.谦逊，虚心，端庄，稳重，羞怯，朴素 | |
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201
propriety
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| n.正当行为；正当；适当 | |
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202
mantle
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| n.斗篷，覆罩之物，罩子；v.罩住，覆盖，脸红 | |
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203
condemns
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| v.（通常因道义上的原因而）谴责( condemn的第三人称单数 )；宣判；宣布…不能使用；迫使…陷于不幸的境地 | |
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204
literally
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| adv.照字面意义，逐字地；确实 | |
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205
serene
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| adj. 安详的，宁静的，平静的 | |
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206
garish
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| adj.华丽而俗气的，华而不实的 | |
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207
brawny
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| adj.强壮的 | |
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208
syllable
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| n.音节；vt.分音节 | |
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209
thighs
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| n.股，大腿( thigh的名词复数 )；食用的鸡（等的）腿 | |
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210
ridicule
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| v.讥讽，挖苦；n.嘲弄 | |
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211
maxim
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| n.格言，箴言 | |
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213
bidders
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| n.出价者，投标人( bidder的名词复数 ) | |
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214
gambling
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| n.赌博；投机 | |
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215
propensity
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| n.倾向；习性 | |
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216
novice
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| adj.新手的，生手的 | |
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217
labyrinth
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| n.迷宫；难解的事物；迷路 | |
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218
binds
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| v.约束( bind的第三人称单数 )；装订；捆绑；（用长布条）缠绕 | |
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219
votaries
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| n.信徒( votary的名词复数 )；追随者；（天主教）修士；修女 | |
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220
pervade
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| v.弥漫，遍及，充满，渗透，漫延 | |
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221
inordinate
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| adj.无节制的；过度的 | |
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222
highland
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| n.(pl.)高地，山地 | |
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223
inscription
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| n.（尤指石块上的）刻印文字，铭文，碑文 | |
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224
commemorate
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| vt.纪念，庆祝 | |
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225
manly
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| adj.有男子气概的；adv.男子般地，果断地 | |
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226
undertaking
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| n.保证，许诺，事业 | |
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227
questionable
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| adj.可疑的，有问题的 | |
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228
worthy
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| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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229
refinement
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| n.文雅；高尚；精美；精制；精炼 | |
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230
emblem
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| n.象征，标志；徽章 | |
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231
maidens
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| 处女( maiden的名词复数 )； 少女； 未婚女子； （板球运动）未得分的一轮投球 | |
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232
regiment
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| n.团，多数，管理；v.组织，编成团，统制 | |
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233
throbbing
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| a. 跳动的,悸动的 | |
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234
sobbing
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| <主方>Ⅰ adj.湿透的 | |
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235
adorn
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| vt.使美化，装饰 | |
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236
acquit
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| vt.宣判无罪；(oneself)使(自己)表现出 | |
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237
humble
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| adj.谦卑的，恭顺的；地位低下的；v.降低，贬低 | |
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238
licentiousness
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| n.放肆，无法无天 | |
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239
beseeches
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| v.恳求，乞求（某事物）( beseech的第三人称单数 ) | |
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240
perilous
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| adj.危险的，冒险的 | |
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241
strapping
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| adj. 魁伟的, 身材高大健壮的 n. 皮绳或皮带的材料, 裹伤胶带, 皮鞭 动词strap的现在分词形式 | |
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242
thereby
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| adv.因此，从而 | |
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243
renowned
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| adj.著名的，有名望的，声誉鹊起的 | |
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244
virtues
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| 美德( virtue的名词复数 )； 德行； 优点； 长处 | |
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245
delicacy
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| n.精致，细微，微妙，精良；美味，佳肴 | |
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