The formalities were soon observed, although I had occasion to remark, how much easier, after all, it is to get along in this world with vice than with virtue.

A bribe offered to a custom-house officer was refused; and the only trouble I had, on the occasion, arose from this awkward obtrusion of a conscience.

However, the difficulty was overcome, though not quite as easily as if douceurs had happened to be in fashion; and we were permitted to land with all our necessary effects.
The city of Bivouac presented a singular aspect as I first put foot within its hallowed streets.

The houses were all covered with large placards, which, at first, I took to be lists of the wares to be vended, for the place is notoriously commercial; but which, on examination, I soon discovered were merely electioneering handbills.

The reader will figure to himself my pleasure and surprise, on reading the first that offered.