CHAPTER XXIII.
"The world its trite opinion holds of those That in a world apart these bars enclose; And thus methinks some sage, whose wisdom frames Old saws anew, complacently exclaims, Debt is like death--it levels all degrees; Their prey with death's fell grasp the bailiffs seize." ON entering the Lock-up House, Bob felt a few uneasy sensations at hearing the key turned.

The leary Bum-trap ushered the Gemmen up stairs, while Tallyho was endeavouring to compose his agitated spirits, and reconcile himself to the prospect before him, which, at the moment, was not of the most cheering nature.
"What, my gay fellow," said Merry well, "glad to see you--was just going to scribble a line to inform you of my disaster.

Zounds! you look as melancholy as the first line of an humble petition, or the author of a new piece the day after its damnation." "In truth," replied Bob, "this is no place to inspire a man with high spirits." "That's as it may be," rejoined Merry well; "a man with money in his pocket may see as much Real Life in London within these walls as those who ramble at large through the mazes of what is termed liberty." "But," continued Tom, "it must be admitted that the views are more limited." "By no means," was the reply.

"Here a man is at perfect liberty to contemplate and cogitate without fear of being agitated.

Here he may trace over past recollections, and enjoy future anticipations free from the noise and bustle of crowded streets, or the fatigue of attending fashionable routs, balls, and assemblies.