He continued, however, to be one of his constant companions, and while in his favour they were accustomed to practice strange vagaries.

The Major was always a wag, ripe and ready for a _spree or a lark_.
"To him a frolic was a high delight, A frolic he would hunt for, day and night, Careless how prudence on the sport might frown." At one time, when the favourite's finances were rather low, and the _mopusses ran taper_, it was remarked among the 60 vivants of the party, that the Major had not for some time given them an invitation.
This, however, he promised to do, and fixed the day--the Prince having engaged to make one.

Upon this occasion he took lodgings in Tottenham-court Road--went to a wine-merchant--promised to introduce him to the royal presence, upon his engaging to find wine for the party, which was readily acceded to; and a dinner of three courses was served up.

Three such courses, perhaps, were never before seen; when the company were seated, two large dishes appeared; one was placed at the top of the table, and one at the bottom; all was anxious expectation: ~27~~the covers being removed, exhibited to view, a baked shoulder of mutton at top, and baked potatoes at the bottom.

They all looked around with astonishment, but, knowing the general eccentricity of their host, they readily fell into his humour, and partook of his fare; not doubting but the second course would make ample amends for the first.