There being nothing for it but obedience, however, he slowly and reluctantly turned away, feeling in his bones, that if ever he came to the bliss and ecstasy of calling La Masque Mrs.Ormiston, the gray mare in his stable would be by long odds the better horse.

Unintentionally his steps turned to the water-side, and he descended the flight of stairs, determined to get into a boat and watch the illumination from the river.
Late as was the hour, the Thames seemed alive with ferries and barges, and their numerous lights danced along the surface like fire-flies over a marsh.

A gay barge, gilded and cushioned, was going slowly past; and as he stood directly under the lamp, he was recognized by a gentleman within it, who leaned over and hailed him, "Ormiston! I say, Ormiston!" "Well, my lord," said Ormiston, recognizing the handsome face and animated voice of the Earl of Rochester.
"Have you any engagement for the next half-hour?
If not, do me the favor to take a seat here, and watch London in flames from the river." "With all my heart," said Ormiston, running down to the water's edge, and leaping into the boat.

"With all this bustle of life around here, one would think it were noonday instead of midnight." "The whole city is astir about these fires.

Have you any idea they will be successful ?" "Not the least.