Mr. Waldengarver smiled at me, as much as to say "a faithful Dependent--I overlook his folly;" and then said aloud, "My view is a little classic and thoughtful for them here; but they will improve, they will improve."

     Herbert and I said together, O, no doubt they would improve.

     "Did you observe, gentlemen," said Mr. Waldengarver, "that there was a man in the gallery who endeavored to cast derision on the service,--I mean, the representation?"

     We basely replied that we rather thought we had noticed such a man. I added, "He was drunk, no doubt."

     "O dear no, sir," said Mr. Wopsle, "not drunk. His employer would see to that, sir. His employer would not allow him to be drunk."

     "You know his employer?" said I.

     Mr. Wopsle shut his eyes, and opened them again; performing both ceremonies very slowly. "You must have observed, gentlemen," said he, "an ignorant and a blatant ass, with a rasping throat and a countenance expressive of low malignity, who went through--I will not say sustained--the role (if I may use a French expression) of Claudius, King of Denmark. That is his employer, gentlemen. Such is the profession!"