 that sort in America very much. However, we
must take it as it comes. Perhaps it may have a genius for the tight-rope. It
may have any sort of genius, in short, if it takes after its mother, Johnson,
for she is a universal genius; but, whatever its genius is, that genius shall be
developed.«
    Expressing himself after these terms, Mr. Crummles put on his other eyebrow,
and the calves of his legs, and then put on his legs, which were of a yellowish
flesh-colour, and rather soiled about the knees, from frequent going down upon
those joints, in curses, prayers, last struggles, and other strong passages.
    While the ex-manager completed his toilet, he informed Nicholas that as he
should have a fair start in America, from the proceeds of a tolerably good
engagement, which he had been fortunate enough to obtain, and as he and Mrs.
Crummles could scarcely hope to act for ever (not being immortal, except in the
breath of Fame and in a figurative sense), he had made up his mind to settle
there permanently, in the hope of acquiring some land of his own which would
support them in their old age, and which they could afterwards bequeath to their
children. Nicholas, having highly commended this resolution, Mr. Crummles went
on to impart such further intelligence relative to their mutual friends as he
thought might prove interesting; informing Nicholas, among other things, that
Miss Snevellicci was happily married to an affluent young wax-chandler who had
supplied the theatre with candles, and that Mr. Lillyvick didn't dare to say his
soul was his own, such was the tyrannical sway of Mrs. Lillyvick, who reigned
paramount and supreme.
    Nicholas responded to this confidence on the part of Mr. Crummles, by
confiding to him his own name, situation, and prospects, and informing him in as
few general words as he could, of the circumstances which had led to their first
acquaintance. After congratulating him with great heartiness on the improved
state of his fortunes. Mr. Crummles gave him to understand that next morning he
and his were to start for Liverpool, where the vessel lay which was to carry
them from the shores of England, and that if Nicholas wished to take a last
adieu of Mrs Crummles, he must repair with him that night to a farewell-supper,
given in honor of the family at a neighbouring tavern; at which Mr. Snittle
Timberry would preside, while the honors of the vice-chair would be sustained by
the African Swallower.
