, directed for Mr. Crabtree; and cautioned him against
giving the least hint of his misfortune in the neighbourhood, that it might
remain, as long as possible, concealed from the knowledge of his sister, (who,
he knew, would afflict herself immoderately at the news) nor reach the ears of
the rest of his family, who would exult and triumph over his distress.
    Hatchway listened to his injunctions with great attention, and promised to
demean himself accordingly: then the discourse shifted to an agreeable
recapitulation of the merry scenes they had formerly acted together; and the
evening being pretty far advanced, Peregrine, with seeming reluctance, told him
that the gates of the Fleet would in a few minutes be shut for the night, and
that there was an absolute necessity for his withdrawing to his lodging. Jack
replied, that he could not think of parting with him so soon, after such a long
separation; and that he was determined to stay with him an hour or two longer,
if he should be obliged to take up his lodging in the streets. Pickle, rather
than disoblige his guest, indulged him in his desire, and resolved to give him a
share of his own bed. A pair of chickens and 'sparagus were bespoken for supper,
at which Pipes attended with an air of internal satisfaction; and the bottle was
bandied about in a jovial manner 'till midnight, when the lieutenant rose up to
take his leave, observing, that being fatigued with riding, he was inclined to
turn-in. Pipes, upon this intimation, produced a lanthorn ready lighted; and
Jack, shaking his entertainer by the hand, wished him good-night, and promised
to visit him again betimes in the morning.
    Peregrine, imagining that this behaviour proceeded from the wine, which he
had plentifully drank, told him, that if he was disposed to sleep, his bed was
ready prepared in the room, and ordered his attendant to undress his master;
upon which Mr. Hatchway gave him to understand, that he had no occasion to
incommode his friend, having already provided a lodging for himself: and the
young gentleman demanding an explanation, he frankly owned what he had done,
saying, »You gave me such a dismal account of the place, that I could not think
of leaving you in it without company.« Our young gentleman, who was naturally
impatient of benefits, and foresaw that this uncommon instance of Hatchway's
friendship would encroach upon the plan which he had formed for his own
subsistence, by engrossing his time and attention, so as that he should not
