discovered in them all the defects which can possibly be found in
this species of animal, offered to give him ten guineas for the
two, saying he would convert them into beasts of burden. The owner,
who, after what had happened, was very well disposed to listen to
anything that was said to their prejudice, implicitly believed the
truth of the stranger's asseverations, discharged a furious volley
of oaths against the rascal who had taken him in, and forthwith
struck a bargain with the squire, who paid him instantly for his
purchase; in consequence of which he won the plate at the next
Canterbury races.

This affair being transacted to the mutual satisfaction of both
parties, as well as to the general entertainment of the company,
who laughed in their sleeves at the dexterity of their friend,
Trunnion was set upon the squire's own horse, and led by his servant
in the midst of this cavalcade, which proceeded to a neighbouring
village, where they had bespoke dinner, and where our bridegroom
found means to provide himself with another hat and wig. With
regard to his marriage, he bore his disappointment with the temper
of a philosopher; and the exercise he had undergone having quickened
his appetite, sat down at table in the midst of his new acquaintance,
making a very hearty meal, and moistening every morsel with a
draught of the ale, which he found very much to his satisfaction.





CHAPTER IX.