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The first glimmer of consciousness—of the knowledge—I am—in the life of a great man is generally, when it can be ascertained, made a matter of much importance and of deep speculation among the learned. That no doubt arises to test the truth of the common saying,
"The child is father to the man."
The first thing which I recollect, was being sent by my Mother to a well-known Eating-house in the Wellmeadow for a pound of the best Pottedhead—the price of which was to be 4d. On entering the shop, I asked for a pound of Pottedhead The shopkeeper enquired whether I wanted it at 3½d. or 4d.? Not then knowing there was such a thing as a difference in the quality of an article, I naturally reasoned, if I can get a pound of pottedhead for 3½d. why should I give 4d. for it? so I at once said 3½d. I got the article, paid my 3½d put the other ½d., which I considered fair profit on the bargain, in my pocket and trudged home with my message. I did not say anything to my mother about the profit I had made on this, my first business transaction, but ran out as fast as I could, and was very proud in shewing my fortune to the boys about the doors. Some of the bigger ones wanted me to buy powder to make peoies others wanted me to buy blackman, but the more sensible wanted me to buy a scone. I stoutly resisted all their importunities, and put the money in my
