Page:Biographical and critical studies by James Thomson ("B.V.").djvu/451

JAMES HOGG 435 individuals : a croupier proposes the Chairman, the Chairman proposes the croupiers ; the other croupier proposes the ex-resident commissioner of pohce for the next ward. Amidst the storm of civic toasts a little thickish man, with a faded velvet waistcoat and strong-ale nose, rises solemnly and reminds the company of a remarkable omission: "Some, per- haps, are not aware of an incident of a very interest- ing nature which has taken place in the family of one of our worthy croupiers this morning [him of the swelling title, Moderator of the Society of High Constables]. It has not yet been announced in the papers : I need only say, ' Mrs. Gray, of a daughter.' (Cheering from all parts of the house.) On such an occasion, gentlemen, you will not think me un- reasonable if I ask you to get up, and drink, with all the honours, a bumper to Mrs. Gray and her sweet and interesting charge." (Drunk with wild joy by all present.) Hitherto the literary and professional friends of Hogg have been overwhelmed and stuffed by the roaring, ramping deluge of shopkeeping Bumbledom. About two, after the second reckoning has been called and paid by general contribution. Heaven be praised ! the Chairman retires, and a young advocate takes his place; then the croupiers and other citizenly men glide off; the mirth increases, the thinned company gathers in a serried cluster of intense fun and good- fellowism around the chair. Hogg now for the first time shines out in all his lustre ; tells stories, sings, and makes all life and glee. " Laird o' Lamington," the " Women Folk," and " Paddy O'Rafferty," he gives with irresistible force and fire. About this time,