This reproof effectually silenced us both for the rest of the evening. Nay, indeed, for some minutes it seemed to silence every body else; till Mr. Lovel, not willing to lose an opportunity of returning the Captain's sarcasm, said, "Why, really, Sir, it is but natural, to be most pleased with what is most familiar, and, I think, of all our diversions, there is not one so much in common between us and the country, as a play. Not a village but has its barns and comedians; and as for the stage-business, why it may be pretty equally done any where; and even in regard to us, and the canaille, confined as we all are within the semi-circle of a theatre, there is no place where the distinction is less obvious."
While the Captain seemed considering for Mr. Lovel's meaning, Lord Orville, probably with a view to prevent his finding it, changed the subject to Cox's Museum, and asked what he thought of it?
"Think!—" said he, "why I think as how it i'n't worth thinking about. I like no such jem cracks. It is only fit, in my mind, for monkeys,—though, for I aught I know, they too might turn up their noses at it."
"May we ask your Lordship's own opinion?" said Mrs. Mirvan.
"The mechanism," answered he, "iswonderfully
