LETTER XVI.

_INHABITANTS OF THE ALMS-HOUSE._

BENBOW.

Thou art the Knight of the Burning Lamp[....] ... If thou [wert] any way given to virtue, I would swear by thy face; my oath should be by this fire. [....] a perpetual triumph, [ ...] Thou hast saved me a thousand marks in links and torches, walking [with thee in the] night betwixt tavern and tavern ...

_Shakspeare_ [Henry IV. Part I. Act III. Sc. 3].

Ebrietas tibi fida comes, tibi Luxus, et atris Circa te semper volitans Infamia pennis.

_Silius Italicus_ [Punica, Lib, V. vv. 96-7].

Benbow, an improper Companion for the Badgemen of the Alms-house--He resembles Bardolph--Left in Trade by his Father--Contracts useless Friendships--His Friends drink with him, and employ others--Called worthy and honest! Why--Effect of Wine on the Mind of Man--Benbow's common Subject--the Praise of departed Friends and Patrons--'Squire Asgill, at the Grange: his Manners, Servants, Friends--True to his Church: ought therefore to be spared--His Son's different Conduct--Vexation of the Father's Spirit if admitted to see the Alteration--Captain Dowling, a boon Companion, ready to drink at all Times, and with any Company; famous in his Club-room--His easy Departure--Dolley Murrey, a Maiden advanced in Years: abides by Ratafia and Cards--Her free Manners--Her Skill in the Game--Her Preparation and Death--Benbow, how interrupted; his Submission.