The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 187: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

EVIL TIDINGS 161 ‘‘ Enough,” ejaculated his Royal Highness, who appeared to have made up his mind to play a resolute and determined part. “Go and bring the Bow Street officer hither by the private staircase.” ‘“‘ In five minutes he shall be here,’’ answered Mrs. Brace, her countenance lighting up with hope. She then hurried away, and the prince resumed his walk up and down the room; but this pacing to and fro was less troubled than before, inasmuch as he persuaded himself that the Bow Street officer would be enabled to avert the peculiar evils which now wore so menacing an aspect. In ashort time the door of the private staircase was opened again, and Mrs. Brace reappeared, followed by a tall, stout, middle-aged man, shabbily dressed, and carrying a huge stick in his hand. On being thus introduced into the pres- ence of the prince, the officer made a bow which, though very low, was as awkward and ungainly as if it were an elephant practising an obeisance. Then advancing toward his Royal Highness in obedience to a hastily whispered intima- tion from the lips of Mrs. Brace, he made another bow and waited to be spoken to. “ What is your name, my good fellow?” inquired the prince, adopting a very conciliatory tone. ‘“‘ Peter Grumley, may it please your Royal Highness,”’ answered the official, in a voice which was as rough and hoarse as if he were speaking through a cracked bassoon, for the truth was that he had been singing the best part of the night at a free-and-easy. ‘Well, Mr. Peter Grumley, we shall know each other better presently,” said the heir apparent. “I believe you are an officer at Bow Street.” ‘“‘ The head officer, at your Royal Highness’s service,’”’ was the response, accompanied by another elephantine bow. “In fact, this here lady,’’ he continued, jerking his thumb over his shoulder toward Mrs. Brace, “‘ has told me as how that: your Royal Highness has a mind to put a summut in my way, and I should be proud to do anythink to please your Royal Highness, let alone the recompense attending it.” “And I may depend upon your caution and secrecy respecting my interference in the business that I wish to consult you upon? ”’ said the heir apparent. (GO) Anyi } CS \