The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 143: what you’re looking at

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

126 REYNOLDS’ WORKS overawing power. “ But still I may as well hint, Tony,” she continued, again turning around toward her mes- senger, ‘that there is nothing in the packet of any value to a soul save the individual into whose hands you are to give it; and therefore if the devil should tempt you, it will not be worth your while to sneak out of your way and open it in the expectation of finding money or banknotes.”’ “I wouldn’t do it, I wouldn’t do it,” answered Tony Wilkins, with an air of sincerity which for an instant rose dominant above the sinister expression of his countenance, and without another word, he darted away. The old landlord and his wite now made their appearance with the two steaming bowls of punch, and when they were placed upon the table, Lady Bess filled a wine-glass, saying, ‘‘ { drink suecess to you all. Come, Chiffin, I am determined to put you into a good humour, and you shall pledge me in a glass.”’ “Well, I don’t know how it is, but you make us all do just as you like, Lady Bess,’’ said the Cannibal, half-good- humouredly and half-sullenly. “‘ You’ve got a power over us. I suppose it 1s because you are so superior to the general run of us folks.” ‘““ Never mind what is the reason,’’ exclaimed the Amazon- lan lady, laughing. ‘‘ Drink your punch, Chiffin, and do try to look good-natured for once.”’ The Cannibal,as if obeying a sort of magical influence which he could not resist, did as he was ordered; and as he put down the emptied glass he smacked his lips, while a erim smile expanded completely over his hangdog counte-~ nance, as he said, ‘‘ I do really think that if I saw anybody trying to do you an injury, Lady Bess, I should give them six inches of my clasp-knife, even though I swung for it.” ‘““ Well, it may be useful to have such a champion as you, Chiffin,” exclaimed the dashing lady, with a merry laugh which displayed her ivory teeth to the utmost advantage. ‘But now I must be off.” “ Will you not wait,” inquired one of the women, “ to see if Tony comes back all right?” ‘“T know he will,” replied Lady Bess. ‘“ He is one of the oreatest scamps amongst you, and therefore the best to be trusted. And now good night.” With these words she quitted the room, paused at the — } Wal Gomichdoo (E(@) m