ne burst of intelligence lighted
up his broad English countenance. "To be sure I have; yes, and read of
him too. A fine fellow was Oliver, master, and the poor man's friend.
Whether that's his figure, though, I can't say. I hopes it be." Then
touching his hat to me, he followed his gigantic team, turning his head
to look at the statue as he walked along.

That man had he lived in Oliver's time would have made a capital
ironside, especially if mounted on one of those dray horses of his. I
remained looking at the statue some time longer. Turning round, I
perceived that I was close by a bookseller's shop, into which, after
deliberating a moment, I entered. An elderly, good-tempered looking man
was standing behind the counter.

"Have you the _Dairyman's Daughter_?" I demanded.

"Just one copy, young gentleman," said the bookseller, rubbing his hands;
"you are just in time, if you want one; all the rest are sold."

"What kind of character does it bear?"

"Excellent character, young gentleman; great demand for it; held in much
esteem, especially by the Evangelical party."

"Who are the Evangelical party?"

"Excellent people, young gentleman, and excellent customers of mine,"
rubbing his hands; "but setting that aside," he continued gravely,
"religious, good men."

"Not a set of canting scoundrels?"

The bookseller had placed a small book upon the counter; but he now
suddenly snatched it up and returned it to the shelf; then looking at me
full in the face, he said, quietly: "Young gentleman, I do not wish to be
uncivil, but you had better leave the shop."

"I beg your pardon if I have offended you, but I was merely repeating
what I had heard."

"Whoever told you so must be either a bad, or a very ignorant, man."

"I wish for the book."

"You shall not have it at any price."

"Why not?"

"I have my reasons," said the bookseller.

"Will you have the kindness," said I, "to tell me whose statue it is
which stands there on horseback?"

"Charles the First."

"And where is Cromwell's?"

"You may walk far enough about London, or, indeed, about England, before
you will find a statue of Cromwell, young gentleman."

"Well, I could not help thinking that was his."

"How came you to think so?"

"I thought it would be just the place for a statue to the most
illustrious Englishman. It is where I would place one were I prime
minister."

"Well, I do think that Charles would look better a little farther do