of
amber-colored satin, and heavy cornices, over which eagles in gilt are
perched, surmount the whole. Pictures no artist need be ashamed of
decorate the walls, groups in bronze and Parian, stand on pedestals
between the windows, and there is a regal air about the furniture, which
is of the most elaborate workmanship. But the living figures moving to
and fro, some in uncouth dresses and some scarce dressed at all, and all
reflected in the great mirrors, excite the deepest interest. Truly it is
here that vice has arrayed itself in fascinating splendors, and the
young and the old have met to pay it tribute. The reckless youth meets
the man high in power here. The grave exchange salutations with the gay.
Here the merchant too often meets his clerk, and the father his son.
And before this promiscuous throng women in bright but scanty drapery,
and wan faces, flaunt their charms.

Sitting on a sofa, is the fair young girl we saw at the cemetery. By her
side is a man of venerable presence, endeavoring to engage her in
conversation. Her face is shadowed in a pensive smile;--she listens to
what falls from the lips of her companion, shakes her head negatively,
and watches the movements of a slender, fair-haired young man, who
saunters alone on the opposite side of the room. He has a deep interest
in the fair girl, and at every turn casts a look of hate and scorn at
her companion, who is no less a person than Judge Sleepyhorn, of this
history.

"Hain't no better wine nowhere, than's got in this house," ejaculates
the old hostess, calling our attention to a massive side-board, covered
with cut-glass of various kinds. "A gentleman what's a gentleman may get
a little tipsy, providin' he do it on wine as is kept in this house, and
carry himself square." Madame motions patronizingly with her hand, bows
condescendingly, and says, "Two bottles I think you ordered,
gentlemen--what gentlemen generally call for."

Having bowed assent, and glad to get off so cheaply, Manfredo, a slave
in bright livery, is directed to bring it in.

Mr. Snivel enters, to the great delight of the old hostess and various
friends of the house. "Mr. Snivel is the spirit of this house," resumes
the old hostess, by way of introduction; "a gentleman of distinction in
the law." She turns to Mr. Snivel inquiringly. "You sent that ruffin,
Tom Swiggs, up for me to-day?"

"Lord bless you, yes--gave him two months for contemplation. Get well
starved at fifteen cents