*

THE ROAD IN 1853.

The days of the Highwaymen are over: but that need not be lamented by
the admirers of the robbers of the good old times. The Highwaymen have
been succeeded by the Railwayman.

* * * * *

THE FETALIST.

The First Emperor left behind him a "NAPOLEON Book of Fate."

The Second Emperor promises to enrich the history of France with a
"NAPOLEON Book of Fetes."

* * * * *

TOO MUCH AND TOO LITTLE.--The man who believes too little may be safer
than the man who believes too much; but it is a question if, through
life, he knows half as much pleasure.

* * * * *

RUSSIAN IMPUDENCE.--A celebrated Diplomatist who lisps a little, being
asked to define Russian Impudence, answered very significantly "Why,
ith's beyond PRUTH!"

[Illustration: PUNCH'S MEDAL FOR A PEACE ASSURANCE SOCIETY]

* * * * *

BREAKING-UP DAY AT WESTMINSTER.

[Illustration: A GENERAL STRIKE.]

The Director-General of the St. Stephen's establishment, _Mr. Punch_,
proceeded, in one cab, to Westminster Hall, and, desiring a chair to be
placed for him upon the top of the flight of steps at the further end,
commanded that the gentlemen of the Upper and Lower Schools should
forthwith attend him, for the purpose of hearing his opinion of their
general and individual conduct, preparatory to their being dismissed for
the holidays. It is needless to say that his orders were instantly
complied with, and that the Westminster Boys at once assembled before
him. The only exception was in the case of MASTER SIBTHORP, who sturdily
refused to come, and for whom a policeman was dispatched. MASTER
SIBTHORP expended much abuse, and several quotations from the Eton
Grammar, upon the officer, but was ultimately brought in, and placed
within convenient reach of _Mr. Punch's_ cane. _Mr. Punch_ then spoke as
follows:--

"MY BOYS,

"You have had a long half, but it is over, and I am glad to dismiss you
for your vacation. The word vacation, SIBTHORP, is derived from the
Latin, and originally signifies emptiness, for an illustration of which
I will refer you to the head of the gallant member for Lincoln, or to
the heads of those who can be such donkeys as to elect him. My boys, I
am, generally speaking, satisfied with your conduct during the half.

"BOYS OF THE UPPER SCHOOL,

"I rejoice to find a marked improvement in th