CHAPTER XVI

--If you have any objection, --said my father, addressing himself to Dr. _Slop_. Not in the least, replied Dr. _Slop_; --for it does not appear on which side of the question it is wrote; ----it may be a composition of a divine of our church, as well as yours, --so that we run equal risques. ----’Tis wrote upon neither side, quoth _Trim_, for ’tis only upon _Conscience_, an’ please your Honours.

_Trim’s_ reason put his audience into good-humour, --all but Dr. _Slop_, who turning his head about towards _Trim_, looked a little angry.

Begin, _Trim_, --and read distinctly, quoth my father. --I will, an’ please your Honour, replied the Corporal, making a bow, and bespeaking attention with a slight movement of his right hand.

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