~354~~pleasant witticisms which sparkled forth in endless variety among
the choice spirits who frequented the _sanctum sanctorum_ of the _old
Finish_. "There is yet, however, one more place worthy of notice," said
Crony; "not for any amusement we shall derive from its frequenters, but,
simply, that it is the most notorious place in London." Thither it
was agreed we should adjourn; for Crony's description of _Madame and
Messieurs_ the _Conducteurs_ was quite sufficient to produce excitement
in the young and ardent minds by which he was then surrounded. I shall
not pollute this work by a repetition of the circumstances connected
with this place, as detailed by old Crony, lest humanity should start
back with horror and disgust at the bare mention, and charity endeavour
to throw discredit on the true, but black recital. The specious pretence
of selling shell-fish and oysters is a mere trap for the inexperienced,
as every description of expensive wines, liqueurs, coffee, and costly
suppers are in more general request, and the wanton extravagance
exhibited within its vortex is enough to strike the uninitiated and the
moralist with the most appalling sentiments of horror and dismay. Yet
within this _saloon (see plate)_ did we enter, at four o'clock in the
morning, to view the depravity of human nature, and watch the operation
of licentiousness upon the young and thoughtless.
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