218 CONSPIRACY TO DEFRAUD. 



There is a custom which has now deep root amongst 

 grooms and coachmen at large. I allude to the pur- 

 chase of horses when the dealer and groom stand in as 

 it is termed, about the two most barefaced examples 

 of which came to my knowledge the other day, when 

 the following conversations took place: — 



Dealer. — I think that is a pretty good match for 

 your other horse. 



Coachman. — Yes. I think he will do; but how 

 about the sweetener ? 



D. — I don't know what you mean. The price of 

 the horse is sixty-five pounds, and I cannot take a 

 farthing less. 



C. — Then if you won't allow me anything, I'll not 

 advise my master to buy him ; and he won't buy him, 

 unless I recommend him. 



D. — Very well. I can't help that. If I give you 

 five pounds, it must come out of your master's pocket — 

 not mine ; for I can't afford to lose it. Therefore, if I 

 give you five pounds, I must get seventy pounds for 

 the horse. 



C. — Very well. My master shall buy him, and you 

 shall give me five pounds out of the purchase money. 



D. — Agreed. {Aside.) You damned scoundrel ! 



In a few days the coachman brought a cheque for 

 seventy pounds; and, on presenting it, received five 

 pounds out of it. The horse turned out no match at 

 all for the other, and the coachman called on the dealer 

 and requested him to take the horse back. 



( No,' said the dealer, ( unless vou return me the five 



