A NEW PROFESSION 217 



their kind offices, in thus procuring theui a passage, Avith 

 more than double fare. 



With these improvements, then, in the style of both 

 man and cattle, constantly passing before my eyes on the 

 one hand, and the threats of poverty assailing me on the 

 other, I began to consider seriously of the propriety — ■ 

 indeed, of the necessity — of adapting myself, my inclina- 

 tions as well as my circumstances, to the times. 



The serious losses I had sustained had already compelled 

 me to dispose of the greater part of my coaching business ; 

 and the dockyard contract, which had turned out a good 

 paying concern, but, requiring daily attention, I was also 

 obliged to make over to my partner, for which I received 

 a small premium. I still occupied my farm — but this 

 did not sufficiently occupy my time ; and now, having 

 but one coach left of my extensive establishment, I 

 thought I could not do better than save myself the 

 expense of a coachman, and reap the rewards the box 

 afforded. Besides, from the domestic affliction I was 

 labouring under, I wanted something to fix my attention 

 and to diversify my thoughts ; and my undertaking to 

 drive my own coach offered the best — indeed the only — 

 means within reach of supplying the deficiency, as stated 

 hours of employment would do the one, while the daily 

 change and varietv of companv would induce the other. 



It was on the Portsmouth road, then, that I first made 

 my debut in the character I have assumed in my title- 

 page ; and although I did not remain there long, for 

 reasons which I shall jDresently relate, I continued my 

 career in the profession with but little intermission until 

 railroads jDut a stop to it altogether. 



