Page 22 - Unlikely Stories 5

In the Back Streets of London

That is all very well in principle, I replied blandly, but many of
those little lanes and courts harbor criminals of every stripe, many of
whom would cut your throat for the few shillings they presume even
the meanest gentleman has about his person. And now that evening
draws upon us, the dangers awaiting the unwary passerby in those
dark and dingy alleys can but multiply in their eventuality. My
objections, however, fell upon deaf ears, and he at once resolved to
travel to our destination by back streets and ramshackle mews.
“A great city is, to be sure, the school for studying life.”
Thus we set out, turning off the high road and picking our way
with care in the semi-gloom. I resolved to zigzag on as straight a
course as possible toward the Turk’s Head. Soon we found ourselves
in unfamiliar surroundings, evidence of poverty in all directions. Dr.
Johnson, to his credit and despite his years, maintained his pace and
his dignity. He had but one comment to make upon the scene, as I
remember it: “Liberty is, to the lowest rank of every nation, little
more than the choice of working or starving; and this choice is, I
suppose, equally allowed in every country.”
After we had progressed in this crabwise fashion for half an hour, a
door to our left suddenly opened, illumining the interior of a room
with a ruddy glow. A finger on an outstretched arm beckoned.
“Ah, Boswell and Dr. Johnson. Pray, enter: I had almost
abandoned hope we should meet tonight.”
It certainly was not a back-alley entrance to the tavern intended as
our goal. We hesitated, but as the man spoke like a gentleman, knew
our names and appeared to have a great expectation of our arrival, we
entered. There we found a table and chairs. Our host bade us be
seated, and called for refreshments; these were promptly brought by a
curious little fellow in a hooded cape.
“You have the advantage of us, Sir,” I began politely. “Although
your manner is familiar and your choice of wine and victuals
impeccable, I do not believe we have previously made your
acquaintance.”
“Perhaps not,” he said, bowing slightly. “My name is not easily
pronounced in English. I have but lately come from abroad to your
city on business, and could not miss an opportunity to enjoy
conversing with the eminent Doctor Johnson.” Upon seeing my
21