Tom could always find something going on around the Maypole in Cheapside,

And at the fairs; and now and then he and the rest of London had a chance to

See a military parade when some famous unfortunate was carried prisoner to

the Tower, by land or boat. One summer's day he saw poor Anne Askew and

Three men burned at the stake in Smithfield, and heard an ex-bishop preach a

sermon to them which did not interest him. Yes, Tom's life was varied and

Pleasant enough, on the whole.

By and by Tom's reading and dreaming about princely life wrought such a

Strong effect upon him that he began to act the prince, unconsciously. His

Speech and manners became curiously ceremonious and courtly, to the vast

admiration and amusement of his intimates. But Tom's influence among these

Young people began to grow now, day by day; and in time he came to be

Looked up to by them with a sort of wondering awe, as a superior being. He

seemed to know so much! and he could do such marvellous things! and withal,

he was so deep and wise! Tom's remarks and Tom's performances were

Reported by the boys to their elders; and these, also, presently began to discuss

Tom Canty, and to regard him as a most gifted and extraordinary creature.

Full-grown people brought their perplexities to Tom for solution, and were

Often astonished at the wit and wisdom of his decisions. In fact, he was become