Immeasurable was the
confusion that followed. All restraints were removed--all hindrances
withdrawn, and the tide rushed onward with a most headlong tendency.
Apprehensive of pecuniary responsibilities in his own person, and having
his neighbors wrought to the desired pitch--fearing, also, lest his
station might somewhat involve himself in the meshes he was weaving
around others, the sagacious chairman, upon the first show of violence,
roared out his resignation, and descended from his place. But this
movement did not impair the industry of the _regulators_. A voice was
heard proposing a bonfire of the merchandise, and no second suggestion
was necessary. All hands but those of the pedler and the attorney were
employed in building the pyre in front of the tavern some thirty yards;
and here, in choice confusion, lay flaming calicoes, illegitimate silks,
worsted hose, wooden clocks and nutmegs, maple-wood seeds of all
descriptions, plaid cloaks, scents, and spices, jumbled up in ludicrous
variety.
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