A SHORTLAND-STREET WAGER ABOUT A KISS.

Observer, Volume 7, Issue 338, 30 May 1885, Page 3

A SHORTLAND-STREET WAGER ABOUT A KISS.

I have just heard a capital story without which my ' About Town ' budget of this week would not be complete. A party of young fellows were passing down Shortlandstreet the other afternoon when a young and lovely maiden who was gazing pensively at the art treasures displayed in Mr Leech's window attracted their attention. The unanimous verdict was that the young lady was a remarkably fine girl, and many were the admiring glances she received as our young friends passed her. On the following afternoon two of the same fellows were again passing down Shortland-street, and again perceived the fair unknown gazing into Mr Leech's window. Some talk about wagering followed, I regret to say, when ' "What do you bet me I won't go and ask that girl if she will give me a Mss ?' asked one of the enamoured youths of the other. * I will bet you £5, but would advise you to do nothing of the kind if you have any respect for the young lady and wish to avoid getting into trouble,' was the reply. The other man booked the bet, and was across the road in a twinkling. Gradually edging his way up to the damsel, he presently ventured to remark, ' Fine afternoon, miss ?' •' Yes, it is a very fine afternoon,' said the lady. ' Will you give me a kiss ?' suddenly

like!' said the damsel, smiHng sweetly upon the stranger. The latter was too astounded to do anything but raise his hat and rejoin his companion, when he learned that he had been shamefully hoaxed, and that the whole affair was a ' put up thing' between the girl and the incorrigible joker by his side.