This was a mortifying circumstance to a man of his character and
deportment, especially as he had received a message from the proctor,
who desired to see him forthwith. With great humility and contrition
he begged the advice of his pupil, who being used to amuse himself
with painting, assured Mr. Jolter that he would cover those signs
of disgrace with a slight coat of flesh-colour so dexterously, that
it would be almost impossible to distinguish the artificial from
the natural skin. The rueful governor, rather than expose such
opprobrious tokens to the observation and censure of the magistrate,
submitted to the expedient. Although his counsellor had overrated
his own skill, he was persuaded to confide in the disguise, and
actually attended the proctor, with such a staring addition to the
natural ghastliness of his features, that his visage bore a very apt
resemblance to some of those ferocious countenances that hang over
the doors of certain taverns and ale-houses, under the denomination
of the Saracen's head.
Such a remarkable alteration of physiognomy could not escape the
notice of the most undiscerning beholder, much less the penetrating
eye of his severe judge, already whetted with what he had seen
over-night.
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