Note 228 — Chapter XXXII
Reading edition
Borrow had at many points certain affinities to Carlyle's hero Johnson, but lacked his epigrammatic wit—and much else. But he seems to have desired to emulate Johnson in one particular, as we find in the following dialogue:—
'I wouldn't go on foot there this night for fifty pounds.'
'Why not?' said I.
'For fear of being knocked down by the colliers, who will be all out and drunk.'
'If not more than two attack me,' said I, 'I shan't so much mind. With this book I am sure I can knock down one, and I think I can find play for the other with my fists.'