An amusing illustration of the formal politeness of a railway guard occurred some years ago at the Reigate station. He went to the window of a first class carriage, and said: “If you please, sir, will you have the goodness to change your carriage here?” “What for?” was the gruff reply of Mr. Bull within. “Because, sir, if you please, the wheel has been on fire since half-way from the last station!” John looked out; the wheel was sending forth a cloud of smoke, and without waiting to require any further “persuasive influences,” he lost no time in condescending to comply with the request.