After Dark Prologue to the Second Story

In which I receive an artistic commission from the town of Tidbury-on-the-Marsh to paint the portrait of Mr. Boxsious, a lively and somewhat imperious solicitor whose character and manner prove as vivid as the landscape outside his window. Mr. Boxsious, eager to recount a significant and proud episode from his rise to prosperity, insists on sharing his story while questioning my readiness and brush quality with a blend of sharp wit and boisterous good humour.