Israel Potter by Herman Melville
page 64 of 250 (25%)
page 64 of 250 (25%)
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Never joke at funerals, or during business transactions. The affair
between us two, you perhaps deem very trivial, but trifles may involve momentous principles. But no more at present. You had better go immediately and find the boot-black. Having settled with him, return hither, and you will find a room ready for you near this, where you will stay during your sojourn in Paris." "But I thought I would like to have a little look round the town, before I go back to England," said Israel. "Business before pleasure, my friend. You must absolutely remain in your room, just as if you were my prisoner, until you quit Paris for Calais. Not knowing now at what instant I shall want you to start, your keeping to your room is indispensable. But when you come back from Brentford again, then, if nothing happens, you will have a chance to survey this celebrated capital ere taking ship for America. Now go directly, and pay the boot-black. Stop, have you the exact change ready? Don't be taking out all your money in the open street." "Doctor," said Israel, "I am not so simple." "But you knocked over the box." "That, Doctor, was bravery." "Bravery in a poor cause, is the height of simplicity, my friend.--Count out your change. It must be French coin, not English, that you are to pay the man with.--Ah, that will do--those three coins will be enough. Put them in a pocket separate from your other cash. Now go, and hasten to the bridge." |
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