day, and hired a house, which he adorned with such magnificence
that he was immediately considered as a merchant of great wealth.
His politeness attracted many acquaintances, and his generosity
made him courted by many dependants. His companions, not being
able to mix in the conversation, could make no discovery of their
ignorance or surprise, and were gradually initiated in the world as
they gained knowledge of the language.

The Prince had by frequent lectures been taught the use and nature
of money; but the ladies could not for a long time comprehend what
the merchants did with small pieces of gold and silver, or why
things of so little use should be received as an equivalent to the
necessaries of life.

They studied the language two years, while Imlac was preparing to
set before them the various ranks and conditions of mankind. He
grew acquainted with all who had anything uncommon in their fortune
or conduct. He frequented the voluptuous and the frugal, the idle
and the busy, the merchants and the men of learning.

The Prince now being able to converse with fluency, and having
learned the caution necessary to be observed in his intercourse
with strangers, began to accompany Imlac to places of resort, and
to enter into all assemblies, that he might make his CHOICE OF
LIFE.

For some time he thought choice needless, because all appeared to
him really happy. Wherever he went he met gaiety and kindness, and
heard the song of joy or the laugh of carelessness. He began to
believe that the world overflowed with universal plenty, and that