The Caxtons — Volume 17 by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
page 10 of 36 (27%)
page 10 of 36 (27%)
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Uncle Jack, returning to the plate, and missing the onion, forestalls
Mr. Speck in seizing the last potato; observing also, and in the same philosophical and generalizing spirit as Mr. Bullion: "The great thing in this country is to be always beforehand. Discovery and invention, promptitude and decision,--that's your go! 'Pon my life, one picks up sad vulgar sayings among the natives here! 'That's your go!'--shocking! What would your poor father say? How is he,--good Austin? Well? That's right; and my dear sister? Ah, that damnable Peck! Still harping on the 'Anti-Capitalist,' eh? But I'll make it up to you all now. Gentlemen, charge your glasses,--a bumper-toast." Mr. Speck (in an affected tone).--"I respond to the sentiment in a flowing cup. Glasses are not forthcoming." Uncle Jack.--"A bumper-toast to the health of the future millionnaire whom I present to you in my nephew and sole heir,--Pisistratus Caxton, Esq. Yes, gentlemen, I here publicly announce to you that this gentleman will be the inheritor of all my wealth,--freehold, leasehold, agricultural, and mineral; and when I am in the cold grave [takes out his pocket-handkerchief], and nothing remains of poor John Tibbets, look upon that gentleman and say, 'John Tibbets lives again!'" Mr. Speck (chantingly),-- "'Let the bumper-toast go round.'" Guy Bolding.--"Hip, hip, hurrah!--three times three! What fun!" Order is restored; dinner-things are cleared; each gentleman lights his pipe. |
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