What Will He Do with It — Volume 03 by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
page 81 of 146 (55%)
page 81 of 146 (55%)
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"That's for the bill," quoth he,--"Civil List!--a large item. That's
for Sophy, the darling! She shall have a teacher, and learn Music,-- Education Grant; Current Expenses for the next fortnight; Miscellaneous Estimates; tobacco,--we'll call that Secret-service Money. Ah, scamp, vagrant, is not Heaven kind to thee at last? A few more such nights, and who knows but thine old age may have other roof than the workhouse? And Sophy?--Ah, what of her? Merciful Providence, spare my life till she has outgrown its uses!" A tear came to his eye; he brushed it away quickly, and, recounting his money, hummed a joyous tune. The door opened; Waife looked up in surprise, sweeping his hand over the coins, and restoring them to his pocket. The Mayor entered. As Mr. Hartopp walked slowly up the room, his eye fixed Waife's; and that eye was so searching, though so mild, that the Comedian felt himself change colour. His gay spirits fell,--falling lower and lower, the nearer the Mayor's step came to him; and when Hartopp, without speaking, took his hand,--not in compliment, not in congratulation, but pressed it as if in deep compassion, still looking him full in the face, with those pitying, penetrating eyes, the actor experienced a sort of shock as if he were read through, despite all his histrionic disguises, read through to his heart's core; and, as silent as his visitor, sank back in his chair, --abashed, disconcerted. MR. HARTOPP.--"Poor man!" THE COMEDIAN (rousing himself with an effort, but still confused).-- "Down, Sir Isaac, down! This visit, Mr. Mayor, is an honour which may well take a dog by surprise! Forgive him!" |
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