Sawley, in an
excited tone, at the same time dashing down his crape-covered castor on
the floor. "Did you ever see a ruined man with a large family? Look at
me, Mr. Dunshunner--I'm one, and you've done it!"
"Mr. Sawley! Are you in your senses?"
"That depends on circumstances. Haven't you been buying stock lately?"
"I am glad to say I have--two thousand Glenmutchkins, I think, and this
is the day of delivery."
"Well, then, can't you see how the matter stands? It was I who sold
them!"
"Well!"
"Mother of Moses, sir! Don't you see I'm ruined?"
"By no means--but you must not swear. I pay over the money for
your scrip, and you pocket a premium. It seems to me a very simple
transaction."
"But I tell you I haven't got the scrip!" cried Sawley, gnashing his
teeth, while the cold beads of perspiration gathered largely on his
brow.
"That is very unfortunate! Have you lost it?"
"No! the devil tempted me, and I oversold!"
There was a very long pause, during which I assumed an aspect of serious
and dignified rebuke.
"Is it possible?" said I, in a low tone, after the manner of Kean's
offended fathers.
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