"Give us a taste of your quality."
Dean put the harmonica in his mouth and played several popular airs in very creditable style. He had practiced considerably in Waterford, and when he left home chanced to bring his favorite instrument with him.
Mr. Montgomery applauded vociferously.
"That's capital!" he said. "I have an idea. Our fortune is made."
"Is it? I'm very glad to hear it."
"Let me explain. I am a dramatic Jack of all trades. I can sing, dance, recite, and give imitations. Why shouldn't we give a joint exhibition? I venture to say we can charm and astonish the good people of Granville, and gather in golden shekels for ourselves."
"But what am I to do?"
"Listen. You are the world-renowned Dean Dunham, the champion player on the harmonica, who have charmed tens of thousands, and whose name is a household word from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Do you understand?"
"I shall begin to think I am a humbug."
"So be it! Humbug makes money and rides at ease, while modest merit goes barefoot and tramps over dusty roads."