We managed to do this, by means of two hooks that were slung from a beam above us, in a manner to satisfy me that the ladder was sufficient to bear double my weight, and then, as if content with this, I flung it aside.
'Will not monsieur take it?' asked the man; 'it is cheap.'
'It is good enough,' I answered, 'if I had a business on hand, but at present I am waiting.'
'If monsieur has leisure I might be able to give him a hint that would be worth something in crowns.'
'I am lazy when in luck, compère. No, I will not take the ladder.'
'It may come in useful, though, and will occupy but a small space in monsieur's room'—and seeing that I appeared to waver—'shall I take it up, I will let it go for ten crowns?'
'Five crowns or nothing,' I said firmly. 'But it is of the finest silk!'
'I do not want to buy—you can take my price or leave it.'
'Very well then, monsieur, thanks, and I will take it up myself.'
'You need not trouble, I am going up and will take it with me.'