The baboo looked at his customers anxiously for a moment. “For sixteen rupees you take it,” he said.
“Don’t want it,” responded Mr. Browne.
“Alright—for fifteen?”
“Will you give him fifteen, Helen?”
“Certainly not, dear! Fourteen.”
“Fifteen the sahib say he give!” cried the baboo, his beard wagging with righteous reproach. “Take it for fifteen!” But Mr. and Mrs. Browne had made their way out. The baboo followed reminding and entreating for a hundred yards. They were deaf. Then he wheeled round upon them in front. “Very well, you give me fourteen?” The Brownes went back and left their address, which was weak in them, I consider; but I have no doubt that to this day that bearded baboo considers himself an injured person, and the victim of a most disastrous bandobust.[[20]]
[20]. Bargain.