THE COMPLIMENT OF COIN.
(An Extract from Mr. Punch's Purely Imaginary Conversations.)
Scene—Interior of a Palace. Emperor and Empress discovered discussing the former's tour in foreign parts.
Emperor (finishing a good story). So after I had made a hearty meal off the bread-and-milk, I gave the old woman a note for five thousand thalers, and told her to buy a three-sous portrait of myself so that she might see the Sovereign that she had saved from starvation. Ha! ha! ha! Wasn't it amusing?
Empress (smiling). Very, dear; but wasn't it a little expensive? Surely you could have got the bread-and-milk for a smaller sum?
Emperor. Of course I could! But then, don't you see, it made me popular. It's in all the papers, and reads splendidly!
Empress. Yes, of course, dear. By the way, I found this volume (producing book bound in velvet with real gold clasps) in your overcoat. May I peep into it?
Emperor (doubtfully). I don't think you will find it particularly interesting. I have just jotted down my petty cash disbursements.
Empress (opening book and glancing at contents). Dear me! Why the total amounts to £15,000! I see it's put in English money.