I took up again my knitting work which I had commenced on the seas. Nothing could be more decent to fill up my leisure in the store.
My little neck fell, as I was intent on my stocking.
Some one spoke above my head: “How is business?”
“So, so!” I replied in businesslike reserve.
I lifted my face.
Oya, he was Mr. Consul.
“Will you sell me a cigar?”
“Things are becoming awfully high. Mine is a distinctly dear store. Do you know it, Mr. Consul?”
“I’m prepared to pay more at the beautiful girl’s,” he began to titter.
“General Arthur cigar has leaped one dollar higher since Monday, and——”