[The Monikins by J. Fenimore Cooper]@TWC D-Link bookThe Monikins CHAPTER III 10/16
Anna herself looked earnestly at her governess, and I saw a flush mantle over her sweet face that reminded me of the ruddiness of morn.
Her soft eyes then fell to the floor, and it was some time before she spoke. The next day I was arranging some fishing-tackle under a window of the library, where my person was concealed by the shrubbery, when I heard the melodious voice of Anna wishing the rector good morning.
My heart beat quicker as she approached the casement, tenderly inquiring of her parent how he had passed the night.
The answers were as affectionate as the questions, and then there was a little pause. "What is a stock-jobber, father ?" suddenly resumed Anna, whom I heard rustling the leaves above my head. "A stock-jobber, my dear, is one who buys and sells in the public funds, with a view to profit." "And is it thought a PARTICULARLY disgraceful employment ?" "Why, that depends on circumstances.
On 'Change it seems to be well enough--among merchants and bankers there is some odium attached to it, I believe." "And can you say why, father ?" "I believe," said Dr.Etherington, laughing, "for no other reason than that it is an uncertain calling--one that is liable to sudden reverses--what is termed gambling--and whatever renders property insecure is sure to obtain odium among those whose principal concern is its accumulation; those who consider the responsibility of others of essential importance to themselves." "But is it a dishonest pursuit, father ?" "As the times go, not necessarily, my dear; though it may readily become so." "And is it disreputable, generally, with the world ?" "That depends on circumstances, Anna.
<<Back Index Next>> D-Link book Top TWC mobile books
|