He may not be here today." "I am sorry, as I have some important business with him." "What is your important business ?" demanded the clerk, in an authoritative manner.

"Perhaps I can attend to it." "I am the young American sailor, who met with an accident on board the ship Packet, and was sent to the Infirmary.

I have recently been discharged, and am in want of some articles of clothing, and particularly a pair of shoes.

I also want to know if the consul has taken steps towards procuring me a passage to Boston" "Very IMPORTANT business, truly!" replied the Englishman, with a sneer.
"How does it happen that you are so poorly off for clothing ?" I explained the circumstances connected with the robbery of my chest by my shipmates.
"A likely story!" he exclaimed.

"As to giving you a pair of shoes, my fine fellow, that is out of the question.