When I see you settle down to this big book, then I let go.

No '_manana_' with me, boy; right here and now you're going to give me an exhibition of rapid penmanship.

Savey?
Take up your pen; that's the stuff.

Now dip deep in the ink and draw a full breath and go to it." Bryant released his hold on the cowed clerk, but remained by his side, where his presence exerted an amazingly energizing effect upon the scribe.

The pen scratched industriously to and fro across the page, over which the youth humped himself as if enamoured of the tome, only at intervals risking a glance at the lean-faced, vigilant American.
When he had finished the transcription, stamped the deed and closed the book, Bryant handed him the amount of the fee.
"Thank you," the clerk said, with an excess of politeness.
He was still nervous.