It would have been a serious matter for Fischelowitz to lose the work of Dumnoff in his "celebrated manufactory" for any length of time together, since it was all he could do to meet the increasing demands for his wares with his present staff of workers.
"And how did you spend the night, Count ?" he inquired as they walked quickly down the street together.

Dumnoff had made off in the opposite direction, in search of breakfast, after which he intended to go directly to the shop, as though nothing had happened.
"I spent it very pleasantly, thank you," answered the Count.

"The fact is that, with such an interesting day before me, I should not have slept if I had been at home.

I have so much to think of, as you may imagine, and so many preparations to make, that the time cannot seem long with me." "I am glad of that," said Fischelowitz, serenely.

"I suppose we shall not see you to-day ?" "Hardly--hardly," replied the Count, as though considering whether his engagements would allow him to look in at the shop.