Page:Sarah Sheppard - L. E. L.pdf/127

 sense of how little consequence his speculative opinions could possibly be, rushed across him, and he held his papers with a hesitating grasp. Curl's quick eye caught the struggle, which yet he affected not to notice.

"'I must have the pamphlet by the day after to morrow,' said he; 'and to show that I have good hope of its success, here—here are ten guineas for you,' and he counted the money out upon the table.

"There was something in the ring of the coin that jarred upon Walter's ear; he was ashamed of being paid,—a false shame, and yet how natural to one both proud and sensitive!

"'Time enough,' said he, colouring, 'to pay me when my work is done.'

"'No, no,' said Curl, 'it will encourage you as a beginner. You young ones are so eager to see your selves in print.'

"'In print!'—there was a charm in that phrase which decided Walter. He took up his papers, and assured Curl that he should have sentiment and sarcasm enough by the following night.

"'Good Lord!' cried the astonished publisher; 'you are a young hand at your work. Why, you are walking off, and have left your money behind you!' ****

"Walter again pursued his way, but in a very mixed reverie; sometimes writhing under an idea of degradation in thus making a trade of his talents; and then again somewhat consoled by the pride of art; for how many felicitous and stinging epigrams arose in his mind!

"Lost in meditated satire, he arrived at the shop of Mr. Lintot. ****

"His welcome to his visitor was more than friendly,—it was paternal, as he asked so anxiously how the air of London agreed with him.