Page:Storys of the three beggars (1).pdf/5

 purse) they desired that they might be served quickly and well.

Nicholas (for that was the name of the landlord) being used sometimes to see persons of their vocation spend more than such as appear to be much more in affluent circumstances, received them respectfully. He showed them into his best dining-room; begged they would be seated, and order what they liked best; assuring them that there was nothing in Compiegne but what he could set before them, and in a style that would give them perfect satisfaction.

They desired that plenty of good things might be got ready; and, instantly, master, waiter, maid, all in the house set about it. A neighbour was even sent for to assist.

At length, by virtue of several hands and good speed, they contrived to serve up a good dinner of five dishes; and immediately the beggars sat down to it, laughing, singing, drinking to each other, and diverting themselves with clumsy jokes on the simple traveller who was at the expence of the feast.

He had followed them with his valet to the inn, and was within hearing of the merriment.—He even resolved, that he might not lose any part of it, to dine and sup in a snug manner with the landlord. The beggars all this while occupied the best room,