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146 146 THE KING OF SCHNORRERS.

ness. After considerable reluctance Manasseh consented, and set aside a few cravats, shirts, periwigs, and suits from the immense collection.

" Aha ! That is all you can find," said the Beau glee- fully.

" Yes, that is all," said Manasseh sadly. " All I can find that does any justice to your fame. These speak the man of polish and invention ; the rest are but tawdry frippery. Anybody might wear them."

" Anybody ! " gasped the poor Beau, stricken to the soul.

"Yes, I might wear them myself."

" Thank you ! Thank you ! You are an honest man. I love true criticism, when the critic has nothing to gain. I am delighted you called. These rags shall go to my valet."

" Nay, why waste them on the heathen?" asked Manas- seh, struck with a sudden thought. " Let me dispose of them for the benefit of the Synagogue."

" If it would not be troubling you too much ! "

"Is there anything I would not do for Heaven?" said Manasseh with a patronising air. He threw open the door of the adjoining piece suddenly, disclosing the scowling valet on his knees. "Take these down, my man," he said quietly, and the valet was only too glad to hide his confusion at being caught eavesdropping by hastening down to the drive with an armful of satin waistcoats.

Manasseh, getting together the remainder, shook his head despairingly. " I shall never get these into the post- chaise," he said. " You will have to lend me your carriage."

"Can't you come back for them?" said the Beau feebly.

" Why waste the Synagogue's money on hired vehicles? No, if you will crown your kindness by sending the footman along with me to help me unpack them, you shall have your equipage back in an hour or two."