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51 THE KING OF SCHNORRERS. 51

or a young man it is from no surface knowledge. I have seen them in the intimacy of their homes — above all I am able to say whether they are of a good, charitable disposition. Good Sabbath ! "

" Good Sabbath," murmured the host and hostess in fare- well. Mrs. Grobstock thought he need not be above shak- ing hands, for all his grand acquaintances.

"This way, Yankele," said Manasseh, showing him to the door. " I am so glad you were able to come — you must come again."

CHAPTER III.

SHOWING HOW HIS MAJESTY WENT TO THE THEATRE AND

WAS WOOED.

As Manasseh the Great, first beggar in Europe, sauntered across Goodman's Fields, attended by his Polish parasite, both serenely digesting the supper provided by the Treas- urer of the Great Synagogue, Joseph Grobstock, a mar- tial music clove suddenly the quiet evening air, and set the Schnorrers' pulses bounding. From the Tenterground emerged a squad of recruits, picturesque in white fatigue dress, against which the mounted officers showed gallant in blue surtouts and scarlet-striped trousers.

" Ah ! " said da Costa, with swelling breast. " There go my soldiers ! "

Your soldiers ! " ejaculated Yankele in astonishment. Yes — do you not see they are returning to the India House in Leadenhall Street?"

"And vat of dat? " said Yankele, shrugging his shoulders and spreading out his palms.

" What of that? Surely you have not forgotten that the