THE KING OF SCHNORRERS.
131
in the strange traditional recitative. The wave of curiosity mounted again, higher than before.
"Who vows—"
The wave hung an instant, poised and motionless.
"Cinco livras!"
The wave broke in a low murmur, amid which the Master
"'I didn't catch.'"
imperturbably proceeded, "For oil—for the life of his daughter Deborah, &c." When he reached the end there was a poignant silence.
Was it to be da capo again?
"May He who blessed our fathers!"
The wave of curiosity surged once more, rising and subsiding with this ebb and flow of financial Benediction.
" Who vows—cinco livras—tor the wax candles."
