Alfred de Rosann — page 157: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

(148 | ALFRED DE ROSANN. Citron, E always entertained a particular friendship for you; and had it not been for my advice, your fin- gers could never have touched the little bequest you received at the hands of De Rosann.’’ “ Allow me to return my most sincere thanks,’ said Champignon. ‘“ And, while I think of our ab- sent acquaintance, let me ask after your friend De Rosann.”’ ‘¢ Yes—he was my friend—my intimate friend, as you say. Ileft him in London—enjoying himself— this marasquino is excellent—flirting with the girls —another glass, if you please—and carrying on a fine game—you may fill it up to the brim.” “Tam rejoiced at these good tidings,’’? exclaimed the gastronomer, having recourse a third time to the stone bottle in which the racy liqueur was contained. “Jt was not with the five hundred francs alone that you set up this shop,”’ said Belle-Rose after a pause, during which he savoured the marasquino asif it were the nectar of the gods. ; “Do you not recollect that I had a cousin in St. Malo, to whom I once rendered important pecuniary assistance? I sought his aid and advice, and I found him not only grateful for my bounty towards him, . but also willing to serve me. He lent me three thousand francs—procured me unlimited credit—and assisted me to the utmost of his power.” “You always have a little money in your till, then,’’ said Belle-Rose. “Thank God! my business is inereasing daily,” ate Champignon; “and I have no reason to com- ain. “If Il only had a thousand franes,’ cried Belle- Rose, “I should secure a rapid fortune.’ “Indeed!”’ exclaimed the gastronomer: “ how so??? “By making rat-traps,’’ returned Belle-Rose, af- fecting a serious air. ‘“‘ Rat-traps!’”” ejaculated Champignon, who was >) COPMICLOOKSs(60)