They would begin to
poke their noses into my private affairs, and discover who I really was;
they might arrest me for false pretences; and so, with elevated head, the
carriage of a millionaire, and hands thrust under my coat-tails, I stride
out of the guard-house.
The sun shone warmly, early as it was. It was ten o'clock, and the traffic
in Young's Market was in full swing. Which way should I take? I slapped my
pockets and felt for my manuscript. At eleven I would try and see the
editor. I stand a while on the balustrade, and watch the bustle under me.
Meanwhile, my clothes commenced to steam. Hunger put in its appearance
afresh, gnawed at my breast, clutched me, and gave small, sharp stabs that
caused me pain.
Had I not a friend--an acquaintance whom I could apply to? I ransack my
memory to find a man good for a penny piece, and fail to find him.
Well, it was a lovely day, anyway! Sunlight bright and warm surrounded me.
The sky stretched away like a beautiful sea over the Lier mountains.
Without knowing it, I was on my way home. I hungered sorely. I found a
chip of wood in the street to chew--that helped a bit. To think that I
hadn't thought of that sooner! The door was open; the stable-boy bade me
good-morning as usual.
"Fine weather," said he.
"Yes," I replied. That was all I found to say. Could I ask for the loan of
a shilling? He would be sure to lend it willingly if he could; besides
that, I had written a letter for him once.
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