“You find it hard to believe your eyes, and well you may!—There, Tuke! I told you you didn't know what you were doing!”
“I always examine the title-page of a book,” answered Richard. “You must allow me to do as I see fit, Mr. Lestrange, or I give up the job.”
“You undertook to work for a year, if required!”
“I did not undertake to receive orders as to my mode of working. I care for books far too much for that. Besides, I have my character to see to! I warn you that if I do not go on with that volume, it will be ruined.”
“You don't consider the money you risk!—That name makes the book worth hundreds at least.”
“It is the greatest of names! Only that name was not written by him who owned it!”
“What do you know about it!” said Lestrange rudely.
“Are you an expert?” asked the curate.
“By no means,” answered Richard; “but I have been a good deal with old books, and my impression is you have got there one of the Ireland forgeries!”
“I believe it to be quite genuine!” said Lestrange.