human
Madam, said he, in a low voice of much satisfaction,
gpt
I bring good news. I have covenanted with Mr Leigh, who has most nobly granted me, at my request, a rare favour unto a 'prentice--leave to come home when the shop is closed, and to lie here, so long as I am every morrow at my work by six of the clock. I can yet do many little things that may save you pain and toil, and I shall hear every even of your welfare.
human
My dear lad, God bless thee!
gpt
Master Floriszoon, silkman, at the Black Boy in Holborn! cried he, laughingly.
human
Pray you, my worthy Master, how much is the best velvet by the yard? and is green stamyn now in fashion? Whereto cometh galowne lace the ounce? Let us hear thee cry, `What do you lack?' that we, may see if thou hast the true tone. Hans Floriszoon, I thought thou hadst more of the feeling of a gentleman in thee.
gpt
Can a gentleman not measure velvet? and what harm shall it work him to know the cost of it?
human
That is a quibble, answered Aubrey, loftily.
gpt
For any gentleman to soil his fingers with craft is a blot on his escocheon, and that you know as well as I.
human
For any man, gentle or simple, to soil his fingers with sin, or his tongue with falsehood, is a foul blot on his escocheon,
gpt
What mean you?
human
I did but respond to your words. Be mine other than truth?
gpt
Be not scurrilous, boy!
human
Hans, I am astonished at you! said Faith.
gpt
I know not how it is, but since we came to London, you are for ever picking quarrels with Aubrey, and seeking occasion against him. Are you envious of his better fortune, or what is it moves you?
human
I am sorry to have vexed you, Mrs Louvaine. If I know myself, I do not envy Aubrey at all; and indeed I desire to pick no quarrel with any man, and him least of any.
gpt
Forgive me, if I said aught I should not.