The Dynamiter

Come, is it a bargain? Will you, indeed, both promise to welcome every chance that offers, to plunge boldly into every opening, and, keeping the eye wary and the head composed, to study and piece together all that happens? Come, promise: let me open to you the doors of the great profession of intrigue.'

'It is not much in my way,' said Challoner, 'but, since you make a point of it, amen.'

'I don't mind promising,' said Desborough, 'but nothing will happen to me.'

'O faithless ones!' cried Somerset. 'But at least I have your promises; and Godall, I perceive, is transported with delight.'

'I promise myself at least much pleasure from your various narratives,' said the salesman, with the customary calm polish of his manner.