This was Mrs. Topman's new "turnout," which she had recently set up in
opposition to one indulged in by a circumspect and very aristocratic
neighbor. Topman alighted from the carriage, received and returned the
bows of several persons on the sidewalk, and soon came hurrying into the
counting-room, where he was received with great respect by the combined
dignity of the firm.
"Madam," said Mr. Gusher, again addressing the little woman, "allow me
to have ze pleazure as I shall present to you zis gentleman." Here Mr.
Gusher introduced Topman, his partner, and gave him a short account of
the business she was on.
"Why, my dear, good lady!" said Topman, grasping her hand with a freedom
indicating that they had been old friends. "Your husband and me--why, we
were old friends. If there is any man in the world I respect and admire,
that man is Captain Price Bottom. If there is any man living I would
rather make a fortune for than do anything else, that man is Captain
Price Bottom. Yes, madam, not many years ago I used to swear by Captain
Price Bottom; and if Captain Price Bottom was here to-day, I will
venture to assert, on the word of a gentleman, there is no man who would
sooner swear by your humble servant--"
"I am so real glad! My husband made friends wherever he went,"
interrupted the little woman.
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