Charles Dickens


The Lamplighter


'Tom turns pale when he hears the old gentleman expressing himself to this unpleasant effect, and stammers out that if it's quite agreeable to all parties, he would like to know exactly what has happened, and what change has really taken place in the prospects of that company.


'"We have failed for the present, Mr. Grig," says the old gentleman, wiping his forehead. "And I regret it the more, because I have in fact invested my niece's five thousand pounds in this glorious speculation. But don't be cast down," he says, anxiously - "in another fifteen years, Mr. Grig - "


"Oh!" cries Tom, letting the young lady's hand fall. "Were the stars very positive about this union, Sir?"


'"They were," says the old gentleman. '"I'm sorry to hear it," Tom makes answer, "for it's no go, Sir." '"No what!" cries the old gentleman. 35


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