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up his mind to part with. In all conscience it was enough. If he had
given more, he would have lost. He had taken the trouble of finding out
a lord; and having sunk the shaft, it was but fair that the first
proceeds of the mine should belong to him. Those who see meanness in the
act are right, but they would be wrong to feel astonished. Barkilphedro
loved money, especially money which was stolen. An envious man is an
avaricious one. Barkilphedro was not without his faults. The commission
of crimes does not preclude the possession of vices. Tigers have their
lice.
Besides, he belonged to the school of Bacon.
Barkilphedro turned towards the justice of the quorum, and said to
him,--
"Sir, be so good as to conclude this matter. I am in haste. A carriage
and horses belonging to her Majesty await me. I must go full gallop to
Windsor, for I must be there within two hours' time. I have intelligence
to give, and orders to take."
The justice of the quorum arose.
He went to the door, which was only latched, opened it, and, looking
silently towards the police, beckoned to them authoritatively. They
entered with that silence which heralds severity of action.
Master Nicless, satisfied with the rapid dénouement which cut short
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