The Convert - Deep Waters, Part 5. by W. W. Jacobs
page 18 of 18 (100%)
page 18 of 18 (100%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
absolutely correct attitude, stood waiting for him. Mr. Billing in a
glow of delight edged forward, and, with a few other fortunates, stood by watching one of the best fights that had ever been seen in the district. Mr. Purnip's foot-work was excellent, and the way he timed his blows made Mr. Billing's eyes moist with admiration. It was over at last. The aggressor went limping off, and Mr. Purnip, wiping his bald head, picked up his battered and dusty hat from the roadway and brushed it on his sleeve. He turned with a start and a blush to meet the delighted gaze of Mr. Billing. "I'm ashamed of myself," he murmured, brokenly--"ashamed." "Ashamed !" exclaimed the amazed Mr. Billing. "Why, a pro couldn't ha' done better." "Such an awful example," moaned the other. "All my good work here thrown away." "Don't you believe it, sir," said Mr. Billing, earnestly. "As soon as this gets about you'll get more members than you want a'most. I'm coming back, for one." Mr. Purnip turned and grasped his hand. "I understand things now," said Mr. Billing, nodding sagely. "Turning the other cheek's all right so long as you don't do it always. If you don't let 'em know whether you are going to turn the other cheek or knock their blessed heads off, it's all right. 'Arf the trouble in the world is caused by letting people know too much." |
|