purchase it for ninety per cent.; in other words, for thirty-six
thousand dollars. Certainly, it was a pity that the property lay in
another province, where agriculturists had many primitive peculiarities.
But it was only six miles from the frontier--the neighboring town was on
the high road--the estate was princely. In short, the drawbacks were so
small, and the advantages so great, that Pinkus never could have made up
his mind to let a stranger purchase it, had he not been such an example
of human perfection as the baron.

The baron received the compliment in a dignified manner, and before his
departure Pinkus laid down a heavy roll of parchment, that the question
of the security might be carefully investigated.

Early the next morning the baron took the deeds to his man of business,
and himself ascended the dirty staircase that led to the white door of
Ehrenthal, who was overjoyed to hear of his visit--dressed himself with
the utmost rapidity, and insisted upon the baron doing him the infinite
honor of breakfasting with him. The baron was not cruel enough to
refuse, and accordingly he was ushered into the state apartment, where
the contrast between splendor and shabbiness amused him not a little, as
did also that between the gorgeous attire of the beautiful Rosalie, and
the sneaking, crouching manner of her father.

During breakfast the baron asked Ehrenthal whether he happened to know a
Mr. Pinkus.

At this business-like inquiry Rosalie vanished, and her father sat bolt
upright. "Yes, I do know him," said he; "he is in a very small way, but
I believe him an upright man. He is in a very small way, and all his
business is with Poland."

"Have you mentioned to him my wish to buy a mortgage?"

"How should I have thought of mentioning it to him? If he has offered
you a mortgage, he must have heard of it from another dealer, of whom I
did make inquiries. But Pinkus is in a small way; how can he procure a
mortgage for you?" And Ehrenthal indicated by a gesture how small Pinkus
was, and by a look upward how immeasurably great his guest.

The baron then told him all particulars, and asked about the property
and circumstances of the count.

Ehrenthal knew nothing; but he bethought himself that there was then in
town a respectable tradesman from that very district, and promised to
have him sent to the baron, who soon after took his leave, Ehrenthal
accompanying him down stairs, and saying, "Be cautious about the
mortg