"
"They have already suffered in that way on one or two occasions,"
replied Lin Yi; "so that such a proposal, no matter how nobly
intended, would not gladden their faces. Yet they are simple and
docile persons, and would, without doubt, be moved to any feeling you
should desire by the recital of one of your illustrious stories."
"An intelligent and discriminating assemblage is more to a story-
teller than much reward of cash from hands that conceal open mouths,"
replied Kai Lung with great feeling. "Nothing would confer more
pleasurable agitation upon this unworthy person than an opportunity of
narrating his entire stock to them. If also the accomplished Lin Yi
would bestow renown upon the occasion by his presence, no omen of good
would be wanting."
"The pleasures of the city lie far behind me," said Lin Yi, after some
thought, "and I would cheerfully submit myself to an intellectual
accomplishment such as you are undoubtedly capable of. But as we have
necessity to leave this spot before the hour when the oak-leaves
change into night-moths, one of your amiable stories will be the
utmost we can strengthen our intellects with.
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