"'Oh, most distinguished and expert persons,' he exclaimed
breathlessly, as soon as he was within hearing distance, 'do not
trouble to give so marvellous an exhibition for the benefit of this
unworthy individual, who is the only observer of your illustrious
dexterity! Indeed, your honourable condescension so fills this
illiterate person with shame that his hearing is thereby
preternaturally sharpened, and he can plainly distinguish many voices
from beyond the Hoang Ho, crying for the Heaven-sent representative of
the degraded Ti Hung to bring them more idols. Bend, therefore, your
refined footsteps in the direction of Poo Chow, O Li Ting, and leave
me to make myself objectionable to this exceptional young man with my
intolerable commonplaces.'
"'The shadow falls in such a direction as the sun wills,' said Li
Ting, as he replaced his sword and departed.
"'Yung Chang,' said the merchant, 'I am informed that you have made a
discovery that would be of great value to me, as it undoubtedly would
if it is all that you say. Let us discuss the matter without ceremony.
Can you prove to me that your system possesses the merit you claim for
it? If so, then the matter of arrangement will be easy.
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