The Priors of Prague (Volume 1) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1836 Excerpt: ... An hour's absence of the worthy man, having given me time to revise my theme, I took care to improve it to the best advantage; and the tea things being laid with a very fair proportion of plate in the shape of tea and coffee pots, cream ewers, toast stands, and so on, the master of the house made his appearance, all redolent of the odours of the horse-stall. He at once desired me to read my performance. This I accordingly did, and most graciously I must say it was received. In truth I could scarcely account for the gleam of pleasure which seemed to twinkle in the reverend gentleman's eyes, as he moved his head every now and then, in approbation of some turned period, or carefully weighed sentence. Having finished die perusal of the manuscript, he took it from my hand, and giving it an attentive examination, said, "Sir, that is not bad; though if any thing a little too florid." After this piece of criticism, he relapsed into silence, and continued rubbing his forehead for some minutes. He then added, " Yes, you will do, sir--you will have to write two such discourses every week, besides a few other matters--such as the clerical correspondence of the living, to which is annexed the rural deanery of this district. As my parish is large, and duties very laborious, 1 cannot devote as much time to some pursuits as I could wish; if therefore your exercises are got up as they ought to be, I may occasionally reward, your labours by the gratification of allowing you to hear them delivered to my flock. In such a situation as yours, I need not enlarge upon the virtue of prudence--you may now retire. You will find that my domestics enjoy a very comfortable board; and I sincerely hope, for your sake, that you will be able to discharge your duties properly." For some mome...