Tales and Novels — Volume 02: Popular TalesEdgeworth, Maria
General
Tales and Novels — Volume 02: Popular Tales
Edgeworth, Maria
Fiction
This was the first speculation of Marvel’s which succeeded; because
it was the first which had been begun with prudence, and pursued with
steadiness. His information, in the first instance, was good: it came
from a person who had actually tried the experiment, and who had seen
it made by others; and when he was convinced of the fact, he applied
his knowledge at the proper time, boldly extended his experiment, and
succeeded. This success raised him in the opinion even of his enemies.
His friend, Wright, heartily rejoiced at it; but Goodenough sneered,
and said to Wright, “What Marvel has gained this year he’ll lose by some
scheme the next. I dare to say, now, he has some new scheme or another
brewing in his brains at this very moment. Ay--look, here he comes, with
two bits of rags in his hand.--Now for it!”
Marvel came up to them with great eagerness in his looks; and showing
two freshly-dyed patterns of cloth, said, “Which of these two blues is
the brightest?”
“That in your left hand,” said Wright; “it is a beautiful blue.”
“Marvel rubbed his hands with an air of triumph; but restraining his
joy, he addressed himself to Wright in a composed voice.
“My dear Wright, I have many obligations to you; and, if I have any good
fortune, you shall be the first to share it with me. As for you, cousin
Goodenough, I don’t bear malice against you for laughing at me and my
herons’ feathers, and my silver sprigs, and my sheep’s jackets, and my
thistles: shake hands, man; you shall have a share in our scheme, if you
please.”
“I don’t please to have no share at all in none of your schemes, cousin
Marvel: I thank you kindly,” said Goodenough.
“Had not you better hear what it is, before you decide against it?” said
Wright.
Marvel explained himself further: “Some time ago,” said he, “I was with
my father-in-law, who was dyeing some cloth with woad. I observed that
one corner of the cloth was of much brighter blue than any of the rest;
and upon examining what could be the cause of this, I found that the
corner of the cloth had fallen upon the ground, as it was taken out of
the dyeing vat, and had trailed through a mixture of colours, which I
had accidentally spilled on the floor. I carefully recollected of
what this mixture was composed: I found that woad was the principal
ingredient; the other----is a secret. I have repeated my experiments
several times, and I find that they have always succeeded: I was
determined not to speak of my discovery till I was sure of the facts.
Now I’m sure of them, my father-in-law tells me that he and his brother
at York could ensure to me an advantageous sale for as much blue cloth
as I can prepare; and he advised me to take out a patent for the dye.”
Goodenough had not patience to listen any longer, but exclaimed:
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account