ut from his fob a sheet as
big as a double Times, only there was a different STAMP in the corner.

It is useless and tedious to describe law documents: lawyers only love
to read them; and they have as good in Chitty as any that are to be
found in the Devil's own; so nobly have the apprentices emulated the
skill of the master. Suffice it to say, that poor Gambouge read over the
paper, and signed it. He was to have all he wished for seven years,
and at the end of that time was to become the property of the -----;
PROVIDED that, during the course of the seven years, every single wish
which he might form should be gratified by the other of the contracting
parties; otherwise the deed became null and non-avenue, and Gambouge
should be left "to go to the ----- his own way."

"You will never see me again," said Diabolus, in shaking hands with poor
Simon, on whose fingers he left such a mark as is to be seen at this
day--"never, at least, unless you want me; for everything you ask will
be performed in the most quiet and every-day manner: believe me, it is
best and most gentlemanlike, and avoids anything like scandal. But if
you set me about anything which is extraordinary, and out of the course
of nature, as it were, come I must, you know; and of this you are
the best judge." So saying, Diabolus disappeared; but whether up the
chimney, through the keyhole, or by any other aperture or contrivance,
nobody knows. Simon Gambouge was left in a fever of delight, as, heaven
forgive me! I believe many a worthy man would be, if he were allowed an
opportunity to make a similar bargain.

"Heigho!" said Simon. "I wonder whether this be a reality or a dream.--I
am sober, I know; for who will give me credit for the means to be drunk?
and as for sleeping, I'm too hungry for that. I wish I could see a capon
and a bottle of white wine."

"MONSIEUR SIMON!" cried a voice on the landing-place.

"C'est ici," quoth Gambouge, hastening to open the door. He did so; and
lo! there was a restaurateur's boy at the door, supporting a tray,
a tin-covered dish, and plates on the same; and, by its side, a tall
amber-colored flask of Sauterne.

"I am the new boy, sir," exclaimed this youth, on entering; "but I
believe this is the right door, and you asked for these things."

Simon grinned, and said, "Certainly, I did ASK FOR these things." But
such was the effect which his interview with the demon had had on his
innocent mind, that he took them, although