"What!" exclaimed the clerk.

"A book," repeated the grocery-man, "about earls."

"I'm afraid," exclaimed the clerk, looking rather queer, "that wehaven't what you want."

"Haven't?" exclaimed Mr. Hobbs, anxiously. "Well, say markisesthen--or dooks."

"I know of no such book," answered the clerk.

Mr. Hobbs was much disturbed. He looked down on the floor,--thenhe looked up.