Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 22, Number 87, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 19 July 1901 — The Odd Shillings. [ARTICLE]

The Odd Shillings.

There is very little difference between a pound and a guinea; only a shilling, and yet a keen business mau insists that the shilling shall be considered. After Thackeray’s series of lectures on the “Four Georges” had been delivered in London, Wlllert Beale says that he called upon the novelist, In Onslow square, with a check for two hundred and fifty pounds. “What’s this, W. B.V” cried Thackeray, reading the check. "Pounds? Our agreement says guineas, and guineas it must be.” “You are aware that the lectures so far have involved very heavy losses,” said Beale, apologetically. “That’s not my affair,” said Thackeray. “I don't know what occult means you have to protect yourself from loss. Guineas, W. B.! Guineas it must be, and nothing less. I must have the shillings.” And the shillings were sent him immediately.