Gutenberg Literary Edition #5697

THE DAUGHTER OF HUANG CHOW KERRY'S KID THE PIGTAIL OF HI WING HO THE HOUSE OF GOLDEN JOSS THE MAN WITH THE SHAVEN SKULL THE WHITE HAT TCHERIAPIN THE DANCE OF THE VEILS THE HAND OF THE MANDARIN QUONG THE KEY OF THE TEMPLE OF HEAVEN

In the saloon bar of a public-house, situated only a few hundred yards from the official frontier of Chinatown, two men sat at a small table in a corner, engaged in earnest conversation. They afforded a sharp contrast. One was a thick-set and rather ruffianly looking fellow, not too cleanly in either person or clothing, and, amongst other evidences that at one time he had known the prize ring, possessing a badly broken nose. His companion was dressed with that spruceness which belongs to the successful East End Jew; he was cleanly shaven, of slight build, and alert in manner and address.

Having ordered and paid for two whiskies and sodas, the Jew, raising his glass, nodded to his companion and took a drink. The glitter of a magnificent diamond which he wore seemed to attract the other's attention almost hypnotically.

“Cheerio, Freddy!” said the thick-set man. “Any news?”