Page:The fortunes of Fifi (IA fortunesoffifi00seawiala).pdf/161

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fertile mind suggested an expedient even better than the mere purchase of a single monkey. She stopped at one of those movable booths, wherein sat a man who did writing for those unable to write as well as they wished, or unable to write at all. The booth was plastered over with advertisements of articles for sale, but naturally no monkeys were offered.

The man in the booth, a bright-eyed cripple, looked up when Fifi tapped on the glass of the little open window.

"Monsieur," said Fifi, sweetly, "if you please, I am very anxious for a monkey—a dear little monkey, for a pet; but I do not know where to find one, and my family will not assist me in finding one. If I should pay you, say five francs, would you write an advertisement for a monkey, and let it be pasted with the other advertisements on your booth?"

"Ten francs," responded the man.

Fifi laid the ten francs down.

"Now, write in very large letters: 'Wanted—A monkey, for a lady's pet; must be well trained, and not malicious. Apply at No. 14 Rue de