Section 91. A CURIOUS INSTRUMENT. IV.
Reading edition
Father. “These instruments are not so uncommon as you suppose; I myself happen to know several individuals[1] who[2] are possessed of one or two of[3] them.”
Charles. “How large are they, father? Could I hold one in my hand?”
Father. “Indeed[9] I must. I intend every night to envelop[10] it in[11] the light curtain I mentioned; it must, besides, occasionally be washed in[12] a certain colourless liquid kept[13] for the purpose; but this is such a delicate[14] operation, that[15] persons, I find, are generally reluctant to perform it. But notwithstanding the tenderness[16] of this instrument, you[17] will be surprised to hear that[18] it may be darted to a great distance, without[19] suffering the least injury, and without any danger of losing it.”