The merchant debated, removing his skullcap, smoothing his grizzled fringe of curls, fitting the cap on again deliberately.

Then he turned to survey the bird, seemingly with an interest newly wakened.

It was indeed a beautiful bird, brilliantly blue, with sparkling eyes; a bit dusty, but rarely desirable.

The owner had not meant to part with it; still, trade was trade.

He meditated, tapping his cheek with a pencil.
"How much for that beautiful bird for my father ?" He had swallowed strenuously and this time got out the words cleanly.
"Well, now, I don't hardly know.