But they were very much disappointed in their malice, for this same
Jack went sturdily to work and trod in his father's steps, so that
his wealth increased even beyond what he had inherited, and he had at
last more risks upon the sea in one way and another than any other
merchant in the City. And if you would know how Jack (who was, to
tell the truth, more flighty and ill-informed than his father) came to
go so wisely, it was thus: Old John had left him a few directions writ
up in pencil on the mantelpiece, which ran in this way:---
1. Never go into an adventure unless the feeling of your neighbours
be with you.
2. Spend no more than you earn--nay, put by every year.
3. Put out no money for show in your business but only for use, save
only on the occasion of the Lord Mayor's Show, your taking of an
office, or on the occasion of public holidays, as, when the King's
wife or daughter lies in.
4. Live and let live, for be sure your business can only thrive on
the condition that others do also.
5. Vex no man at your door; buy and sell freely.
6. Do not associate with Drunkards, Brawlers and Poets; and God's
blessing be with you.
Now when Jack was grown to about thirty years old, he came, most
unfortunately, upon a certain Sir John Snipe, Bart.
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