He gave her a look, half in remonstrance, half in approval, and went on:
'I suppose you know, David, that I am not rich. At any rate, you know it now. You have received some considerable education already. Education is costly; and even if it were not, and I could afford it, I am of opinion that it would not be at all advantageous to you to be kept at school. What is before you, is a fight with the world; and the sooner you begin it, the better.'
I think it occurred to me that I had already begun it, in my poor way: but it occurs to me now, whether or no.
'You have heard the "counting-house" mentioned sometimes,' said Mr. Murdstone.
'The counting-house, sir?' I repeated. 'Of Murdstone and Grinby, in the wine trade,' he replied.
I suppose I looked uncertain, for he went on hastily:
'You have heard the "counting-house" mentioned, or the business, or the cellars, or the wharf, or something about it.'
'I think I have heard the business mentioned, sir,' I said, remembering what I vaguely knew of his and his sister's resources. 'But I don't know when.'
