Читать книгу Великий Гэтсби / The Great Gatsby онлайн

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“What kind are they?” asked Mrs. Wilson.

“All kinds. What kind do you want, lady?”

“I'd like to get one of those police dogs[2]; do you have that kind?”

The man peered into the basket, plunged in his hand and drew one up, by the back of the neck.

“That's no police dog,” said Tom.

“No, it's not exactly a police dog,” said the man with disappointment in his voice. “But look at that coat. Some coat. That's a dog that'll never get cold!”

“I think it's cute,” said Mrs. Wilson enthusiastically. “How much is it?”

“That dog?” He looked at it admiringly. “That dog will cost you ten dollars.”

The puppy settled down into Mrs. Wilson's lap.

“Is it a boy or a girl?” she asked delicately.

“That dog? That dog's a boy.”

“It's a bitch,” said Tom decisively. “Here's your money. Go and buy ten more dogs with it.”

We drove over to Fifth Avenue, very warm and soft on the summer Sunday afternoon.

“Hold on,” I said, “I have to leave you here.”

“No, you don't,” interposed Tom quickly. “Myrtle'll be hurt if you don't come up to the apartment. Won't you, Myrtle?”