The million pound banknote

'Please put on this shirt and this suit for me. It's just right, exactly right. It is not showy, but rich and modest. It was made for a foreign prince - you may know him. His name is His Serene Highness the Hospodar of Halifax. He had to leave the suit with us and order something suitable for a funeral instead. His mother was going to die - but she didn't. That's all right; things can't always happen the way we - that is, the way they - there! The trousers are all right, they fit you perfectly, Sir. Now the waistcoat; aha, right again! And the coat; look at that, now! Perfect - the whole thing! In all my time as a tailor I have never seen something fit so well.'

I said that I was very pleased.

'Quite right, Sir, quite right. I have to say it will do as a temporary suit for you. But wait. When we have measured you, we will make something even better. Come, Tod, take a book and pen; get busy. Length of leg, 32 inches'. And so on. Before I could say a word he had measured me, and was giving orders for me to get dress-suits, morning suits, shirts, and all sorts of clothing.

When I got a chance I said: 'But, my dear Sir, I can't order these things. I don't know when I can pay you unless you give me change for the banknote.'

'Don't know! Weak words, Sir, weak words. For ever - that's right, Sir. I can wait for ever. Tod, rush these things through, and send them to the gentleman's address without wasting time. Let the less important customers wait.'