"Now hurry it, and I'll double the price you ask if you get there and do the work I am asking of you."
The painter needed no further inducement. Once again money made its announcement in unmistakable tones.
Phil again started off on a run. Reaching the Ward Building he found his banner men and lithographers gathering. A few moments after his arrival the livery wagon with the paste, brushes and paper, came dashing up with Henry, the porter, standing guard over it. Teddy had thoughtfully turned out all the available men in the livery stable and came charging down the street, driving them before him, howling at every jump. That is, Teddy was howling; as he did whenever the occasion presented itself.
By this time quite a crowd had been attracted to the scene, not understanding what all the excitement was about. None of the rival posters had appeared as yet. Phil had got a very good start.
Telling off three of his banner men he sent them to the roof, while the painter was preparing to swing his scaffold.
"I am afraid I shall have to block your store for a short time, Mr. Storekeeper," said Phil, entering the store. "Our friend is going to try to take the place by storm, I think, and we shall have to stand him off."
"He had better not try it," growled the proprietor.
"He will, just the same. But, with your permission, he will not get upstairs to the roof while I am here."
"Do whatever you like. I've got his money, but it's here for him when he wants it."
Phil, having arranged with the proprietor, went out and gave his final instructions to his men.