“We wouldn’t do for grand opera soloists, but I guess it will be good enough to attract crowds in small country towns,” laughed Andy, as he ground out a lively German waltz.
“Supposing we try the violin and banjo,” suggested Matt, and Andy took up the king of instruments.
But this did not go so well, and it was not long before Andy turned back to the accordion, which, according to his statement, half-played itself. Matt tried the mouth harmonica, and surprised not only Andy, but half a dozen listeners, by the wonderful effects he produced upon the little instrument.
“Good for you!” shouted Andy, as Matt finished a particularly clever selection. “If the auction business fails, you can go on the variety stage.”
“No, thank you,” returned Matt. “I understand enough about it to know that it is little better than a dog’s life. I just as lief stick to what I’m doing, or become a traveling order salesman for some big New York house.”
“Well, I don’t know but what that shows your level-headedness,” returned Andy.
The two slept soundly that night. Matt was up 94 at five o’clock the next morning, and he at once aroused his partner. They had an early breakfast, and then walked around to the stable where the wagon was housed.
While they were hitching up Billy a middle-aged man, rather slouchy in appearance, came shuffling in.
“Are you the two young fellers what’s running this here auction wagon?” he began, addressing Matt.
“We are,” returned the boy. “What do you want?”