Mr. Ashby was taken over to the little bureau which had been used for a catch-all for years. Its drawers were over-flowing with rags and garden-tools, but nothing could hide the true lines of a genuine Sheraton piece.
“Well I never! To think such a gem should be so treated!” murmured Mr. Ashby.
The others laughed delightedly at his amazement. But the owner now joined them again, and Mr. Fabian began bargaining.
“Are you satisfied with the prices paid you for the old china?” asked he, as an introduction to further dealing.
“Oh my! Us begin to see that wool carpet,” laughed she.
“Would you sell this old table and bureau?” continued he.
“Them! I should say so!” retorted she, emphatically.
Instantly a price was offered and eagerly accepted between the two, and the table and bureau became the property of Polly and Eleanor. As Mr. Ashby said: “The basis of your business-to-come.”
Dodo had found some old brass candlesticks and a china group that proved to be old Dresden. These she hugged tightly as they all left the cottage followed by the blessings of the woman.
“My goodness! see what’s coming?” laughed Jimmy, as he watched the five collectors file down the pathway, each one loaded with china.