“One thousand dollars,” spluttered his opponent, while the company was lost in wonderment. No further word came from Mr. Bang.
“Any advance on one thousand dollars?” questioned the auctioneer. There was a silence as if of the tomb.
“Sold,” called the auctioneer.
“Come and have some supper, all of you, and I’ll invite Fraser.”
Mr. Fraser was gathered in and Mr. Bang marshalled us all towards the dining-room.
“Will you tell me what in the name of goodness you mean, by offering nine hundred dollars for a picture, not much better than I could do myself?” demanded Mumsie.
“Now Auntie! do give me credit for a little sense—common sense—and sense of humour! I had no intention of buying the thing.”
“What did you bid for then?”
“Don’t you know who that was I was bidding against?” Mr. Bang in turn demanded.
“Your nephew was bidding against Dapper Dicky,” explained Mr. Fraser, in matter of fact tones.