“A shed like that’s no use to me.”

“It cost me about twenty-five pounds, with the stove and fittings, and it is only a few months old. It is made to take to pieces. Shall I sell it, or will you? I was thinking that it might be worth your while.”

Mrs. Buss discovered glimmerings of reason. An incipient, sly smile glided round her mouth.

“Oh, I see! You think I could drive a better bargain?”

“I do.”

The middle-class nature was flattered.

“You’ll be owing me about four pounds ten. And we might get twelve or thirteen pounds for the studio.”

It was studio now, not shed.

“Yes. I shall pay your bill, and give you a fifteen per cent. commission on the sale. Do you know anyone who might buy it?”

“I’m not so sure, miss, that I don’t.”