"Hi'll 'ave one myself," said Mr. Punch.
"After due consideration," said the Churchwarden, "I think I will buy one also."
Mr. Hanlon nodded a vigorous assent.
The two Old Codgers, however, were firm in their refusal. They could not be persuaded. They retired from the enterprise then and there.
Under the conduct of the young man, the two Old Codgers left the room, and returned to the Committee who were waiting with the mules outside; and with them went Toby and Mr. Punch and Mr. Hanlon, to bring back that portion of the treasure which was to pay for the six hour-glasses.
This was a work of much difficulty, and occupied a great deal of time. While it was going on, the Rug-Merchant, having first asked permission, reclined again on the divan and resumed his pipe, while Aunt Amanda, Freddie, and the Churchwarden seated themselves, at his invitation, and watched him in silence.
The treasure was at length piled, complete, in a corner of the room. Toby, Mr. Punch, and Mr. Hanlon
returned for the last time, and without the great-great-grandson of the Rug-Merchant.
"The others will wait outside for an hour," said Toby. "If we don't come back by that time, they'll go on into the city without us."
Shiraz the Rug-Merchant laid down the stem of his pipe, and rising bowed to Aunt Amanda with great deference.