7682. Did you apply to them for leave to carry on a more extensive business in the way of a shop?-No; I did not apply for anything more than what I got.
7683. What was it you went to see them about?-I went to ask for liberty to cure fish, and keep a small store.
7684. When did you do so?-About November 1869.
7685. Was that shortly after you left Mr. Anderson's employment?-No; it was before.
7686. Did they grant you that permission?-Yes; latterly it was granted.
7687. But it was not granted to you at first?-No.
7688. For what reason?-I don't know for what reason.
7689. Did they not assign a reason for not granting you that permission?-Yes. I think they said it was too near Hillswick.
7690. What was the meaning of that?-That the starting of another business there might reduce the value of Hillswick, and therefore it would not pay such a rent.
7691. Did you understand from that, that in granting Mr. Anderson a lease of the premises at Hillswick, they had become bound not to allow any other shops to be opened in the district?-No; they did not say anything like that.