“Come,” said Mead to his old comrade; “many days have passed since I gave thee an invitation to my abode; but as I have not since then been a free agent, I could not have received thee as I desired.”
Chapter Five.
Wenlock Christison and his son proceeded up Cornhill a short time after the events which have been described. They were examining the various signs over the shop doors, in search of that which distinguished Master Mead’s abode.
“Ah! there it is,” said Wenlock; “that must be the ‘Spinning Wheel’ he told us of.”
A demure youth with well-brushed hair was standing at the door, in courteous language inviting passers-by to enter and inspect his master’s goods.
“Is this Master Mead’s abode, young man?” inquired Captain Christison.
“Verily, friend, it is,” answered the shopman. “If thou wilt enter, thou wilt find thy money’s worth for any goods thou mayst purchase. Master Mead bringeth good judgment to bear on his purchases, and buys only such goods as those in which he has confidence. Enter, friend; enter, I pray thee.”
“Thank you,” said Christison; “but I wish to see Master Mead himself.”