Part 11 (2/2)

”That suits me,” returned Matt

It was exactly half-past ten o'clock when they left the vicinity of the ferry in Jersey City, and moved off toward the old plank road, so called, which leads to Newark, five miles distant Both were in excellent spirits, despite the thrilling experience through which they had passed

”I have here a list of all the articles we have in stock,” said Andy, as he set Billy on a brisk trot ”You had better study it The prices are also put down, and of course, we never will auction a thing off for less, unless it is unsalable otherwise and ish to dispose of it”

”But supposing a thing is put up and people won't bid above a certain figure?”

”We will buy it in ourselves, or get some one to bid for us, or else refuse to take a bid under a certain su on the box in the back of the wagon, began to study it carefully, and so absorbed did he become that he did not notice when Neas reached, and was only aroused when Andy drew up in front of a restaurant and asked hi some dinner

”You can just bet I do!” exclairy as a bear”

The restaurant was not a very large place, and but few customers were present They ordered what they wished, and it was soon brought to theh-toned places where they charge big prices,” observed Andy, as he began to fall to ”We can't afford to cut a spread until we see how our venture is going to pan out”

”You are right there,” returned Matt ”As it is, I think our supply of cash is getting hty low”

”I notice the knives and forks are rather rusty here,” went on Andy

”I wonder if I can't sell the proprietor some table cutlery We have soood”

”I'd try it by all means,” cried Matt heartily

So when the meal was concluded Andrew Dilks walked up to the proprietor, as also cashi+er, and paid their bill Then he asked the man if he did not think some new knives and forks would be appreciated by his customers

”I have no doubt but what they would be,” returned the restaurant keeper ”But they cost too much money, and times are rather hard”

”I can sell you some cheap,” returned Andy, and he mentioned his price

The restaurant ood,” he said ”I must have some that will stand the wear”

”Letin a few dozen of the No 23 knives and forks, and also some of the X23 spoons,” went on Andy briskly

Matt at once complied, and his partner continued to talk to the restaurant keeper, thus keeping his attention When the articles were brought Andy invited the prospective purchaser to h examination of them

”Send a couple down to the kitchen and have them scoured They are triple-plated, and will stand it,” he added

Andy's business-like way pleased the restaurant keeper, and after a little more talk he purchased three dozen each of knives and forks and two dozen spoons

The price was paid over, and both Andy and Matt were congratulating the near theof the restaurant peering in stepped inside and tapped both on the shoulder

”I would like to see your license for selling,” he said sternly

CHAPTER XI