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THE YOUNG AUCTIONEER.
75

"I have do 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 man smiled.

"Too cheap to be good," he said. "I must have some that will stand the wear."

"Let me show you them. Matt, go out and bring in 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 make a thorough 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 themselves on their good luck,