After morose reflection, Mrs.Wick put her demand for rooms and service at a pound a week, but to this Warburton demurred.

It cost him agonies to debate such a matter; but, as he knew very well, the price was excessive for unfurnished lodgings, and need constrained him.

He offered fifteen shillings, and said he would call for Mrs.Wick's decision on the morrow.

The landlady allowed him to go to the foot of the stairs, then stopped him.
"I wouldn't mind taking fifteen shillings," she said, "if I knew it was for a permanency." "I can't bind myself more than by the month." "Would you be willing to leave a deposit ?" So the matter was settled, and Warburton arranged to enter into possession that day week.
Without delay the shop repairs were finished, inside and out; orders for stock were completed; in two days--as a great bill on the shutters announced--"Jollyman's Grocery Stores" would be open to the public.
Allchin pleaded strongly for the engagement of the brass band; it wouldn't cost much, and the effect would be immense.

Warburton shrugged, hesitated, gave way, and the band was engaged..