The next day was the auction, and many people of both sexes had assembled to examine, and find fault with, the numerous articles of furniture, which were being removed to the auction room.
"Where's them silver candlesticks, and that cake-basket that cost up'ards of a hundred dollars ?" asked one fussy, vulgar-looking old woman, peering into closets and cupboards, and even lifting trunk lids in her search.

"I want some such things, and if they go for half price or less, mebby Israel will bid; but I don't see 'em.

I'll warrant they've hid 'em." Mary was just in time to hear this remark, and she modestly replied, that Mr.Lincoln's creditors had generously presented him with all the silver, which was now at Mr.Selden's.
The woman stared impudently at her a moment, and then said, "Now, that's what I call downright cheatin'?
What business has poor folks with so much silver.

Better pay their debts fust.

That's my creed." Mary turned away in disgust, but not until she heard the woman's daughter whisper, "Don't, mother,--that's Miss Howard,--Mrs.
Campbell's niece," to which the mother replied, "Wall, who cares for that?
Glad I gin her a good one.