One of his chief duties ought to consist in keeping up a _fresh stock_ of every article which there is a chance of being sought for, and, while avoiding the imprudence of keeping too large a stock of goods--which comes nearest to Defoe's meaning--it is certain that, by having on hand an abundant choice, the shop gains a name, and has the best chance of securing a concourse of customers.] [13] [The war of the Spanish succession, concluded by the treaty of Utrecht, 1713.].