A method of accounts was arranged.

The first day's stock was to be charged at the selling price to the shopman for the day.

At the end of the day he was to hand over to the treasurer the money he had taken and what was left of the stock, which two items together ought to make up the sum of his responsibility.

It was felt that in a very few days the committee would ascertain pretty nearly what quantity of each article was consumed, and would be able to order accordingly.

Any deficiency was to be set down to bad management, and no other reason; and any shopman deficient three days running was to forfeit his right to officiate again during that term.
Lots were solemnly drawn for the distinction of opening the shop, and the choice fell on D'Arcy, and Lickford, who for the next day or two went about shaking in their shoes.