He explained that you ought to count them as you took them out, and see that exactly the same number went back in each place.

I promised, if ever I took a bicycle to pieces I would remember his advice.
I put the balls for safety in my hat, and I put my hat upon the doorstep.
It was not a sensible thing to do, I admit.

As a matter of fact, it was a silly thing to do.

I am not as a rule addle-headed; his influence must have affected me.
He then said that while he was about it he would see to the chain for me, and at once began taking off the gear-case.

I did try to persuade him from that.