In the main they were made up of watches, silver plate, jewellery and wearing apparel.

There were garments of every kind, quality and condition, upon which money to about a fourth of their real value had been loaned; and not having been redeemed, they were now to be sold for the benefit of the pawnbroker.
The company bid with animation, and article after article was sold off.

The interest at first awakened by the scene, new to the young merchant, wore off in a little while, and turning to his companion he said--"I don't see that much is to be gained by staying here." "Wait a little longer, and perhaps thee will think differently," returned the Quaker, glancing towards the young woman who has been mentioned, as he spoke.
The words had scarcely passed his lips, when the auctioneer took up a small gold locket containing a miniature, and holding it up, asked for a bid.
"How much for this?
How much for this beautiful gold locket and miniature?
Give me a bid.

Ten dollars! Eight dollars! Five dollars! Four dollars--why, gentlemen, it never cost less than fifty! Four dollars! Four dollars! Will no one give four dollars for this beautiful gold locket and miniature?
It's thrown away at that price." At the mention of the locket, the young woman came forward and looked up anxiously at the auctioneer.

Mr.Edwards could see enough of her face to ascertain that it was an interesting and intelligent one, though very sad.
"Three dollars!" continued the auctioneer.