If so, you've got to bid on my behalf, for I daren't trust any of these agents.

Here's your authority," and he scribbled on a card, "Woodden, my gardener, has directions to bid for me .-- S.S." "Now, Woodden," he went on, when he had given the card to an attendant who passed it up to the auctioneer, "don't you make a fool of yourself and let that 'Pavo' slip through your fingers." In another instant he was gone.
"What did the master say, sir ?" asked Woodden of me.

"That I was to get that there 'Paving' whatever it cost ?" "Yes," I said, "that's what he said.

I suppose it will fetch a good deal--several pounds." "Maybe, sir, can't tell.

All I know is that I've got to buy it as you can bear me witness.