Lieu came back at early dawn after a rather long absence, long indeed to country folk when every day seemed an age. He brought a considerable “stock” with him. It needed two men to carry, and he himself was loaded with etceteras besides. The men were dismissed before anyone saw them. Lieu, indeed, arrived before his young hopeful was awake. Having aroused him, he told his son to be quick and help him in with the box or two. “Heavy!” exclaimed the lad. But a curse stopped any further remark. Once within, however, and the door barred, Lieu's spirits seemed to rise. He unloosened his girdle, and, to his son's surprise, displayed among his garments a yellow waistcoat trimmed with red—displayed an inch or so of it, that is. This he hastily covered up again, then, seeing that his son looked curious, told him he had got a few old clothes as security for a debt, but he would kill him if he mentioned it.

Having adjusted his garments in an inner chamber, opening a large box and locking it, and trying the lid, he emerged, undid his lighter package or two, and opened shop.

The news he brought created great consternation, for he dealt in glaring colours and short suggestive sentences. It was not what had happened, however, so much as what might be expected nearer home.