Mr. Overton paid for the prints, and the framing of the same was a matter to be considered hereafter. He then took his departure. “Bagged one bird!” exclaimed the landlord, slapping familiarly on the shoulder. “You mark my words――it’ll bring ’ee luck, an’ ye won’t regret stopping at the ‘Old Carved Lion.’ “I should like to stop as long as possible, seeing that its landlord is such a good sort.” “You’ll do a decent stroke of business afore you leave.” “I hope so.” Peace now shouldered his pack, whistled to his dog “Gip,” and sallied forth. He paid a visit to some of the shops in the neighbourhood, and disposed of some prints and photos. The prices he obtained for them were so low that he did not get much profit, but it was better than nothing, and kept trade moving. He called at several private houses, and at some he was very successful. He returned to the “Old Carved Lion” in the afternoon, deposited his pack, and had a late dinner. Taken altogether he came to the conclusion that matters were by no means unpromising. Towards evening he went for a stroll to learn a little more of the neighbourhood. As he was taking his way through a long lane he met the girl whom the occupants of the parlour had called Nelly. There was of course a mutual recognition. “Well,” said our hero, “how did you get on last night? Did you get scolded when you returned home?” “No,” answered Nelly, tossing her head contemptuously. “It was only my fun. Aunt seldom scolds me; she knows I wont stand it.” “Oh! you live with your aunt――do you? Ah! I wish I was your aunt.” “Why?” “Then I should have a merry, cheerful companion.” “Get out, talking such foolishness,” cried the girl. “I’m not joking――I am very serious.” “Do you take me for a fool?” “No, anything but that. But I am glad we’ve met. You’ll be able to tell me all about the people in the neighbourhood, and can be of great service to me if you will.” “If I will. What do you mean?” “Why, in the way of business, you know.” “Oh, I didn’t understand you; but what does that matter? Are you going to stop here――at the ‘Lion,’ I mean?” “I’m not going away just yet. I want to see a little more of you.” “You are such a funny man, and tell such droll stories. Where did you come from?” “London, my dear, from London. Did you like the print?” “Oh, yes, ever so much.” “You’ll like it better when it’s framed. Bring it to the ‘Lion’ and I will frame it for you.” “What will it cost?” “Do you want to know?” “Yes.” “Then I’ll tell you if you’ll pay for it now. It will cost just this.” He put his arms around the damsel’s neck, and imprinted on her lips a kiss. They were ripe and ruddy, and he felt that he was amply paid. “Oh, you wretch,” exclaimed the girl; “you’ve got the impudence of the old gentleman, you audacious fellow. I don’t like you at all, not a bit! How dare you?”