“If that account isna paid sune,” Christina murmured, “I’ll ha’e to gang masel’ an’ put the fear o’ death into the man. Business is business――even when it’s releegious.” She looked round the shop to discover if aught required her attention; then being satisfied that nought could be improved, she seated herself on the stool and prepared to do a little book-keeping. As she dipped her pen, however, the door of the shop was slowly opened, the bell above it banged, and a young man――so she reckoned him――came in. In her quick way, though she had never seen him before, she put him down in her mind as a purchaser of a half-penny football paper. But having recovered from the alarm of the bell and carefully shut the door, he hesitated, surveying his surroundings. Christina flung back her thick plait of fair hair, slipped from the stool, and came to attention. “Nice day,” she remarked in her best manner. She contrived to get away from the vernacular in her business dealings. “Ay,” The young man smiled absently. “Nice teeth,” thought Christina. (That Macgregor’s teeth were good was entirely due to his mother’s firmness in the matter of brushing them during his younger days. He was inclined to be proud of them now.) “Just take a look round,” she said aloud. Macgregor acknowledged the invitation with a nod. “Was it anything special you wanted to see?” she enquired. Macgregor regarded her for a moment. “I had a look at yer window,” he said, his eyes wandering once more, “but I seen naething dearer nor a shillin’.” “Oh!” exclaimed Christina. Then recovering her dignity――“The window is merely a popular display. We have plenty of more expensive goods within.” She felt pleased at having said “within” instead of “inside.” At the word “expensive” Macgregor shrank. “Aboot half-a-croon?” he said diffidently, taking a step towards the door. “Half-a-croon _and_ upwards,” said Christina very distinctly. As a matter of fact, the shop contained few articles priced as high as two shillings, the neighbourhood not being noted for its affluence; but one of Christina’s mottoes was “First catch your customer and then rook him.” “Oh, yes,” she added pleasantly, “our goods at half-a-crown are abundant.” For a moment Macgregor doubted she was laughing at him, but a veiled glance at her earnest face reassured him――nay, encouraged him. He had never bought a present for a lady before, and felt his position keenly. Indeed, he had left his home district to make the purchase in order that he might do so unrecognised. So with a shy, appealing smile he said: “It’s for a present.” “A present. Certainly!” she replied, lapsing a trifle in the excitement of the moment. “Male or female?” Macgregor gave her an honest stare. “Is it for a lady or gent?” she enquired, less abashed by the stare than annoyed with herself for having used the wrong phrase. “Lady,” said Macgregor, with an attempt at boldness, and felt himself getting hot.