The article by Mr. Forbes in connection with the London Auction Sales
calls to mind a rather amusing incident that occurred when I once
attended a H.B.C. fur sale at College Hill, London.
Being young, I took a keen interest in everything, especially in the
actions of the auctioneer.
I studied my catalogue and notes closely and when a lot would be called
by the auctioneer invariably raised my head and _looked him in the eye._
As I was leaving the sale room at the termination of the afternoon sale
I passed Mr. Ingrams and Mr. Randall. They remarked that I must feel
very well satisfied with my afternoon's business, as _I should be the
owner of almost every lot that was put up_.
It was not until then that I learned that by even such a small sign as a
direct look a lot would be knocked down by the broker, and that I had to
all appearances bought everything in sight!