Digitised Manuscripts and Books

96 will not bid at a sale beyond a certain point, but to obtain a much coveted article privately they will sive even an unreason- able spYVies ws Therefore it. often happens that sums are offer- ed for works:.of art by» private-treaty., which’ their owners bé@ethey ever so reluctant .§0 part «with them ifind it impossible to resist . There are persons also who not to run the risk of a ‘knock-out' will dispose of their valuables privately » and others who though certain of a brisk competition will gladly ro) take a comparatively moderate cheque from a dealer to be spare the exposure, the gossip , and the ill-natured comments of the auction room . Many a gentleman's pride suffers grievously when he sees his grandmother's portrait, perhaps, handled by unfeeling strangers , or subjected to the cruel stare of an 1 idle throng, while the reasons which compel him to barter it away are being canvassed and made known to the world at large. > But his feelings are spared by the discreet dealer who , more- over, provides an excellent copy which is hung in the place of the orizinal , fills the gap on the wall, prevents awkward questions, and all things considered answers as well. The public sale of an antique piece of plate would make a stir and may be offend sensitive relations , whereas the family may be appeased or squared on condition that dit is disposed of toa dealer and a promise given that it shall be taken to Paris or New York where it will not be recognised. As it has rarely emerged from the plate closet it will not be missed and a '‘'tip' seals the lips of the butler. 01d cabinets are unpractical and useless , a sofa or a bookstand is much more needed. The keen eye of some friend or the enquiring mind of a visitor can be