"I think," said Auctioneer Martin, suavely, "that it's quite within my province to postpone a sale, or even to stop it."

"I protest against such a decision," said Mackeller firmly. "I know it is contrary to custom, and I believe it to be illegal."

"I shall register your protest," replied the auctioneer politely, then, nodding to the other, he said:

"Be as quick as you can. I'll allow you five minutes."

Mackeller sat down, growling; the other fled to an inner room. He evidently knew where the telephone was situated. The jingle of a bell was heard, and the murmur of a voice, but no words could be distinguished. The young man returned.

"I ask you, Mr. Auctioneer, to accept bids of a thousand dollars."

"Very well," replied the complacent auctioneer.

The bidding went on for a moment or two with one thousand dollar raises from the young fellow, and five thousand dollar raises by Mackeller. Finally Mackeller, the light of battle in his eye, cried:

"A hundred thousand dollars," which staggered his opponent, who was looking anxiously behind him.

"Your bid, sir," nodded the auctioneer, but the young man did not respond.