With the last stroke, Raymond got on a ladder to reach the old signboard, pasting the banner over the old shop sign.

Then, he added a notice by the entrance: We buy all antiques and measure all treasures.

As soon as the makeshift sign and notice were up, Mick was the first to arrive with a fruit basket to celebrate the occasion.

The instant they met, he greeted Raymond warmly, "Ah, Mr. Cole! You sure are efficient—you just came back yesterday evening, and you're already setting up shop today