So when he finally saw his way clear to making the long-wished-for
visit, some of his pleasantest anticipations were the welcomes he
expected from the heads of the wholesale houses, and the invitations
he would receive to dine and wine with them. But he did not propose
that they should pull the wool over his eyes. He would show them that
he was no "greeny," and that he knew what was what.

He carried two large empty valises with him to bring home as much of
his purchases as possible as baggage, and when he reached the city
hotel late in the evening the clerk sized him up as easily and as
accurately as if he had known him for ages, and sent him to one of the
poorest rooms in the house most unceremoniously.

The next morning, bright and early, Mr. Smart started out to do
business. His first call was on a hardware man with whom he had done
considerable business, and from whom he was sure of a warm welcome. He
was met by a pleasant young man whose manner seemed to ask, What is
your business? He asked for Mr. Braun. Mr. Braun was not down yet but
would be in a short time. Would he wait? No; Solomon didn't propose to
wait. He was there on business and must attend to his business.
Perhaps the young man could wait on him? No, indeed; Solomon didn't
come to town to be waited on by clerks. Perhaps he would call again,
but he said it with a doubtful tone as if he was not sure that he
would patronize a house where the proprietor didn't get around earlier
in the morning. Then again he was somewhat indignant that the clerk
should not have known him, and when he was asked to leave his name he
went off saying it was no matter.

Then he called at Sikkor's, wondering if anyone would be in there. Was
Mr. Sikkor in? No; did he want to see him personally? Personally! He