BARGAIN HUNTERS HOLD A FIELD DAY.
U.S.S. COMPANY SELLS LUGGAGE LEFT BEHIND. With the bargain-hunting spirit strong upon them, sundry men and women invaded the auctioneering rooms of Macfarlane and Co. just at midday to-day, when a sale of luggage, property and sundry articles left on the ferry steamers by forgetful travellers was held on behalf of the Union Steam Ship Company. It was a bar-gain-hunters’ field day. When the auctioneer and his assis tants proceeded to open a case containing the treasure, the ranks advanced precipitately to the scene of operations. The first article produced was a red kimono which the guardian of trie case donned to lend “atmosphere. He increased the effect by later putting on a woman’s hat that had seen better days. The auctioneer then proceeded in the usual auctioneer style: “A bob — who’ll start with a bob —one half two —two half —two half has it —too late lady—must speak up,” etc. The next item was heralded with “on behalf of Cinderella, a pair of slippers.” Then came sundry hot water bottles and “no more cold feet.” Toilet bags figured prominently, the guardian of the relics confiding that “a £4 10s gold brooch was found m one of these once.” Bidders did not think it could happen twice and their bids ran accordingly. “Good to Welt the Kids With.” Another prflfciTnt line was razor strops which the public were informed “are good to welt the kids with. ihe “kids” will have to be careful for the strops were sold. Several pairs of slip pers went off well, but an odd slipper hung fire. “Here s a chance for a chap with one leg,” suggested the auctioneer. Offers were scarce. A good seller was an article of clothing which the vendors, after some conconsultation, identified as “ladies’ night attire.” Many of these articles were put up, with the assurance that thenowners were too sick to worry about them. They all attracted good bids. Various other articles of clotning and suitcases also were put up and disposed of before the crowd dwindled away. The men were mostly interested onlookers, deriving much amusement from the sale. Those who meant business were the women, veterans of many a bargain sale who formed the front line of attack. Behind them stood their less experienced sisters, serving their apprenticeship at the art.
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Bibliographic details
Star (Christchurch), Issue 19035, 2 April 1930, Page 10
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391BARGAIN HUNTERS HOLD A FIELD DAY. Star (Christchurch), Issue 19035, 2 April 1930, Page 10
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