Called up to the Front

"Mrs. Compton would you care to come to the front of the room please to assist with the final auction," the auctioneer repeated. Rebecca looked at Arthur but he just smiled and motioned with his head indicating that she should comply. She stood up and walked nervously down the center aisle toward the platform at the front of the room. When she reached the auctioneer he leaned down and whispered to her, "Hello, Rebecca my name is Daniel Thompson. I'm a business partner of your husband. He's asked me if you wouldn't mind assisting us in auctioning your accessories." Rebecca fingered her beautiful diamond necklace. It didn't look like she was going to be allowed to keep the beautiful jewelry after all.

Slightly disappointed she answered, "Of course. What do I need to do?"

"Just stand here and look lovely," he replied. "The highest bidder will come up and retrieve the item at the end of each bid."