“What time does the main cashier window close today?”

“Four o’clock sharp,” the woman said.

By noon, cold rain was beating against the glass front of Henderson Antiques on Westminster Street.

Mr.

Henderson adjusted his spectacles, lifted his magnifying loupe, and picked up the heavy silver teapot from the velvet tray.

He turned the piece upside down to examine the lion hallmark stamped into the rim of the base.

“Sterling, made in eighteen sixty-four, hand-chased filigree, a complete set with the cream pitcher, sugar bowl, and hot water kettle.”