Parson's pleasure

What did Mr. Boggis do for living?

• He was a reverend.

• He was a priest.

• He was a dealer in antique furniture.

• He was a carpenter.

Answer explanation

He had a little shop in the King's Road, Chelsea. He had a considerable reputation by producing unusual items with regularity.

Why did he go antique furniture hunting in the countryside?

• To get out of the city.

• To help farmers sell old furniture.

• To find antique furniture for cheaper prices.

What car did he drive?

• An Austin Seven.

• A station-wagon.

• A little Morris Eight.

• He drove a van.

Answer explanation

Mr. Boggis didn't like his car to be seen until a deal was made. He would always park away from the houses, because a station-wagon and a dear old clergyman never seemed quite right together.

While searching for furniture, Mr. Boggis met three men and went into one of their house. What valuable piece of furniture did he find?

• A commode.

• A mirror.

• A dinning table.

• An armchair.

What are the names of the three men?

• Peter, Clark and Cyril.

• James, Sam and Lewis.

• Claud, Bert and Rummins.

What was the piece of paper inside the commode?

• The farmhouse layout.

• A drawing.

• A bill.

• Instructions.

Answer explanation

The bill was in the commode. Rummins was doubtful and he didn't believe the commode was that cheap, so he showed Mr. Boggis the bill.

Mr. Boggis approximated that the value of the commode could be up to 12 thousand pounds. How much did he end up buying the commode for?

(a)  

When were the Chippandale Commodes made?

• In the 17th century.

• In the 18th century.

• In the 19th century.

• None of these answers are correct.

Answer explanation

The "Chippendale Commodes" were made by the famous 18th-century furniture maker Thomas Chippendale. Only three of them were known to be in existence.

What did Claud cut off the commode?

• The legs.

• The handles.

• The edges.

Why did Claud cut off the legs of the commode?

• Because it was already broken.

• Because he didn't like Mr. Boggis.

• Because he wanted to help Mr. Boggis put it in his car.