(concerning merger of Early's & Marriott's in Oct 1960)

A day or two after the merger, doubtless a little inflated, [The Chairman] set out to walk round a new part of his empire in the shape of Mount Mill, the Marriott stronghold. He paused to talk to Frank Pratley, Foreman of the Stockhouse, and, after discussing fulling for some time, said 'Will you please show me the way to the Gig Shop?' 'Certainly, my dear', said Frank, putting his hand in a friendly manner on the other's shoulder, 'I haven't the slightest idea who you are; but it's this way.' Rapid deflation of the Chairman!