Guy Firquin Jr. tells about Gypsies traveling the road between Edmonton and Columbia. Mr. Guy Firquin Sr. owned and operated a store on Weed Ridge for many years on this road. Guy Jr. recalls that as soon as his father spotted a caravan of Gypsies traveling along the road, he knew they would be stopping at his store; so his first impulse was to notify the rest of his family as they would be a help in watching and guarding his merchandise.

Mr. Firquin's store was connected to his home by a convenient hallway. He made quick steps into the living quarters to alert them to come into the store, as Gypsies were approaching. The entire Firquin family knew exactly what to do. In the store they followed the Gypsies up and down the aisles, and anywhere they chose to wander in the store. The Firquins were protecting their merchandise, being sure none of it was stolen.

Guy Jr. stated that these wandering people could "steal - his - family - blind" if they weren't watching. Gypsies wore loose clothing with many "secret pockets." With their sleight-of-hand skills, cunning and deceiving ways, it was necessary to be very alert while guarding the store. It was possible that if Mr. Firquin Sr. should be minding the store alone, one member to the Gypsy clan could talk to him and get his attention while others of the clan "cleaned him out."

Precautions must be taken!