a wise buyer thoroughly examines the wares before purchase

after careful examination or scrutiny

challenge, be ready to give a fight

by beat of drum, publicly, openly, overtly

somehow, through sustained flattery or complaints, by cajoling

even a minor transaction requires circumspection

drive in (a nail, etc.), hammer

fine, impose a fine or penalty

blow, stroke, to hammer in

fine, impose a fine or penalty

fretfully, with a whimper

obey an order, carry out the instruction

fit, appropriate, suitable, true, right, proper, just, in place

a pointless task

to salute, to pay respect

remain calm, keep oneself collected