"
"Maybe I'm the solid-gold trout you're speakin' about," said
Scattergood.
She regarded him sharply a moment. "Set," she said. "Looks like you got
somethin' on your mind."
There were times when Scattergood could be direct and succinct. He
perceived it was best to be so with this woman.
"I might want to buy this here store--under certain conditions."
"How much?"
"Inventory, and a share in the profits of a deal I got in mind."
"What's them conditions you mentioned?"
"That you and Jim don't mention the sale to anybody, and keep on runnin'
the place--for wages--until I'm ready for you to quit."
"What's the deal them profits is comin' from, and how much you figger
they'll be?"
"The deal's feedin' about five hunderd men, and the profits'll be
plenty. I furnish the capital and show you how it's to be done. All
Jim'll have to do is foller directions."
Then, lowering his voice, Scattergood went farther into particulars.
Suddenly Mrs. Bailey arose, and screamed shrilly to an urchin playing in
the road, "You, Jimmy, go up the brook and fetch your pa." Scattergood
knew his deal was as good as closed. Before the up-bound stage arrived
it was closed.
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