"Well, Baines," said the stranger, "I want to talk business to you."
"Step into my private office," said Scattergood, motioning to a chair at
his side, "and rest your legs."
"I'm thinking of establishing a plant below," said the stranger. "A very
considerable plant. In studying the situation it seems as if your
railroad might be run as an adjunct to my business. I suppose it can be
bought."
"Supposing" said Scattergood, "is free as air."
"I'll take it off your hands at a fair figure."
"'Tain't layin' heavy on my hands," said Scattergood.
"How much did it cost you?"
"A heap less 'n I'll sell for.... You hain't mentioned your name."
"McKettrick."
Scattergood nodded.
"I'd sell to a man of that name."
"How much?"
"One million dollars," said Scattergood.
"You're--you're _crazy_," said McKettrick. It was an exclamation of
disgust, a statement of belief, and a cry of pain. "I might go a quarter
of a million."
"This here's a one-price store--marked plain on the goods. Customers is
requested not to haggle."
"You're not serious?"
"One million dollars."
"I'll build a road down my side of the river.
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