"Twelve thousand I am offered. Any other offers?"
"Thirteen," said Mr. Braden.
"Fourteen," said McGinity on the heels of Braden's voice.
Faith whispered, "Who is he?"
"I don't know. He was out at the ranch yesterday. I think he'll run Braden up."
Braden whispered to his lawyer, who shook his head.
"Fifteen thousand."
"Sixteen."
Mr. Braden frowned, hesitated and went over to Mr. McGinity.
"We seem to be opposing each other," he observed.