'But we have no particular errand to anybody; we have got a few things to sell, and would be glad to dispose of them at the fort.'
'Ay, ay, that's a new case—things to sell, ha! I guess it will depend upon what things you've got. If it's contraband goods, and you're thinking to git the better of Uncle Sam, you've come to the wrong market; the major'll make short work with you.'
'I don't know what you mean by contraband goods or trying to get the better of anybody,' said Jim; 'we only thought they might be in want of a few fresh vegetables and some strawberries.'
'Ay, ay, that's clean another case, there's no contraband in them; but where under the blessed heaven have you come from? these things can't grow nowheres round here.'
'I shouldn't think they could,' said Jim, looking significantly at the dreary waste of sand and stunted pine that spread as far as he could see; 'strawberries might grow up in the pines there, but I guess not such as these.' With that Jim stopped, and taking up a basket, pulled off the covering of green leaves, and held them out for the old man to look at.
'Of all sights my eyes ever looked at!—--'
'I think you'll find them as good as they look,' taking a double handful, and holding them out towards the old man.
'No, no,' shaking his weather-beaten face, 'I've no money to buy 'em; you must go to the major.'
'Take them and welcome, sir; I had no thought of asking you for pay; you're very welcome to them.'
'God bless your young heart!' and holding out his hands he soon showed that he knew how to dispose of them; as soon as he had finished he jumped down on his one leg, and adjusted his crutches.