"I've never looked at it in that way. What's it worth to you? Some years ago I had a good offer on it. But I didn't need the money then."
"Well, I'll tell you what I'll do. I don't want to be small about it. I'll give you ten thousand cash."
Mr. Foster was visibly affected.
"That is a good price. But I need more than that to see me settled in my little villa in Tuscany. What is your very best offer?"
"I'll give you fifteen thousand dollars, and not a cent more. And that's a mighty liberal offer."
"Well, that's all right. I'll let you know to-morrow."
"Why not now?"
"I want to consult my daughter, Caroline."
"Well, I'll not hold my offer open another day. I'll be here to-morrow morning at this time. Please don't keep me waiting. You know I'm a very busy man."
They paid Mr. Foster for their wares, and passed out; one with an old vase, and the other with a brass bowl in his hands.