“Ask him if he wants to buy it back, then. I’m through with it. Any fair offer takes it.”
The contractor nodded and hurried on, and Tom took up his journey again. He didn’t go far, though. Presently he was back at the corner, where a minute’s search discovered the contractor.
“Mr. Cummings will give five dollars for that pump, sir,” he announced.
“Five dollars!” The contractor stared and then laughed. “Well, he isn’t risking his money to-day, is he? You tell Cummings——” Then he paused. “Will he take it away to-day at that price?”
“Yes, sir.”
“All right. Tell him to come and get it.”
At the store Tom sought Mr. Cummings. “Will you loan me five dollars, please, sir, until I can get it from the bank?” he asked.
“I guess we can accommodate you, Mr. Pollock,” responded the senior partner with a smile. “Miss Miller, give Tom five dollars and put it on memorandum, please. He wants to return it to-day. What are you doing, Tom? Buying stocks this morning?”
“Pumps,” laughed Tom. “I’m going to take back that pump we sold. Could I store it in the cellar again?”
“What! Don’t tell me that white elephant is coming back!” exclaimed Mr. Cummings in mock dismay.