"That's a doubtful compliment, isn't it?" asked Amy, smiling.
"I suppose so, though it's quite true. She is warmhearted, generous to a fault, and as silly as they make them. However, she has given me the pleasure of seeing you to-day, and I hope that you will tell me how I can be of use to you. From Gwendolyn's words I judge that you came upon some special errand."
"Yes; I came to ask if you would like to buy my white burro."
"Ah, you are tired of her? I mean you wish to sell her? Has she been misbehaving or interfering with 'Bony' again?"
"No, she has been very, very good, and I don't at all wish to part with her; but I want some money very badly, and that is the only thing—the only way I could get it."
"I am very glad you came to me. Ever since I made Miss Pepita's acquaintance, that day at the mill, I've wished I could find another like her for my little Nanette. How much do you ask for the burro?"
"I don't ask anything. That is, I don't know how much she is worth."
"I think you told me that she was a gift to you?"
"Yes, from my uncle in California."
"Hmm, I've heard of him," commented the gentleman, briefly. "Now, I am almost as much in the dark in regard to the value of such animals as you are, but, at a rough estimate, I will offer you fifty dollars. Then I will make inquiries, and if I find I have named too small a price, I will add the balance. Is that satisfactory?"