“I will settle on the basis of a fair valuation and no other.”
Then the lawyer launched out with a great flow of words, accompanied by violent gestures, to show what he considered was a just valuation, concluding, “What do you think of that?”
“I think, my friend, that thee indulges in too much unprofitable language,” was the reply.
“Well, then let’s hear your views,” said the lawyer.
The Quaker expressed himself as follows, and to this day I remember how clearly he presented his views and how free he was from excitement.
“We have had no trouble in agreeing on the value of the oil and bone as a basis of settlement and now the only difference relates to this lump of ambergris weighing three hundred pounds. It has been examined and found to be in very fair condition. The highest price it is likely to bring is not three hundred thousand but seventy thousand dollars. I naturally assume some risk as to quality and price. I will settle on the basis of sixty-five thousand dollars, and, if that isn’t satisfactory, thee may bring suit or do anything else thee pleases.”
The lawyer grumbled a little, muttered something to his client, backed down entirely, watched with keen eyes the payment of the amount due his companion and accompanied him to the door as if he were a brother.
The Quaker smiled and observed to my father, “I will settle with this young man after the second sailor has been dealt with.”
Hardly were the words uttered, when that individual appeared. And it was no other than Ohoo. Negotiations were soon concluded and Ohoo made his mark, took his money and then looked beseechingly at my father, who notified the merchant that he was to see to it that Ohoo’s money was safely guarded.
“I approve of thy purpose,” the Quaker responded.