"But you haven't sold?"
"Not on ye'r life."
"That's good. Don't let them have anything unless they pay you well."
"But they say they will 'spropriate, whatever that means."
"Yes, they have the power. But they'll not be anxious to do that. There are several in the game. They hope to buy the place from you for a mere song, and then turn it over to the Government for a big figure. Oh, I know their tricks. They've done it before in other ways, such as buying horses and cattle."
"But how kin I git me price?"
"Sit tight, and when necessary go after them with hammer and tongs. Don't be afraid of them, and stand your ground."
The load was now all on, and Abner had just picked up the reins when a young man was seen walking toward them from the house.
"It's Billy Lansing," Royden exclaimed in disgust. "What in the world does the fellow want?"
"Who's Billy Lansing?" Abner asked.