Redwood's meaning was clear enough; but it seemed to Elias too good and too surprising to be true. So he chose to have it set forth in terms of positive affirmation.
“Why, what are we talking about? But she might be got to sit for ye.”
“You don't say so? Are you serious? How?”
“Well, we're pretty well acquainted, she and I. I might propose it to her.”
“Do—do, by all means. But is there any likelihood of her consenting?”
“Why, yes, I guess she'd consent—that is, if I urged her.”
“Oh, well, you will urge her, won't you?”
The old man closed one eye, and twirled his mustache. “Hum; that depends. You must make it worth my while.”
“Worth your while?” faltered Elias, surprised, and somewhat shocked, at discovering old Redwood to be so mercenary. “Well—well, what do you want?”
“I want—let me see. Well, I guess I want the picture. You must make me a present of the picture.”