“Naw,” said the old man, moving closer to the fence. “It ain’t in me back; the trouble’s with me leg.”
“Oh!” said Steelman. “One a bit shorter than the other?”
“Well, yes. It seems to be wearin’ a bit shorter. I must see to it.”
“Hip disease, perhaps?” said Steelman. “A brother o’ mine had——”
“Naw, it’s not in the hip,” said the old man. “My leg’s gone at the knee.”
“Oh! stiff joint; I know what that is. Had a touch of it once myself. An uncle of mine was nearly crippled with it. He used to use St Jacob’s oil. Ever try St Jacob’s oil?”
“Naw,” said the old man, “not that I know of. I’ve used linseed oil though.”
“Linseed oil!” said Steelman; “I’ve never heard of that for stiff knee. How do you use it?”
“Use it raw,” said the old man. “Raw linseed oil; I’ve rubbed it in, and I’ve soaked me leg in it.”
“Soaked your leg in it!” said Steelman. “And did it do it any good?”