The old man puffed for a moment in silence. Then he asked:
"Want it fer a liberty-pole, do ye?"
"I want it for a liberty-pole."
"To put the school flag on?"
"To put the school flag on."
There was another moment of silence.
"They say," remarked the old man, inquiringly, "that you gave the flag?"
"I gave the flag."
"Then, by cracky! I'll give the pole."
Enos Walker rose vigorously to his feet in order properly to emphasize his offer. Colonel Butler did not respond. This sudden turn of affairs had almost taken away his breath. Then a grim smile stole slowly into his face. The humor of the situation began to appeal to him.