I informed him that such a proceeding would be contrary to my orders and custom of doing business.
He then suggested that I take the horses and give him the deed, as I had bargained for them anyhow.
I agreed to this, and he delivered them to me on presentation of the deed.
As he left the house he smiled triumphantly, and holding up the deed, said: "I'll clear just five hundred dollars on this!"
I enjoyed a few rides, and was about to trade for a carriage and harness, when one evening a day or two after our deal, I came into the dining room from the back door of Mr. Keefer's house, and heard the sound of a familiar voice issuing from the sitting-room. It said: "Sister Keefer, I have made a great mistake. Will you induce your son to trade back?"
I stepped inside, and Brother Long came forward in his usual solemn, prayerful manner, and taking me by the hand, said: "Brother Johnston, may the Lord have mercy upon us."
I said: "Amen, Brother Long; what can I do for you? How many counties do you want this time?"
"My dear young brother, I have more counties than I need, more than I can use."
"But," I said, "you haven't any more than you bargained for."