“And you tried to sell me an ill-tempered brute, blind of one eye, for an extortionate price. Can you deny it?”
“Somebody's been telling you a pack of lies,” said Abner, hoarsely.
“I don't think they are lies. I have every reason to think they are true. By the way, what is the animal's name?”
“Spitfire,” said Abner, rather reluctantly.
“A good name for a family horse,” said the stranger, sarcastically.
“Where did you learn all this?” demanded Abner. “Who's been slandering the horse?”
“I got my information at your place, from one who ought to know.”
A light dawned upon Abner Holden's mind.
“Herbert told him,” muttered Abner to himself. “That cursed boy has spoiled my bargain, and he shall smart for it.”
In a furious rage, he retraced his steps homeward, breathing threats of vengeance dire against our hero.