“‘The prope’ty isn’t much, Tumm,’ says he. ‘Jus’ a small piece.’
“‘But how much is it?’
“‘Tom Neverbudge,’ says he, ‘is holdin’ it at twenty-four dollar; he’ve come down one in the las’ seven year. But I’m on’y ’lowin’ t’ pay twenty-one; you sees I’ve come up one in the las’ four year.’
“‘’Twould not be hard t’ split the difference,’ says I.
“‘Ay,’ says he; ‘but they’s a wonderful good reason for not payin’ more’n twenty-one for that there special bit o’ land.’
“‘What’s that?’ says I.
“‘Well,’ says he, ‘’tis second-handed.’
“‘Second-handed!’ says I. ‘That’s queer!’
“‘Been used,’ says he.
“‘Used, Uncle Bill?’