“Do as you like,” said Sam. “I’m tired of the whole thing.”
So Steve took the votes of the company. A few thought the bet ought to stand; but the majority, being pretty thirsty, were in favour of the proposition, and it was finally carried, Sam getting back his fifty dollars and ten dollars of old Slippery’s. Steve charged three dollars for the two rounds, and gave the old man back the remaining thirty-seven dollars.
“Say, Sam,” said old Dick, just as he was going, “I should like to see your horse, if you have no objection.”
“Why, certainly,” replied Sam. “Any time you like; if I’m not at home, ask the missus.”
When Dick had gone the boys all started asking questions about Sam’s horse, but all he would say was, “You’ll know all about it by and by.”
Next day, as Sam expected, old Dick went up to Sam’s place. There was only the missus at home; Sam took care to be out of the way.
“Mornin’, Mrs. Smart,” said Slippery, politely.
“Good morning, Mr. Small,” answered Mrs. Smart. “What brings you round these parts?”
“Why, Sam said I might see the new horse if I came up.”
“I don’t see why you should be interested in such a thing,” said Mrs. Smart, looking puzzled, “but you can see it if you want to. It’s in the kitchen.”