“Yes,” said the lawyer. “What can I do for you?”
“My name's Southerland,” said the stranger. “Mr. Benson, I want to talk to you about a tract of land in Belmont County, on which you have been paying taxes, though I understand it don't belong to you. The county clerk gave me your name—told me where to find you—I'm from Wheeling, West Virginia, myself.”
“The property belongs to a client of mine—a widow. I have it in charge,” said Benson briefly.
“Is it on the market?” inquired Southerland.
“Yes; my client will sell for a price,” answered Benson.
“You have had offers then?” suggested Southerland, with a tinge of disappointment.
“None that we care to consider,” replied Benson.
“There's two thousand acres more or less?”
“About that,” agreed Benson, nodding slightly.
“What do you hold it at?”