ing which even the auctioneer grew apathetic. He
repeated the assertion that the buildings were in the
best repair; then, abruptly, concluded the sale. Gordon
had purchased the farm for thirty-one hundred
dollars.

He despatched, in the Courthouse, the necessary
formalities. When he emerged the group on the
lawn had dwindled to three people conversing intently.
A young man with heavy shoulders already
bowed, clad in unaccustomed, stiff best clothes, advanced
to meet him.

"Mr. Makimmon," he began; "you got my
place... There's none better. I've put a lot of
work into it. I'll -- I'll get my things out soon's
I can. If you can give me some time; my wife--"

"I can give you a life," Gordon replied brusquely.
He walked past Alexander Crandall to his wife.
She turned her face from him. He said:

"You go back to the Bottom. I've fixed Cannon
...this time. Tell your husband he can pay me
when it suits; the place is yours." He swung on his
heel and strode away.

[[290]]

p289 _ -chap- _ toc-1 _ p290w _ toc-2 _ +chap+ _ p291

v?