It was dated at Centerville, October 21. It was written in a cramped
hand, showing that the farmer was not accustomed to letter-writing.

It ran thus:

"Respected Madam:

"As I have already wrote you, I would like to buy the farm, and will
give you more than anybody else, because I am used to living on it,
and it seems like home. I am willing to pay five thousand dollars,
though I know it is only worth four, but it is worth more to me than
to others. I offer you more because I know you are rich, and will not
sell unless you get a good bargain. Please answer right away.

"Yours respectfully,
Peter Jackson.

"P.S.--My offer will hold good for only two weeks."

"He seems to be very much in earnest," said Ben.

"He has reason to be so, as he hopes to make forty-five thousand
dollars on his investment."

"He will be bitterly disappointed," said Ben.

"I don't care anything about Jackson," said the stranger. "I would
just as soon negotiate with you. Are you authorized to sell the
farm?"

"No," answered Ben; "but Mrs. Hamilton will probably be guided by my
advice in the mater."

"That amounts to the same thing. I offer you forty thousand dollars
for it."

"I think favorably of your proposal, Mr. ----"

"My name is Taylor."

"Mr. Taylor; but I prefer to delay answering till I am on the ground
and can judge better of the matter."

"You are right. I was surprised at first that Mrs. Hamilton should
have selected so young an agent. I begin to think her choice was a
judicious one."

CHAPTER XXXI
MR. JACKSON RECEIVES A CALL

"Suppose we join forces, Ben," said Mr. Taylor familiarly.

"How do you mean?"

"We will join forces against this man Jackson. He wants to swindle
both of us--that is, those whom we represent.

"I am willing to work with you" answered Ben, who had been favorably
impressed by the appearance and frankness of his traveling companion.

"Then suppose to-morrow morning--it is too late to-day--we call over
and see the old rascal."

"I would rather not have him know on what errand I come, just at
first."

"That is in accordance with my own plans. You will go as my
companion. He will take you for my son, or nephew, and, while I am
negotiating, you can watch and judge for yourself."

"I like the plan," said Ben.

"When he finds out who you are he will feel pretty badly sold."

"He deserves it."