I'm here to talk business, Callender." Seaforth noticed that in face of the typical absence of protest or compliment there was nothing the most critical could find fault with in the invitation or the refusal.

The old man was dressed in very curiously-patched jean, but he was almost stately in his simplicity, and nothing could have been more apposite than the little nod with which Alton made his affirmation.

It implied a good deal more than speech could have done.
"Ye will be asking about the place ?" said Callender.

"I'm wanting three thousand dollars.

It's worth all that." Alton nodded, and it was evident that the men understood each other, for there was no endeavour to lessen or enhance the value of the property.