"Pshaw! And it passes my comprehension what a stage-coach would do in that country.
There are not ten houses on that cart track." "Nonsense! there are fifty." "Fifty-three, I assure you, sir." The Major laid down his cards and turned in his chair.

"I counted every structure the last time I was on that road.

Taking in Fagg's Mill and Brown's Ferry and the Mountain Schoolhouse, there are just ten houses.
It is my habit, sir, to reckon accurately." Mr.Hunter grew red.

"But, sir, the count was taken before the last election, and fifty-three--" "Ten, sir!" said the Major, and placed the queen of diamonds.
"When did you ride that way, Edward ?" queried his brother.

"I don't believe you've been across the mountain since the war." "I was on that road in '87," said the Major.