"I been a-holdin' out for five dollars a thousand more than that." Things were progressing.

A basis for haggling had been established.
Sam Turner, however, had the advantage.

He knew the sharp advance in walnut announced that morning.

Old man Gifford would not be aware of it until the rural free delivery brought his evening paper, of the night before, some time that afternoon.

In view of the recent advance, even at Mr.Gifford's price there was a handsome profit in the transaction.
"The reason you've had to hold out for your rate until right now was that nobody would pay it," said Sam confidently.